March 6, 2013
MP3 FILE / 45 MINUTES / 43 MB
Diverting asteroids headed for Earth; how the Higgs could destroy the Universe; SQUID experiments create light from the quantum vacuum; & does photosynthesis in plants have quantum roots?
Download
Individual Stories
Averting an Asteroid Apocalypse
MP3 FILE / 10 MINUTES / 9 MB
Following the unexpected Russian meteor strike, and the close asteroid pass by Earth, astronomer Edwin Bergin discusses how to divert dangerous approaching space rocks -- and why we need better asteroid monitoring.
Download
Our Unstable Universe
MP3 FILE / 9 MINUTES / 8 MB
Particle physicist Joe Lykken explains how the mass of the Higgs suggests that our universe is unstable -- and is in danger of being replaced by a new one, wiping is out in the process.
Download
Let There Be Light
MP3 FILE / 12 MINUTES / 11 MB
Quantum physicist Sorin Paraoanu explains how his experiments use the dynamical Casimir effect to transform virtual photons in the vacuum into real photons.
Download
Quantum Roots of Photosynthesis
MP3 FILE / 12 MINUTES / 11 MB
Do plants use quantum tricks to harvest light? Physicist Alex Chin describes his theory of how quantum effects can survive in biological systems.
Download