Ep 4. The Cosmic Connectome

In Cosmos season 2 episode 4, "The Cosmic Connectome," viewers are taken on a journey through the intricate network that connects the universe and all of its components. Host Neil deGrasse Tyson guides us through an exploration of the cosmic web that connects everything from galaxies to atoms. Using stunning visuals and cutting-edge science, Tyson shows how the universe can be thought of as a giant brain, with an interconnected network of particles communicating with each other.

The episode begins with a breathtaking view of a galaxy supercluster, highlighting the vast scale of the universe. From here, Tyson explains how scientists have discovered that galaxies are not distributed randomly, but instead are connected in a massive web-like structure. This web is known as the cosmic web, and it connects all of the galaxies, stars, and dark matter in the universe.

To understand the structure of the cosmic web, Tyson explains the concept of the connectome, which is the mapping of the neural connections within the human brain. This concept can be applied to the cosmic web, which has its own connectome that reveals the connections between all of the celestial objects in the universe. Tyson talks with various scientists who are studying the cosmic web, including Dr. J. Richard Bond, who explains how the cosmic web is similar to the human brain.

From here, the episode explores the microscopic world of atoms and molecules, showing how these tiny components are also interconnected through a web-like structure. Tyson explains how this web of particles not only connects the smallest components of the universe, but also connects them to the largest structures, such as galaxies and the cosmic web.

One of the key concepts discussed in the episode is the role of dark matter in the cosmic web. Dark matter is a mysterious type of matter that does not emit light or interact with regular matter in any way, but its gravitational influence is felt throughout the universe. Scientists estimate that dark matter makes up about 85% of the total matter in the universe, and it plays a crucial role in shaping the cosmic web.

Throughout the episode, Tyson takes viewers on a tour of various observatories and experimental facilities around the world where scientists are studying the cosmic web. From the breathtaking views of the night sky provided by telescopes located atop remote mountain peaks, to the intricate experiments conducted in high-energy particle colliders, viewers get a sense of the incredible breadth of research being conducted to better understand the cosmic connectome.

Overall, "The Cosmic Connectome" is a fascinating exploration of the intricate web of connections that define our universe. Through stunning visuals and clear explanations, Tyson helps viewers understand the role of dark matter, the structure of the cosmic web, and how it connects all of the objects in the universe. Whether you're a science enthusiast or simply curious about the mysteries of the cosmos, this episode is sure to leave you in awe of the incredible complexity of our universe.