"I needed a hug after that one."
So said waggish Jon Stewart, host of "The Daily Show," after listening to astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson describe the relationship between human beings and the chemical elements in the cosmos.
"Yes, we're in the universe, but not only that," said Tyson, appearing as a Daily Show guest two years ago to discuss his New York Times bestseller, "Death by Black Hole." "Because the chemical ingredients of life are the same as that of the universe and traceable to stars, the universe is in us."
The thought was too much for Stewart, who leaned in to embrace his guest, perhaps the best-known astrophysicist in the world.
Tyson is visiting MSU Jan. 22 for a 7:30 p.m. lecture at the Wharton Center's Pasant Theater. And while hugs aren't on the schedule, the lecture will be free and Tyson's newest book, "The Pluto Files," will be available for purchase during a book signing that follows the remarks. Tickets are available at the Wharton Center box office. Admission is free but priority seating will be given to ticketholders.
Already well known when he appeared on Stewart's show in 2007, Tyson's own star has continued to rise since then as he expands his communication reach beyond astrophysics. As the host of "NOVA scienceNOW" on PBS, Tyson has explored topics ranging from stem cells to aging to space elevators.
In his East Lansing talk, "Footprints in the Sands of Science," Tyson will address how science and technology have allowed only a select few nations to leave their mark on our understanding of the world. Earlier in the day in a series of closed meetings, Tyson will meet with students and faculty and also tour NSCL to learn about the rare isotope research program at the university. MSU ranks second in nuclear physics graduate programs and helps to train 10 percent of all U.S. doctoral students in the field.
Tyson's visit is made possible by a host of MSU sponsors, including the Office of the Provost, the College of Communication Arts & Sciences, the College of Engineering, the Department of Physics and Astronomy, the Honors College, International Studies and Programs, and NSCL.