How Yavin IV and Orbital Mechanics Destroyed the Death Star
Mia Bovill, Texas Christian University
At the end of “Star Wars: Episode IV,” the Death Star orbits the moon Yavin IV while seeking to target the rebel base on its surface. This maneuver takes long enough that Luke Skywalker is able to destroy the celestial juggernaut in the nick of time. Was this delay scientifically reasonable? The answer lies in the basic tenets of orbital mechanics.
In addition, given the wealth of observational data on exoplanetary systems from telescopes like NASA’s Kepler Mission, one can address many other questions about this scenario. Is it possible to have a gas giant planet orbited by a planet-sized moon that has dense vegetation and a breathable atmosphere? How massive would Yavin IV be and what is its likely composition? Dr. Bovill explains how astrophysics is the force that offers a new hope in comprehending this encounter with the dark side of a moon.
Host: Frank Summers, Space Telescope Science Institute
Recorded live on Tuesday, July 5, 2022
More information: www.stsci.edu/public-lectures
Пікірлер: 13
These episodes are fascinating 🧐 Thanks to all those making these lectures possible 😃
As Always - just great to listen to the expert explanations of the beautiful pictures...
Look out deep in the universe means we're looking back in time🔭🌍🌌🌠
32:24 "That's no moon, it's a space station" 😝
I couldn't understand as I've not seen that 😅 Explanation would be really appreciated
@eshoosca
Жыл бұрын
you haven't seen Star Wars?
@Shreyy17
Жыл бұрын
@@eshoosca nah
@eshoosca
Жыл бұрын
@@Shreyy17 you should. I would consider 2 of the 3 movies from the original trilogy masterpiece, and the other one is still loads of fun.
This lecture is now the ultimate power in the galaxy. I suggest you watch it.
Will you (F.S.) move to JWT ? I think, they need some help.
Someday in future we will be colonized by the aliens 👽 if not already happened
@mal2ksc
Жыл бұрын
Pʟᴏᴛ Tᴡɪsᴛ: We _are_ the aliens.
I find her lack of faith disturbing.