The BOB & TOM Show Free Podcast Episode: B&T Extra: Astrophysicist Neil DeGrasse Tyson
Release Date: January 15, 2025
Host/Author: The BOB & TOM Show | Cumulus Podcast Network

Introduction

In this episode of B&T Extra, hosts Bob, Tom, and Donnie engage in a lively and insightful conversation with renowned astrophysicist Neil DeGrasse Tyson. The discussion spans Neil's academic journey, his perspectives on space exploration, favorite science fiction films, and his endeavors in public science communication.

Neil DeGrasse Tyson's Background and "Tour of the Universe" Reissue

Donald: "Do you have any interest in going to space?"
Neil: "Yeah... I can't think of that as space. Send me somewhere. Moon, Mars, asteroids, beyond."

Neil begins by discussing his latest project, the reissue of his first book, Tour of the Universe. Originally written 35 years ago during his graduate studies, the book features a character named Merlin, an alien from Andromeda who interacts with historical figures to explain complex scientific concepts in an accessible manner.

Neil (05:17):
"I reminded myself how much of my educational role as an educator was set into motion in the writing of that book. Merlin... is an alien visiting from Andromeda who has seen all of Earth history... it's a fun tool to bring the universe down to Earth."

Perspectives on Space and Space Travel

A significant portion of the conversation delves into modern space exploration, particularly critiquing the current definitions and endeavors of space travel.

Bob (06:17): "Do you have any interest in going to space?"
Neil (07:00):
"I have a different definition of space... I can't think of that as space. The billionaire boys race, the Bezos Branson... suborbital. They go up and then just fall back for five, six minutes. Stars will come out in broad daylight because... just as fun."

Neil expresses skepticism about the actual value of suborbital flights undertaken by billionaires like Jeff Bezos and Richard Branson, emphasizing that these trips barely breach what should be considered true space.

Neil (08:29):
"Elon Musk is the only one who actually puts people in orbit... getting to Mars... it's about motivation and who's gonna write the check."

He highlights Elon Musk's role as the only one genuinely advancing orbital missions, contrasting it with the superficial nature of current billionaire-funded spaceflights.

Public Engagement and Live Tours

Neil discusses his approach to public lectures and tours, emphasizing his passion for education over commercialization.

Neil (13:12):
"If you ever see my name in a city, check what the topic is. Cause I'm not there to... that's not the point of the talk."

He explains that his tours are not commercial ventures but educational talks conducted in beautifully renovated theaters. Topics range from A Cosmic Perspective to dissecting scientific inaccuracies in movies like The Wizard of Oz.

Favorite Movies About Space

The conversation shifts to Neil's favorite and most scientifically accurate space-themed movies.

Neil (15:09):
"The Martian... Andy Weir gave me one of the highest compliments... the science is almost a character in the storytelling."

Neil praises The Martian for its scientific accuracy and storytelling integration, viewing science as a pivotal element in the narrative.

Neil (16:23):
"Armageddon... sheer joy. There's good comedy, good action, good special effects."

While acknowledging its scientific liberties, he appreciates Armageddon for its entertainment value.

Anechoic Chamber Experience

Sharing a personal anecdote, Neil recounts his experience in an anechoic chamber, a soundproof environment that amplifies internal body sounds.

Neil (17:13):
"You're in there, and all of a sudden you start hearing blood pulsing through your ear canal... maybe it's not as perfect an environment as space, but it's as close as you can get."

He compares the eerie silence of an anechoic chamber to the quietness experienced in space.

StarTalk Podcast and Collaboration with Comedians

Neil elaborates on his StarTalk podcast, which merges science with pop culture and comedy, featuring guests from various fields.

Neil (18:29):
"We explore what science may have affected their lives in whatever storytelling they engaged in... pop culture, comedy, and science woven together into one package."

He highlights the unique blend of rigorous scientific discussion with entertaining dialogue, making complex topics accessible and engaging.

Final Remarks and Book Promotion

As the conversation wraps up, Neil promotes his work and upcoming projects, including the re-release of Interstellar.

Neil (19:40):
"Interstellar... being re-released to theaters December this year, 2024. It's chock full of science, especially since the executive producer was a professor of theoretical physics at Caltech."

He emphasizes the film's scientific grounding, particularly in Einstein's relativity, enhancing its educational value.

Notable Quotes

• Neil DeGrasse Tyson (05:17):
  "Merlin... is an alien visiting from Andromeda who has seen all of Earth history... it's a fun tool to bring the universe down to Earth."

• Neil DeGrasse Tyson (07:00):
  "The billionaire boys race... That's what's called suborbital. They just fall back for five, six minutes."

• Neil DeGrasse Tyson (15:09):
  "The Martian... the science is almost a character in the storytelling."

• Neil DeGrasse Tyson (17:13):
  "It's as close as you can get [to the quietness of space]."

• Neil DeGrasse Tyson (18:29):
  "Pop culture, comedy, and science woven together into one package."

Conclusion

This episode of B&T Extra offers a captivating glimpse into the mind of Neil DeGrasse Tyson, blending humor with profound scientific insights. Whether discussing the nuances of space travel, the accuracy of science fiction, or the importance of accessible science communication, Neil delivers a thought-provoking and entertaining dialogue suitable for both enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.

Listen to the full episode on iTunes, Google Play, or Stitcher to delve deeper into Neil DeGrasse Tyson's fascinating perspectives on the universe.