James Cameron’s “Avatar: The Way of Water” has been smashing box office records this month. Do you remember the substance “unobtanium” at the center of the original film’s plot?
According to a recent headline from Smithsonian Magazine, it is actually a real thing… sort of.
“You know, some of the best science fiction, really… is very close to science fact,” said Dr. Matthew Shindell, curator of Planetary Science and Exploration at the National Air and Space Museum.
He joined “Something Offbeat” this week to explore the history of “unobtanium” and take us on a trip to the line between science and science fiction.
Shindell discussed the earliest mentions of “unobtanium” dating back to the 1950s – and its use in engineering before landing in “Avatar” – with host Mike Rogers. They also dive into other instances of science and science fiction colliding.
Each week, the “Something Offbeat” podcast dives into a stranger-than-fiction headline. New episodes drop every Monday morning, you can find them here or wherever you get your podcasts.
If you have suggestions for stories “Something Offbeat” should cover, send them to us at somethingoffbeat@audacy.com.
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