In this episode of Star Talk, astrophysicist Hakeem Oluseyi joins as a guest to answer questions from Patreon supporters. The hosts discuss various topics related to astrophysics and science, including the idea that the universe is not going to collapse, the challenges of theorizing and making observations in science, and the potential for providing access to communication technology to people living in rural and desolate areas. They also discuss the importance of knowing when you don't know something, the speed of light and how it is determined by the properties of space-time, and the concept of uncertainty in scientific measurements.
The hosts touch on the possibility of creating and using gravitational waves for communication, as well as strategies to expand broadband internet access to rural areas. They also discuss the topic of standard candles, specifically cepheid variables and type 1a supernovae, and the question of whether they are identical in every galaxy. The conversation ends with friendly banter and a group hug.
Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the importance of using observations to form theories in science, using Galileo's thought experiments and the Big Bang theory as examples. They also discuss the challenges associated with creating and using communication technology and the need for more efficient versions of English to become more widely used.
Overall, this podcast episode provides a fascinating and informative discussion of various topics related to astrophysics and science, highlighting the importance of observation, theory, and communication in advancing our understanding of the universe.