Renowned Physicist Ivica Puljak Discusses Cosmos and Life Beyond Earth

In a recent interview, renowned physicist and former mayor of Split, Ivica Puljak, elaborated on the mysteries of the universe, emphasizing the importance of scientific inquiry in understanding our existence and the cosmos. Puljak, who has spent years conducting research at CERN, discussed various topics, including the nature of matter and antimatter, the significance of recent astronomical discoveries, and the ongoing debates surrounding extraterrestrial life.

Puljak’s unique position as both a respected scientist and a public figure allows him to communicate complex scientific concepts in a manner accessible to the general public. His social media following, which numbers in the tens of thousands, highlights his ability to translate intricate physics and astrophysics into language that resonates with many.

At a time when viral theories about UFOs, secret space projects, and intergalactic comets dominate public discourse, Puljak reminds audiences that while the universe is indeed filled with mysteries, understanding these enigmas requires a solid foundation in science. He asserts that the scientific method remains the only reliable pathway to truth, including the question of whether humanity is the sole conscious civilization in the observable universe.

Understanding Matter and Antimatter

During the interview, Puljak differentiated between the material and immaterial worlds. He explained that scientists who received the Nobel Prize in 1959 for discovering the antiproton established that matter exists in the form of particles and antiparticles. These particles have properties such as mass, charge, and spin, but when they come into contact, they annihilate each other, converting into pure energy.

“Today we know that nature consists of 12 particles and their 12 antiparticles,” Puljak stated. “They all have the same properties except for having opposite charges. When they meet, they transform into energy.” This phenomenon is grounded in Einstein’s well-known equation that relates energy to mass and the speed of light squared.

Puljak also noted that while much is understood about these processes, questions remain. He mentioned that although the universe initially contained equal amounts of matter and antimatter, most antimatter has mysteriously disappeared, a topic currently under investigation at CERN’s Large Hadron Collider (LHC).

Insights on Recent Discoveries and Extraterrestrial Life

One of the focal points of Puljak’s discussion was the recent discovery of the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS. He described it as a natural object with unique characteristics, likely originating from interstellar space. “This is an extraordinary object that allows us to study distant systems and learn a great deal,” he stated.

Puljak addressed the surge of interest in UFOs and speculations about extraterrestrial life, particularly in light of a recent film discussing these topics in the U.S. Congress. He emphasized that, as of now, there is no concrete evidence supporting the existence of extraterrestrial beings. “Our working hypothesis remains that we are alone in the visible universe, which makes our responsibility towards our planet and its life forms even greater,” he explained.

While acknowledging the allure of conspiracy theories and fictional narratives surrounding scientific phenomena, Puljak advocated for a focus on empirical evidence. He urged the public to seek knowledge and understanding, emphasizing that “the more we know, the less we fear.”

In response to inquiries about CERN’s transparency, Puljak invited the public to experience the laboratory firsthand. “CERN has welcomed over 750,000 visitors this year, allowing them to witness our research and understand its significance,” he noted.

Finally, Puljak reflected on the broader implications of scientific discovery. He remarked that the cosmos and the subatomic world are interconnected, highlighting the ancient symbolism of the Hindu god Shiva, which represents the cosmic dance of creation and destruction, mirroring the interactions of particles and antiparticles.

As humanity navigates its place in an expansive universe, Puljak’s insights serve as a reminder of the essential role of science in unraveling the complexities of existence.