This thing is -270°C and is EVERYWHERE

This thing is -270°C and is EVERYWHERE



Download the PBS Video App:
The universe is microwaving itself. A mystery signal discovered in the 1960s led to a Nobel prize.

In this video, Dianna explores one of the most mysterious discoveries in physics – a constant microwave signal that seemed to be coming from everywhere in the universe. It turned out to be light from an unusual process 13.8 billion years ago.

Special thanks to our Sally Ride level patrons: Alejandro Gutierrez, Brian O’Connell, Darkbit, Dave Butler, David Cichowski, Edi, Fabrice Eap, Henning Bitsch, Kenneth Hunter, Margaux Lopez, and Vincent Flores.
Join the Physics Girl Patreon community! ►►

Check out MinutePhysics – Why do compressed air cans get cold?

If you liked this video check out these:
Why is the universe flat?

How the Edge of our Galaxy Defies Known Physics

MANY thanks to: Nick Lucid, Katie Mack, Derek Muller, Henry Reich, Thom Ory and Edward Wright for helping with this video!

Thanks to Levi Butner for inspiriting the idea for this video by asking me WAY too many questions during work! 🙂

Creator/Host: Dianna Cowern
Editor: Levi Butner
Writing: Valerie Bentivegna
Research/Copy Editing: Dianna Cowern

Sources:
Temperature and wavelength of original CMB:

ESA Planck References:

NASA WMAP Reference:

Interview with John G. Cramer (via email)

Nobel prize photo – Alexander Mahmoud 2018

Leave a Reply