Is it possible for the aliens from the 3 Body Problem to actually exist? Delving into the scientific aspects of Netflix’s latest sensation

Before becoming a scientist, Short Wave co-host Regina G. Barber was an avid lover of science fiction. Her interest was piqued when she learned about Netflix’s series ‘3 Body Problem’, where the world’s top scientists race to solve an interstellar mystery spanning decades. Based on a bestselling trilogy by Chinese author Liu Cixin, the series also incorporates real scientific concepts. Barber, along with astrobiologist Mike Wong, delves into the science behind the ‘3 Body Problem’, from orbit integration to potential habitable worlds.

This story is part of Short Wave’s Space Camp series, exploring the fascinating phenomena occurring in the universe. To delve into more intriguing topics like this, check out the rest of the series. If you’re curious about the science behind your favorite things, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at shortwave@npr.org. Tune in to Short Wave on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more episodes.

Today’s episode of Short Wave was produced by Hannah Chinn and edited by Rebecca Ramirez. Fact-checking was done by Hannah and Regina, with audio engineering by Kwesi Lee. Special thanks to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, Home of Space Camp® for their assistance. This content is copyrighted to NPR in the year 2024.