Things You Thought You Knew – Windows to the Universe

About This Episode

Is it possible to make something invisible? Neil deGrasse Tyson and comedian Chuck Nice explore transparency, how we measure time on Earth, and how airplanes have changed.

How does transparency work? Why are some things transparent to us and others are not? Learn about different wavelengths and what objects are transparent to them and what are not. Can a microwave get through your microwave oven’s door? Why do you lose an FM radio signal in a tunnel? How do sunglasses block UV light but still let you see? How would an invisibility cloaking device work? Can you make something look transparent?

What is the international date line? How do we know we needed a date line? Find out how the need for an international date line was discovered and why it was an accident. Where did we decide to put the date line? Plus, Chuck questions the existence of Mountain Time.

Discover some facts about how airplanes have changed. Why do current airplanes take off at a steeper angle than they used to? We discuss noise pollution and making plane engines quieter. Are planes less turbulent now? That, plus, what  do modern roller coasters and airplanes have in common?

Thanks to our Patrons Lori Williams, Marek, Ilias Siametis, Tim Inman, Finis Cook, and Trevor C Mills for supporting us this week.

NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can watch or listen to this entire episode commercial-free.

About the prints that flank Neil in this video:
“Black Swan” & “White Swan” limited edition serigraph prints by Coast Salish artist Jane Kwatleematt Marston. For more information about this artist and her work, visit Inuit Gallery of Vancouver.