A 9-Year-Old's Brilliant Solution to Asteroid Threats | Neil DeGrasse Tyson

In an extraordinary moment of curiosity and insight, a 9-year-old named Jacob takes center stage during a science Q&A session, presenting a cosmic question that sparks a fascinating exploration into space, asteroids, and the future of Earth's defense. With the wisdom of a seasoned astronomer, Jacob asks why humans can't simply push dangerous asteroids out of Earth's path. The response unfolds into a riveting dialogue about the complexities of asteroid deflection, the nature of these celestial bodies, and the innovative ideas that might one day shield our planet from cosmic threats.
Why Watch?
Be Inspired: Witness the power of youthful curiosity combined with expert knowledge to explore space's most pressing questions.
Learn About Asteroids: Gain insights into the fascinating nature of asteroids, the challenges they pose, and the creative thinking required to deal with cosmic threats.
Dream of the Future: Imagine a future where humanity is no longer at the mercy of space rocks but can instead harness their potential for the betterment of our world.
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Dive deeper into the mysteries of the universe, the latest in space exploration, and the incredible potential of future technologies with us. Whether you're a budding astronomer like Jacob or simply starry-eyed about the cosmos, join our community for more awe-inspiring discussions.
🌌 #AsteroidDeflection #SpaceExploration #FutureTechnologies #YouthfulCuriosity #CosmicDefense

[@FrostbyteEXE]

There are so many Jacobs out there, from all walks of life, that we need to nurture. I used to work as a Youth Development Specialist. This is a prime example of something I said to my peers in one meeting: "Talk to kids like they're adults. They're not stupid. They understand way more than we'd like to give them credit for. They're people, just like we are, and probably with infinitely more ideas because of their limitless imagination." "Why don't we try this?" "Because of XYZ." "Ohhh okay. Well, how about this idea?" "Oh well that's because of ABC." "Well, has anyone ever thought about THIS?" "Kid, do you wanna be the first trillionaire? Figure out how to do that, and save the world." Neil never discouraged Jacob. In fact, he fully encouraged and CHALLENGED Jacob to get it done. I love this type of stuff.

[@WonderScience.]

Love this comment! Thanks for sharing your wisdom and experience.

[@gonnahavemesomefun]

Yeah Tyson here just kept coming with reasons why not, so much adulting 💔

[@skinnybuddha74]

"Imagine my clipboard is an asteroid." "You're nine and you have a clipboard?" "No, I just told you it's an asteroid now. Try to keep up Neil."

[@antekpaztek]

"You're nine and you have an asteroid?"

[@jamesburton1050]

😂😂

[@n085fs]

@@antekpaztek "Yeah. I hear someone your age would only have a hemorrhoid."

[@IlliniDog01]

He said "it's a folder"

[@305backup]

​@@n085fsi had hemorrhoids by the time I was 20. Not really relevant but I figured I'd share.

[@Rev_Oir]

The neat thing about this exchange is that a very young Neil had a similar talk once... with Carl Sagan. Carl treated him seriously, and set him on a career in science.

[@markjaycox8811]

Neither Carl or Neil have put as much space in their moment as a 5,000 year old tree has lived, so when there's more time making a stick than got stuck in your mind- you are not conscious of what is, you are conscious of where you've been put-2024. Neil has no Science and has made ZERO FACT. I have made fact no one in SCIENCE ever has, and i did it twice on LIVE TV 8-8-15, and 11-23-15. Nobody in Science has the nerve to face me, because they're ego based and are afraid of being wrong, and their reason is flawed and they're too afraid to face that fact. Ask Neil what the 2012 Apocalypse is. He can't tell you and do you know why? Neil allowed his TV to convince him that minds that carved into rock the 2012 Apocalypse over 2,000 years ago were Retards, and that is not Science, is it? Why are you not seeking what the 2012 Apocalypse is? Because you let your TV decide your reasoning process, and that fact makes you and all of 2024's Science, Retarded.

[@tsalVlog]

I came here to say this; despite some disappointment in how NDT expresses some of his opinions, I admire his story and what he's done for science as a communicator.

[@markjaycox8811]

@@tsalVlog What has he communicated? His opinion? His own blindness? His mind has never been challenged and his ego is afraid of being challenged, so that fact makes him weak, and weakness is not consciousness.

[@Digital-Cajun]

Not even Carl takes him seriously anymore. EDIT: I know Carl Sagan has been long dead.

[@kevjd24]

I loved the story of him going to Cornell where Carl gave him a tour and showed him around his lab. I also want to say that I am not here for the NDT hate. If you don’t like or agree with his methods, that’s fine. But to simply call him weak is inaccurate. Coming from someone who prefers the works of Michio Kaku, one could argue since the 21st century Neil has done more for science than anyone has. He inspired an entire generation of people who never would’ve taken an interest in science, to look up instead of down. Look at all the people who took interest in the Solar Eclipse. A lot of that had to do with him and his ability to reach people and make science interesting to the vast majority of people who never found it interesting before.

[@kjmav10135]

Hearing a nine-year-old rattle off “non-Newtonian solid,” and NDT realize he’s dealing with a kid who gets it, and then adjust his dialog to the kid’s level is just golden. NDT is a brilliant educator.

[@julien5053]

Non-Newtonian solid doesn't really exist, it's made up by the kid. It's non-neutonian fluids that exists. But even if it's made up, he is a brilliant kid for sure !

[@asgacc8789]

​@@julien5053 some places use it somewhat interchangeably. But yeah I think fluid is the official scientific term

[@Mikerille]

@@julien5053the term is used for both, same thing different slang

[@Vgamer311]

@@julien5053it’s literally a solid and a fluid depending on context. That’s what makes it non-Newtonian.

[@TheUmbroDragon]

He sure is! Id like to point out that the Closed Captions have called it a Non-Newtonian salad. I think I liked that better.

[@purdysanchez]

I'm tired of people hating on Neil who don't realize that he made science cool for millions of kids who then went on to become engineers, educators, researchers, communicators, etc.

[@Dbl4Sllivn]

I personally only hate him because he thinks that his space and math intellect means that he can tell people who to vote for. You know, like celebrities do. So, I guess I hate him because he is a celebrity.

[@LethalOwl]

I dislike him for his involvement in politics, I like him for making science cool to kids. You can appreciate and dislike a person at the same time. He’s smart on some topics and dumb on others.

[@reasonabledictator8993]

The science stuff is awesome. He doesn't get hate for that.

[@wmason1961]

He doesn't get hate for science. He gets hate for his politics.

[@deolihp]

Neil is not political at all. People just hate him because he’s smarter than them

[@mountaingator7673]

What was truly amazing about this conversation is that Niel DeGrasse Tyson didn't just dismiss Jacob because he was a 9-year-old kid .. he actually had a sincere conversation with him and encouraged him to continue with his research and gave him a blueprint for his future!

[@kennethcameron7401]

Thing is, while the kid has what amount to child-like ideas, they aren't necessarily BAD ideas. With the recent DART mission we learned a lot about the composition of asteroids and the fact that maybe we CAN just give them a nudge in order to keep them from being dangerous. And maybe not a giant sheet of metal, but some sort of carbon fiber net with large masses on one end could potentially grab an Earth-crossing asteroid and divert it's trajectory enough to make it miss. Jacob, you keep thinking up stuff like this, one day you'll be presenting to Congress about it.

[@LMBrown3900]

Maybe I’m alone in the perception that the presenter was condescending and dismissive. He never answered the question, made a lot of word salad and then made an abrupt exit. If I’m wrong, please point out where or how?

[@ironwolfgaming9632]

@@LMBrown3900 He was showing that the idea was sound but not fully thought through - critical thinking. Jacob was learning his limited information as it went and he changed the question and the conditions - for a 9 year old that is impressive. I don't care for NDT but in this instance he showed the original possible flaw and then allowed the kid to modify the idea.

[@TheSuperlobo34]

​@@kennethcameron7401I was thinking the same thing but with webbing of nano tubes. Jacob is definitely on to something. Maybe NDT will mentor him in the future. 😊😊

[@MagicToenail]

@@kennethcameron7401We must have studied the asteroid we hit, but when we are in an actual threat of going out like the dinosaurs, we won't have time to just study the asteroid to see if we can just nudge it

[@ChrisSmith-rm6xl]

I was 10 years old when I met Ray Bradbury at a book signing. I asked him how I cound become a rocket designer. My told me to take every math and science class I could, and also to learn how to study science from books without the school. 30 years later, a rocket that I designed a small but important part of launced a satellite into orbit.

[@Wiseman501]

That is really awesome. It's amazing what a little nudge in youth can do.

[@andrewt836]

Legend

[@jorged06]

RESPECT

[@billypollina7870]

Damn! Great story and major congratulations!

[@mjlvnv]

When I was around 10, I met Ray Bradbury at a book signing at either UCLA or USC, I can’t remember, It was around 51/52 years ago.My son actually gave me a signed copy of “Fahrenheit 451” that he found at an antique store I believe. He is still one of my very favorite authors ever 😀

[@_Yep_Yep_]

I got a feeling Tyson is going to be handing Jacob a Nobel in 20 years.

[@jra55417]

Unlikely. The King of Sweden hands those out

[@keesdekarper]

We aren't living in a disney movie. Talent/interest is far from enough to accomplish something. A large chunk of luck is also needed

[@bobknull7502]

"The young do not know enough to be prudent. and therefore they attempt the impossible - and achieve it generation after generation." Pearl S. Buck

[@Oatmeal-Savage]

The nano blanket idea is actually pretty advanced, and genius. It would work.

[@KutWrite]

Yes, and schools are there to pound those thoughts out of them.

[@pinchebruha405]

@@KutWritenot the schools in France; the teachers know to look for these kids natural curiosity, the daydreamers are encouraged to keep dreaming and share those dreams with everyone. The Pantheon Museum is dedicated to all their greatest dreamers contributions to societies advancements Math Science & the Arts. It’s amazing to see the notebooks of those minds on full display!

[@kwhp1507]

@@Oatmeal-Savageit sounds very light and easy to transport a sweeping blanket to space big enough to take an asteroid anywhere. The first astronauts was limited to very small and lightweight personal effects they could take with them because of weight and size constraints. Maybe we can put an Amish colony in space, and have them knit the blanket at the space station, and deploy it from there.

[@Primatologie]

@@pinchebruha405Please keep doing what you’re doing. I wish I had someone like that in my life when I was young, curious and excited about science.

[@tearstoneactual9773]

We need more Jacobs and fewer Kardashians.

[@kascension]

AMEN to that!!!

[@DonaldOfEarth]

Correct

[@michaelrichter9427]

Fewer Kardashians. Not less. Fewer.

[@tearstoneactual9773]

@@michaelrichter9427 - You are correct. My apologies. I must have been tired when I wrote that. As a writer I do try to be precise and correct. Thank you.

[@subhobroto]

​@@tearstoneactual9773 I understood what you said so I think you did your job of communicating, well. I guess your brain was in the "more vs less" characteristics of the people pattern.

[@joepollard3228]

When I was teaching high school science, I had a young student, 15 years old, and he asked questions like that. I hope I treated him nearly as well as Neil treated Jacob. Later in the semester, the principal told me that he was a problem student. My only response was that I wished the rest of the class could be a problem like he was. Smart, patient and pleasant.

[@davidc.2878]

Problems disappear when a student is absorbed by the material. Half the problem with education is all the labels-and I mean both the woke ones and the authoritarian ones-like problem kid.

[@TheOneAndOnlyNeuromod]

I love that Neil recognized Jacob’s questions as intelligent and thoughtful - and he may have just inspired that kid to use his forward-thinking brain for great things!

[@marceld6061]

3:25 The look on NDT's face when Jason dropped the "non-Newtonian solid". Priceless.

[@incubrian]

he didnt make "a look" because he did not want to correct the kid by pointing out there is no such thing as a non-Newtonian solid. there are non-Newtonian fluids. the kid is in the ballpark of somewhat correct physics, but none of this is "brilliant" as the video clickbait title says...

[@ironwolfgaming9632]

@@incubrian sure - he was 9. When he is 10 he will solve it and know the difference.

[@incubrian]

@@ironwolfgaming9632 lol solve what? Give credit where it's due. It's not here.

[@ironwolfgaming9632]

@@incubrian science is NEVER solved to an end - it is all theory - given his limited information he was offering solution and not trolling a comment section.

[@incubrian]

@@ironwolfgaming9632 lol no he wasn't, and I'm sorry you fell victim to a click bait video.

[@jarrodhyder3557]

This kid is going places. At 9 years old he can listen, question, and understand better than the majority of adults. I think we will see more of him in about 10-15 years.

[@braces11111]

Kids are actively encouraged to ask questions about everything. As an adult you are expected to know everything and asking too many what if questions makes you look like you don't know anything. It's OK for a child to know nothing but not an adult. In reality these are hard unsolved questions and it's ok to go off on a tangent that ends up leading nowhere because sometimes it leads to solutions that noone realized before.

[@kamikeserpentail3778]

If only you knew how this horrible world works. Odds are fair this kid ends up working on a grocery store hating everything about his failure to live up to his potential

[@jlt131]

@@braces11111 When I went back to school in my late 20s, I had gotten into the habit of asking all the questions all the time. so in lectures, I was the one asking for clarifications when the subject matter was confusing or difficult. All my 18-yr-old classmates would groan, especially if it was near end of class and they wanted to be leaving. But I was paying those profs to teach me, so I was going to make sure they did. and later several other quieter classmates also thanked me for speaking up. I will never be afraid to ask a question. even "stupid" questions can start discussions and thought processes that otherwise wouldn't have happened.

[@mrcrowz8614]

This kid doesn't watch tiktok and drain his mind

[@fredgervinm.p.3315]

Kudos to his Parents...

[@4F6D]

This kid just got motivated for life. He will Never stop pursuing Science.

[@notsoberoveranalyzer8264]

I know some people dislike Neil, but his role in just getting more people interested in Science is invaluable.

[@KermitSF]

People hate what ohers have they don't

[@davidhuber6251]

I hope I see him on a talkshow someday telling a story about asking Neil a question when he was nine. We need more kids like that.

[@rodschmidt8952]

I hope I see Neil on a talkshow in ten or twenty years telling a story about that time he met Jacob

[@kealiimaxilom2465]

We need to enhance the armies of kids like this..guys like Neil aren't connecting to kids like Jacob commonly.

[@katiekat4457]

Neil does this everyday and has been for decades. Luckily, for a child like this, Neil's favorite thing in the world is his own voice talking. He seems like a really, really nice guy.

[@Axxis270]

We need more NDT's who are willing to sit down and talk with a 9 year old and acknowledge that kids are smarter than we give them credit for.

[@Anakin_Ackerman]

This kid is way smarter than I was at 9. He is asking questions and getting the answers.

[@BaritoneUkeBeast4Life]

The kid could possibly be very smart, or it could just be the coaching from his parents standing right behind him telling him what to say to impress the room. I'm not sure which is the case.

[@mickylawless1941]

​@@BaritoneUkeBeast4LifeSmart! Just a sweet, brilliant young kid!

[@incubrian]

he isn't smart. he incorrectly threw around some terms based on a loose grasp of basic physics, a lot like you hear polticians do. don't doubt your own intelligence either. at 9 years old you were also learning about the world around you, and excelled at things this kid does not excel at. we're all built differently and that's a great thing :)

[@Kilovotis]

​@@incubrian I'd still say he's smart for 9 years old, but yeah he did make some mistakes so it's not like it's Young Sheldon or Matilda level. And yes, like you said, everyone excels at different things, I 100% agree that that's a great thing, but I think that smart in this context might be more specifically applied to academic stuff.

[@bishop51807]

​@@BaritoneUkeBeast4Life now he seems too well spoken on his own for that

[@dustinfidalgo915]

That 9 year old spoke out for the 9 year old inside of all of us.

[@TimOXC]

Neil sat down to talk to the kid on his level. This is sincere respect and a genuine conversation. ❤

[@glenbateman5960]

I was already loving this conversation before Jacob's "non-Newtonian solid" mic drop. That kid's going places. He actually listens, studies, questions, and learns. I knew Neil wasn't going to say or do anything to smother his curiosity, but it was great to witness the meeting of those minds. That's how you encourage children to wonder, imagine, and dream.

[@KutWrite]

Yeah, but if Jacob had questioned the "settled science" on "Climate Change" or "C0V1D," watch Tyson change gears.

[@Sauvenil]

@@KutWrite Trump is definitely a better scientist than Tyson is, you should just follow Trump instead. Make sure to take your Ivermectin so you don't get worms.

[@sonnydaze2381]

W​hile the science concerning both is burgeoning and there is still much to learn, we know that those who reject the progress we have made on both find themselves on the wrong side of informed. And I am putting that very kindly.

[@todydn]

​@@Sauvenilno but there are actual sound conflicting theories based in science that sorta debunk the stabdard ideology of both historical timelines and climate change. Heres a real simole one if sea levels have risden about an inch or alittle more then why is plymouth rock wich is in the same spot it was in in the 1700s when pilgrims came here still only have the tide come up to it i mean its only a few inches tall if they are corr3ct about icemelt it should nearly be underwater

[@KutWrite]

@@Sauvenil: My Sar-Cas-o-Meter is going bonkers!

[@dayneroman9162]

If an asteroid comes, I’m gonna spend my final 12 hours saying “C’MON JACOB!” Over and over.

[@cefngwyn]

I'll be with you at the beach barbeque cheering Jacob on, dude! I'll bring a barrel of Purple Moose Beer and my big 'scope, you supply the wieners and rolls.

[@rellikinvictus1057]

In Jacob we will trust

[@dreadbull5039]

I literally have tears in my eyes listening to this brilliant kid have this incredibly intelligent conversation with Neil. He’s a complete stranger to me but I’m somehow proud of him. Way to go Jacob! Keep thinking and asking the good questions!

[@Dskrib]

The kid woke him up. He started off ignoring his actual question and giving his pre packaged response, but the kid didn’t give up and he broke through, and Neil had to think in real time, beautiful job by both in the end

[@davidc.2878]

Exactly. You actually tracked the conversation.

[@jannibal9273]

I was a junior in high school in 1968 and one of our required classes to take was Chemistry. I had this growly middle-aged guy for our teacher, and he got me hooked on chemistry. This was in a poor area of Milwaukee, 1400 kids were crowded into a high school that was built back in the late 1800s for 800 or so students. I was always in that teacher's face, asking him tons of questions - why this, why that, why doesn't this work, blah blah blah. Looking back, I thought at the time I knew what I was talking about, LOL. But that teacher, he took me seriously, he never made fun of me or shut me down. At the end of the semester, the teacher asked me to stay after class. He told me that I was one of the best students he'd ever had, and that I should go to college and consider a career as a scientist. I was floored. There I was, a 16 year old girl with no thought of going to college. We were poor, girls in my neighborhood at that time got married right out of high school to their "sweet hearts." But that teacher, he started a fire inside of me. I went to work after I graduated from high school, but in 1975 I started going part-time to college, and graduated in 1981. I didn't study chemistry or science, I was into political science and history. I went to law school instead, and never regretted. I still remember that teacher. He's long gone and I'm 72 now and retired since I was 63. But you never forget those who open your eyes to possibilities.

[@kathleen88863]

Speaking the truth. Thanks.

[@user-bj1zv1um8b]

I'm not trying to be rude. But how old are you cause I'm 25 and my dad was born in 75. And you speak almost perfect English. How come most of the older generation can't spell but you can your a genuis?

[@rikk319]

My mother was similar. Put herself through college in the late 60s as a divorced woman with a son. Became a chemist at a pharmaceutical company where she was the only woman in the laboratory--most of the other women in the company were receptionists or secretaries. She had a similar story of a teacher inspiring her.

[@rikk319]

@@user-bj1zv1um8b She said in her post that she was 72. I'm 54, so I'm Gen X, not a Boomer, but even when I was a teen, when personal computers were first coming out and my mother bought one because she felt like computers were going to be a huge part of life some day, I worked on my keyboard skills. Even as the internet and social media became a thing, I've always written things out full, no leetspeak or textspeak...even when I game online or post comments on KZbin. Saying that, I think most older people can't spell well online because their hands don't work as well as they used to. I once could type 115 words/minute with very few errors, but now at 54 I notice a slowdown and more errors when I type. Add to this that there is a significant segment of older people who dislike change and are scared by it, and it gives them a distaste for adapting to new things, and makes them more prone to display their ignorance of technology proudly, including such basic tech as managing to be literate (language is technology).

[@Taima]

@@user-bj1zv1um8b You should work on your literacy if you're going to insult a whole generation. She said she was 72. She also went to college, not to mention law school. You don't get to do those things without knowing how to write well and intelligbly.

[@kevjd24]

This reminded me of when I introduced my students to the Trolley Problem. The kids (ages 10-12) kept offering workarounds. They wanted to attempt to stop it manually, crash cars into the trolley, knock it off the tracks, etc. They simply refused to accept the outcome, even though they understood the guidelines. It was remarkable, watching them relentlessly attempt creative solutions outside the guidelines of the thought experiment. When I introduced this to a number of adults who had not heard of it, they all gave straight forward answers of sacrifice with no thoughts to a workaround. Even though the adults followed the guidelines, it was chilling to see how willing they were to sacrifice a life after watching a group of kids endlessly search for a way, even though it appeared to be hopeless. I think that is why Neil often speaks on the importance of kids hanging on to that wonder and passion as they grow up, rather than mindlessly working their way through school on subjects they do not care about.

[@takumi2023]

i think the problem with that is adults tries to work within the prompt as we've been drilled by exams all through our lives while kids just see it as a question to be answered any way possible.

[@CampingforCool41]

I mean I think it’s more about the fact that adults understand the concept of hypothetical questions than children, who think in much more literal terms. If you posed the same question to adults but said they could also come up with a method to save everyone there would be no shortage of viable answers. The purpose of the trolley problem is to question morality in a situation where all possible outcomes are bad, when there is no possible happy ending. Its maybe not the absolute best hypothetical because as the children show, in a real world setting there would be more than just two possibilities (unless I suppose the decision had to be made within mere seconds with no other tools whatsoever to stop the trolley.

[@ephgm]

​@@CampingforCool41Just like the Kobayashi Maru.

[@Domarius64]

There's a balance, there's a reason why adults are like that, because the trolley problem is a time based one. If you're frozen up with the idea that someone is going to die no matter what, then everyone dies. It's great to not lose the passion and wonder of childhood but there's a practicality to the hard decision making of adulthood. And it shouldn't be surprising or shocking either.

[@rabidsamfan]

The trolley problem always annoys me because that is not how tracks work.

[@Kalkirain]

3:22 -- Jacob informed Neil that non-Newtonian solids happen, not only just the non-Newtonian fluids. Neil was operating at such a high level that he understood and was able to keep up with Jacob's process. It's good to have a buddy in science. 💖

[@slayerkifonna6831]

This was adorable. Niel probably just made Jacobs life. Hearing this super famous astrophysicist tell him you can be the one to save us and you can be the one to figure out your problem. That would give me so much inspiration and I would hold onto it for the rest of my life. ❤❤

[@ChrisM-tn3hx]

One of the best technical conversations I've ever had was with a kid who was about 10 and according to his mom, has Asperger's. I had a display up and was demonstrating Linux and the power, versatility, efficiency and security advantages it had versus other commercial operating systems. This little kid walked up to me and started a conversation. Without a doubt, he was the smartest kid I've ever met. He clearly didn't function normally socially, but I understood immediately what kind of cognitive gift he had. He understood things most adults in my field struggled with. He was like a kindred spirit. I skipped several grades in school. I was the kind of kid who sat in the attic and read middle English when I was 8, and this kid was able to keep up with me and even challenge me. To be honest, I think he was measurably smarter than me. I would love to know what his IQ was. Eventually his mom found him, and apologized profusely for him "bothering" me and taking up my time. I thought that was a terrible thing to do. I understood why she did it, but I also understood from my own experience what it was like to have people try to make you stop thinking because it was "annoying". I told her never to apologize for him, because what he had was a gift, not a curse. He should be encouraged, not discouraged. Unfortunately, his mom was "normal" and would never be able to understand him. He needed contact with people who could think like him and appreciate his mind. He was brilliant, and I thoroughly enjoyed the conversation. I truly regretted that she interrupted when she did. Never underestimate someone just because they're young. That's the age their potential needs to be nurtured, and not crushed in the interest of normalcy or because we're too lazy to parent properly.

[@chojin6136]

I remember reading a cartoonised book about black holes when I was about 6-7. I read all sorts of factual books at that age, but the school told my mum that I should pick up more fiction books, and unfortunately she listened to them. I have found my way back to that path, but now I'm almost 30 years behind where I would have been had she not listened to the school

[@ChrisM-tn3hx]

@@chojin6136 I know how you feel. I was raised in a cultish religion by someone who believed the earth was only 6000 years old, and that education was Satan's way of keeping me from spending my life preaching the bible. Meanwhile, every interest I had was in history, old books, astronomy, archaeology, paleontology and physics. Everything God hated, according to her. I spent most of my life completely isolated and being punished for thinking. Brutal.

[@umwhatamIdoinghere]

That story sounds similar to the introduction scene of the character Ralph, from the TV series Scorpion.

[@vaticancartel136]

@@ChrisM-tn3hx Science is an extension of religion.

[@newforestobservatory9322]

@@chojin6136 I am an Emeritus Professor of Physics at a Russell Group University and I can tell you that schools are a complete and utter waste of a kid's time - and as for getting any sort of education - just forget it.

[@Ormusn2o]

Its so interesting that the kid on the fly, in response to Neil answers figures out things that are already been thought of, like the blanket around asteroid. Incredible kid.

[@majorjohnson8001]

I hadn't heard of the blanket solution before, but yeah, smart kid.

[@All_Knowing_Truth]

@@majorjohnson8001 Seen it in the TV show expanse, science fiction at best

[@silasstryder]

@@All_Knowing_Truth Not really? Don't we already have the materials and tech available? You'd just need 4+ rockets that can operate individually in zero G space all connected to some sorta kevlar/carbon nanotube mold-able sheet that has a surface area as big or bigger than the asteroid. The biggest issue technologically is getting software to control the rockets in a reliable and predictable fashion, but that can be resolved through a bunch of simulation training. Assuming we have the time to be able to get the rocket blanket nearly caught up to it, then reverse at nearly the same speed as the asteroid so its relative speed would be as fast or slow as the rocket blanket makes it, the material of the sheet doesn't even need to be that strong and actually it could be a net to save weight and be even stronger since basketball sized chunks of the asteroid slipping through the net would just burn up in the atmosphere

[@Wolfy11188]

@@silasstryder I think the problem with this blanket idea is that some of these meteors are 20+ miles wide, some far greater than that and simply making a sheet that big is in itself an almost impossible task, not to mention how heavy it would be as well. I dunno how much a 20x20 mile Kevlar net would weigh but I'd assume more than anything that has ever been sent into space before. A typical space shuttle from what I've read weighs something in the region of 80 tonnes and is capable of carrying up to about 16 tonnes of cargo weight. The only solution today would be to somehow send up multiple smaller loads and assemble it within space itself. You go through all of that only for a 40 mile wide meteor to be approaching earth. Perhaps it would be a better idea to make more of a slingshot rather than a net and create the same thing but instead of 20x20 make it something like 50x10 so it has enough of a grasp and a much wider gap to allow for many bigger meteors. With that being said there have been meteors discovered in space that are a quarter of the size of the moon so I don't think there's much hope in stopping that one.

[@shannonembry5510]

Love how encouraging he is of the kid. Doesn't just dismiss him but talks to and understands him. Hope Jacob goes places and stays curious.

[@RoxxSerm]

I dont care what people say about Tyson. If you make science cool and interesting for the youth, you're doing humanity and the whole planet a huge service. The current century is a turning point for humanity and this is exactly what we need.

[@qpwodkgh2010]

This is why NDT is so likeable. Way to go Jacob, I hope you go far. As a kid like Jacob, NDT used to go to Carl Sagan's home on a regular basis. Now you know where this comes from.

[@WacKEDmaN]

likeable? he just shattered that poor kids dreams...and filled his head with capitalist nonsense...its been proven they can move an asteroid... but neil continues to talk crap

[@j72ashley]

Can I borrow this kid for a week? He and my kid can just come up with all our solutions while drinking juice boxes....

[@linebrunelle1004]

not if you think the orange smurf is jesus

[@suzydoodle6348]

​@@linebrunelle1004 ???

[@ephgm]

​@@suzydoodle6348they are talking about Trump. Always gotta be political.

[@jwvandegronden]

Can I add my kid to that party? Kids are awesome, Every day my heart sings when I listen to my kid go into orbit on some detail of something. What a gift those kids have!

[@FaithTheSlayer]

@@ephgm I know right, Since when do republicans or trump give a flying f*** about science.

[@kotori87gaming89]

Amazing. He translated Jacob's 9-year-old words into solid concepts and had a simple and clear discussion to answer the question. Well done!

[@mindblueyez671]

I love this! Neil meeting him at his level, and fostering his interest and enthusiasm. One generation to another generation. This young man is incredible 👏 ❤ Best of luck in your future Jacob!

[@loejin]

Far too often we get stuck on the politics and complications of advanced physics and engineering solutions, but the creativity in a child’s mind can be the best solution and the shortest path to the answer. Then! We figure out the math.

[@markjaycox8811]

All the Time made before you got made has Math that you have not defined. 2024 has an opposite and where you "are" has an opposite, and that's where you "aren't", and the math of where you "aren't" is positive, making where you "are" the negative. Did the Sun ever make a negative day? Then why do you measure the light it's made in a negative way? Why can't you answer? BECAUSE YOU ARE NOT CONSCIOUS YOU ARE NOT CONSCIOUS. It is the distance between where you "are" in Time and where you "aren't" in Time that is your conscious reach, and until you measure that distance by defining 2024's opposite, YOU DON'T HAVE CONSCIOUSNESS.

[@Icantbelievethisshit2]

That's how science happens; imagination of what might be possible and figuring out how it could work! I wish more kids could catch that "science bug". Jacob also has the confidence to ask NDT a question and pose counter questions! Love it 😍

[@PaleRider54]

You're right. The first step is identifying the problem. The next step is working on the solution(s). The last step is determining how to pay for it. Too often politicians want to ask the last question immediately and, without giving it any thought, dismiss it out of hand simu because THEY can't see a way to pay for it (without increasing taxes on those who can most afford it.)

[@PaleRider54]

​@@Icantbelievethisshit2Yes. He was not at all star-struck. He saw Neil as a conduit to begin addressing answers we need for the future in the same way Neil saw Carl.

[@claytonskids6764]

YAY ! A grown-up who LISTENS ✨🤗 Nicely Done both of you 👍💕

[@JZsBFF]

Yeah, except that NDT isn't very good at it.

[@callummcintyre95]

@@JZsBFF normally he's terrible, always interrupts - i don't think he always means it though. He seems to be more patient with children :)

[@SessaV]

The grin on my face when the kid said "non-newtonian solid". I don't have kids, but I'd be so proud to be Jacob's mom

[@pamelabonaparte9383]

Jacob’s mind is already focused on the future he has an intention to better the atmosphere when it comes to avoiding objects entering into our atmosphere and making havoc on earth. Amazing his focus and attention to detail in his study at such a young age! Truly beautiful and inspiring. I pray more Jacob’s are being born and inspired to concur the Universe and be guided by being inspired by people like Neil . What a great interaction ❤🌘🌑🌔👏🏻🙌🏻🙏🏼

[@Maerahn]

This truly was a meeting of TWO brilliant minds!

[@ashwilliams4959]

1 brilliant and 1 that follows books and theory too much. Let's not forget about nasa's dart mission, where they launched an object at an asteroid to see if they could move its orbit away from earth...

[@bwolos]

1 brilliant and Neil DeGrasse Tyson

[@augustopizarro6823]

Kids are amazing, their questions are truly sincere and sometimes defies the established knowledge in a very smart way. I never dismiss a Kid question, saying "you will not understand if I explain". If you cannot explain something to a kid in a way that he can understand it's because you also don't know.

[@wordforger]

Sometimes kids ask questions or come up with solutions adults never think of.

[@Tashishi0]

@@wordforger They haven't learned what they "can't" do yet

[@robertnastasi4738]

Mr. Tyson. YOU ARE AWESOME. This world is a better place with people like you. THANKS

[@shawnb5899]

I can't even begin to describe how happy this makes me. Seeing a 9 year old this interested in science and already dreaming big is just awesome!

[@mikeabbitt8309]

We need to get a GoFundMe thing started to send Jacob to MIT, Purdue, Georgia Tech, or where ever he can get the proper education to accomplish his dream!

[@glennroberts1852]

Let’s send him to wherever NDT is so he can get the engagement and support he needs to bring his ideas to reality.

[@marvinmartin4692]

Yes!

[@incubrian]

i guarantee you this kid's family and upbringing does not have ANY issues with money for a VERY comfortable life and the best schools. instead, focus your comment's energy towards the endless amounts of kids out there who actually NEED finiancial help, free education, and access to learning materials.

[@michaelccopelandsr7120]

And fairly tax the rich so we could ALL have free health care and education

[@jlbarrera]

I second that!! But there is a lot of smart kids out there!! Can you imagine if we can help all those kids?? This country and the entire world from us little people to the entire country in general, and the world will be benefited!! We have the talent, we just need to educate and support the talent we have literally at hand!!

[@legionaireb]

This conversation was just FUN.

[@linebrunelle1004]

it was intelligent

[@noahgraff-uw8rs]

Better than many adult coversations

[@jlt131]

@@noahgraff-uw8rs more adult than most adult conversations!

[@fvlse_]

The biggest shock, Tyson stopped talking for 10 seconds

[@nickwilcox3648]

My, you really are a pessimist if that was your take away

[@fvlse_]

@@nickwilcox3648 my, you really are dull of you didn’t get the joke. r/wooosh

[@lifeinlimbo2186]

To me,the mind of a child is precious and I absolutely love listening to them talk and ask questions about the world from their perspective.

[@mlhardin1822]

This kid is GOOD! The future of mankind is on display here! Atta boy!

[@vonSchwartzwolfe]

It will not surprise me to find out that kid gets into asteroid mining on some level in his lifetime. That conversation might have pushed him into working into leading the way into just that.😎

[@user-dy7pm9wr5i]

This is bold and interesting 🤨 to have a conversation with a child about how to solve problems in space

[@acestealth1354]

The kids idea about intercepting an asteroid with basically a metal net to solidify it sufficiently to push or pull it away was well thought out, even if it may not be feasible from a "can we do it" perspective at present, but in the future? Maybe. I think Neil's proposition of finding them soon enough that we can launch a countermeasure to nudge it off course distant enough it misses us is still the most feasible, but detecting all the millions of objects out there buzzing around is not an easy feat either.

[@Chazulu2]

People are thinking about this compleatly backwards. Say you go out there and "mine" some asteroids. What then? The metal is useless unless you send it back to a factory, all of which are on Earth. So, what you're wanting to do is push a few small asteroids rich in rare Earth metals towards Earth, not away. Maybe find a nice solid bowl shaped asteroid to act as a heat shield, put some rare Earth asteroids behind it, net or weld the whole thing together and push it towards a big empty spot in the middle of a desert on Earth. You could even hook some parashoots up to it to increase the payload while keeping the impact forces down. Heat shields are simply better than retrothrust landing because they are cheap and easy, and way better than rebuilding all of industry up in space for no reason when Mountain top removal already proves that bringing stuff down is better. Plus, industry in space would screw recycling, and responsible stewardship of the environment is necessary anyway, which a bunch of rocket launches would just make more difficult. You probably only need to do that like a few times anyways and the the whole industry is dead because rare Earth metals are only expensive due to them being rare on Earth after having sunk to the core while it was still molten, but are much more common in space. Basically comes down to blowing them into little chuncks, giving them a little push, and letting gravity do most of the work, just like on Earth with mountaintop mining.

[@hermanshim8948]

Jacob, the first to build a ladder to the asteroid belt.

[@charlielynes]

Well, his name checks out for laddership... 🫡

[@WorthlessDeadEnd]

Jacob's ladder. Good one 😉

[@Kalkirain]

"Jacob's Ladder" septupled entendre: 1) A high-voltage traveling electric arc, or 2) a gym stairmaster machine, perhaps operating in reverse as an escalator, or 3) this kid rides a space elevator whip really far out, or 4) in the Bible, Jacob's dream about a ladder/stairway from Earth to heaven, for angels, or 5) metaphor for The Advancement of Learning (F.Bacon, 1605), science and logic, or 6) silly adult piercings, or 7) 19th century adult anatomy. Ok then. This research study requires more funding.

[@classesanytime]

This kid will be going places in life! It might be worth while to remember his name because we'll hear from him again in a few years if we're still around!

[@lynderherberts2828]

Brilliant, engaging 9 year old boy named Jake. Must have great parents raising him. God bless them all. Love the way Neil DeGrasse interactions with Jake.

[@cyberpete1]

Jake? Jacob

[@deputyhobbs9683]

This is beautiful, space is so wonderful, and seeing someone so young falling in love with it and speaking to a real space genius will only inspire him further. The universe is truly incredible

[@samanthac.349]

These two would have a blast spending a day together discussing hypothetical physics situations. ❤

[@WonderScience.]

I agree!

[@whirledpeaz5758]

I like that NDT sat down to talk with this boy not to make himself more comfortable, but to be completely engaged with the boy. And shows respect.

[@longtailgt]

Jacob being brilliantly intelligent at 9 and Neil Tyson answering all of his questions with great sincerity! Such an amazing conversation!

[@J5Dev]

Neil perfectly shows here what is so cool about good scientists... He doesn't just say it's a stupid question and dismiss it quickly... because a good scientist knows theres no such thing! Instead, he ensures that the young man is furnished will all the knowledge he needs to have his question answered for now, but in a way that leaves it open for future exploration... Such as what if we DID know the material? what if we COULD calculate where the pieces would go? What OTHER options are there? etc etc It's those question that this kid could go on to obsess over, and eventually build the world first asteroid defence system... who knows, but this is one way that scientists are made. Love this!

[@stevem4582]

Listening to NDT is always a pleasure. He’s just so passionate about the subject that it makes you engaged. Never a dull moment.

[@georgesheffield1580]

Boeing needs to fire all their bean counters and engineers and hire a bunch of kids like this one .

[@subhobroto]

The product managers at Boeing will squeeze the life out of this kid and make him wish he flipped burgers for minimum wage instead

[@axel_r_]

Thank you, Jacob, and parents, for giving this kid a future for himself and perhaps for all of us. The future is hopeful with people like Jacob.

[@hyzenthlay7151]

I love this kid's curiosity and imagination... Someone give him a scholarship!!

[@womanofsubstance8735]

I love NDT, but it was kinda acute watching Neil start talking to Jakob like he's a normal 9-year old, then finding out that the kid is WAY ahead of 9 years! It would be interesting to see them together not on stage where Neil would not feel the urge to patronize but could talk to Jakob as to a college student interested in astrophysics.

[@birdolla4441]

I think he has a very good point, and obviously thinking on his feet Brilliant!

[@ShelbyT5034]

I really hope THIS is the conversation that propels Jacob into that future! My heart wishes all the best things for this kid

[@hectic6981]

Talk to me like I'm 9, going on university graduate..."its a non newtonian solid" what a 9 year old. Perhaps the world isn't doomed after all lol

[@loisrossi841]

Go, Jacob!

[@user-ju7bn6sr7d]

Amazing video! Jacob's insight was wonderful to hear! Pray tell, what was the background music that was used? I'd love to know!

[@ilkhgs]

Information is awesome. Just a couple info details that I would appreciate, the when and where of this wonderful little vid-ette. Thank you.

[@patmcchesney3135]

Love seeing an extremely smart man sit down and help a 9 year old with his questions. First class.

[@r3gret2079]

That kid is astoundingly smart for his age, and that makes me so happy. What a brilliant young man, he's gunna go places. And Kudos to Neil. He may be a big ol" goofball, but you can't deny he works well with kids, and even seems to truly enjoy teaching them, hell, and the rest of us too. Edit: and the last words he said were "get home safely." What a guy

[@CollectiveWest1]

Very impressed to hear a 9 year old talk about non-Newtonian solids, especially as this middle-aged man was not familiar with that term. As others have commented here, it was great that the speaker not only engaged with Jacob with respect, but had a conversation which moved the discussion on to another level and in a way that the rest of us could understand

[@AngelicusImmortus]

How gracious and respectful Neil is here. and how brilliant this kid is, and confident enougn to put his question forward.

[@JordanMSeverns]

Whoever added background music to this should be ashamed of themselves

[@WonderScience.]

I know right!? How could they do such a thing? Crazy.

[@Nia-zq5jl]

@@WonderScience.No it’s cool! Do you have the name for the track? Source?

[@kasperd]

Came here to get the soundtrack.

[@MissesWitch]

that was really a pleasure to watch ^ ^ It's nice when a smart child with a curiosity for science is allowed to speak! ^ ^

[@RobotDude375]

Love how Tyson takes kids seriously and doesn’t just shoot them away because of their age. We need more kid scientists like Jacob and more adult listeners like Tyson

[@TheRoybert]

The kid has the correct mindset. He is problem solving the obstacles. We know we can land on a moving asteroid. Placing an engine on the surface with thrust in varying vectors could steer or push. We learned from smashing into them that there is a fracturing or debris factor even if the trajectory is changed. This Young Sheldon will continue to put his skills to use and solve this conundrum.

[@ironwolfgaming9632]

Mass and inertia - if we can learn to cancel inertia - then all would be easy.

[@rodschmidt8952]

@@ironwolfgaming9632 see: "just boil the ocean"

[@jeaniebird999]

Samesies. I was 9 when I was introduced to science thanks to Mr. Miller and Carl Sagan. Been in love with all things science, ever since.😃 RIP to both Mr Miller and Carl Sagan. 🌈🌌

[@comingoutspinster-rebellik1479]

Jacob is such a delight! He makes perfect sense to me…what a darling brilliant child 💕he gives me hope for the future! I’m happy Neil took time with him.

[@Dung30n]

Protect both these men at all costs. Neil is one of a kind educator and speaker, and young Jacob is going places with that inquisitive mind of his.

[@heather4545]

What an adorable future scientist! ❤

[@kennethavesato3883]

Neil is a brilliant mind ❤always gets me thinking😊

[@Educated2Extinction]

This could be the most important thing Neil ever does. I'm keeping my eye out for a great scientist/engineer named Jacob coming up in a couple decades.

[@JamieCormier]

Jacob is awesome! I want to hear more of his science ideas!

[@user-ji2nv2vd6r]

Smart young man, he will go far if he keeps his mind open. Thanks for sharing, and to all have a wonderful life

[@kurtiskuchcinski2628]

Very good questions from a bright young man.

[@dragonshair]

A nine year old kid who understands non-Newtonian solids, confident enough to go head to head with Neil DeGrasse Tyson in a public forum. This is the kind of kid who actually might find a way to manipulate and mine asteroids. Good luck Jacob, I wish you all the very best for your future career.

[@frapell]

It truly brings tears to my eyes seeing this... that kid is going to remember this moment for his entire life, and he will be going places, not exactly the beach to get drunk, I can assure you that. Amazing moment

[@kimberlymoore8172]

This kid's gonna run NASA someday....

[@shidder2k]

He’s not German enough

[@matthewdudael1931]

Yes Thank You Jacob !

[@sandragoodman2059]

This was an enlightening conversation. Jacob's metal blanket idea is very sensible. If nobody's working on it, someone should.

[@Oskanwhitchfather]

I'm not even Jacob's dad, and _I'm_ proud of little man. Kid has a good head on his shoulders, and a mind hungry for knowledge. Also, a pretty awesome grasp of concepts for a kid that young. Some faith in humanity restored. And kid, if you, by some hilarious stroke of luck, just so happen to see this: I wish you the best, Jake. Good luck in life, and I hope your love for knowledge never dies.

[@stevegabbert9626]

A real life "Young Sheldon"....type.

[@Paul_C]

No, young Sheldon was an idiot because he didn't think things through. He was one of those know-it-all. With little or no imagination.

[@stevegabbert9626]

@@Paul_C Ok...I'll edit.

[@christianking8668]

This kid is already as smart as Neil deGrasse Tyson.

[@georgesheffield1580]

Much,much smarter than all the politicians put to gather.

[@cbi-ju5mi]

@@georgesheffield1580that’s a pretty low bar to meet if you ask me 🤫

[@wakyfeas]

Last question for a reason. 🤘🤘 this is a conversation everyone on Earth needs to hear. Twice!!

[@NancyFord-yt2nu]

Great to hear the positive response and encouragement

[@ArayanSaleem]

I love that kid ❤

[@samuelakasam]

5:24 this gave me goosebumps 😅Idky listening to this him saying this kid is the future