PBS Space Time Season 2019 Episode 26 What Happened Before the Big Bang?

PBS Space Time is a compelling science show that takes its viewers on a journey through the vast universe and tries to unravel the mysteries of cosmos. The 26th episode of the show's 2019 season is titled "What Happened Before the Big Bang?" and poses a question that has been pondered by experts for years.

The show opens with Dr. Matt O'Dowd, the host of the show, explaining that the Big Bang is an event that marked the beginning of our universe. Many theories and models have attempted to explain what could have happened before the Big Bang, but none of them can be confidently verified as they lack empirical data. He goes on to say that it's an exciting topic because it is one of the fundamental mysteries of the universe, and one that has perplexed cosmologists for decades.

The show first explores what we do know about our universe. Dr. O'Dowd explains that we have an idea of its age, Its size, its composition, how it is expanding, and even how galaxies are formed. We know the fundamental forces like gravity and electromagnetism that govern our universe, and we have a deep understanding of the Standard Model of particle physics. However, we don't know about the events leading up to the Big Bang.

Dr. O'Dowd explains that we do not know what caused the Big Bang, what triggered it, or why it even happened in the first place. He explains that there are several speculative theories about what may have occurred before the Big Bang that range from the mystical and supernatural to physics-based explanations. Some of these theories posit the existence of a multiverse, string theory or even a self-contained universe where time does not exist.

Then, the show offers multiple scenarios for the existence of the universe before the Big Bang. Dr. O'Dowd interviews experts and refers to data that suggests that the universe may have existed in a dense, massive state before the Big Bang, called the "Big Bounce," hypothesizing that one universe ended then another was immediately created in its place. Another possibility, according to some experts, is the 'Cyclic Model,' the idea that it follows an infinite sequence of Big Bangs and subsequent Big Crunches.

The episode then goes on to explain how Quantum Mechanics and String Theory are also being used in hopes of unveiling what may have occurred prior to the Big Bang. Dr. O'Dowd shares that physicists know that our current understanding of the universe is limited and that these scientific theories have shown hints of the possible existence of additional dimensions or parallel universes.

The show concludes with Dr. O'Dowd stating that we may never fully understand what transpired before the Big Bang, given the physical limitations of what is known at this moment. However, he is optimistic about the ongoing research in the realm of theoretical physics and cosmology. He believes that every new discovery is a step towards a sounder understanding of the beginnings of our universe.

In summary, PBS Space Time's 2019, 26th episode named "What Happened Before the Big Bang?" is an enthralling and informative presentation that ventures into one of the most profound queries of the cosmos. The show delves into the possible scenarios, mechanisms, and theories that could have happened before the Big Bang, explaining the limitations of our current scientific knowledge. Dr. Matt O'Dowd's passion and the expert's insights enhance the viewer's understanding of this concept and pique their interest in the ongoing probe into the mysteries of the universe.