Ep 27. Can Future Colliders Break the Standard Model?

In the 27th episode of the 2020 season of PBS Space Time, titled "Can Future Colliders Break the Standard Model?", viewers are taken into the complex world of high-energy particle physics and the search for new physics beyond the Standard Model. The host, Matt O'Dowd, explores the limitations of the current understanding of particle physics and the role future colliders may play in deepening our knowledge of the universe.

Throughout the episode, O'Dowd uses captivating visual aids and analogies to help explain the science behind particle physics. He begins by introducing viewers to the current understanding of the Standard Model of particle physics, which has successfully explained the behavior of subatomic particles for decades. However, despite its success, the Standard Model has limitations and is known not to be a complete description of the universe.

O'Dowd delves into the mystery of dark matter, a form of matter that is thought to make up approximately 85% of the matter in the universe but has yet to be detected. He explains how colliders provide physicists with a way to potentially create and observe dark matter particles, which could help solve this cosmic puzzle.

The episode also explores the potential theoretical limitations of future colliders, including the potential for colliders to become so powerful that they create black holes or other catastrophic events. O'Dowd interviews leading physicists throughout the episode, including Dr. Nima Arkani-Hamed and Dr. Sara Simon, to better understand the scientific community's current thinking on these issues.

As the episode progresses, O'Dowd takes viewers through the advancements of different types of future colliders, including the proposed International Linear Collider and the Circular Electron-Positron Collider. He also explores the possibility of future colliders potentially discovering new particles that could complete the Standard Model, such as supersymmetric particles.

Throughout the episode, O'Dowd emphasizes the importance of scientific collaboration and the global effort needed to push the boundaries of knowledge in particle physics. He also touches on the societal implications of high-energy physics research, including the potential for technologies and innovations that could benefit society.

Overall, "Can Future Colliders Break the Standard Model?" offers viewers a fascinating and accessible look into the ever-evolving field of particle physics and the exciting potential of future colliders in our continuing quest to understand the universe.