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Cosmic Queries: Time-Keeping

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December 31, 2024

TLDR: Neil deGrasse Tyson and Chuck Nice discuss if time is infinite, if it even exists, and answer questions related to time.

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In this exciting episode of StarTalk titled "Cosmic Queries: Time-Keeping," astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson and comedian Chuck Nice delve into the enigmatic concept of time. They tackle profound questions such as the existence of time, its infinity, and the practical ways different cultures keep track of it.

Key Questions About Time

What Is Time and Does It Even Exist?

The discussion kicks off with a very provocative question: Is time infinite? Tyson explains that while time might seem like it could extend endlessly, in the context of physics, it had a definite beginning at the Big Bang. This pivotal event marks the ascent of space and time, indicating that time is semi-infinite— it has a beginning but could continue indefinitely into the future.

  • Big Bang Perspective: Time is not infinite because it started at the Big Bang, and we can only logically predict time moving forward from this point.
  • Chuck Nice's Hypothesis: Chuck presents his theory that time does not exist at all, arguing that it is merely a construct based on phenomena that repeat—like the cycles of celestial bodies.

Time as a Construct of Measurement

Tyson elaborates that our definition of time emerges from the ability to measure it through repetitive natural phenomena like the rotation of the Earth. If nothing existed to measure it, like in a theoretical universe devoid of matter or energy, the concept of time loses its relevance. Thus:

  • Time Measurement: Time relies on measurable phenomena, which means without matter, time cannot exist.

The Practical Nature of Time Keeping

Time in Different Contexts

The conversation moves to how time is reckoned in various space-faring contexts:

  • Apollo Missions: The Apollo astronauts relied on Houston time to coordinate their activities.
  • Time on Mars: The Martian day (called a sol) is longer than an Earth day, necessitating timekeeping that aligns with local solar cycles.
  • International Space Station: The ISS operates under multiple time zones since each module is affiliated with a different country, leading to a unique mix of timings.

Implications of Time Measurement in Space

Tyson and Nice also touch upon how different cultures and scientific endeavors frame their understanding of time:

  • Psychological Effects of Customizable Time: Studies suggest that without a standardized day, human circadian rhythms might gravitate towards a 25-hour cycle, which could improve well-being.
  • Time Zones and Gravity: Discussing how rotating Earth affects gravity, they address how time appears to change with the physics, especially in extreme cases like black holes.

The Nature of Time: A Deep Dive into Physics

Speed of Light and Time's Relativity

The conversation deepens into the relativity of time, breaking down how time behaves differently at varying speeds:

  • Photons and Timelessness: When approaching the speed of light, time for a photon ceases to exist, illustrating the profound implications of relativity. Tyson states:
    • "For a photon, time does not pass. If you're a photon emitted across the universe, the moment you are emitted to the moment you're absorbed happens instantly."

Theoretical Time Components

The episode explores intriguing theories about time's structure and how phenomena like tachyons (hypothetical particles faster than light) could lead to backward time travel.

  • Tachyons: If discovered, these would travel faster than light and potentially exist outside of our conventional understanding of time.

Conclusions and Takeaways

The episode wraps up with some fascinating insights:

  • Time as a Measurement Construct: Without measurable phenomena or matter, time as we understand it cannot exist.
  • The Universe as a Time Machine: Every observation of distant galaxies reveals echoes from the past, essentially allowing us to observe different moments in the history of the universe.
  • Engagement with Time Concepts: Listeners are encouraged to reconsider their engagement with time—how they perceive it, measure it, and the different layers of meaning it holds in various contexts.

Tyson and Nice's lively discussion emphasizes how the physics of time intertwines with our everyday experiences, making complex concepts accessible and entertaining. The episode brilliantly frames time not only as a scientific inquiry but as a philosophical exploration of existence itself.

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