Big Bang in a Box

Recently, the Science Channel re-ran a 2004 program called 'Parallel Universe', a BBC production about string theory, membrane theory, the 11th dimension, parallel universes, and, of course, the Big Bang.  

I felt compelled to watch it.

It was mesmerizing, if way beyond my poor capacity to comprehend, and soon I was in a tonic state of some sort, staring at the TV screen and drooling slightly.

And, then, almost as an afterthought following the last commercial of the hour, came a revelation that sparked my every dormant dendrite:   One of the physicists featured on the program said he thought it was possible to create a new universe in the lab.

The producers of the show had the camera sweep across this scientist's office, showing piles of papers in disarray on the desk, shelves, and the floor, as if in comment on the state of his mind.  But there was no commentary or opposing opinions to contradict him.

This physicist further stated that he thought it very likely he could do it, and it would be safe too.  Once created, the growing universe would splice itself off into it's own space, and it would not displace our own universe. We'd be OK. 

At this point the producers had my full attention, and then the show ended!  What?  Leave us hanging with the news that a disorganized geek says he can create a new universe, with stars and galaxies and maybe life and everything, and then just stop the show?

Then it hit me.  This was 2004, four years ago.  Maybe this guy has already done it.  Maybe more than once.  

Then I thought, if he can do it, what does that say about the origin of our own universe?  I sure hope God had a neater office than this guy.

And then I had one last thought before my naturally short attention span moved me on to another subject:  This would make one cool gift!

Think about it.  Up to now you've been able to give someone the gift of naming a star after them.  Big Deal!

Now you can give them their very own universe, their personal ...

Big Bang in a Box