Professor Brian Cox, a renowned physicist, is bringing his captivating new show, 'Emergence', to New Zealand audiences. This tour is an exploration of the universe's intricacies, delving into the laws of nature that shape everything from snowflakes to black holes. Cox, known for his ability to make complex science accessible, invites us to embark on a journey that begins with a simple question: Why do snowflakes have six corners?
In his book, 'The Six-Cornered Snowflake', Cox delves into the work of Johannes Kepler, who pondered the perfect symmetry of snowflakes. Kepler's curiosity about the six corners of snowflakes sparked a scientific revolution, as Cox explains, "He didn't know what it was, but it's that insight that, when you see patterns in nature, then there's a reason. It's not just the gods have made it that way, there's some underlying reason and that really is the beginning of modern science."
The show, 'Emergence', takes us on a journey from the smallest building blocks of the universe to the largest structures. Cox reveals that it wasn't until the 20th century that we understood the atomic nature of everything, including the structure of snowflakes, which is derived from the shape of water molecules. This understanding led to the realization that the universe was once hot and dense, and we've measured this moment in time to be 13.8 billion years ago. However, the question of whether this hot, dense phase is the beginning of time remains a mystery, as Cox notes, "We don't actually know what time is at a fundamental level."
One of the key ideas Cox emphasizes is the importance of asking well-posed questions. He believes that progress in science comes from curiosity and the desire to understand the observable world, rather than seeking profound and grandiose answers. This approach has led to significant advancements in our understanding of the universe.
As the show progresses, Cox's curiosity leads him to explore the Fermi Paradox, which questions why, despite the vast age of the Milky Way galaxy, no evidence of interstellar, space-faring civilizations has been found. He considers the possibility that such civilizations may never reach the point of space exploration due to the challenges of nuclear physics and self-destruction. Cox speculates that perhaps our knowledge exceeds our wisdom, and this could be a universal law.
Cox reflects on the remarkable history embedded in every human being, stating, "We're made of star stuff, the carbon and oxygen in our bodies were cooked in generations of long-dead stars. The history that's built into each one of us is remarkable."
Despite his years of pondering the universe, Cox remains filled with wonder. He believes that the more we learn about astronomy, the more mysterious and wonderful it becomes. 'Emergence' promises to be a thought-provoking and captivating experience, offering a unique perspective on the universe and our place within it. Audiences in Christchurch, Auckland, and Wellington will have the opportunity to witness Cox's expertise and passion firsthand when he brings 'Emergence' to their cities in June 2026.
