The Science of Constellations
What is General Relativity?
General Relativity is based on Einstein's theory that while the laws of physics are the same for all non-accelerating observers and the speed of light is independent of the motion of observers, massive objects cause a distortion in the continuum of space-time. That distortion is understood as gravity. The theory of general relativity is the basis on which cosmologists currently understand the universe as constantly expanding. For more info, see Space.com.Some cosmologists interpret this theory to believe that time is an illusion and both past and present are predetermined. We see this belief in Marianne's assertion "We have all the time we've always had." This controversial interpretation is examined in more depth in this article for Discover by Zeeya Merali.
General Relativity is based on Einstein's theory that while the laws of physics are the same for all non-accelerating observers and the speed of light is independent of the motion of observers, massive objects cause a distortion in the continuum of space-time. That distortion is understood as gravity. The theory of general relativity is the basis on which cosmologists currently understand the universe as constantly expanding. For more info, see Space.com.Some cosmologists interpret this theory to believe that time is an illusion and both past and present are predetermined. We see this belief in Marianne's assertion "We have all the time we've always had." This controversial interpretation is examined in more depth in this article for Discover by Zeeya Merali.
How does multiverse theory work?
A multiverse is a theoretical cosmos in which there are multiple universes (including ours), each with their own reality. This theory is employed to help explain why a moving nanoparticle has a range of possible outcomes instead of one finite solution. Click here to read a recent article from The Guardian about multiverse theory. This theory inspired Nick Payne's structure for Constellations. Watch the documentary that originally sparked the playwright's imagination below:
A multiverse is a theoretical cosmos in which there are multiple universes (including ours), each with their own reality. This theory is employed to help explain why a moving nanoparticle has a range of possible outcomes instead of one finite solution. Click here to read a recent article from The Guardian about multiverse theory. This theory inspired Nick Payne's structure for Constellations. Watch the documentary that originally sparked the playwright's imagination below:
String Theory? WTF does that even mean?
String theory attempts to describe the "behavior" of the four primary physical forces-electromagnetism, gravity, strong nuclear force, and weak nuclear force-in a single, unified theory by envisioning particles as tiny vibrating strings. It relies on the existence of multiple universes, but that is, as yet, unproven. Watch the video below for a quick overview!
Where is the Quantum Realm?
The quantum realm isn't so much a location that can be reached (as it is often portrayed in comic book movies) as a scale by which physicists try to predict and measure the behavior of nanoparticles. Because all attempts to predict movement at this level have left physicists with a range of possibilities instead of a single specific outcome, the quantum realm is often fictionalized and romanticized as a lawless place in which anything could happen. In reality, particles still seem to follow a certain set of principles, just not as singular and discrete as the results favored in classical physics. In 2014, The World Science Festival hosted a round table discussion of renowned physicists weighing in on the theory and sorting through the "real" theory vs the "quantum bullshit" found in popular culture. You can watch below if you're feeling brave:
The quantum realm isn't so much a location that can be reached (as it is often portrayed in comic book movies) as a scale by which physicists try to predict and measure the behavior of nanoparticles. Because all attempts to predict movement at this level have left physicists with a range of possibilities instead of a single specific outcome, the quantum realm is often fictionalized and romanticized as a lawless place in which anything could happen. In reality, particles still seem to follow a certain set of principles, just not as singular and discrete as the results favored in classical physics. In 2014, The World Science Festival hosted a round table discussion of renowned physicists weighing in on the theory and sorting through the "real" theory vs the "quantum bullshit" found in popular culture. You can watch below if you're feeling brave: