Ep 12. How Big Is the Universe?

How Big Is the Universe? is the twelfth episode of the first season of Horizon. This episode is focused on understanding the vastness of the universe and how humans have tried to measure the enormity of space.

The episode begins with the idea that the universe is infinitely big and humans cannot comprehend its vastness. To understand the scale of the universe, the scientists use the example of the Earth. The Earth is tiny in the vastness of the universe, and the scientists demonstrate this by using a beach ball as a reference for the size of the Earth.

The scientists explain that the universe started with the Big Bang around 13.8 billion years ago, and it has been expanding ever since. However, the scientists have not been able to determine how big the universe is. They explain that there are a few methods to calculate the size of the universe, but each method has its limitations.

One method is to measure the cosmic microwave background radiation, which is the afterglow of the Big Bang. Analysis of the cosmic microwave background radiation can provide clues to the size of the universe. Another method is to measure the distance of galaxies from the Earth, which can help calculate the size of the observable universe. However, both of these methods have limitations due to the age of the universe and the accuracy of the measurements.

The episode then discusses the possibility of a multiverse, which would mean that the universe is just one of many universes. The scientists explain that the multiverse theory is a possibility but has not been proven. They discuss the concept of parallel universes and explain that each universe may have different physical laws.

The episode also covers the possibility of the universe being finite or infinite. The scientists explain that if the universe is finite, it would have a specific size and shape. However, if the universe is infinite, it would have no boundaries and would be unmeasurable.

The scientists also discuss the idea of the universe being flat, curved, or saddle-shaped. If the universe is flat, it would mean that the universe will continue to expand forever. If the universe is curved, it would eventually collapse in on itself. If it is saddle-shaped, the universe would continue to expand but at an ever-slowing pace.

Towards the end of the episode, the scientists discuss the importance of understanding the size of the universe. They explain that knowing the size of the universe can help humans understand the beginnings of the universe, the formation of stars and galaxies, and the possibilities of life outside of Earth.

Overall, How Big Is the Universe? is a fascinating episode of Horizon that delves into the concept of the vastness of the universe. The episode presents complex ideas and theories in a way that is easy to understand, and it provides a profound insight into our existence in the grand scheme of things.