Justin Finke: Astrophysics at the Improv

Justin Finke: Astrophysics at the Improv

From Beers with Engineers by Bert Uschold

June 1, 2026 · 1h 11m · Episode 64

About this episode

Justin Finke discusses his work in astrophysics and the intersection of science and improv.

#64 – Justin Finke: Astrophysics at the Improv Justin works for Naval Research Laboratory, so this is the first podcast with a disclaimer. “Ways and Means” and “Monumental” are beers from DC area breweries. Used a telescope as a kid Special relativity can be derived with high school math. “Atom” by Isaac Asimov – not sci-fi “A Brief History of Time” by Stephen Hawking FYI, grad school for chemistry and physics is generally free. Big display pendulums have motors. Buy them from Academy Pendulum Sales Is he an astronomer, an astrophysicist, or physicist? How old is the universe? The Hubble tension. Did the speed of light change? Does gravity change? Discussing improv classes AI – generative, at least – not affecting astrophysics too much. Yet. Prefers putting together a talk more than giving it. Bert lists five great things about being an engineer. Merchandise - www.beerswithengineers.shop Bert’s Company – www.dexterityeng.com Let Jen get rid of your pain - Improv for Pain https://academypendulums.com/ Hat tip to Joseph McDade for free use of his music "Mirrors".

People in this episode

Host: Bert Uschold

Guest: Justin Finke

Topics covered

  • astrophysics
  • improv
  • engineering
  • space
  • education

Keywords

  • astrophysics
  • improv
  • Naval Research Laboratory
  • Hubble tension
  • generative AI

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Naval Research Laboratory, Academy Pendulum Sales, Beers with Engineers, dexterityeng.com, Improv for Pain

Products: Ways and Means, Monumental

Books & works: Atom, A Brief History of Time

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