Cosmic Queries – Science Is Cool 3

About This Episode

A few episodes ago, we partnered with PocketLab by Myriad Sensors to bring our Cosmic Queries to a live audience of thousands of science teachers from across the map at ScIC2. For this episode of StarTalk Radio, Neil deGrasse Tyson and comic co-host Chuck Nice stopped by Science Is Cool 3 to answer questions for a new episode of Cosmic Queries, recorded live. 

We start by exploring how curiosity can be stimulated and maintained in the classroom. Find out the importance of keeping curiosity alive especially during difficult times. Neil explains how curiosity and creativity go hand in hand. With anti-science movements present in our society, how do we make sure the importance of science isn’t overlooked? We discuss advertising science through public service announcements. Find out why Neil thinks part of the teaching curriculum should involve “querying nature” in order for students to discover how and why science works.

Will we colonize the Moon or Mars any time soon? Neil shares his thoughts on why we won’t, and it’s not because we won’t have the capabilities. You’ll learn about some space-related activities that can help young children spark their interest in the universe. Neil also gives his recommendations on how to get started in stargazing. And, he tells us what astrophysics concepts are most important for everyone to know.

Find out where in space Neil would take a field trip. We talk about how to bring science into other classrooms. For our last segment, PocketLab co-founder Dave Bakker joins Neil and Chuck to ask some final questions. We discuss the importance of being scientifically literate. All that, plus, Neil gives his final reflections on the importance of having influential teachers.

Thanks to our Patrons Gary Wight, Adrian Hernandez, Cheyenne Leo, Ashod Kuyumjian, Michael S Morrison, David Hudson, Brock Watson, Ava Body, Al Hasan Al Maghrabi, and John Varney for supporting us this week.

NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can watch or listen to this entire episode commercial-free.

About the prints that flank Neil in this video:

“Black Swan” & “White Swan” limited edition serigraph prints by Coast Salish artist Jane Kwatleematt Marston. For more information about this artist and her work, visit Inuit Gallery of Vancouver.