Menu
The “TED Radio Hour” podcast brings you groundbreaking TED Talks that challenge and change you. In the episode “Through the Looking Glass,” you’ll explore the wonders of astronomy, the hidden ecosystems of Antarctica, the potential of psychedelics in therapy, and the power of science fiction to shape our future.
Oscar Duolde, an instrument and operation specialist, made a remarkable discovery by spotting a supernova at the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) just by looking up into the sky. His observation highlights the beauty of the sky in Chile, which is known for its abundance of stars. The use of glass plates in early telescopes was crucial for capturing images before modern telescopes were developed. Edwin Hubble’s estimation of the distance to Andromeda using glass plates led to the discovery that it was another galaxy. Today, advanced observing tools allow astronomers to study individual stars in Andromeda with exquisite detail. The upcoming Vera Rubin Observatory in Chile will revolutionize astronomy by photographing the entire southern sky every few days for 10 years, potentially discovering thousands of supernovae every night.
Ariel Waldman, a filmmaker, documents the hidden ecosystems in Antarctica, where microbial life thrives in extreme conditions. Studying these microbes can provide insights into the survival of life in other extreme environments and help us understand our own environment better. Waldman’s expeditions to Antarctica involved months of preparation and diving beneath the sea ice to observe the diverse life on the sea floor. Microscopes play a crucial role in discovering and studying the microscopic animals, including tardigrades and ciliates, that exist in our everyday environment. Field microscopy allows us to explore the microscopic world around us and appreciate the wonders of the unseen.
Rick Doblin, founder of the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, advocates for the exploration of the unconscious mind through psychedelics. These substances have shown promise in the fields of psychiatry, psychology, and psychotherapy since the 1950s and 60s. MDMA, in particular, has the potential to reduce the fear of difficult emotions in therapeutic settings by releasing neurotransmitters like serotonin and oxytocin. Clinical trials using MDMA to treat PTSD have yielded promising results, with participants experiencing significant improvements and long-term recovery. However, psychedelic therapy carries risks, and public education is crucial to ensure responsible and informed use.
Science fiction serves as a powerful tool for envisioning different contexts and exploring diverse ways of being human. It helps us grapple with a rapidly changing world and allows us to predict and work towards desirable futures. The inclusion of a wider range of voices in speculative fiction leads to more interesting and inclusive visions of the future. Charlie Jane Anders, an author and speaker, presents a story set in a future San Francisco archipelago, where the younger generation embraces the challenges of climate change and finds freedom in the ocean. Science fiction empowers us to shape our future and fosters creativity and acceptance of change.
The “Through the Looking Glass” episode of the “TED Radio Hour” podcast takes you on a journey through the wonders of astronomy, the hidden ecosystems of Antarctica, the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, and the power of science fiction to shape our future. From the discovery of a supernova to the exploration of microscopic life, from the use of psychedelics in therapy to envisioning inclusive futures, this episode invites listeners to embrace curiosity, wonder, and the potential for positive change.
Your Podcast Companion: PodcastMemo offers concise summaries of your favorite podcasts, giving you quick access to the most valuable insights and stories. Tune in, learn, and stay informed with our handcrafted podcast summaries
