Why This Universe? Sun, 15 Mar 2026 14:16:58 -0400 https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe en-us © 2026 Why This Universe? yes Support this Podcast c16a48ea-2ed8-5070-a9e3-6fba8ddd1b01 whythisuniversepodcast@gmail.com Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman episodic false The biggest ideas in physics, broken down. Join theoretical physicist Dan Hooper and co-host Shalma Wegsman as they answer your questions about dark matter, black holes, quantum mechanics, and more. Part of The University of Chicago Podcast Network.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman whythisuniversepodcast@gmail.com https://storage.buzzsprout.com/vhxttnfe6doqpgolvaw22t427991?.jpg Why This Universe? https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe 98 - An Improbable Quantum Ghost Story (Ft. David Kaplan) 98 - An Improbable Quantum Ghost Story (Ft. David Kaplan) An unlikely change in the theory of quantum mechanics would lead to bizarre new conclusions. Our guest talks us through non-linear quantum mechanics, and how physicists like him are testing it.

For ad-free episodes and exclusive ask-us-anything segments, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Our merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

Support the show

]]> An unlikely change in the theory of quantum mechanics would lead to bizarre new conclusions. Our guest talks us through non-linear quantum mechanics, and how physicists like him are testing it.

For ad-free episodes and exclusive ask-us-anything segments, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Our merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-18534805 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 13:00:00 -0500 2481 physics, quantum, quantum mechanics, linear, nonlinear, equation, explanation, science, schrodinger, superposition 2 7 full false 97 - The Schrödinger Equation: The Heart of Quantum Mechanics 97 - The Schrödinger Equation: The Heart of Quantum Mechanics Quantum mechanics is full of surprises. But somehow, the theory is captured almost entirely in a single equation. Today we explore the Schrödinger equation: how it works, what it says about nature, and why it revolutionized physics.

For ad-free episodes and exclusive ask-us-anything segments, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Our merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

Support the show

]]> Quantum mechanics is full of surprises. But somehow, the theory is captured almost entirely in a single equation. Today we explore the Schrödinger equation: how it works, what it says about nature, and why it revolutionized physics.

For ad-free episodes and exclusive ask-us-anything segments, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Our merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-18365931 Mon, 22 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0500 1792 physics, quantum, quantum mechanics, quantum computing, equation, explanation, science, schrodinger, uncertainty principle 2 6 full false 96 - The Making of Particle Fever (Ft. David Kaplan) 96 - The Making of Particle Fever (Ft. David Kaplan) In the years leading up to the Large Hadron Collider turning on, the physics community was buzzing with curiosity and excitement about what they were about to discover. These moments were captured in the documentary Particle Fever, created by the particle physicist David Kaplan. On today's episode, he recounts these historic years from the perspective of both physicist and filmmaker.

For ad-free episodes and exclusive ask-us-anything segments, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Our merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

Support the show

]]> In the years leading up to the Large Hadron Collider turning on, the physics community was buzzing with curiosity and excitement about what they were about to discover. These moments were captured in the documentary Particle Fever, created by the particle physicist David Kaplan. On today's episode, he recounts these historic years from the perspective of both physicist and filmmaker.

For ad-free episodes and exclusive ask-us-anything segments, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Our merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-18246249 Mon, 24 Nov 2025 15:00:00 -0500 3204 physics, historic, lhc, particle, supersymmetry, film, documentary, physicist, experimentalist, theory, 2 5 full false 95 - Would Aliens Have the Same Physics? (Ft. Daniel Whiteson) 95 - Would Aliens Have the Same Physics? (Ft. Daniel Whiteson) If we met aliens, could we communicate through physics? Daniel Whiteson explores this question on today's episode. For more, check out his new book, Do Aliens Speak Physics?

For ad-free episodes and exclusive ask-us-anything segments, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Our merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

Support the show

]]> If we met aliens, could we communicate through physics? Daniel Whiteson explores this question on today's episode. For more, check out his new book, Do Aliens Speak Physics?

For ad-free episodes and exclusive ask-us-anything segments, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Our merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-18126729 Mon, 03 Nov 2025 20:00:00 -0500 2590 physics, aliens, science, philosophy, math, extraterrestrial 2 4 full false 38 - The Nobel Prize's Greatest Misses (2025 Update) 38 - The Nobel Prize's Greatest Misses (2025 Update) In honor of Nobel prize season, we remember some people whose important work in the past has been overlooked by the Nobel committee.

For ad-free episodes and exclusive ask-us-anything segments, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Our merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

Support the show

]]> In honor of Nobel prize season, we remember some people whose important work in the past has been overlooked by the Nobel committee.

For ad-free episodes and exclusive ask-us-anything segments, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Our merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-18002605 Mon, 13 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0400 2069 nobel, prize, 2025, physics, quantum, technology, diversity, science, discovery, tunneling, astronomy, cosmology 2 3 full false 94 - Inside the Hubble Tension (Ft. Adam Riess) 94 - Inside the Hubble Tension (Ft. Adam Riess) Our universe is expanding. But when physicists measure how fast this expansion rate is, they get two different answers. Hear what this crisis means from Nobel Prize winner Adam Riess.

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Our merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

Support the show

]]> Our universe is expanding. But when physicists measure how fast this expansion rate is, they get two different answers. Hear what this crisis means from Nobel Prize winner Adam Riess.

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Our merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-17921144 Mon, 29 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0400 1915 physics, science, hubble, tension, crisis, cosmology, dark energy, space, expanding, universe, nobel prize, interview, discovery, astronomy 2 2 full false 93 - The Moment Dark Energy Appeared (Ft. Adam Riess) 93 - The Moment Dark Energy Appeared (Ft. Adam Riess) Adam Riess recounts the moments of his Nobel prize-winning discovery that our universe is expanding at an accelerating rate, powered by a mysterious energy source called dark energy. 

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Our merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

Support the show

]]> Adam Riess recounts the moments of his Nobel prize-winning discovery that our universe is expanding at an accelerating rate, powered by a mysterious energy source called dark energy. 

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Our merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-17827655 Mon, 15 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0400 2423 physics, science, dark energy, space, expanding, universe, nobel prize, interview, discovery, cosmology, astronomy 2 1 full false AUA: Changing Dark Energy, Twin Paradox, and What's Next for CERN AUA: Changing Dark Energy, Twin Paradox, and What's Next for CERN We answer your questions. To listen to our backlog of ask-us-anything episodes for free, head to our Patreon, or join for $3/month to submit your questions: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> We answer your questions. To listen to our backlog of ask-us-anything episodes for free, head to our Patreon, or join for $3/month to submit your questions: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> team@ventures.fm (Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman) 26d72624-b373-49c8-813d-3b5cc08c24ec Fri, 02 May 2025 17:12:59 -0400 3276 95 false AUA: The Early Universe, Quantum Interpretations, and Asteroids AUA: The Early Universe, Quantum Interpretations, and Asteroids Support the show

]]> Support the show

]]> team@ventures.fm (Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman) 4504c67e-776f-414b-bfb7-97c6b4823276 Sun, 09 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0400 1745 94 false 92 - What Cosmology Has in Store for 2025 (Ft. Dan Scolnic) 92 - What Cosmology Has in Store for 2025 (Ft. Dan Scolnic) Support the show

]]> Support the show

]]> team@ventures.fm (Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman) 6ff4f2dc-39ed-4d61-aaf9-e142348b8757 Mon, 13 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0500 2774 cosmology, 2025, space, physics, science, discovery, cosmos, 2025 predictions 93 false 91 - What Neutrinos Reveal About the Milky Way 91 - What Neutrinos Reveal About the Milky Way Support the show

]]> Support the show

]]> team@ventures.fm (Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman) 4ba36d92-482c-41b3-8dcf-a85af4361c9f Mon, 23 Dec 2024 11:34:22 -0500 1857 92 false 90 - Quintessence: Is Dark Energy Changing? (Ft. Sean Carroll) 90 - Quintessence: Is Dark Energy Changing? (Ft. Sean Carroll) Support the show

]]> Support the show

]]> team@ventures.fm (Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman) 874172b2-de59-4341-8fcb-1876ee893ca5 Mon, 04 Nov 2024 10:11:53 -0500 2503 90 false 89 - A Dark Matter Vibe Check 89 - A Dark Matter Vibe Check Support the show

]]> Support the show

]]> team@ventures.fm (Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman) 5460165b-65cb-4b98-81ad-9723843611d7 Mon, 14 Oct 2024 12:27:02 -0400 2234 astrophysics, dark matter candidate, astronomy, phyiscs, dark matter 91 false 88 - Why Does Our Universe Exist At All? (Ft. Sean Carroll) 88 - Why Does Our Universe Exist At All? (Ft. Sean Carroll) Support the show

]]> Support the show

]]> team@ventures.fm (Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman) c88f631a-ca3c-4dfa-ae90-7dc2d49faeac Mon, 23 Sep 2024 12:45:33 -0400 1681 sean carroll, philosophy of science, philosophy, physics, philosophy of physics 90 false 87 - The Good and the Bad of Peer Review 87 - The Good and the Bad of Peer Review Support the show

]]> Support the show

]]> team@ventures.fm (Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman) ef347198-77cb-4bf9-8e08-118d52d75132 Mon, 02 Sep 2024 11:26:16 -0400 2379 89 false 28 - How Noether's Theorem Changed Physics (Rerun) 28 - How Noether's Theorem Changed Physics (Rerun) Support the show

]]> Support the show

]]> team@ventures.fm (Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman) 0e7d68f3-ace0-4805-8925-158ee2dd745f Mon, 05 Aug 2024 10:16:21 -0400 1461 symmetry, history of physics, symmetries, physics, science, noether, noether's theorem, gauge symmetries, math 88 false 86 - The Life and Death of Stars 86 - The Life and Death of Stars Support the show

]]> Support the show

]]> team@ventures.fm (Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman) b6ebda60-7a35-4a82-877b-c38f95338f97 Mon, 01 Jul 2024 21:39:58 -0400 2452 white dwarf, sun, universe, star, physics, black hole, brown dwarf, science, main sequence, stars 86 false 85 - Our Sun: Present, Past and Future 85 - Our Sun: Present, Past and Future Support the show

]]> Support the show

]]> team@ventures.fm (Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman) 4600e7db-3de3-46b1-891a-e7e30e2c4e2f Mon, 17 Jun 2024 15:04:52 -0400 2243 87 false 84 - The Search For New Worlds (ft. Josh Winn) 84 - The Search For New Worlds (ft. Josh Winn) Support the show

]]> Support the show

]]> team@ventures.fm (Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman) b852bc98-8f59-430d-b0bb-80df11024c71 Mon, 03 Jun 2024 11:45:09 -0400 2714 exoplanets, history, planets, physics, science, extraterrestrial life 86 false 83 - Witnessing a Revolution in Particle Physics (Ft. Chris Quigg) 83 - Witnessing a Revolution in Particle Physics (Ft. Chris Quigg) Support the show

]]> Support the show

]]> team@ventures.fm (Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman) ac15ddbd-f2be-429f-b4ad-e43b835b3b18 Mon, 13 May 2024 09:39:37 -0400 1904 83 false 82 - Science Vs. Pseudoscience 82 - Science Vs. Pseudoscience Support the show

]]> Support the show

]]> team@ventures.fm (Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman) 4eda22b4-f104-4303-91b6-e56aad2d3708 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 12:09:27 -0400 2140 history of physics, philosophy of science, philosophy, science, history of science 82 false 81 - Ancient Greek Astronomy 81 - Ancient Greek Astronomy Support the show

]]> Support the show

]]> team@ventures.fm (Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman) 3e351b69-8caa-417c-bd60-7329859048c9 Mon, 15 Apr 2024 11:54:27 -0400 2605 cosmology, history of physics, philosophy of science, philosophy, astronomy, physics, cosmos, history of science 81 false 80 - (April Fools 2024) A Surprising Discovery Shaking Up Modern Cosmology 80 - (April Fools 2024) A Surprising Discovery Shaking Up Modern Cosmology Support the show

]]> Support the show

]]> team@ventures.fm (Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman) 58a332ef-0cc1-4f18-ba5c-737245d10114 Mon, 01 Apr 2024 08:58:56 -0400 1008 80 false 79 - NanoGRAV's Big Gravitational Wave Discovery (Ft. Chiara Mingarelli) 79 - NanoGRAV's Big Gravitational Wave Discovery (Ft. Chiara Mingarelli) Support the show

]]> Support the show

]]> team@ventures.fm (Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman) 0b3c38fe-4104-4edc-a9fa-01df75b9901b Mon, 18 Mar 2024 11:48:55 -0400 2463 gravity, experiment, nanograv, gravitational waves, physics, science, discovery 79 false 78 - The Life of a Science Journalist (Ft. Katrina Miller) 78 - The Life of a Science Journalist (Ft. Katrina Miller) What's it like bringing science to the most general public audiences? How do you distill complex results into short news-worthy articles without getting lost in clickbait? Today we hear the perspective of New York Times science journalist Katrina Miller.

For ad free episodes and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Our merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

Support the show

]]> What's it like bringing science to the most general public audiences? How do you distill complex results into short news-worthy articles without getting lost in clickbait? Today we hear the perspective of New York Times science journalist Katrina Miller.

For ad free episodes and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Our merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-14624013 Mon, 04 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0500 2310 physics, science, journalism, new york times, news, writing, misinformation 1 78 full false 77 - All About Quantum Computing (Ft. Henry Lamm) 77 - All About Quantum Computing (Ft. Henry Lamm) Quantum computing makes big promises, but how does it work? What is the real state of quantum computing today? Special guest Henry Lamm answers our questions.

Our new merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Quantum computing makes big promises, but how does it work? What is the real state of quantum computing today? Special guest Henry Lamm answers our questions.

Our new merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-14438551 Sun, 04 Feb 2024 19:00:00 -0500 2431 physics, science, quantum, quantum computer, qubit, bit, computer science, computing 1 77 full false 76 - Do We Live in a Simulation? 76 - Do We Live in a Simulation? Is the world around us real, or are we living in someone's computer program?

Our new merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Is the world around us real, or are we living in someone's computer program?

Our new merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-14357197 Mon, 22 Jan 2024 17:00:00 -0500 2279 physics, science, simulation, matrix, theory, philosophy 1 76 full false 75 - Physics in Extreme Locations (Ft. Daniel Baxter & Alexandra Rahlin) 75 - Physics in Extreme Locations (Ft. Daniel Baxter & Alexandra Rahlin) We hear two physicists describe their lives collecting data in remote locations, from deep underground in an active mine and from the South Pole.

Our new merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> We hear two physicists describe their lives collecting data in remote locations, from deep underground in an active mine and from the South Pole.

Our new merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-14268238 Sun, 07 Jan 2024 22:00:00 -0500 2521 physics, science, dark matter, south pole, experiment, icecube, snolab 1 75 full false 8 - Is Space Flat or Curved? 8 - Is Space Flat or Curved? Learn how the geometry of space defies our intuition, and why it gave Einstein so much anxiety.

Our new merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Learn how the geometry of space defies our intuition, and why it gave Einstein so much anxiety.

Our new merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-14166816 Mon, 18 Dec 2023 11:00:00 -0500 1463 physics, science, space, expanding, einstein, general relativity, relativity, hubble, expansion, time, field equations 1 full false 74 - The Copernican Revolution (Ft. Aviva Rothman) 74 - The Copernican Revolution (Ft. Aviva Rothman) Today we visit a turning point in the history of science: the discovery that the Earth is not at the center of the cosmos.

Our new merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Today we visit a turning point in the history of science: the discovery that the Earth is not at the center of the cosmos.

Our new merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-14085328 Mon, 04 Dec 2023 11:00:00 -0500 3510 science, history, philosophy, copernicus, kepler, heliocentric, physics, cosmos, cosmology 1 74 full false 73 - Life Beyond Earth (Ft. Avi Loeb and Garrett Graff at the Chicago Humanities Festival) 73 - Life Beyond Earth (Ft. Avi Loeb and Garrett Graff at the Chicago Humanities Festival) Dan moderates a lively discussion on extraterrestrial life at the Chicago Humanities Festival.

Our new merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan moderates a lively discussion on extraterrestrial life at the Chicago Humanities Festival.

Our new merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universe

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-13998199 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0500 4121 physics, aliens, extraterrestrial, avi loeb, debate, science national security 1 73 full false 72 - The Physics Of Music (Ft. Tim Cohen) 72 - The Physics Of Music (Ft. Tim Cohen) Where does the musical octave come from? What makes a C note a C? Why do different instruments sound different? Special guest Tim Cohen comes on to answer these questions and more.
For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Where does the musical octave come from? What makes a C note a C? Why do different instruments sound different? Special guest Tim Cohen comes on to answer these questions and more.
For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-13918468 Mon, 06 Nov 2023 11:00:00 -0500 2611 physics, science, music, octave, frequency, amplitude, sound, scales, ear, hearing, acoustics, instruments 1 72 full false 71 - How the Universe Got Its Structure 71 - How the Universe Got Its Structure We tell the story of how the Universe developed large scale structure, starting from the Big Bang to today. It could have all turned out very differently, if not for some key players.

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> We tell the story of how the Universe developed large scale structure, starting from the Big Bang to today. It could have all turned out very differently, if not for some key players.

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-13828383 Mon, 23 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0400 1220 physics, science, podcast, educational, universe, dark matter, dark energy, halos, large scale structure, gravity 1 71 full false 70 - WTU Live: Will Intelligent Life Persist in the Universe? (ft. Daniel Holz and Diana Powell) 70 - WTU Live: Will Intelligent Life Persist in the Universe? (ft. Daniel Holz and Diana Powell) Why This Universe hosts it's first ever live episode taping featuring guests Daniel Holz and Diana Powell. We discuss the possibility of intelligent life out in the Universe, the existential risks faced by humans on Earth, and the chance the intelligent life can persist in the Universe.

This conversation took place during the University of Chicago Podcast Network festival.

For access to ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse.

Support the show

]]> Why This Universe hosts it's first ever live episode taping featuring guests Daniel Holz and Diana Powell. We discuss the possibility of intelligent life out in the Universe, the existential risks faced by humans on Earth, and the chance the intelligent life can persist in the Universe.

This conversation took place during the University of Chicago Podcast Network festival.

For access to ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse.

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-13749985 Tue, 10 Oct 2023 08:00:00 -0400 3475 physics, science, life, extra terrestrial, aliens, intelligence, fermi's paradox, drake equation, doomsday, doomsday clock 1 70 full false Special Announcement + ChatGPT On Unifying Quantum Mechanics and Relativity Special Announcement + ChatGPT On Unifying Quantum Mechanics and Relativity CORRECTION: We misspeak about the time of the event in the episode, we are really on at 3-4 pm CST! Apologies!

Why This Universe is going live on October 3rd in Chicago, IL!

RSVP for *free* here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ucpn-podcast-festival-tickets-717455076447?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

Join us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> CORRECTION: We misspeak about the time of the event in the episode, we are really on at 3-4 pm CST! Apologies!

Why This Universe is going live on October 3rd in Chicago, IL!

RSVP for *free* here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ucpn-podcast-festival-tickets-717455076447?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

Join us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-13681356 Thu, 28 Sep 2023 16:00:00 -0400 596 physics, podcast, live, chicago full false 69 - An Update on Modified Gravity (MOND) 69 - An Update on Modified Gravity (MOND) While physicists overwhelmingly agree about the existence of dark matter, a select group of people aren't convinced. Instead, they believe we must be wrong about gravity, and claim we need a theory of modified gravity (MOND) instead. Recent press releases have claimed "smoking gun" evidence for this underdog theory, should we take them seriously?

Did you know this episode was inspired by a Patreon question? For access to ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> While physicists overwhelmingly agree about the existence of dark matter, a select group of people aren't convinced. Instead, they believe we must be wrong about gravity, and claim we need a theory of modified gravity (MOND) instead. Recent press releases have claimed "smoking gun" evidence for this underdog theory, should we take them seriously?

Did you know this episode was inspired by a Patreon question? For access to ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-13485303 Mon, 28 Aug 2023 15:00:00 -0400 2840 physics, MOND, modified gravity, dark matter, controversy, science, vs, podcast 1 69 full false 68 - The Age of the Universe 68 - The Age of the Universe Today we are debunking the recent paper that claims our universe is much older than previously thought.

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

For fun dinosaur facts and research, check out I Know Dino: The Big Dinosaur Podcast, on Apple or wherever you get your podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-know-dino-the-big-dinosaur-podcast/id960976813?ign-mpt=uo%3D4&mt=2

Support the show

]]> Today we are debunking the recent paper that claims our universe is much older than previously thought.

For ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

For fun dinosaur facts and research, check out I Know Dino: The Big Dinosaur Podcast, on Apple or wherever you get your podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-know-dino-the-big-dinosaur-podcast/id960976813?ign-mpt=uo%3D4&mt=2

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-13403352 Mon, 14 Aug 2023 11:00:00 -0400 1766 1 68 full false 6 - Your Tour Through Quantum Weirdness (Rebroadcast) 6 - Your Tour Through Quantum Weirdness (Rebroadcast) We are celebrating our 3 year anniversary with a throwback to one of our earliest episodes! Entanglement, wave-particle duality, and uncertainty - here's a breakdown of the weirdest and wildest things about quantum mechanics.

To support our show and access exclusive ask-us-anything segments and more, join us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse.

Support the show

]]> We are celebrating our 3 year anniversary with a throwback to one of our earliest episodes! Entanglement, wave-particle duality, and uncertainty - here's a breakdown of the weirdest and wildest things about quantum mechanics.

To support our show and access exclusive ask-us-anything segments and more, join us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse.

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-13318904 Mon, 31 Jul 2023 08:00:00 -0400 1814 physics, science, quantum, qm, entanglement, quantum mechanics, duality, wave, particle, uncertainty full false 67 - When Science Meets Spirituality (Ft. Alan Lightman) 67 - When Science Meets Spirituality (Ft. Alan Lightman) Special guest Alan Lightman takes us through a fascinating discussion of consciousness, and tells us how he reconciles spirituality with his materialist views.
Todays episode is sponsored by the International Space Station. Join the ISS National Laboratory this August in Seattle at the 12th annual ISS Research and Development Conference. Visit ISSconference.org to register now.

Support the show

]]> Special guest Alan Lightman takes us through a fascinating discussion of consciousness, and tells us how he reconciles spirituality with his materialist views.
Todays episode is sponsored by the International Space Station. Join the ISS National Laboratory this August in Seattle at the 12th annual ISS Research and Development Conference. Visit ISSconference.org to register now.

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-13238988 Mon, 17 Jul 2023 14:00:00 -0400 2568 physics, philosophy, consciousness, matrix, vr, ar, virtual reality, augmented reality, science, spirituality, materialist, materialism 1 67 full false 66 - When Space Was Filled With Music 66 - When Space Was Filled With Music Shortly after the Big Bang, space was densely packed with enough stuff for sound to travel through it. What was producing sound in this era, and how can we hear it today?

Todays episode is sponsored by the International Space Station. Join the ISS National Laboratory this August in Seattle at the 12th annual ISS Research and Development Conference. Visit ISSconference.org to register now.

Support the show

]]> Shortly after the Big Bang, space was densely packed with enough stuff for sound to travel through it. What was producing sound in this era, and how can we hear it today?

Todays episode is sponsored by the International Space Station. Join the ISS National Laboratory this August in Seattle at the 12th annual ISS Research and Development Conference. Visit ISSconference.org to register now.

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-13153833 Mon, 03 Jul 2023 12:00:00 -0400 1533 space, science, physics, big bang, sound waves, gravity, pressure, CMB, cosmic, microwave, background 1 66 full false 65 - Should We Build a Muon Collider? (Ft. Cari Cesarotti) 65 - Should We Build a Muon Collider? (Ft. Cari Cesarotti) Special guest Cari Cesarotti tells us why so many particle physicists are itching to build a whole new type of particle collider.

Support the show

]]> Special guest Cari Cesarotti tells us why so many particle physicists are itching to build a whole new type of particle collider.

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-12894971 Mon, 22 May 2023 09:00:00 -0400 2538 physics, science, experiment, collider, particles, particle collider, muons, muon, electron, standard model, particle physics, lhc, large hadron collider 1 65 full false 64 - The Journey to the Big Bang 64 - The Journey to the Big Bang The Big Bang is well accepted today as the leading theory of how our universe evolved over time - but in today's episode, we talk through all the very wrong theories that came before it.
To get ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> The Big Bang is well accepted today as the leading theory of how our universe evolved over time - but in today's episode, we talk through all the very wrong theories that came before it.
To get ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-12803758 Mon, 08 May 2023 08:00:00 -0400 1810 physics, science, big bang, cosmology, astronomy, astrophysics, general relativity, relativity, einstein, friedmann, inflation 1 64 full false 63 - The Question of Consciousness (Ft. David Chalmers) 63 - The Question of Consciousness (Ft. David Chalmers) Can consciousness be explained by physics, or does it appeal to something beyond materialism? Philosopher guest star David Chalmers talks to us about how we can think about consciousness from a philosophical and scientific perspective.

To support our show and get ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Can consciousness be explained by physics, or does it appeal to something beyond materialism? Philosopher guest star David Chalmers talks to us about how we can think about consciousness from a philosophical and scientific perspective.

To support our show and get ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-12663173 Mon, 17 Apr 2023 10:00:00 -0400 3026 physics, philosophy, consciousness, matrix, vr, ar, virtual reality, augmented reality, science 1 63 full false 47 - Boltzmann Brains: Could Reality Be An Illusion? (Rebroadcast) 47 - Boltzmann Brains: Could Reality Be An Illusion? (Rebroadcast) A whirlwind of questions brings us to an odd conclusion: could reality be an illusion created by a quantum fluctuation of a brain? This is a rebroadcast of a past favorite.

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> A whirlwind of questions brings us to an odd conclusion: could reality be an illusion created by a quantum fluctuation of a brain? This is a rebroadcast of a past favorite.

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-12519611 Mon, 27 Mar 2023 08:00:00 -0400 1682 physics, podcast, illusion, science, quantum, brain in a vat full false 62 - JWST and the Earliest Galaxies in the Universe (ft. Mike Boylan-Kolchin) 62 - JWST and the Earliest Galaxies in the Universe (ft. Mike Boylan-Kolchin) Astronomers' newest telescope, JWST, just discovered galaxies that formed earlier than previously thought possible. What does this discovery mean for our understanding of the early universe?

To support our show and get ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Astronomers' newest telescope, JWST, just discovered galaxies that formed earlier than previously thought possible. What does this discovery mean for our understanding of the early universe?

To support our show and get ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-12425499 Mon, 13 Mar 2023 08:00:00 -0400 1441 full false 61 - Could the Large Hadron Collider Destroy the World? 61 - Could the Large Hadron Collider Destroy the World? Before the LHC turned on in 2008, many feared that it would create a dangerous black hole that would destroy the world. Were any of those fears well-founded, and how seriously did scientists take these claims?

Support the show

]]> Before the LHC turned on in 2008, many feared that it would create a dangerous black hole that would destroy the world. Were any of those fears well-founded, and how seriously did scientists take these claims?

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-12340773 Mon, 27 Feb 2023 17:00:00 -0500 1417 physics, lhc, black holes, energy, science, experiment, particle collider, dangerous 1 61 full false 60 - The Search for Extra Dimensions 60 - The Search for Extra Dimensions Learn how extra dimensions of space might appear to us, and what physicists have done to try to find them.

To support our show and get ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Learn how extra dimensions of space might appear to us, and what physicists have done to try to find them.

To support our show and get ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-12241446 Mon, 13 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0500 1429 physics, extra dimensions, string theory, quantum, gravity, graviton, kaluza klein, theoretical physics 1 60 full false 59 - The End of Everything (Ft. Katie Mack) 59 - The End of Everything (Ft. Katie Mack) Special guest Katie Mack talks to us about how the universe might end.

To support our show and get ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Special guest Katie Mack talks to us about how the universe might end.

To support our show and get ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-12007620 Mon, 09 Jan 2023 09:00:00 -0500 2449 physics, astronomy, cosmology, katie mack, science podcast, science twitter, universe, end of the universe, big bang, big crunch, heat death, entropy, big rip, dark energy, vacuum decay, bounce 1 59 full false 58 - The Risks of Science Populism 58 - The Risks of Science Populism In today's different type of episode, we talk about the risks of a subtle kind of scientific misinformation.

Support the show

]]> In today's different type of episode, we talk about the risks of a subtle kind of scientific misinformation.

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-11854607 Mon, 12 Dec 2022 08:00:00 -0500 860 physics, science, communication, populism, misinformation, particle physics 1 58 full false 57 - String Theory Part 3: Duality 57 - String Theory Part 3: Duality This episode will hurt your brain, or your money back.

To support our show and get ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> This episode will hurt your brain, or your money back.

To support our show and get ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-11733771 Mon, 21 Nov 2022 09:00:00 -0500 1442 physics, string theory, quantum gravity, duality, ads, cft, correspondence, theoretical physics, extra dimensions 1 57 full false 56 - An Icy Neutrino Interruption 56 - An Icy Neutrino Interruption We interrupt our regular episodes to cover the exciting new discovery that the IceCube Neutrino Observatory announced on November 3rd, 2022.

To support our show and get ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> We interrupt our regular episodes to cover the exciting new discovery that the IceCube Neutrino Observatory announced on November 3rd, 2022.

To support our show and get ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-11641347 Mon, 07 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0500 1735 physics, physics podcast, neutrinos, icecube, experiment, discovery, science news, science, particle physics 1 56 full false 55 - String Theory Part 2: The First Superstring Revolution 55 - String Theory Part 2: The First Superstring Revolution We pick up the story of string theory and explore the explosion of interest it experienced in the mid 1980s.

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> We pick up the story of string theory and explore the explosion of interest it experienced in the mid 1980s.

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-11556315 Mon, 24 Oct 2022 08:00:00 -0400 1689 physics, science, podcast, string theory, superstring, supersymmetry, extra dimensions, curled up dimensions 1 55 full false 54 - String Theory Part 1: What Is It? 54 - String Theory Part 1: What Is It? Last time, we introduced the biggest open problem in theoretical physics - the problem of combining gravity with quantum mechanics. In this first part of a three-part series, we introduce the leading candidate for how to do that: String Theory.

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Last time, we introduced the biggest open problem in theoretical physics - the problem of combining gravity with quantum mechanics. In this first part of a three-part series, we introduce the leading candidate for how to do that: String Theory.

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-11431623 Mon, 03 Oct 2022 17:00:00 -0400 1525 string theory, physics, theoretical, quantum gravity, strings 1 54 full false 53 - Why We Need a Theory of Quantum Gravity 53 - Why We Need a Theory of Quantum Gravity Quantum mechanics and general relativity are two of the most successful theories of science ever, but they don't necessarily fit together. Learn why physicists are trying so hard to discover a quantum theory of gravity, and why it's been such a challenge.

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Quantum mechanics and general relativity are two of the most successful theories of science ever, but they don't necessarily fit together. Learn why physicists are trying so hard to discover a quantum theory of gravity, and why it's been such a challenge.

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-11306634 Mon, 12 Sep 2022 17:00:00 -0400 1694 physics, science, podcast, string theory, quantum gravity, quantum mechanics, general relativity, renormalization, loop quantum 1 53 full false 52 - The Large Hadron Collider and All Its Glory 52 - The Large Hadron Collider and All Its Glory We pick up last episode's theme of particle colliders and dive into the most exciting one running today - the LHC. What is it, how does it work, and what new physics can it still reveal?

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> We pick up last episode's theme of particle colliders and dive into the most exciting one running today - the LHC. What is it, how does it work, and what new physics can it still reveal?

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-11179928 Mon, 22 Aug 2022 15:00:00 -0400 1687 physics, science, particle accelerator, particle collider, lhc, large hadron collider, particle, higgs, cms, atlas 1 52 full false 51 - Why Physicists Love Smashing Particles Together 51 - Why Physicists Love Smashing Particles Together For the past century, physicists have been building particle colliders as a way to learn about the fundamental laws of physics. Today we talk about why smashing particles together has proven to be such a powerful tool.

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> For the past century, physicists have been building particle colliders as a way to learn about the fundamental laws of physics. Today we talk about why smashing particles together has proven to be such a powerful tool.

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-11063791 Mon, 01 Aug 2022 15:00:00 -0400 1426 physics, science, particles, lhc, particle accelerators, fundamental physics, particle physics 1 51 full false 50 - The Black Hole At the Center of the Milky Way 50 - The Black Hole At the Center of the Milky Way On May 12, 2022 astronomers revealed an image of the supermassive black hole at the center of our Milky Way galaxy. Today we tell the story of what made this image possible.

Today's episode is sponsored by Wren. Sign up through https://www.wren.co/universe to make a difference in the climate crisis, and Wren will plant 10 extra trees in your name!

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> On May 12, 2022 astronomers revealed an image of the supermassive black hole at the center of our Milky Way galaxy. Today we tell the story of what made this image possible.

Today's episode is sponsored by Wren. Sign up through https://www.wren.co/universe to make a difference in the climate crisis, and Wren will plant 10 extra trees in your name!

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-10940889 Mon, 11 Jul 2022 16:00:00 -0400 1864 physics, astronomy, black hole, supermassive, sagittarius A, event horizon, picture of black hole 1 50 full false 49 - When the Universe Changed in an Instant 49 - When the Universe Changed in an Instant Just like water changing to ice when it freezes, there were times in the universe's early history when reality changed in almost an instant. Today we dive into these cosmological phase transitions, and speculate about the strange objects these types of instant changes can create.

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Just like water changing to ice when it freezes, there were times in the universe's early history when reality changed in almost an instant. Today we dive into these cosmological phase transitions, and speculate about the strange objects these types of instant changes can create.

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-10864777 Mon, 27 Jun 2022 17:00:00 -0400 1526 physics, phase transition, cosmology, early universe, topological defects, cmb, qcd, electroweak, particle physics, cosmic strings, domain walls 1 49 full false 48 - A Wrong Picture Of Cosmology 48 - A Wrong Picture Of Cosmology When cosmology was still an infant science, a daring physicist wrote a theory of the beginning of time.  We revisit this theory and see what value we can still glean from it today.

Support the show

]]> When cosmology was still an infant science, a daring physicist wrote a theory of the beginning of time.  We revisit this theory and see what value we can still glean from it today.

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-10666132 Mon, 23 May 2022 11:00:00 -0400 1518 physics, cosmology, leimatre, early universe, big bang, quantum, time and space 1 48 full false 13 - Does Quantum Mechanics Imply a Multiverse? (Rebroadcast) 13 - Does Quantum Mechanics Imply a Multiverse? (Rebroadcast) Today we explore different interpretations of quantum mechanics, from Copenhagen to the many-worlds hypothesis, in an attempt to uncover what quantum reality really is. This episode is a rebroadcast of one of our early favorites.

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Today we explore different interpretations of quantum mechanics, from Copenhagen to the many-worlds hypothesis, in an attempt to uncover what quantum reality really is. This episode is a rebroadcast of one of our early favorites.

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-10585379 Mon, 09 May 2022 10:00:00 -0400 2065 physics, quantum, quantum mechanics, theoretical physics, multiverse, many worlds, Schrodinger full false 47 - Boltzmann Brains: Could Reality Be An Illusion? 47 - Boltzmann Brains: Could Reality Be An Illusion? A whirlwind of questions brings us to an odd conclusion: could reality be an illusion created by a quantum fluctuation of a brain?

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> A whirlwind of questions brings us to an odd conclusion: could reality be an illusion created by a quantum fluctuation of a brain?

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-10499622 Mon, 25 Apr 2022 11:00:00 -0400 1714 physics, science, science fiction, brains, boltzmann brains, quantum mechanics, quantum fluctuation, reality 1 47 full false 46 - The Cosmic Rays Raining Down On Us 46 - The Cosmic Rays Raining Down On Us Here on Earth, we are constantly being showered by particles from outer space called cosmic rays. What do we know about where these particles really come from?

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Here on Earth, we are constantly being showered by particles from outer space called cosmic rays. What do we know about where these particles really come from?

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-10374797 Mon, 04 Apr 2022 09:00:00 -0400 1519 physics, science, astro, astronomy, astrophysics, cosmic rays, cosmic radiation, radiation 1 46 full false 25 - Do Extra Dimensions Exist? (Rebroadcast) 25 - Do Extra Dimensions Exist? (Rebroadcast) Today we are rebroadcasting an earlier episode all about extra dimensions - How many dimensions of space are there? Could there be extra dimensions that are hidden from view?

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Today we are rebroadcasting an earlier episode all about extra dimensions - How many dimensions of space are there? Could there be extra dimensions that are hidden from view?

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-10234050 Mon, 14 Mar 2022 08:00:00 -0400 1713 physics, science, dimensions, extra dimensions, string theory, space, space and time, curled dimensions full false 45 - The Wide World of Exoplanets (ft. Diana Powell) 45 - The Wide World of Exoplanets (ft. Diana Powell) Special guest Dr. Diana Powell gives us the lay down on the field of exoplanet research, and on how these recent discoveries may shed light on the question of extraterrestrial life.

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Special guest Dr. Diana Powell gives us the lay down on the field of exoplanet research, and on how these recent discoveries may shed light on the question of extraterrestrial life.

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-10157271 Mon, 28 Feb 2022 08:00:00 -0500 2348 physics, astronomy, life, exoplanets, extraterrestrial, telescope, jwst, james webb 1 45 full false 44 - Our Deepest Theory: Quantum Field Theory 44 - Our Deepest Theory: Quantum Field Theory Today we attempt to break down the basics of quantum field theory - our deepest theory of physics yet.

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Today we attempt to break down the basics of quantum field theory - our deepest theory of physics yet.

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-10071151 Mon, 14 Feb 2022 09:00:00 -0500 1469 physics, quantum, qft, quantum mechanics, quantum fields, quantum field theory, antimatter 1 44 full false 43 - Is Physics the Most Fundamental Subject? 43 - Is Physics the Most Fundamental Subject? Some people like to claim that psychology is just applied biology, which is just applied chemistry, which is just applied physics, and so on. Is there any truth to this? Or is it just our egos getting the better of us?

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Some people like to claim that psychology is just applied biology, which is just applied chemistry, which is just applied physics, and so on. Is there any truth to this? Or is it just our egos getting the better of us?

For ad-free episodes and other exclusives, join us for $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-9982033 Mon, 31 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0500 1735 physics, fundamental, science 1 43 full false 42 - The Signal That Could Be the Dark Matter 42 - The Signal That Could Be the Dark Matter Dan shares one of the biggest stories of his career - his discovery of an excess of gamma rays at the center of the Milky Way. Is this a sign of dark matter, or is it something less mysterious?

Support the show

]]> Dan shares one of the biggest stories of his career - his discovery of an excess of gamma rays at the center of the Milky Way. Is this a sign of dark matter, or is it something less mysterious?

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-9899471 Mon, 17 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0500 2241 physics, astronomy, dark matter, milky way, galactic center, galactic center excess, gamma ray excess, discovery 1 42 full false 41 - The Hubble Tension: The Biggest Fight in Astronomy (ft. Wendy Freedman) 41 - The Hubble Tension: The Biggest Fight in Astronomy (ft. Wendy Freedman) When different groups of astronomers measure the expansion rate of space, they get different answers. Who's right? Or are they both right, and new physics is afoot?

Support the show

]]> When different groups of astronomers measure the expansion rate of space, they get different answers. Who's right? Or are they both right, and new physics is afoot?

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-9822648 Mon, 03 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0500 1434 physics, astronomy, hubble, expansion of space, hubble tension, hubble telescope, jwst, james webb 1 41 full false 40 - How Will JWST Change Astronomy? 40 - How Will JWST Change Astronomy? Today we dive into the world's shiny new space telescope - JWST. Learn why are physicists and astronomers are so excited about it, and what new secrets of the universe it might reveal. Keep your eye out for its launch later this week!

Support the show

]]> Today we dive into the world's shiny new space telescope - JWST. Learn why are physicists and astronomers are so excited about it, and what new secrets of the universe it might reveal. Keep your eye out for its launch later this week!

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-9751007 Mon, 20 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -0500 1192 physics, astronomy, space telescope, telescope, jwst, james webb, NASA, Hubble, launch 1 40 full false 23 - Does Physics Allow for Free Will? (Rebroadcast) 23 - Does Physics Allow for Free Will? (Rebroadcast) Can free will exist in a universe described by the laws of physics? Listen to this re-broadcast of one of our favorite episodes.

Support the show

]]> Can free will exist in a universe described by the laws of physics? Listen to this re-broadcast of one of our favorite episodes.

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-9627042 Mon, 29 Nov 2021 06:00:00 -0500 1725 full false 39 - Why Do Science Communication? (ft. Daniel Whiteson and Jorge Cham) 39 - Why Do Science Communication? (ft. Daniel Whiteson and Jorge Cham) Daniel Whiteson and Jorge Cham talk to us about what science communication means to them.

Listen to their podcast, Daniel and Jorge Explain the Universe: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/105-daniel-and-jorge-explain-t-29862087/

Support WTU on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Daniel Whiteson and Jorge Cham talk to us about what science communication means to them.

Listen to their podcast, Daniel and Jorge Explain the Universe: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/105-daniel-and-jorge-explain-t-29862087/

Support WTU on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-9545606 Mon, 15 Nov 2021 06:00:00 -0500 1640 physics, science, science communication, books, podcasts, daniel and jorge 1 39 full false A Special Neutrino Update! (ft. Pedro Machado) A Special Neutrino Update! (ft. Pedro Machado) Today we unpack the latest neutrino results from Fermilab's MicroBoone experiment. Special guest Pedro Machado helps us understand what they mean for the future of neutrino research.

Support the show

]]> Today we unpack the latest neutrino results from Fermilab's MicroBoone experiment. Special guest Pedro Machado helps us understand what they mean for the future of neutrino research.

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-9466421 Mon, 01 Nov 2021 06:00:00 -0400 1030 microboone, neutrino, sterile neutrino, fermilab, physics, experiment, particle physics 1 full false 38 - The Nobel Prize's Greatest Misses 38 - The Nobel Prize's Greatest Misses In honor of Nobel prize season, we remember some people whose important work in the past has been overlooked by the Nobel committee.

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> In honor of Nobel prize season, we remember some people whose important work in the past has been overlooked by the Nobel committee.

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-9384780 Mon, 18 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0400 2085 nobel prize, nobel, physics, science, vera rubin, cosmology, astro, astrophysics, astronomy 1 38 full false 37 - How Neutrinos Might Be Hinting at Dark Matter 37 - How Neutrinos Might Be Hinting at Dark Matter The neutrino's non-zero mass is an anomaly, but one that leads to a promising new dark matter candidate - the sterile neutrino. Could this be it?

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> The neutrino's non-zero mass is an anomaly, but one that leads to a promising new dark matter candidate - the sterile neutrino. Could this be it?

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-9306447 Mon, 04 Oct 2021 08:00:00 -0400 1462 physics, quantum, standard model, neutrinos, neutrino, sterile neutrino, neutrino oscillations, beyond the standard model, dark matter, dark matter candidate 1 37 full false 36 - The Neutrino's Quantum Superpower 36 - The Neutrino's Quantum Superpower Today we discuss neutrino oscillations - their ability to transform between different types – and the quantum mechanics that makes it possible.

 Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Today we discuss neutrino oscillations - their ability to transform between different types – and the quantum mechanics that makes it possible.

 Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-9226309 Mon, 20 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0400 1262 physics, standard model, particle physics, quantum, quantum mechanics, theoretical physics, neutrino, neutrinos, neutrino oscillation 1 36 full false 35 - The Chaos Underlying Everything (ft. David Grier) 35 - The Chaos Underlying Everything (ft. David Grier) Learn about the chaotic motion that underlies even the most ordered structures, including life.

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Learn about the chaotic motion that underlies even the most ordered structures, including life.

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-9144950 Mon, 06 Sep 2021 05:00:00 -0400 1924 physics, condensed matter, chaos, brownian motion, brownian, life, emergence 1 35 full false 34 - Should Beauty Guide Physicists? 34 - Should Beauty Guide Physicists? Some physics theories are admired for being beautiful, but does that mean they are more likely to be true? Or could chasing beauty lead us astray?

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Some physics theories are admired for being beautiful, but does that mean they are more likely to be true? Or could chasing beauty lead us astray?

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-9069812 Mon, 23 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0400 1714 physics, philosophy, philosophy of science, supersymmetry, occams razor 1 34 full false 33 - Our Love Affair With Supersymmetry 33 - Our Love Affair With Supersymmetry Hear why supersymmetry was special enough to win over physicists hearts, and why faith in it might be dying out.

Support the show

]]> Hear why supersymmetry was special enough to win over physicists hearts, and why faith in it might be dying out.

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-8996003 Mon, 09 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0400 2050 physics, quantum, symmetry, symmetries, supersymmetry, string theory 1 33 full false 32 - The Mystery of the Higgs Boson's Mass 32 - The Mystery of the Higgs Boson's Mass Today we explore one of the biggest and most frustrating open problems of particle physics - the hierarchy problem.

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Today we explore one of the biggest and most frustrating open problems of particle physics - the hierarchy problem.

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-8918550 Mon, 26 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0400 1458 physics, higgs, higgs boson, particle physics, hierarchy problem, weak force, standard model, beyond the standard model 1 32 full false 31 - If You Give an Astronomer a Neutrino 31 - If You Give an Astronomer a Neutrino Learn how astronomers are using invisible particles to see what we've never seen before!

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Learn how astronomers are using invisible particles to see what we've never seen before!

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-8847457 Mon, 12 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0400 1645 physics, neutrino, astronomy, astro, astrophysics, supernova 1 31 full false 30 - The Oldest Picture of the Universe 30 - The Oldest Picture of the Universe Learn about the oldest light in the universe - the cosmic microwave background - and how it became a treasure trove of cosmological insight.

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Learn about the oldest light in the universe - the cosmic microwave background - and how it became a treasure trove of cosmological insight.

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-8773090 Mon, 28 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0400 1943 physics, relativity, big bang, cmb, cosmic microwave, cosmology, space 1 30 full false 29 - How the Big Bang Won the Debate About the Beginning of Time 29 - How the Big Bang Won the Debate About the Beginning of Time Hear what proved to physicists that the universe started with the Big Bang - and the one person who was never convinced.

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Hear what proved to physicists that the universe started with the Big Bang - and the one person who was never convinced.

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-8695759 Mon, 14 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0400 1986 physics, big bang, early universe, general relativity, Einstein, theoretical physics, steady state, time, beginning of time 1 29 full false 28 - How Emmy Noether Changed Physics Forever 28 - How Emmy Noether Changed Physics Forever Learn how a profound mathematical theorem relating symmetries to conservation laws is deeply woven into the physics of the universe.

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Learn how a profound mathematical theorem relating symmetries to conservation laws is deeply woven into the physics of the universe.

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-8615000 Mon, 31 May 2021 05:00:00 -0400 1427 physics, quantum, noether, noether's theorem, math, history of physics, history of science, symmetry, symmetries, theoretical physics, particle physics, standard model, gauge symmetries full false 12 - The Fight Between Modified Gravity and Dark Matter 12 - The Fight Between Modified Gravity and Dark Matter A rerun of one of our favorite episodes ever. Some physicists have considered the possibility that dark matter might not exist - and that instead, it's our theories of gravity which are wrong. Today we take a deep dive into these theories of modified gravity.

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> A rerun of one of our favorite episodes ever. Some physicists have considered the possibility that dark matter might not exist - and that instead, it's our theories of gravity which are wrong. Today we take a deep dive into these theories of modified gravity.

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-8486983 Mon, 10 May 2021 05:00:00 -0400 1889 physics, modified gravity, gravity, MOND, dark matter, theoretical physics full false 3 - What in the World is Anti-Matter? 3 - What in the World is Anti-Matter? A re-post of one of our favorite early episodes. Learn how special relativity and quantum mechanics come together to make an odd prediction about matter.

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> A re-post of one of our favorite early episodes. Learn how special relativity and quantum mechanics come together to make an odd prediction about matter.

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-8401964 Mon, 26 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0400 1001 physics, quantum, quantum mechanics, relativity, special relativity, Einstein, Hawking, theoretical physics, Dirac, dirac equation, Schrodinger 1 3 full false 27 - What Does the Muon g-2 Result Mean for Physics? 27 - What Does the Muon g-2 Result Mean for Physics? Get our introduction to the measurement that might prove the Standard Model wrong!

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Get our introduction to the measurement that might prove the Standard Model wrong!

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-8316466 Mon, 12 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0400 2058 physics, g-2, muon, fermilab, standard model, BSM physics, dark matter, LHC, large hadron collider, magnetic moment, discovery, particle physics 1 27 full false 26 - Did Inflation Rip Apart the Early Universe? 26 - Did Inflation Rip Apart the Early Universe? The Big Bang theory leaves us with some open questions, and the theory of inflation might have the answers.

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> The Big Bang theory leaves us with some open questions, and the theory of inflation might have the answers.

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/whythisuniverse

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-8228413 Mon, 29 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0400 1629 physics, inflation, expansion, dark energy, cosmological constant, big bang, big bang theory, science, science fiction, universe, early universe, cosmic inflation, eternal inflation, multiverse, multiverses, multiverse theory 1 26 full false 25 - Could Extra Dimensions Exist? 25 - Could Extra Dimensions Exist? How many dimensions of space are there? Could there be extra dimensions that are hidden from view?

Support the show

]]> How many dimensions of space are there? Could there be extra dimensions that are hidden from view?

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-8141040 Mon, 15 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0400 1660 physics, dimensions, extra dimensions, string theory, kaluza klein, 5d, 4d, spacetime, quantum, quantum mechanics, black holes, general relativity, Einstein, Hawking, theoretical physics 1 25 full false 24 - Breaking Down the Standard Model 24 - Breaking Down the Standard Model Take a deep dive into (a contender) for the most successful theory of physics ever!

Support the show

]]> Take a deep dive into (a contender) for the most successful theory of physics ever!

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-8047238 Mon, 01 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0500 1729 physics, standard model, particle physics, quantum, quantum mechanics, black holes, general relativity, Einstein, Hawking, theoretical physics, history of physics, history of science 1 24 full false 23 - Does Physics Allow for Free Will? 23 - Does Physics Allow for Free Will? Can free will exist in a universe described by the laws of physics? 

Support the show

]]> Can free will exist in a universe described by the laws of physics? 

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-7861309 Mon, 15 Feb 2021 05:00:00 -0500 1708 physics, quantum, quantum mechanics, philosophy, philosophy of science, philosophy of physics, free will, Laplace's demon 1 23 full false 22 - The Particle That Might Do It All (Axions!) 22 - The Particle That Might Do It All (Axions!) Today we talk about the theoretical particle at the forefront of current research. Learn how axions might explain not one but *two* open problems in physics!

Support the show

]]> Today we talk about the theoretical particle at the forefront of current research. Learn how axions might explain not one but *two* open problems in physics!

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-7591684 Mon, 01 Feb 2021 05:00:00 -0500 1170 physics, quantum, symmetry, symmetries, dark matter, axions, theoretical physics 1 22 full false 21 - The Quantum Mechanics of Black Holes 21 - The Quantum Mechanics of Black Holes Here's what happens when we introduce quantum mechanics to one of the weirdest objects in the universe. Hint - things get hairy.

Support the show

]]> Here's what happens when we introduce quantum mechanics to one of the weirdest objects in the universe. Hint - things get hairy.

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-7340896 Mon, 18 Jan 2021 05:00:00 -0500 1759 physics, quantum, quantum mechanics, black holes, general relativity, Einstein, Hawking, theoretical physics 1 21 full false 20 - Everything To Do About Black Holes 20 - Everything To Do About Black Holes Today we talk about black holes - from their early history to their role in the 2020 Nobel Prize in Physics. 

Support the show

]]> Today we talk about black holes - from their early history to their role in the 2020 Nobel Prize in Physics. 

Support the show

]]> Buzzsprout-7118350 Mon, 04 Jan 2021 05:00:00 -0500 1785 physics, black holes, general relativity, Einstein, Hawking, theoretical physics, nobel prize 1 20 full false 19 - Why Does Science Work? 19 - Why Does Science Work? Does science get us closer to understanding what the universe is actually like, or is it just a useful tool to build technology with? Today we get philosophical and talk through this deep question!

Support the show

]]> Does science get us closer to understanding what the universe is actually like, or is it just a useful tool to build technology with? Today we get philosophical and talk through this deep question!

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-6944270 Mon, 21 Dec 2020 05:00:00 -0500 1786 physics, history, history of physics, history of science, philosophy, philosophy of science, quantum, symmetry, dark matter, theoretical physics 1 19 full false 18 - Could a Hyper-Advanced Civilization Resist Dark Energy? 18 - Could a Hyper-Advanced Civilization Resist Dark Energy? If life in the universe survives into the far future, it will eventually come face to face with the accelerating expansion of the universe caused by dark energy. Could a hyper-advanced civilization find a way to fight it?

Support the show

]]> If life in the universe survives into the far future, it will eventually come face to face with the accelerating expansion of the universe caused by dark energy. Could a hyper-advanced civilization find a way to fight it?

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-6608332 Mon, 30 Nov 2020 05:00:00 -0500 2239 physics, dark energy, science, science fiction, civilization, future, universe, life 1 18 full false The State of The Universe #81 - Dr. Daniel Whiteson - The Standard Model and Its Many Quirks! The State of The Universe #81 - Dr. Daniel Whiteson - The Standard Model and Its Many Quirks! Today our feed is getting taken over by Brendan Drachler to bring you an episode of his show, The State of the Universe!

Science moves at an impossibly fast pace. It will leave you wondering, what is the state of the universe? Wonder no more! Learn from researchers working at the cutting edge of scientific advancement about everything from the robot takeover to the big bang only on The State of The Universe podcast.

Listen to the State of the Universe everywhere where podcasts are available. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-state-of-the-universe/id1429808898

Support the show

]]> Today our feed is getting taken over by Brendan Drachler to bring you an episode of his show, The State of the Universe!

Science moves at an impossibly fast pace. It will leave you wondering, what is the state of the universe? Wonder no more! Learn from researchers working at the cutting edge of scientific advancement about everything from the robot takeover to the big bang only on The State of The Universe podcast.

Listen to the State of the Universe everywhere where podcasts are available. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-state-of-the-universe/id1429808898

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-6500632 Mon, 23 Nov 2020 05:00:00 -0500 6137 full false 17 - Why Haven't We Met Aliens? 17 - Why Haven't We Met Aliens? Are there other intelligent civilizations out there, or are we alone here on Earth? And what have we done to try to find them?

Support the show

]]> Are there other intelligent civilizations out there, or are we alone here on Earth? And what have we done to try to find them?

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-6389647 Mon, 16 Nov 2020 05:00:00 -0500 1501 physics, science, science fiction, civilization, future, universe, life, aliens, alien, extraterrestrial, extraterrestrial life, biology 1 17 full false 16 - Where Is Life in the Universe? 16 - Where Is Life in the Universe? What does it takes for a planet to support life? How different could extraterrestrial life be from what we see on Earth?

Support the show

]]> What does it takes for a planet to support life? How different could extraterrestrial life be from what we see on Earth?

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-6177010 Mon, 02 Nov 2020 05:00:00 -0500 1573 physics, science, science fiction, civilization, future, universe, life, aliens, alien, extraterrestrial, extraterrestrial life, biology 1 16 full false 15 - What are Grand Unified Theories? 15 - What are Grand Unified Theories? These theories aim to explain all of the fundamental forces (except gravity) in one neat package. How does it work?

Support the show

]]> These theories aim to explain all of the fundamental forces (except gravity) in one neat package. How does it work?

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-5955421 Mon, 19 Oct 2020 05:00:00 -0400 1489 physics, quantum, quantum mechanics, Einstein, Hawking, theoretical physics 1 15 full false 14 - Why Does Time Move in One Direction? 14 - Why Does Time Move in One Direction? What in the laws of physics differentiates between past and future? Is there a physical reason that time always moves forward? 

Support the show

]]> What in the laws of physics differentiates between past and future? Is there a physical reason that time always moves forward? 

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-5849428 Mon, 12 Oct 2020 05:00:00 -0400 1577 1 14 full false 13 - Does Quantum Mechanics Imply a Multiverse? 13 - Does Quantum Mechanics Imply a Multiverse? Today we explore different interpretations of quantum mechanics, from Copenhagen to the many-worlds hypothesis, in an attempt to uncover what quantum reality really is.

Support the show

]]> Today we explore different interpretations of quantum mechanics, from Copenhagen to the many-worlds hypothesis, in an attempt to uncover what quantum reality really is.

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-5737846 Mon, 05 Oct 2020 05:00:00 -0400 1807 1 13 full false 12 - Please Stop Emailing Dan About MOND 12 - Please Stop Emailing Dan About MOND Some physicists have considered the possibility that dark matter might not exist - and that instead, it's our theories of gravity which are wrong. Today we take a deep dive into these theories of modified gravity.

Support the show

]]> Some physicists have considered the possibility that dark matter might not exist - and that instead, it's our theories of gravity which are wrong. Today we take a deep dive into these theories of modified gravity.

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-5600995 Mon, 28 Sep 2020 05:00:00 -0400 1838 1 12 full false 11 - Discovery Alert! Let's Talk About Gravitational Waves 11 - Discovery Alert! Let's Talk About Gravitational Waves You may have heard of the new gravitational wave discovery of September 2020. Here's everything you need to know to understand what this detection means for physics!

Support the show

]]> You may have heard of the new gravitational wave discovery of September 2020. Here's everything you need to know to understand what this detection means for physics!

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-5527636 Mon, 21 Sep 2020 05:00:00 -0400 1603 1 11 full false 10 - What is Dark Energy? 10 - What is Dark Energy? Get introduced to one of the most mysterious characters in physics.

Support the show

]]> Get introduced to one of the most mysterious characters in physics.

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-5401993 Mon, 14 Sep 2020 05:00:00 -0400 1683 1 10 full false 9 - Is Space Expanding? 9 - Is Space Expanding? Here's how a heated debate about whether our Milky Way galaxy is the entire universe led to the discovery of expanding space.

Support the show

]]> Here's how a heated debate about whether our Milky Way galaxy is the entire universe led to the discovery of expanding space.

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-5308126 Mon, 07 Sep 2020 05:00:00 -0400 1376 1 9 full false 8 - Is Space Flat or Curved? 8 - Is Space Flat or Curved? Learn how the geometry of space defies our intuition, and why it gave Einstein so much anxiety.

Support the show

]]> Learn how the geometry of space defies our intuition, and why it gave Einstein so much anxiety.

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-5200162 Mon, 31 Aug 2020 05:00:00 -0400 1402 1 8 full false 7 - Could Black Holes Be the Dark Matter? 7 - Could Black Holes Be the Dark Matter? Dark matter has eluded physicists for years - all we know is that it's some kind of matter that doesn't interact with light. Does that sound like a black hole to you?

Support the show

]]> Dark matter has eluded physicists for years - all we know is that it's some kind of matter that doesn't interact with light. Does that sound like a black hole to you?

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-5101546 Mon, 24 Aug 2020 05:00:00 -0400 1411 1 7 full false 6 - Your Tour Through Quantum Weirdness 6 - Your Tour Through Quantum Weirdness Entanglement, wave-particle duality, and uncertainty - here's a breakdown of the weirdest and wildest things about quantum mechanics.

Support the show

]]> Entanglement, wave-particle duality, and uncertainty - here's a breakdown of the weirdest and wildest things about quantum mechanics.

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-5023538 Mon, 17 Aug 2020 05:00:00 -0400 1757 1 6 full false 5 - How Dan Lost a Bet With Dark Matter 5 - How Dan Lost a Bet With Dark Matter We revisit some of Dan's early predictions about dark matter, and talk about the biggest dark matter ideas and experiments of the last decade.

Support the show

]]> We revisit some of Dan's early predictions about dark matter, and talk about the biggest dark matter ideas and experiments of the last decade.

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-4927628 Mon, 10 Aug 2020 05:00:00 -0400 1669 1 5 full false 4 - Where Did the Antimatter Go? 4 - Where Did the Antimatter Go? Every time a particle of matter is made, a particle of antimatter is also made. So it seems like all matter ever created should have annihilated with antimatter, leaving behind an empty universe. But then... why is our universe filled with matter?

Support the show

]]> Every time a particle of matter is made, a particle of antimatter is also made. So it seems like all matter ever created should have annihilated with antimatter, leaving behind an empty universe. But then... why is our universe filled with matter?

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-4824011 Mon, 03 Aug 2020 05:00:00 -0400 1566 1 4 full false 3 - What in the World Is Antimatter? 3 - What in the World Is Antimatter? Learn how special relativity and quantum mechanics come together to make an odd prediction about matter.

Support the show

]]> Learn how special relativity and quantum mechanics come together to make an odd prediction about matter.

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-4724354 Sun, 26 Jul 2020 00:00:00 -0400 931 1 3 full false 2 - What's It Like to Discover Quantum Mechanics? 2 - What's It Like to Discover Quantum Mechanics? Quantum mechanics revolutionized our understanding of the universe. But have you ever wondered how it was first discovered? What's it like to live through such a dramatic scientific moment? 

Support the show

]]> Quantum mechanics revolutionized our understanding of the universe. But have you ever wondered how it was first discovered? What's it like to live through such a dramatic scientific moment? 

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-4585712 Mon, 20 Jul 2020 10:00:00 -0400 1944 1 2 full false 1 - Why Are We So Sure About Dark Matter? 1 - Why Are We So Sure About Dark Matter? Dark matter sounds as mysterious as it is - an invisible form of matter that permeates our universe that physicists have not yet been able to detect! And yet, most physicists are extremely confident that it exists. Learn why!

Support the show

]]> Dark matter sounds as mysterious as it is - an invisible form of matter that permeates our universe that physicists have not yet been able to detect! And yet, most physicists are extremely confident that it exists. Learn why!

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-4547693 Mon, 13 Jul 2020 10:00:00 -0400 1247 1 1 full false 0 - Welcome to Why This Universe! 0 - Welcome to Why This Universe! Learn more about the co-hosts, what this podcast is all about, and why we are making it!

Support the show

]]> Learn more about the co-hosts, what this podcast is all about, and why we are making it!

Support the show

]]> Dan Hooper, Shalma Wegsman Buzzsprout-4527164 Mon, 13 Jul 2020 10:00:00 -0400 289 trailer false