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    Simulations today are powerful tools for exploring the mysteries of our universe, but how close can they come to replicating reality? Can we recreate everything through simulations, or are there limits we can’t overcome? And how do today’s powerful simulations shape our understanding of everything from galaxies to climate change?

    Here today, to answer all of these questions and more, is none other than Andrew Pontzen. Andrew is a cosmologist and professor known for his expertise in using computer simulations to understand the universe. He’s the author of The Universe in a Box, where he unpacks the complexities of cosmic simulations and their surprising limitations. Pontzen’s work is at the cutting edge of how we model and predict phenomena ranging from galaxy formation to climate change, bridging theoretical physics with practical, big-picture questions about reality.

    As we head toward an era where simulations and AI are central to scientific discovery, these questions are more important than ever. 

    Tune in to learn about the power and limitations of simulation! 


    Key Takeaways: 


    00:00 Intro

    00:44 Is it possible to simulate reality? 

    04:49 Early simulation experiments 

    10:30 Fluid dynamics and weather simulations 

    13:51 Judging a book by its cover 

    16:01 End of the universe

    19:13 Cosmic microwave background and spinning universes

    24:11 Verification and validation

    27:34 Big Bang controversy and the JWST

    31:35 Galaxy simulations 

    42:23 Multiverse and quantum computing 

    48:58 Ethics and energy impact of high-performance computing

    55:34 Outro


    Additional resources: 

    ➑️ Learn more about Andrew: 

    πŸ“š Get The Universe in a Box: https://a.co/d/2V7vuFR 
    βœ–οΈ Follow Andrew on Twitter: https://x.com/apontzen

    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:
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    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/ 
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    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

    Make sure to follow/subscribe so you never miss an episode!
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • Please join my mailing list here πŸ‘‰ https://briankeating.com/list to win a meteorite πŸ’₯

    Is reality fundamentally mathematical? Is our universe just one of many? And will we ever discover extraterrestrial life? 

    This week on Into the Impossible, I sit down with renowned physicist and machine learning expert Max Tegmark to discuss some of the most fundamental questions of our time! Tegmark has dedicated his career to uncovering the mathematical fabric of reality, proposing that our universe itself might be a vast mathematical structure and that we could be living in a multiverse of endless possibilities. His work goes beyond physics to tackle the transformative power and ethical challenges of artificial intelligence, an area where he believes humanity must tread carefully.

    In the first part of this mind-bending interview, we discuss his mathematical universe hypothesis, the search for extraterrestrial life, and AI’s role in science. Tune in!

    Key Takeaways: 


    00:00 Intro

    00:49 The multiverse and mathematical structures 

    02:33 Theory of inflation and the multiverse

    06:52 Levels of multiverses and mathematical structures 

    11:19 Quantum mechanics and classical mechanics

    14:21 The relationship between theory and experiment  

    21:48 The search for extraterrestrial life 

    37:15 UFOs and military surveillance technology 

    41:19 Outro


    Additional resources: 

    πŸ“š Our Mathematical Universe by Max Tegmark: https://a.co/d/03qjhLD 

    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrBrianKeating 
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1 
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    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/ 
    πŸŽ™οΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast 

    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

    Make sure to follow/subscribe so you never miss an episode!
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  • Please join my mailing list here πŸ‘‰ https://briankeating.com/list to win a meteorite πŸ’₯
    What if the secret to saving millions of lives was hidden for years—overlooked, dismissed, and even rejected?
    That’s the story behind the groundbreaking mRNA technology used in COVID-19 vaccines.
    Today’s remarkable guest, Dr. Katalin Karikó—a Nobel laureate whose persistence and vision changed the course of medical history—shares how she overcame countless setbacks to drive one of the biggest breakthroughs in modern medicine.
    Discover how a humble butcher’s daughter from Hungary developed the foundation for the COVID-19 vaccine and why mRNA could hold the key to curing cancer and other deadly diseases.
    Tune in to learn more about the mRNA revolution that almost didn’t happen!

    Key Takeaways: 


    00:00:00 Intro

    00:01:06 Origin of the Hungarian phrase “Marslahok”

    00:02:11 Judging a book by its cover

    00:05:40 The definition of life and extraterrestrial life 

    00:09:28 Katalin’s early life and scientific curiosity 

    00:18:00 Understanding RNA and mRNA

    00:24:43 Development of the COVID vaccine

    00:28:44 The COVID vaccine controversy 

    00:35:41 Overcoming adversity and advice for young scientists 

    00:54:10 The future of mRNA research and dealing with pandemics 

    01:01:08 What was Katalin wrong about?

    01:02:15 Outro


    Additional resources: 

    πŸ“š Get “Breaking Through: My Life in Science” by Dr. Katalin Karikó: https://a.co/d/cZjaFCw 

    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrBrianKeating 
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1 
    πŸ“ Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list 
    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/ 
    πŸŽ™οΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast 

    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

    Make sure to follow/subscribe so you never miss an episode!
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • Please join my mailing list here πŸ‘‰ https://briankeating.com/list to win a meteorite πŸ’₯
    Is Earth truly one of a kind? 
    This question has fascinated humans for decades, and with today's advanced technology, we're finally able to explore it scientifically. In this episode, renowned astrophysicist Josh Winn joins us to discuss the fascinating world of exoplanets, planetary systems, and the quest to discover other habitable planets.
    Josh shares the latest breakthroughs in exoplanet research, from unexpected discoveries like hot Jupiters to the ongoing efforts to detect Earth-like planets around distant stars. He also explores the challenges of studying planets light-years away and the exciting future missions that could reveal more about the universe beyond our solar system. 
    Tune in to learn more about exoplanets and life beyond our solar system!

    Key Takeaways: 


    00:00:00 Intro

    00:00:34 Rare Earth Hypothesis 

    00:06:04 The role of stars in exoplanet habitability 

    00:13:23 Judging a book by its cover 

    00:16:50 Could aliens detect Tokyo? 

    00:19:42 The Habitable Worlds Observatory 

    00:22:06 Methods for detecting exoplanets 

    00:25:21 The lazy method 

    00:30:03 Avi Loeb and Oumuamua

    00:36:08 The nuts and bolts of Josh's work 

    00:44:29 The role of technology in detecting exoplanets 

    00:52:48 Why should young people be interested in exoplanets?

    00:57:22 Outro


    Additional resources: 

    πŸ“š Get The Little Book of Exoplanets by Josh Winn: https://a.co/d/9PK4XFV 

    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrBrianKeating 
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1 
    πŸ“ Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list 
    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/ 
    πŸŽ™οΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast 

    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

    Make sure to follow/subscribe so you never miss an episode!
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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    Have you ever looked up at the night sky and wondered if your eyes were enough to capture all it has to offer? Spoiler alert: They’re not!
    While our eyes are absolutely amazing, they are also full of flaws. Nearsightedness, astigmatism, and even pesky floaters! But did you know these same flaws are mirrored in the world’s most advanced telescopes?
    In this episode, I discuss common eye deficiencies and explain how they affect our ability to observe the stars. I compare them to the optical imperfections in telescopes, such as chromatic and spherical aberration. 
    Tune in to learn more about nature’s first telescopes! 
    This episode is part 2 of a series where we’ll uncover even more intriguing insights about the connections between our eyes and telescopes, so stay tuned!
    Check out part 1: https://youtu.be/lSbyohV1XSE

    Key Takeaways: 


    00:00 Intro 

    01:29 Deficiencies of the human eye

    05:42 Deficiencies in telescopes 

    13:59 Conclusion 

    15:37 Outro


    Additional resources: 

    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrBrianKeating 
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1 
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    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/ 
    πŸŽ™οΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast 

    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

    Make sure to follow/subscribe so you never miss an episode!
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • What are the leading theories of everything, and are we any closer to discovering the one true theory of everything?
    In this 90-minute summit, some of the world’s top physicists—Max Tegmark, James Beacham, Stephon Alexander—go beyond the hype to explore the very heart of physics. 
    Einstein began the monumental task of unifying quantum mechanics with general relativity, but will we ever succeed in unifying all the forces of the universe? Can it be done? If so, when?
    Join us for this thought-provoking discussion and find out!

    Key Takeaways: 


    00:00:00 Intro 

    00:00:45 What is a theory of everything?

    00:05:25 State of the field and personal perspectives 

    00:20:42 Experimental challenges 

    00:34:13 Mathematical foundations, the multiverse, and theoretical beauty 

    01:05:12 Where do we go from here?

    01:14:23 Audience questions

    01:25:35 Outro


    Additional resources: 

    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
    πŸ“ Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
    πŸŽ™οΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
    ✨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw

    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

    Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • Please join my mailing list here πŸ‘‰ https://briankeating.com/list to win a meteorite πŸ’₯
    How can embracing mistakes, challenging common assumptions, and daring to be wrong lead to groundbreaking discoveries in cosmology?
    Here to talk about why being wrong might actually be a good thing is the legendary astrophysicist Rocky Kolb. Rocky, a professor at the University of Chicago, is known for his work on the early universe and dark matter.
    With decades of experience under his belt, Rocky explains the tricky balance between confidence and humility in science.
    Tune in to learn more about the interplay of ego, humility, and science!

    Key Takeaways: 


    00:00 Intro 

    01:55 Judging a book by its cover

    04:29 Humility, ego and science

    14:50 Controversies in cosmology

    21:06 Neutrinos and dark matter

    24:26 The role of data in cosmology

    35:46 Ethics and responsibility in science 

    43:48 Arthur C Clarke questions 

    48:01 Outro 


    Additional resources: 

    ➑️ Learn more about Rocky Kolb: 
    πŸ“š Blind Watcher Of The Sky: https://a.co/d/aw0qZDt 

    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrBrianKeating 
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1 
    πŸ“ Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list 
    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/ 
    πŸŽ™οΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast 

    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

    Make sure to follow/subscribe so you never miss an episode!
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • Have you ever wondered how your eyes compare to a telescope? 
    The answer is more surprising than you might think! Today, we will look at the fascinating parallels between the human eye and one of the most powerful astronomical instruments - the telescope. 
    From lenses and apertures to light detection and color vision, we will explore how these two systems, one biological and the other mechanical, have strikingly similar properties. 
    Tune in to learn more about how nature's best telescope matches up with cutting-edge technology.
    This episode is part 1 of a series where we’ll uncover even more intriguing insights about the connections between our eyes and telescopes, so stay tuned!

    Key Takeaways: 


    00:00 Intro 

    01:29 How telescopes inspired me as a kid

    06:24 Comparing the anatomy of the human eye to a telescope

    12:51 Light sensitivity and resolution in the human eye 

    17:23 Color vision and polarization 

    21:03 Historical contributions and confirmation bias

    25:41 How to improve our astronomical observations 

    28:39 Outro


    Additional resources: 

    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrBrianKeating 
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1 
    πŸ“ Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list 
    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/ 
    πŸŽ™οΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast 

    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

    Make sure to follow/subscribe so you never miss an episode!
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • Can science and religion be reconciled to provide a deeper understanding of the universe? How do modern scientific discoveries, like quantum mechanics and cosmology, relate to ancient religious texts? And what role do consciousness and language play in bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and spiritual belief?
    Here today, to challenge conventional narratives about the relationship between science and religion is host of the Young Heretics podcast, Spencer Klavan! Spencer is an acclaimed author and scholar specializing in classics and literature. He is known for his work on cultural and political commentary, often focusing on the intersection of Western civilization, literature, and contemporary issues. 
    Tune in to discover ancient wisdom, modern science, and the long-lost link between the two! 

    Key Takeaways: 


    00:00:00 Audio essay

    00:24:31 Interview introduction 

    00:26:10 Judging a book by its cover 

    00:37:25 Reconciling the material with the immaterial 

    00:43:31 The cosmological argument 

    00:55:05 Is faith immune to falsifiability? 

    01:05:31 Aristotle and modern science 

    01:23:57 Audience questions 

    01:34:26 Masculinity, conservatism and homosexuality 

    01:41:16 Transgendarism, alchemy, and astrology 

    01:52:44 Outro


    Additional resources: 

    ➑️ Learn more about Spencer: 
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://x.com/SpencerKlavan/ 
    πŸ“š Light of the Mind, Light of the World: https://a.co/d/fam2Tx5 
    πŸ”” Young Heretics: https://www.youtube.com/@YoungHereticsShow 

    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrBrianKeating 
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1 
    πŸ“ Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list 
    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/ 
    πŸŽ™οΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast 

    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

    Make sure to follow/subscribe so you never miss an episode!
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • In 2022, I had the honor of delivering the commencement address at Brown University.
    I used this incredible opportunity to talk about a personal hero of mine: Galileo Galilei. Galileo was a scientist like no other. He boldly challenged the status quo through his discoveries and relentlessly pursued the truth, even when persecuted for doing so. His journey offers timeless lessons for scientists today, especially for graduate students who will shape the future of science.
    My goal with this lecture was to inspire the next generation of thinkers, and I hope it does the same for you.
    Tune in to learn more about how Galileo set the gold standard for scientists.

    Key Takeaways: 


    00:00:00 Intro 

    00:02:06 My early days at Brown University 

    00:08:08 Galileo’s legacy 

    00:24:18 Losing the Nobel Prize 

    00:40:48 Interstellar dust and mistakes 

    00:46:48 My motto 

    00:48:29 Audience questions

    01:03:39 Outro


    Additional resources: 

    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
    πŸ“ Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
    πŸŽ™οΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
    ✨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw

    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

    Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • What is the cosmic microwave background (CMB), and why is it essential in cosmology? What role do instruments like BICEP and the Simons Observatory play in studying the early universe? And is the multiverse real? 
    I had the absolute pleasure of discussing these questions with Dr. Hugh Ross, astrophysicist and founder of Reasons to Believe. 
    In our conversation, Hugh and I discuss my research on polarization signals in the cosmic microwave background (CMB), focusing on my work with the BICEP, POLARBEAR2, and Simons Array telescopes. These signals are key to understanding the inflationary event that shaped the early universe. We explore how ongoing data collection helps us learn more about the universe’s origins. I also share a brief overview of my spiritual journey, from a Catholic upbringing to atheism and now being a practicing Jew with agnostic beliefs.
    Tune in to learn about the infant universe!

    Key Takeaways: 


    00:00:00 Intro

    00:00:40 Understanding the cosmic microwave background (CMB) 

    00:11:30 Cutting-edge technology, precision cosmology, and the inflation hypothesis

    00:33:36 The biggest challenge with inflation 

    00:45:58 The role of the Simons Observatory 

    01:00:15 Presenting our data 

    01:02:47 Neutrinos 

    01:07:43 Outro 


    Additional resources: 

    ➑️ Check out Reason to Believe:
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RTB_official 
    πŸŽ™οΈ Website: https://reasons.org/

    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
    πŸ“ Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
    πŸŽ™οΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
    ✨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw

    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

    Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • A few weeks ago, I released a video about whether string theory’s biggest competitor, Loop Quantum Gravity, might have suffered a fatal blow.
    The video sparked a lively debate across YouTube, with creators like Sabine Hossenfelder and Phil Halpern making reaction videos and Carlo Rovelli even reaching out to me personally, asking me to take it down.
    Now, I want to clarify the situation and share my perspective on whether Loop Quantum Gravity is truly on its last legs—or if there’s more to the story. 
    Tune in to the Loop Quantum Gravity War!

    Key Takeaways: 


    00:00 Intro

    01:02 My initial video on loop quantum gravity 

    03:42 Quick recap of my correspondence with Carlo Rovelli

    04:32 The problem with string theory and loop quantum gravity

    09:25 Reacting to Sabine’s video 

    13:11 My final thoughts 


    Additional resources: 

    ➑️ Check out the videos referenced: 
    πŸ”” Sabine’s video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZlHvW6k2bcM 
    πŸŽ™οΈ Phil’s video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5CzrLuCRS4

    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
    πŸ“ Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
    πŸŽ™οΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
    ✨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw

    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

    Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • Discrepancies between different measurements of the Hubble constant have caused a major crisis in cosmology. 
    Our guest today, the incredible Wendy Freedman, is at the forefront of efforts to resolve this tension. Known for her pioneering work on the Hubble Key Project and her important contributions to the measurement of the Hubble constant, Wendy is now using the James Webb Space Telescope to bring clarity to this debate. 
    With decades of experience and a deep understanding of the complexity of cosmic measurements, there is no one better to shed light on this issue.
    So, can the James Webb Space Telescope help solve one of the biggest puzzles in cosmology?
    Tune in to this episode of Into the Impossible to find out!—

    Key Takeaways: 


    00:00 Intro 

    01:18 The role of JWST in solving the Hubble tension 

    04:01 Comparing different distance indicators

    20:45 Standard sirens 

    34:05 Accurate cosmology vs. precision cosmology 

    36:35 Vera C. Rubin Observatory and Giant Magellan Telescope

    42:50 Wendy’s take on dark energy 

    45:32 Outro 


    Additional resources: 

    ➑️ Learn more about Wendy Freedman: 
    πŸ’» Uni website: https://astro.uchicago.edu/people/wendy-l-freedman.php 

    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
    πŸ“ Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
    πŸŽ™οΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
    ✨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw

    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

    Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • Is string theory actually science?
    Many argue that string theory cannot be proven and should therefore be abandoned. For them, string theory is not science at all. But are they right?
    I had the pleasure of discussing this with none other than Cumrun Vafa! Cumrun is a Professor of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy in the Department of Physics at Harvard University, where he has been researching and teaching theoretical physics since 1985. His primary area of research is string theory. 
    In our interview, we discussed whether we should trust string theory, fine-tuning, and the message he'd put into a billion-year time capsule. We also talked about his book Puzzles to Unravel the Universe. 
    Tune in to learn about string theory!

    Key Takeaways: 


    00:00:00 Intro

    00:01:20 Judging a book by its cover

    00:03:35 What is a puzzle versus a mystery?

    00:06:06 Black hole entropy

    00:08:12 Godel's Theorem: Are some puzzles not solvable?

    00:12:04 Is string theory actually science?

    00:17:15 Dimensional analysis

    00:21:15 Singularities

    00:28:31 ADS and 5 dimensions

    00:30:48 String theory

    00:34:49 Supersymmetry

    00:40:22 On religion

    00:52:45 A scorecard for physics

    00:55:21 What would your "ethical will" be?

    01:02:50 What have you accomplished that once seemed impossible?

    01:06:30 Outro 


    Additional resources: 

    ➑️ Learn more about Cumrun Vafa:
    πŸ“š Puzzles to Unravel the Universe: https://a.co/d/iWnNDup 
    πŸ’» Cumrun’s website: https://www.cumrunvafa.org/ 

    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
    πŸ“ Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
    πŸŽ™οΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
    ✨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw

    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

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  • Have we been completely wrong about the Higgs boson? What if it’s not what we think but something far more elusive? And what does the origin of mass in the universe have to do with music?
    Here today to explore these mind-bending questions is theoretical physicist Matt Strassler. Matt is known for his work in particle physics, particularly in the context of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and quantum field theory. He has been involved in research on the Higgs boson, supersymmetry, and other topics in high-energy physics. 
    In our insightful interview, we dive into the mysteries of quantum physics, the nature of space, and how waves—not just particles—form the building blocks of reality. 
    Tune in to find out how the Higgs field gives mass to everything in the universe! 

    Key Takeaways:


    00:00:00 Intro 

    00:01:24 Deepak or Matt? 

    00:03:18 Judging a book by its cover 

    00:06:27 Energy, frequency, and vibration 

    00:11:53 What is a phib, and why should the reader care? 

    00:16:15 Galileo’s impact 

    00:20:51 The Higgs field and the Higgs boson

    00:28:17 Fine-tuning problems of matter and anti-matter 

    00:33:57 Renormalization 

    00:38:59 The luminiferous ether

    00:49:08 Why Mach didn’t play a part in Matt’s book 

    00:52:08 Inflation and the Higgs field

    00:55:35 Rapid questions 

    01:03:21 Outro


    Additional resources:

    ➑️ Learn more about Matt Strassler: 
    πŸ’» Website: https://profmattstrassler.com/ 
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://x.com/mattstrassler 
    πŸ“š Waves in an Impossible Sea by Matt Strassler: https://a.co/d/1E8MxT8

    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
    πŸ“ Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
    πŸŽ™οΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
    ✨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw

    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

    Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • Are we alone in the universe?
    I had the great pleasure of discussing this fundamental existential question with astrophysicist Dr. Luke Barnes and philosopher Dr. Jay Richards! 
    In this exciting discussion, we dove headfirst into the implications of the SETI project, the Rare Earth hypothesis, and the possibility of habitable planets in other solar systems. Together, we explored the probabilities and challenges of the search for extraterrestrial life, taking into account the vastness of the universe and the fine-tuning required for life to exist. 
    Tune in to find out more about the search for extraterrestrial life!
    This debate was hosted by the Hoover Institution.

    Key Takeaways:


    00:00:00 Intro

    00:01:50 Cosmic fine-tuning

    00:12:13 The Privileged Planet 

    00:21:09 When did the fine-tuning take place?

    00:28:05 The SETI project 

    00:30:59 The lack of life on Mars

    00:39:40 Why we’re so fascinated by this question 

    00:57:28 Quantum mechanics and Einstein’s relativity 

    01:02:01 Human exceptionalism 

    01:08:46 Science and religion 

    01:12:58 Outro


    Additional resources:

    ➑️ Check out my incredible colleagues: 
    πŸ”” Hoover Institution: https://www.hoover.org/ 
    πŸ”” Hoover Institution YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HooverInstitution
    βœ–οΈ Dr. Luke Barnes: https://x.com/lukebarnesastro/ 
    βœ–οΈ Dr. Jay Richards: https://x.com/drjayrichards/

    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
    πŸ“ Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
    πŸŽ™οΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
    ✨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw

    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

    Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • Is the universe hiding extra dimensions we can’t see? Could a graviton – a particle we haven’t even proven to exist – change everything we know about the cosmos? And what does the future of physics hold if the standard model fails?
    Today, I sit down with the renowned cosmologist Dan Hooper to discuss some of the most complex and exciting theories in modern cosmology. Dan is a leading theoretical physicist at Fermilab and a professor at the University of Chicago, specializing in the mysteries of dark matter, the early universe, and extra dimensions. 
    In this thrilling episode, Dan and I explore how hidden dimensions and mysterious particles could fundamentally challenge our understanding of the universe! 
    Tune in!

    Key Takeaways:


    00:00 Intro 

    01:12 Judging a book by its cover

    03:00 The Kaluza–Klein theory 

    06:29 Extra dimensions and gravitons 

    14:05 Supersymmetry and spin-3/2 particles 

    19:16 The Desi experiment and neutrino mass 

    24:58 What has Dan been wrong about?

    27:40 Outro


    Additional resources:

    ➑️ Learn more about Dan: 
    🎢 The Spectral Distortions: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2sazg5S1hrbt5Rk4lxoVHy 
    πŸŽ™οΈ Why This Universe?: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbfIVYxgDnR3dicM18TwS8w

    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
    πŸ“ Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
    πŸŽ™οΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
    ✨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw

    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

    Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • Will we ever find the theory of everything? What’s the real difference between artificial intelligence and artificial wisdom? And do experimental physicists really need a deeper understanding of theory than the theorists themselves?

    I had the incredible pleasure of diving into these profound questions with Curt Jaimungal, host of the popular podcast and YouTube channel Theories of Everything. In our insightful conversation, we explored the nature of theoretical physics, the role of experimental science, and the ongoing quest to understand the origins of the universe, from the Big Bang to the possibility of a cyclical cosmos.

    Tune in.

    Key Takeaways:


    00:00:00 Intro

    00:00:34 My goals in life 

    00:02:44 Artificial intelligence vs. artificial wisdom 

    00:09:20 Gödel's incompleteness theorem

    00:19:55 Theoretical vs. experimental physics

    00:27:00 What textbooks are there for experimental physics?

    00:36:50 What's needed for a Theory of Everything? 

    00:40:56 What are the limits of experimental physics?

    00:42:37 Free will, reductionism, and God 

    00:51:34 Eric Weinstein's geometric unity 

    00:59:12 Outro


    Additional resources:

    ➑️ Check out Theories of Everything with Curt Jaimungal: 
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdWIQh9DGG6uhJk8eyIFl1w 
    πŸ’» Website: https://www.curtjaimungal.org/

    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
    πŸ“ Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
    πŸŽ™οΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
    ✨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw

    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

    Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • What are tardigrades, and how did they end up on the moon? 
    I had the pleasure of exploring the evolution, resilience, and potential use cases of these microscopic creatures that can survive in extreme environments with Daniel Whiteson and Jorge Cham from Daniel and Jorge Explain the Universe. 
    Enjoy!



    Key Takeaways: 

    00:00 Intro 

    01:52 Are tardigrades colonizing the moon? 

    04:12 A little bit about myself

    08:37 Ask the wrong expert

    15:03 Why are tardigrades so terrifying?

    16:50 Their extreme survival abilities  

    26:18 How they ended up on the moon 

    28:29 Can they survive on the moon? 

    33:41 Outro




    Additional resources: 

    ➑️ Check out Daniel and Jorge Explain the Universe:

    πŸŽ™οΈ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daniel-and-jorge-explain-the-universe/id1436616330 
    🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5t4keSVD2zRQuUEtwuoq4V 



    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:

    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrBrianKeating 
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1 
    πŸ“ Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list 
    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/ 
    πŸŽ™οΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast 



    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

    Make sure to follow/subscribe so you never miss an episode!
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • I’m a scientist. 
    But every time someone says to “follow the science,” I worry. 
    Why?
    Find out in my conversation with Georgia Howe from The Daily Wire. The Daily Wire is a news website and media company founded in 2015 by political commentator Ben Shapiro and film director Jeremy Boreing. 
    Enjoy!

    Key Takeaways:


    00:00 Intro

    01:08 Knowledge vs. wisdom 

    02:42 Follow the science

    08:42 Politics and science 

    11:23 Integrity in science 

    14:07 Outro


    Additional resources:

    ➑️ Check out PragerU:
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PragerU

    ➑️ Follow me on your fav platforms:
    βœ–οΈ Twitter: https://x.com/DrBrianKeating
    πŸ”” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/DrBrianKeating?sub_confirmation=1
    πŸ“ Join my mailing list: https://briankeating.com/list
    ✍️ Check out my blog: https://briankeating.com/cosmic-musings/
    πŸŽ™οΈ Follow my podcast: https://briankeating.com/podcast
    ✨ Member's only playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOmXH_moPhfkqCk6S3b9RWuw

    Into the Impossible with Brian Keating is a podcast dedicated to all those who want to explore the universe within and beyond the known.

    Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices