Ep 6. How to Become Invisable

In this episode of Sci Fi Science, titled How to Become Invisable, the host and science-fiction writer, Dr. Michio Kaku, explores the possibility of invisibility and how it can be achieved using science. With the help of experts, he delves deep into the science of light to discover various ways to bend and manipulate it to make objects disappear.

The episode begins with Dr. Kaku explaining the concept of invisibility and how it has been depicted in popular culture, including movies and science fiction books. He then introduces Dr. John Pendry, a physicist who is well-known for his work in metamaterials. Dr. Pendry explains how metamaterials can be used to bend light and make objects invisible.

Dr. Kaku also visits the University of Rochester where he meets Dr. John Howell, an expert in optics and photonics. Dr. Howell has developed a technique called "cloaking" that makes objects seem invisible by bending light around them. Dr. Howell demonstrates this by cloaking a small object placed on a table, and Dr. Kaku is amazed to see the object disappear.

Next, Dr. Kaku explores the science behind another technique called "transformation optics." He meets Dr. Ulf Leonhardt, a physicist who has developed a mathematical formula that can make objects invisible. Dr. Leonhardt explains how his formula works and shows how it can be used to make a small object disappear.

Dr. Kaku also looks into the possibility of making humans invisible. He meets Dr. Andrea Alu, an expert in electromagnetic waves and metamaterials, who explains the challenges in making a human being invisible. Dr. Alu also demonstrates a technique called "illusion optics" that can make objects appear to be in a different location.

Towards the end of the episode, Dr. Kaku concludes that making objects invisible is possible using science, but it is not yet practical for daily use. He explains that there are still many challenges that need to be overcome before invisibility becomes a reality. Nevertheless, he feels that the research being done in this field is fascinating and will lead to exciting innovations.

Overall, this episode of Sci Fi Science is an informative and entertaining exploration of the possibility of invisibility and the science behind it. Dr. Kaku's enthusiasm for the subject is infectious, and his interviews with experts in the field provide valuable insights into the current state of research. Viewers who are interested in science and science fiction will definitely enjoy this episode.