Summary
In this episode of Star Talk, Neil deGrasse Tyson and Chuck Nice discuss various topics related to space and time. They start by talking about the space-time continuum and how Einstein's special theory of relativity codified the fact that spatial dimensions need a fourth dimension, time, to localize it in any spatial system. They also discuss the consequences of not specifying the temporal coordinate when giving spatial coordinates, and how it affects meeting someone. The hosts also delve into the importance of considering Earth's movement when traveling back in time and how it is necessary to have a space-time machine rather than just a time machine. They also introduce the concept of world lines and how it is like a spaghetti picture of all the world lines of human beings interacting. The hosts conclude by discussing how Kurt Vonnegut's novel, Slaughterhouse Five, accurately portrays time travel.
The hosts also talk about the different names given to full moons based on cultural and regional traditions. They also explain the phenomenon of a lunar eclipse, where the Earth's shadow blocks the light of the sun from the fully illuminated moon, causing the moon to take on a deep amber color. The hosts clarify that a lunar eclipse is long and boring and hardly noticed by anyone who isn't looking for it.
The hosts then move on to talk about the sun, including its distance from Earth and the fact that if it were suddenly removed, we would continue to see and feel its effects for 8 minutes and 20 seconds before the planets fling off into interstellar space. They also discuss sunspots, which are blemishes on the sun's surface that emit high energy radiation, and solar flares, which can cause disruptions in electronics and satellites. Tyson notes that the sun has a north and south pole and a 22-year complete magnetic cycle. He also mentions that the sun's equator rotates faster than other latitudes due to its gaseous nature. Tyson concludes by quoting Galileo, who praised the sun's ability to keep the planets in their orbits and ripen grapes.
Overall, this podcast episode covers a wide range of interesting topics related to space and time, including the space-time continuum, lunar eclipses, and the sun. The hosts provide detailed explanations and insights into these topics, making it an engaging and educational listen for anyone interested in astronomy and physics.
