In a fascinating episode of the Dead Planets Society podcast, the hosts explore an audacious idea: setting Uranus ablaze to potentially unearth its hidden diamonds. This intriguing concept may sound like science fiction, but the episode delves into the scientific plausibility and methods of this cosmic caper.
Dead Planets Society is known for its outlandish cosmic theories—from splitting the moon to triggering a gravitational wave apocalypse—and subjects these ideas to rigorous physical scrutiny. Tune in on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or visit our podcast page for the latest episodes.
Why Set Uranus on Fire?
Uranus and its neighbor Neptune share striking similarities, leading to the notion that we might only need one. In this episode, hosts Chelsea Whyte and Leah Crane propose setting it on fire.
This dramatic suggestion is grounded in scientific principles: spectroscopy, a technique used to analyze the light emitted by burning materials, could reveal the planet’s chemical composition. Additionally, probing the planet’s mysterious deep interiors could provide valuable insights.
Challenges of Igniting Uranus
Before you grab the matches, it’s important to note that igniting it poses significant challenges. According to planetary scientist Paul Byrne from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, Uranus’s outer layers lack oxygen—the essential element for combustion. Even introducing more oxygen than exists in the entire solar system might not be enough.
The Diamond Heist: A New Focus
Instead of focusing solely on pyrotechnics, the podcast shifts gears to consider the possibility of Uranus containing iceberg-like diamonds. This change in focus transforms the mission from a simple experiment into a high-stakes heist.
To expose Uranus’s secrets, including its potential diamond reserves, the most feasible method might involve colliding another celestial body with the planet. Such a collision would create a brilliant flash, a cloud of glowing vapor, and possibly a striking tail. Careful planning would be crucial to avoid destroying the planet—and its precious diamonds—in the process.
A Cosmic Adventure with High Stakes
With the right kind of impact, we could achieve two goals: accessing the hidden diamonds and revealing the deeper layers of Uranus for scientific study. However, this cosmic adventure carries risks, including the potential for catastrophic consequences within our solar system.
For more mind-bending theories and cosmic escapades, don’t miss Dead Planets Society. Explore the boundaries of space science and join us in our quest for cosmic discoveries.
