StarTalk Radio
Neil deGrasse Tyson
SummaryScience, comedy, and curiosity collide on StarTalk Radio, where host Neil deGrasse Tyson takes listeners on a mind-expanding journey through the cosmos. Each episode bridges the gap between complex astrophysical concepts and the everyday human experience, proving that the universe is not just for academics—it is for everyone. Whether unpacking the mechanics of supermassive black holes, debating the validity of simulation theory, or exploring the intersection of folklore and space, Tyson and his rotating cast of comedians and experts demystify the vast reaches of the night sky with humor and clarity. The show is defined by its signature mix of deep intellectual inquiry and accessible conversation. You will frequently find the team tackling listener-submitted questions in the fan-favorite Cosmic Queries series, covering everything from time dilation and the nature of consciousness to the surprising physics behind floating rocks. Beyond the pure science, StarTalk frequently branches into the cultural implications of discovery, hosting legendary storytellers like Steven Spielberg to discuss how we imagine the unknown, or chatting with extreme athletes like Alex Honnold to investigate the biological underpinnings of human fear. By grounding high-level physics in relatable anecdotes and philosophical reflection, StarTalk Radio invites you to look up and reconsider your place in the universe. It is a show for the lifelong learner who wants to understand the laws of nature while having a laugh along the way. Join the exploration and discover that the most intimidating questions in science can be the most rewarding to answer.
Updated Jul 7, 2026
Episodes
Cosmic Queries – Pure Spacetime
Explore gravitational time dilation, the physics of consciousness, and how tidal forces shape our universe.
Cosmic Queries – Astro-lore with Moiya McTier
Astrophysicist and folklorist Moiya McTier explores the deep connections between cosmic science and cultural storytelling.
Bug Splat Galaxies with Mordecai-Mark Mac Low
Astrophysicist Mordecai-Mark Mac Low joins the show to explore how computer simulations reveal the chaos of space.
Is Reality Really Real? With Donald Hoffman
Evolution may have wired us to navigate a survival-based virtual reality rather than see the true nature of the world.
Things You Thought You Knew – Rocks Float
Earth is layered by density, making the rocks you walk on the lightest solid materials that surfaced during its birth.
Disclosure Day with Steven Spielberg & David Koepp
Steven Spielberg and David Koepp reveal how the quest for truth and empathy drives their vision of extraterrestrials.
Conquering Fear with Alex Honnold
Learn how world-class climber Alex Honnold uses mental preparation and discipline to master fear and achieve his goals.
Quasar Quirks & Sky Surveys with Matt O’Dowd
Unpack the physics of quasars, black holes, and the future of big data discovery with the Vera Rubin Observatory.
Physics & Philosophy with Sean Carroll
Explore the frontiers of quantum mechanics, entropy, and cosmology to understand the fundamental nature of reality.
Cosmic Queries – LIGO, Light, & Lycanthropy
Explore cosmic physics as we break down gravitational fueling, the myths of lunar influence, and light's redshift.
The Future of Space Stations with Ariel Ekblaw
Explore how modular design and flat-pack tech are shaping the future of space stations after the ISS retires.
Cosmic Queries – From Wine to Wormholes
Explore cosmic mysteries ranging from the physics of gravity and the cultivation of wine to the future of space arrays.
Cosmic Queries – Scars in Spacetime
Understand the physics of black holes and wormholes through the lens of gravity, tidal forces, and spacetime.
Cosmic Queries – Take Me To Your Leader
Explore the physics of interstellar travel, the reality of alien contact, and why we might not be ready for them.
Cosmic Queries – Total Darkness
Explore the physics of absolute zero, zero-point energy, and how light permeates space in this cosmic grab bag.
Busting Nutrition Myths with Jessica Knurick
Nutritionist Jessica Knurick separates fact from fiction regarding weight loss drugs, protein trends, and diet myths.
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Enhance Voices in StarTalk Radio episodes — voice-tuned EQ and compression that makes voices clearer and evens out loud and quiet podcasts.
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