Renowned Physicist Ivica Puljak Discusses Humanity’s Place in Space

Ivica Puljak, a prominent physicist and former mayor of Split, has sparked discussion on humanity’s place in the universe. In an interview with *Pobjeda*, he emphasized the significance of scientific inquiry in understanding complex phenomena. Puljak, who has extensive experience at CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, discussed the mysteries of the cosmos, including antimatter, interstellar comets, and the ongoing search for extraterrestrial life.

The universe is a realm filled with enigmas, according to Puljak. He stated, “While the universe is full of mysteries, none can be comprehended without science.” His insights come at a time when public interest in UFOs and potential alien life has surged, highlighting the importance of grounding such discussions in scientific methods.

In the interview, Puljak elaborated on the nature of matter and antimatter. He explained that scientists know the universe comprises twelve particles and their corresponding antiparticles, which possess opposite charges. When these particles meet, they annihilate, converting into pure energy. This phenomenon is supported by Einstein’s well-known equation, E=mc², confirming that energy can transform into particle-antiparticle pairs. He noted that antimatter has practical applications in medicine, particularly in positron emission tomography (PET) scans, where it helps detect small tumors.

Despite the advancements in understanding, Puljak acknowledged that many questions remain unanswered. He explained that while particles dominate the universe, antiparticles are exceedingly rare, a mystery scientists continue to investigate. The Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN is at the forefront of these experiments, seeking to unveil the mechanisms behind this imbalance.

Comet 3I/ATLAS and the Search for Extraterrestrial Life

Puljak’s discussion also touched on the recently discovered comet 3I/ATLAS. He remarked that scientific facts, rather than personal opinions, should guide interpretations of such celestial bodies. The comet, believed to originate from interstellar space, exhibits distinct characteristics such as a high concentration of carbon dioxide and an unusual trajectory. Puljak described it as an excellent research target for studying planetary formation and ancient cosmic systems.

Regarding the ongoing speculation about extraterrestrial life, Puljak maintains a cautious stance. He noted, “As of now, there is no evidence of aliens or any cover-up regarding their existence.” He highlighted the hypothesis that humanity may be the only intelligent civilization in the observable universe. This idea, he argues, should inspire a sense of responsibility among humans to care for our planet and its ecosystems.

Puljak added, “This hypothesis will hold until proven otherwise. Until then, speculation is just that—speculation. For new discoveries, we need solid evidence.” He pointed out the vastness of the universe, estimated to be 13.8 billion years old, suggesting that the time necessary for other civilizations to evolve may not have occurred.

CERN and the Quest for Knowledge

Puljak is a strong advocate for scientific transparency, especially regarding CERN’s research. He dismissed various conspiracy theories surrounding the organization, including claims about portals to other worlds. He emphasized that CERN is open and accessible, with over 750,000 visitors each year witnessing its groundbreaking work firsthand. He encouraged readers to visit CERN, highlighting it as an unforgettable experience.

The physicist explained that CERN is not merely a scientific laboratory but a symbol of international collaboration. Established in 1954, it has been pivotal in significant scientific discoveries, including the W and Z bosons and the Higgs boson, which explains the mass of elementary particles. The LHC, CERN’s flagship particle accelerator, creates conditions similar to those just moments after the Big Bang, allowing scientists to explore fundamental questions about the universe.

In conclusion, Puljak’s insights reflect a broader understanding of our universe’s complexities. He believes we are living in one of the most fascinating times in human history, driven by scientific discovery. “We are learning and understanding more and more about the universe thanks to science,” he stated, underscoring the importance of knowledge in dispelling fears and misconceptions. He advocates for increased public interest in scientific education, urging individuals to invest in their understanding to foster a more informed society.