Discussing the Science of Interstellar with the Science Advisor, Kip Thorne

Black Holes

The film Interstellar presents a fascinating exploration of black hole physics, particularly through the concept of time dilation. Kip Thorne explains that the extreme time dilation depicted on Miller's planet requires the black hole to spin at nearly maximum speed, a calculation he verified using complex mathematics 1. This scientific accuracy was crucial in shaping the narrative, as Thorne notes, "If this planet spins fast enough, last circular stable orbit can have as high a, a high, a redshift, as high a time difference as you might wish."

If this planet spins fast enough, last circular stable orbit can have as high a, a high, a redshift, as high a time difference as you might wish.

--- Kip Thorne

Additionally, Thorne discusses the theoretical implications of black holes on information loss, a concept he explored alongside Stephen Hawking2.

   

Wormholes

Wormholes and time travel are central themes in Interstellar, with Kip Thorne providing scientific insights into these concepts. He describes how a wormhole could theoretically function as a time machine, allowing one to meet a younger version of themselves 3. Thorne recounts his conversation with Carl Sagan, which inspired his exploration of wormholes: "If I just go over and go into her mouth, wormhole mouth, and come out, I'll meet my younger self."

If I just go over and go into her mouth, wormhole mouth, and come out, I'll meet my younger self.

--- Kip Thorne

However, he acknowledges the potential destruction of such a time machine due to quantum fluctuations, a notion supported by Stephen Hawking4.

   

Wave Dynamics

The depiction of wave dynamics in Interstellar is both scientifically intriguing and creatively exaggerated. Neil deGrasse Tyson and Kip Thorne discuss the solitary wave on Miller's planet, which, while exaggerated in height, is based on real physics 5. Thorne explains that such waves, known as solitary waves, can travel long distances without breaking due to a balance between steepening and dispersion effects: "The two effects balance each other to produce this very stable solitary wave."

The two effects balance each other to produce this very stable solitary wave.

--- Kip Thorne

This balance allows the wave to maintain its shape, though the film takes creative liberties with its portrayal 6.