On this episode of StarTalk Chat Room, we dive into episodes five and six of Cosmos: Possible Worlds. Neil deGrasse Tyson is joined in-studio by comic co-host Chuck Nice and neuroscientist Heather Berlin, PhD to break down the ins and outs of what went down in each episode. We start with episode five, “The Cosmic Connectome,” which investigates the wiring and functionality of the brain. Heather gives us a little history on the discovery of epilepsy. We explore the invention of the electroencephalogram (EEG) which is a test to evaluate the electrical activity in the brain. You’ll learn why epilepsy can be either genetic or “acquired.” You’ll also learn about the different types of seizures that can occur including “absence seizures.” Neil ponders if we will be able to diagnose someone with epilepsy before they have their first seizure. And, Heather tells us about some of the bleeding edge work being done at the Blue Brain Project and the Allen Institute for Brain Science. Then, we move on to episode six, “The Man of a Trillion Worlds,” which explores Carl Sagan’s impact on science communication. Discover how the terms like “astrobiology” came to be because of Carl. Neil and Chuck discuss Cosmos’ interesting use of animation to depict history. Neil takes us back to the first time he met Carl Sagan. He tells us about his trip to Cornell and his memorable visit to Carl’s office. We discuss the value of mentorship. You’ll learn why Neil eventually chose to go to Harvard over Cornell. All that, plus, you’ll hear why the field of science communication and beyond owes a debt of gratitude to Carl Sagan. Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/startalkradio Subscribe to StarTalk: https://www.youtube.com/user/startalkradio?sub_confirmation=1 Follow StarTalk: Twitter: http://twitter.com/startalkradio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StarTalk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startalkradio/ About StarTalk: Science meets pop culture on StarTalk! Astrophysicist & Hayden Planetarium director Neil deGrasse Tyson, his comic co-hosts, guest celebrities & scientists discuss astronomy, physics, and everything else about life in the universe. Keep Looking Up! #StarTalk #NeildeGrasseTyson