About this episode
Dr. Alan Hale , co-discoverer of Comet Hale-Bopp, provides an authoritative firsthand account of finding what would become one of the most spectacular comets in recorded history. Hale describes the July 1995 night when he discovered the comet during routine observations from his New Mexico location, explaining the careful verification process that confirmed his remarkable find. The interview explores the scientific significance of Hale-Bopp, including its unusual brightness at great distances from the sun, its composition of water and carbon monoxide, and its estimated size of potentially 25 miles in diameter. Hale addresses the various conspiracy theories and claims surrounding the comet, including alleged spacecraft following in its wake and supposed course corrections, providing rational scientific explanations for these phenomena. He discusses the comet's optimal viewing periods, explaining why it represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for observers and criticizing the media's relative lack of coverage compared to previous comets that failed to deliver impressive displays. The conversation covers the technical aspects of comet discovery, the international process for naming celestial objects, and the broader implications of cometary impacts on Earth's history, including their potential role in delivering water and organic materials essential for life.