StarTalk Radio Cosmic Queries - Flat Universe
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Aug 12, 2025 The hosts delve into whether merging the asteroid belt could form a planet. A playful discussion unfolds about photon particles and alien life, while pondering time measurement and communication with extraterrestrials. They tackle the peculiar Casimir Effect and the potential consequences of a non-rotating Milky Way. Mixing humor with science, they also engage in friendly debates over pizza toppings and what it means to explore cosmic dynamics. It’s an entertaining ride through the universe with thoughtful reflections and cosmic banter!
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Flat Universe Means No Return Trip
- Neil deGrasse Tyson explains a flat universe means going straight never returns you to the start.
- Only positive curvature (spherical) would let straight paths loop back.
At Light Speed You'd Experience No Time
- Neil deGrasse Tyson confirms at light speed time stops for the traveler, so travel appears instant.
- But objects with mass cannot reach light speed, so trips still take time.
Neutron Star Matter Stays Crushed
- Neil deGrasse Tyson says neutron-star matter would stay crushed and not rebound into mountains on Earth.
- Extreme gravity flattens material so it won't 'pop' back to previous shapes.
