The science of Superman

Julio Perez, Danville, Kentucky — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 01:34:16 GMT

C'mon, man. It's science fiction! Look, Superman represents everything that a man would like to do, but with a soul, which a man with that much power would lack. Think of him as Jesus. He performed miracles, and nobody questions him. Lol. He can move faster than a bullet, jump over high distances, fly, invulnerable to most kinds of impacts, and super strength. The science might not be there, but Jesus resurrected. How do you explain that? His strength could be measured like a body builder. He can bench more than you and I, but he can still walk, run, and jump like any of us. Controlling his powers is probably his most impressive power, and probably explains some science. Besides, our yellow sun is what gives Superman his incredible abilities. It gives you and I a nasty sunburn, but it powers him beyond belief. Remember, the red sun leaves him powerless. Probably from all the radiation it releases different from our sun. Just a scientific guess.

The science of Superman

Alan Boyle — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 01:59:00 GMT

For more on James Kakalios and his take on superhero science, you should check out the Web site associated with his book, http://www.physicsofsuperheroes.com/

An excerpt from the book ... http://www.physicsofsuperheroes.com/excerpt.htm#secioi ... delves into the details of Superman's powers, as portrayed in the *early* comics ... that is, when he could only "leap over tall buildings" rather than fly. He goes through detailed calculations to figure out that gravity was 15 times as strong on Krypton than on Earth. It's a hoot! (But don't ask me to explain how to reconcile all that with the estimates for the comparative mass of Krypton, as cited above.)

The science of Superman

Adam, Champaign, IL — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 02:49:46 GMT

this story is more than a little disappointing. did anyone in this article ever watch the movies or, more importantly, read the comic books??? for example, superman's human-looking musculature stems from the fact that he IS built in a different way-- he has an extremely dense molecular structure. his physical form isn't exactly human either-- "i AM an alien, after all" when talk turns to sex in tv's lois and clark. in addition, superman derives his energy and sustenance from the sun. he eats when he is hungry (superman 1) but this is most likely due to his strong psychological link to humanity imbued by jonathan and martha (see death of superman comic)

The science of Superman

Alan Boyle — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 03:10:12 GMT

Sorry it's a disappointment to you, Adam. That's the great thing about these comments ... You're able to set me straight on issues such as Superman's molecular density. Have to admit I was more of a Marvel guy, particularly Dr. Strange. But all this talk about comics is making me think I should pick up a copy of Weird Mystery Tales No. 1:
http://groups.msn.com/AlanBoylesCosmicLog/mayarchive.msnw?action=get_message&mview=1&ID_Message=6

The science of Superman

Ken Kunstmann, Hermann, MO — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 03:13:38 GMT

Many, many years have passed since my last physics class but I think his foot would press down with a force of about 12,000 pounds. I assume a 120 foot leap with 2 feet of acceleration and a 200 pound man. Hope he leaps from solid concrete.

The science of Superman

Jay, Victoria, B.C — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 04:00:02 GMT

What's wrong with these "scientists". Why don't these people read up on what "fuel's Superman's powers?

"hen there's the energy requirements for all those feats of strength. "It takes a lot of energy to hurtle a 200-pound guy around," Shostak said. The Man of Steel would have to spend most of his time consuming some pretty high-octane fuel to run faster than a speeding bullet."

ANSWER: It's sunlight! His body takes in sunlight. I imagine mister Shostak understands the molecular structure of sunlight doesn't he?

I'm just so frustrated now at this posting that i have no words to truly express how I feel. ... All you have are theories.

The science of Superman

Phillip Raclyn, DVM — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 04:24:51 GMT

There are so many things that are so poorly understood in our world, and we, in our arrogance, think that if we cannot understand them, then they must be impossible. What comes to mind is how we have only recently begun to understand how dolphins can swim so fast, or how they can stay underwater so long, or how they can maintain their body temperature. Until very recently, the very idea of a mammal doing this would have been considered as impossible as Superman if we didn't have these mammals on our planet. And how about all the life near the superhot underwater geysers... and so on and so on....

The science of Superman

James S., Ft. Worth TX — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 05:14:59 GMT

I always take the Superman physics with the perspective of who Kryptonians were. They were an advanced race of aliens. Jor-El searched through the universe where his infant would fit in the best, yet have a surviving chance. A race this advanced would surely understand the how's and why's of the enhanced abilities that a Kryptonian would receive, but I look at it the same way I look at Star Trek or Star Wars, it's science beyond our level of understanding (granted in both examples it is technology rather than biology). Of course you can't enjoy Superman if you sit there the whole time thinking "that's rediculously impossible". Just sit back, accept that he *can* do it, enjoy the adventure.

I'd also like to point out that if you are to ridicule the physics of Superman, then the physics of Spider-man would have to grate on your nerves too, because he's just as unrealistic.

I'd like to qualify what I've said. I'm a die-hard Superman fan, and have spent alot of time trying to defend him to people, so don't take anything I've said to be offensive, it's not meant that way. It's meant to urge readers to consider that it's not worth getting caught up on the physics, it's just fun to discuss, and so it should be left at just that, fun discussion.

The science of Superman

Bill Mitchell, Raleigh, NC — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 11:12:18 GMT

One word, NANOTECHNOLOGY.

Through highly advanced nanotechnology you could create a 'man-of-steel' with superhuman powers.

What if you injected a person with nanobots capable of re-engineering their bodies on an atomic level? What if it made their skin like kevlar armor but with the softness of skin? When touched normally it would feel like human skin, but when impacted with a high level of kinetic energy, such as a bullet, it would harden to armor in that one spot?

Likewise, muscle could be re-engineered to be vastly stronger. This 'super-human' would be nothing more than a biological-robotic hybrid built on the atomic level using nanobot workers.

Actually, I believe THIS will be the next step in human evolution.

Imagine a civilization 100 million years more advanced than ours. I believe that this will be the nature of their 'nature'. Eve ate the apple so she could be like God - this is the end result.

As a species, we shall eventually create our own reality. In order to compete with the robots we will build, we must become partially robot ourselves, yet without losing our basic biolgical natures, which make us uniquely human.

NANOTECHNOLOGY.

The science of Superman

Duane A., Hermitage, PA — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 12:20:59 GMT

I find I can suspend my disbelief long enough to enjoy a Superman movie without too much effort. After all, I am there to be entertained. In the end, I can swallow the whole "dense molecular structure" to explain his imperviousness; the "bio-gravity" where his kryptonian biology releases anti-gravitons as a result of the yellow sun, and therefore he can defy gravity, aka fly (even in space, where the lack of air resistance and pressures would cease any "flying" and only suit rocketing or boosting which Superman does not possess any thrusters that I am aware of); and his yellow sun powered uber-strength again being a result of his Kryptonian alien biology acting as super highly effecient solar cells that then use that high amperage bio-electric energy to super stimulate his ultradense muscular system; or even his "heat vision", after all, the same yellow sun that powers Supes is the same sun that burns our flesh on a semi-regular basis at the beach. What I can't get is how he generates and shoots X-rays AND then somehow manages to receive them again at the back of his retna to determine what the x-rays passed through or not. Are they parabolic, semi-boomerang-ish x-rays? Is it qauntum physics at work by means of the superstring theory?

The science of Superman

John Shaft — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 12:43:48 GMT

As the commercial for the first Superman stated, "You will believe a man can fly."

The science of Superman

Jeff Campbell, Bethel, Ohio — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 12:57:23 GMT

It's only a comic. It's only a comic. It's only a comic. That being said, it's clear that the author hasn't read much of it. Besides, has the Superman franchise ever tried to make us believe any part of it was real? People (MSN bloggers) seem to think we can and should be agitated by anything non-sensical - first Da Vinci Code, now this. IT'S FICTION, boys and girls.

The science of Superman

Balmarog — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 13:39:52 GMT

You people are funny, getting all worked up over a comic book character. It's all for entertainment and if thinking baout the physics is fun for some one, let them. Just enjoy it, that's what it's there for.

The science of Superman

Joshua Mason — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 14:20:06 GMT

People: Superman gets his powers from earth's sun. Read the comics, and look up the information. If he was real, he'd have the front page like in the movies, and get the bad guys.

The science of Superman

Don Summers, Orlando, Fl — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 14:29:24 GMT

I am a fan of both real science and sci-fi. I have friends that like to dissect my sci-fi shows and movies as to how something is not real or possible. So what! It is fantasy, entertainment, and if you look at the older sci-fi, much of that is actually reality now. It takes the enjoyment out of movies and TV if all you do is complain about the reality of non-reality. So shut up, sit down and pass the popcorn!

The science of Superman

Rob of UnSpace — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 14:44:11 GMT

I was surprised and delighted to find out superheroes actually exist in our world. Star (who in regular life is the plucky 6 year old Aubrey Matthews, cancer fighter) had the super-powers of super-strength, super-speed, x-ray vision, and super-breath. She captured that terrible villian on all the Neighborhood Watch signs, helped out some ferrets, and won the hearts of her city in her 24 hours of super-herodom.

You can read more about this super-heroine <a href="http://www.idahostatesman.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060617/NEWS01/606170354">here</a>.

The science of Superman

Cobra Commander — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 15:10:56 GMT

The current, modern-age Superman derives all his power from the radiation of our yellow sun. His molecular structure is not only denser than a human's, he is also an extremely powerful solar battery. He wouldn't necessarily exert force upon the surface he takes off from because he doesn't leap in the same sense that we would. He can levitate somehow by changing the gravitational force surrounding him. It has also been established that his imperviousness to harm is some sort of natural force field rather than literally indestructable skin. The field extends to about half an inch beyond the dermal layer, explaining why, in an explosion, his cape can be shredded, but not the clothes close to his body. Everything about him is, in current mythos, explained through energy rather than physical terms. He even became an energy based being for a while. If he is ever in a situation were he can't recharge for a very long time, he will eventually lose his powers. In current canon, there was no Superboy. He gradually came into his powers after years of charging as a child.

The science of Superman

a p garcia — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 15:19:02 GMT

As to what fuels Superman's powers is a mystery. What is not a mystery is that this is a science fiction movie. Or a fiction movie, a movie to watch in a cool audioatorum to escape these hot days. A fantasy movie not meant to memic life, and not meant to be the truth but shown in an cool audioatorum to escape reality for 2 hours.

The science of Superman

James W. Meritt, Laurel, Maryland — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 15:27:39 GMT

I hope that Lois Lane has read Larry Niven's _Man_of_Steel,_Woman_of_Kleenix_!

The science of Superman

,mt. olympus — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 15:37:49 GMT

he's just a "super hero" from the terrible 1930's when people needed an escape from the depression.

The science of Superman

VLG — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 15:54:55 GMT

I'm more interested in how his clothes don't get tattered, burned, or simply disintergrate when faced with bullets, knives, sharp sticks, or even a thermal nightmare such as entering Earth's atmosphere after a casual jump into space to rotate the Earth backwards in time...

The science of Superman

RICK LEDFORD, ETOWAH, TN — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 15:56:59 GMT

I GUESS I WILL EMPHASIZE THE SAME THINGS AS THE PEOPLE BEFORE ME HAVE: ENTERTAINMENT; THAT IS WHAT SUPERMAN IS. HAVE FUN AT THE THEATRE, AND, IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN LEARNING SOMETHING NEW, CHECK OUT THE SCIENCE, OR LACK OF. JUST ENJOY, PEOPLE.

The science of Superman

Justin M. - Washington, D.C. — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 16:01:56 GMT

If it is true that he relies on solar energy to "power up", then why during his caped crusading does he even wear a suit? Perish the thought of a streaking Superman, but he'd presumably be even stronger wearing only a Speedo. Way to go Superman...sacrificing performance in the name of modesty.

The science of Superman

Jim Lane, Oklahoma City — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 16:09:10 GMT

"Is Superman Gay?" Are we really this hard up for News and Retoric? Surly there is something more REAL for us to discuss.

The science of Superman

Rick, Harrisburg pa. — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 16:09:56 GMT

One of the DC Comics guys used to do talks for college audiences about the science of Superman. The Q&A always included the inevitable "Oh yeah? So how does Superman fly, smart guy?" To which the speaker would reply "Very well, thank you for asking."

The science of Superman

Ken, Berryville, VA — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 16:12:17 GMT

One should read the old essay "Man of Steel, Woman of Kleenex" in any discussion of this type. Beyond that, we are confronted with the realitization that the original explanation of Kal-El's powers as proposed by 1930s era scientists was simply wrong. Given how little they knew then, why are we surprized to learn this? What our newer knowledge has made impossible is not the existance of the Superman, but merely the first proposed explanation. There is still much we know little of, but also much we can see hints of with today's knowledge. Nothing is impossible, merely improbable. Scientists in the 1930s spoke of what they knew. Neutrinos, anti matter, M theory, they knew nothing of those. Could not Superman be somehow drawing his energy from Tesla Space? Perhaps from the still ongoing long ago big bang through some not yet understood ability to manipulate M theory type events? This offers several advantages to believers as it also allows "flying" (he doesn't actually move, he picks a direction and this Universe moves around him while he remains still), invulnerability (that specimen was injured/killed, but in the instant of, swapped places with an alternate doppleganger from a Universe in which the probability of injury was lessened, OR manipulated probability and stochastics to lessen the odds of injury), heat vision (a simple ability to project a blast of heat drawn from elsewhere/when), faster than light travel (again slipping between Universes OR replotting one's position in the Universe), incredible strength (simple probability manipulation) etc. Accepting this concept moves the debate from could he exist here, to how unstable life must be in a Universe that allows such a naked Singularity as a Kal-El to exist. A reading of DC comics confirms that he is a Singularity as many other similar beings prowl their pages as do demons and other magical or spirit world entities such as Specter or Dr. Fate. Indeed every now and then his very Universe flickers as the stochastic events stretch it's fabric too thin (i.e., Crisis, etc.). We won't even start on the Green Lantern issue, also existent in Superman's Universe. Right up there with the Norse God problem confronting Spiderman's Universe.

The science of Superman

Jennifer Carhart, San Diego — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 16:14:42 GMT

Also, if Krypton was completely distroyed and Clark is the last survivor, where do all these other "super" people (mostly villans, but also super girl,etc..) keep popping up from. Were there a hundred pods shot out from Krypton right before it exploded. And if the Kyrptonians were such an advanced race, why didn't they build bigger pods and take everyone?

The science of Superman

You got to be kidding, Greensburg, PA — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 16:16:22 GMT

Must not have much news if things have been reduced to having a serious analysis of Superman.......

The science of Superman

Bill McDonough, Smithtown, NY — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 16:23:47 GMT

If you're wondering how he eats and breathes, and other science facts
Then repeat to yourself 'It's just a show, I should really just relax'

Words as true here as they were in the theme-song to Mystery Science Theatre 3000

The science of Superman

lucas — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 16:31:28 GMT

some people must have a horrible time of the movies. NEWS FLASH!! 99% of the movies you watch are false. yes, thats right, just as fake as superman. sure he can do things no on in real life can, but when is the last time bruce willis actually flew into space to mine a meteor headed for our planet????

The science of Superman

Alan Boyle — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 17:09:52 GMT

"Man of Steel, Woman of Kleenex" is indeed not to be missed... here's a link: http://www.rawbw.com/~svw/superman.html

Seth Shostak made a similar point in part of the interview I didn't include in the original item:

"One thing that certainly must worry Superman ... for any specialized breed, whether it's Superman or King Kong or Godzilla, you really require a minimum breeding density."

He joked that this would explain King Kong's angst over the Ann Darrow (Naomi Watts) character in the ape movie.

"The same is undoubtedly true of Superman, and you would think that would give him sleepless nights."

Of course I agree with all the posters above that even "Superman Returns" is just a movie (though some of the pre-reviews make it sound a bit like revelation). I'm less sure whether the energy input from sunlight would be enough to power Superman's activities (particularly if he's made of super-dense stuff). And what do you do on a rainy day? The point is that all these semi-scientific explanations make the story plausible if you don't look too hard - and also spark intriguing questions about real-life science.

The science of Superman

S.Sanders Anderson,S.C. — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 17:14:27 GMT

What do you people mean,Superman is a fictional character?He is real!just like Xmen,Batman,Spiderman,Captain America,Aqua man and other characters.I saw him once when he flew in on one of my parties and he said."I just flew in from over seas and my arms are killing me!"Well need i go on any further?Stop by my site sometime and say hello.

The science of Superman

Chris E, Indy IN — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 17:50:44 GMT

It's not science fiction, it's Science FANTASY.

Science Fantasy takes what we know (or believe we know) and takes it 3 steps beyond to create these wonderful adventure stories.

I love them, keep them coming just be true to the characters and the original stories!!!

The science of Superman

Byron Raum, Beverly Hills, CA — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 17:52:57 GMT

It seems to me that if there was a super-advanced civilization such as the one that Superman comes from, I would expect it to not necessarily significantly change their members, but rather, would enhance their abilities. So, I would think they would engineer nanobots to be part of their bodies; these could be expected to build tiny nuclear reactors to supply the energies needed for seemingly fantastic feats - flying, jumping, etc. If one gets shot, these nanobots would form superdense armor to deflect the bullet. Similarly for flying, or for superspeed running - the nanobots would assure that someone super-passing a building does not flatten it by carefully managing air currents around the body. In space, the nanobots would re-create oxygen for comfort, and protect from harsh radiation and other hazards. Naturally, such powerful machines might be poisoned by certain materials, such as Kryptonite.

Based on what we knew in the earlier parts of the century, Superman was impossible. Based on what we know now, he's actually quite feasible.

The science of Superman

Jesse B, Burbank, CA — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 18:13:16 GMT

As someone who has read the books for over 20 years I can attest to certain facts:

Superman uses solar radiation from our yellow sun to fuel his body, he does not need to eat but he does. When he leaves our sun's radiation he grows weaker and weaker until the point he's effectively "human" as he would have been had he grown up on Krypton.

This is the basis for all his other abilities. The supercharged cells allows him to manipulate the visual spectrum in order to produce xray and heat vision. The supercharged cells have profound effects on his strength. His skin isn't super thick or dense, it's protected by a thin layer of "radiation" produced by the supercharged cells. Bullets, fire and other things never even touch his skin. That's why his costume never gets torn and tattered but his cape does--it doesn't touch his body. As for flight, he is able to manipulate the gravitational field around his body using the same principles.

His body is a solar battery, the more sun he soaks up, the stronger and more capable he becomes.

Want full details? There's a book called "The Science of Superman." Find it, it explains everything complete details.

The science of Superman

A. Nonymous Denver-ish — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 18:15:47 GMT

get your knickers un-bunched. it is escapist fantasy entertainment, take it at that or leave it be.

The science of Superman

katy, hoffman, IL. — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 18:30:08 GMT

quote: I'm more interested in how his clothes don't get tattered, burned, or simply disintergrate when faced with bullets, knives, sharp sticks, or even a thermal nightmare such as entering Earth's atmosphere after a casual jump into space to rotate the Earth backwards in time...

his clothes came with him from krypton. they were made of the blankets he was wrapped in and the bedding he brought with him.

The science of Superman

C. Kent — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 18:32:46 GMT

Hi guys, Superman here, given all the intense research you folks have all done, I was wondering if you could help me. You see every time I pee, the force of my outgoing pee stream is so potent that it shatters the toilet, and the wall behind it. Needless to say this has really impacted my plumbing costs. And now I've been banned from Hilton hotels for the same reason. What am I going to do with all of the Preferred Guest credits I've built up, I mean trading them in for airline miles would be kind of pointless.

The science of Superman

craig rawlins, tipp city, ohio — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 18:37:52 GMT

Superman as depicted could never exist. If he did come to Earth, and actually possessed the super-powers he has, he would have destroyed mankind and taken this planet for his own. (He may have kept Lois around.)

The science of Superman

W. Mier — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 18:40:45 GMT

Dag nabit! You're supposed to put the <Spoiler Alert!> _BEFORE_ the spoiler...

The science of Superman

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 18:50:39 GMT

Nerds. Ha!

The science of Superman

Chris Eldridge, Harrisburg, PA — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 18:54:56 GMT

Golly jee wiz Batman, do you think Superman will be able to speed back in time to warn the citizens of LA if the San Andreas fault ruptures as bad as MSNBC’s top headlines reported today?

No Robin! Superhero or not, I think he’d just be labeled another “doomsayer” and told not to cause premature panic!

The science of Superman

scourtney, walnut creek, ca — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 18:58:28 GMT

now my belief in Superman is shattered.

The science of Superman

Mike Slocomb, Auburn, AL — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 19:30:29 GMT

SO, I don't get it, Is Superman real or not? ANd about the Nanobots, can somebody send me that comic book?

The science of Superman

Paul Horn, Bronx, NY — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 19:49:14 GMT

I think if Superman were as moral as he seems he would be deeply troubled by all the people he doesn't save from evil. Despite his powers he can't be everywhere at once and playing God is a terrible thing to do.

The science of Superman

Jayson King, Jerseyville, IL — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 20:01:12 GMT

Superman is more than a comic character or impossible fantasy. He represents what we all want to be and do: to be able to fly, save people with amazing feats of strength, use heat vision to melt a gun in a criminal's hand, move so fast that time itself seems to stand still and most important of all to do it unselfishly and without reward. This last part is the hardest for us to live up to, for in our own way we are capable of great things as individuals. Unfortunately we usually are trying to work the angles to our own benefit and our more idealisitic goals are too easily forgotten. I have loved the Man of Steel since I was a small boy and I have found myself wishing for his presence on more than one occasion but none as much as September the 11th, 2001. In this post 9/11 world I find it hard to get through the day without thinking of those horrible events and today is no different. Those fire fighters, policemen, paramedics, soldiers, sailors and civilians who went to the Towers, Pentagon and the cockpit of Flight #93 did what mere mortals are called to do in the face of adversity without the aid of a Superman.

The science of Superman

Dan Shaleen — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 20:16:57 GMT

This debate has been going on for years. During the 70's Harlan Ellison wrote an essay entitled "Man of Steel, Woman of Kleenex. This was a hilarious examination of how unlikely it would be that Superman could father a child. But, come on, we have been assailed by King Kong, ET, Klatu, and a myriad of other figments of the imagination. Leave reality at home. This is the movies, nothing is real. If you don't believe me just look Hollywood's political views.

The science of Superman

your mama — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 20:23:39 GMT

Holy crap, this is hilarious. I thought I was a nerd, but look at all the post from people arguing for superman, like he's real. Hahaha, thanks for lighting up my day!

The science of Superman

Chris Perry, Tampa, FL — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 20:55:40 GMT

All of you respondents (and writer)....get a life! This is a made believe story that someone created for entertainment and monetary gain. Take it for what it is...pure fantasy and a great role model for our kids! Sort of like Santa Clause....real to only those who believe in him. The science we should study is how we all can be more like them!

The science of Superman

Ken Y, Tampa, florida — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 21:03:20 GMT

Somebody tell me why is it if Superman is bullet-proof (and we've seen enough bullets bounce off of him), he ducks when a crook throws his gun at him?

The science of Superman

Supermegaultragirl — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 21:08:31 GMT

You can do everything that Superman does with complex electron manipulation. They will probably be able to do that in a few hundred years at most, so can you just imagine what they will be able to do 1000 years from now? To say its impossible, is just not being realistic. We are only primitives! Our future IS Superman!

The science of Superman

Mark Gardner, Bakersfield, CA — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 21:38:54 GMT

All I can say is "believe in the fantasy" and enjoy. Accept the abilities on faith as to what he can do and stop worrying about whether he can really do it or not. Accept superman as you would the ability of the Milenimum Falcon's ability to launch into space a tons of space ship without a separate launch unit. I repeat, Believe in the fantasy and enjoy. Get caught up in the thrill of it. I grew up with all of them and still get a thrill without questioning the physics of any of it and do not lose sleep over it. That's entertainment and escape. (:))

The science of Superman

Artie Clarke, Ceylang — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 21:39:31 GMT

any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic

The science of Superman

Joe Mendoza, Texas — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 22:19:45 GMT

Superman is a movie that you see at a movie theatre Don't try to understand why, just eat your popcorn and enjoy watching it or leave the movie theatre.

The science of Superman

Scott Bergmann, S St Paul, MN — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 23:04:25 GMT

Perhaps there is a basic fallacy in the original article, "The Science of Superman" which fosters the idea that science is somehow involved with Superman and his powers. True, the powers mimic things which possibly could be accomplished through sufficiently advanced technology but the language and imagery are pure fantasy/magic. Indeed the very word "powers" is potent with magical ability. One must remember that magic is action without application of technology or energy. Superman's powers are exactly that. They are supernatural, outside of nature, beyond those of mortal men. Our modern need to explain things through the lens of physics cannot distinguish advanced technology from magic because it cannot comprehend magic at all. Superman's powers come from within himself, a strange visitor. I am reminded of the several places in the Greek New Testament wherein is written that Jesus' power was "Exousia," from out of his own being.
Science fiction and science fantasy are born out of engineering and technology. "2001 a Space Odyssey," especially in movie form, was very good at looking at both ends of the basic technology (bones as weapons) to advanced technology (mysterious black object that can change the evolution of primates) spectrum but there was no doubt one was looking at technology. But with Superman's powers, there are no hints of technology so while even the original authors tried to explain those powers as coming through alien physiology and while there was indeed science fiction technology attached to the civilization of Krypton, the power of Superman that comes out of his own being seems obviously magical in nature.

The science of Superman

rick, sj, ca — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 23:45:59 GMT

wow... i can't believe that people are actually debating the fact that superman could be real... HE'S A FREAKIN COMIC BOOK CHARACTER!!! he's about as real as a $3 bill!! granted the stories are wonderful, and i can't wait to see the new movie, but come on guys, can't we discuss something a little more worthy of our intelligence?

The science of Superman

John S., San Diego, CA — Thu, 22 Jun 2006 00:07:44 GMT

We are very egotistical to think that we know exactly how matter and energy work throughout the universe just by the brief glimpses we see in the sky (thousands if not hundreds of thousands of year old glimpses I might add) and the small bit of rock that land on our little planet.
Who is to say what sufficiently advanced lifeforms from other parts of the universe will look like or be capable of? Certainly not us, only the imagination can touch upon the possibilites.
Looking at Superman's physical form and saying "it should look different" or such is awfully narrow-minded. Who is to say how life on our planet started? Perhaps he looks wholly human because humanity as we know it does not exist exclusively on earth, but rather was seeded throughout the galaxy/universe and adapted to each enviroment.
If you cannot believe in the adaptability of life or the possibility of life elsewhere then you really dont have much reason to be in a theater watching anything other than a murder mystery or comedy drama.
What IS real are the hidden values and morality that Superman represents. If you could rob a bank and get away with it, would you? Kill someone? Etc? Not if you are a moral person, which is the point of the whole story. If everyone on earth could embrace that message, instead of the fanatacism of hate or ethnic/social differences, just imagine what we could accomplish.

The science of Superman

Steve, Ft. Lauderdale, FL — Thu, 22 Jun 2006 00:39:41 GMT

Oh please, it's so obvious that Superman can do all the things he can do because he realized that "there is no spoon".

The science of Superman

Alan Boyle — Thu, 22 Jun 2006 01:18:20 GMT

In case you missed the "no-spoon" reference invoked by Steve, you can catch up on your "Matrix" zen lore by checking this explainer: http://www.everything2.com/index.pl?node_id=136363

The science of Superman

mercyfulfate — Thu, 22 Jun 2006 02:03:19 GMT

I wonder if the Greeks questioned the powers of their mythical gods? Or the Norse? Or the Egyptians? Many of the gods of major belief structures and religions had amazing abilities and were worshipped and paid tribute. Whole civilizations suspended their belief of rational logic and made a leap of faith. I believe the people want to see a man fly and be a hero that will come to the rescue when the world becomes substantially perilous. Superman may not be a real person but, you know what? I wish that he was and that is enough for me.

The science of Superman

cedg, Salt Lake City, Utah — Thu, 22 Jun 2006 08:20:29 GMT

Seth Shostak leaves me with a sense of complete disappointment and reflects badly on the SETI project which so many people have supported in its ability to think outside of the box in any creative manner. I read the article expecting him to stretch his imagination and give us a "new" branch of science that I could use to explain Superman to my six year old who will watch it and enjoy believing and stretching his beautiful young mind until he encounters another cynical, jaded, left brain fundamentalist, who claims to be searching the skies for previously unrecognised patterms... Seth - please just go away, and let more open creative minds into SETI, that might be able to find patterns that don't fit out image of what it has to be. I hope that you are not going round to schools and shutting down our youth giving other nations an edge in our losing battle to be able to create fresh new thinking.... My son will have plenty of time to differentiate good and bad science, but little time to emprint and push his belief in the boundaries of the possible out of which will arise our future Aristotles, Archimedes, Newtons, Einsteins and others like my son capable of dreaming beyond the context of the teaching, and in an explosion of inner persistence, maybe lasting many years, or maybe in a flash, discover something new and viable and wondrous... but not if he ever meets the Seths of the world. Shame on your kind for lacking the creativity and foisting your narrowness onto these impressionable minds, and shame on you for throwing away your birthright to dream the impossible dream.

The science of Superman

Alan Boyle — Thu, 22 Jun 2006 16:11:04 GMT

Ouch ... I think I should probably put in a good word for Seth here ... He's not a slacker when it comes to having a good imagination and a healthy belief that things not yet seen are possible. You have to have that to be involved in the SETI search. But he's very conscious of what is workable within the limits of physics and biology, and he's turned that realism to SETI as well. One of his recent research papers was titled "Limits on Interstellar Messages" ... and he's devoted some attention to what sorts of messages would make the most sense:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6930243/#050209a

As for inspiring the next generation of Einsteins, you definitely want to foster that sense of wonder. But in my mind, you shouldn't just stop with saying "Isn't it cool that Superman can fly, maybe someday we will too" ... All this talk about red sun vs. yellow sun, or molecular density, can lead folks to look into the real physics and its implications.

By the way, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention that the National Geographic Channel is airing a documentary on "The Science of Superman," premiering June 29. Here's a blurb on the show (I've had to break the address into two lines, so you'll have to put it back together in your browser... sorry about that):

http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/
channel/ET/popup/200606292100.html

... And here's a press release via "Superman Hype!":

http://www.superherohype.com/news/supermannews.php?id=4379

The science of Superman

Chris Eldridge, Harrisburg PA — Thu, 22 Jun 2006 17:17:04 GMT

Alan, I'm not really sure why SETI researchers would be "puzzled over how to code (and decode) messages from other [alien] civilizations." Don't all aliens (like superman) speak fluent/unbroken English? Haha! Maybe under those fancy blue tights of his he has one of those "com-badge type-2 universal translators" like everyone else...

In the "really real world" it is quite amazing how new cameras and software allow foreign tourists to interpret the signs and languages of the countries they are visiting!

The science of Superman

Ken — Thu, 22 Jun 2006 19:46:53 GMT

I find myself more concerned with the source of the powers possessed by Supergirl's cat, Streaky.

The science of Superman

Ali R., Panama — Fri, 23 Jun 2006 01:14:08 GMT

Does any scientist found out how the universe was created from a science point of view, NO. So we know little of the universe, Superman could be real.

The science of Superman

IAN C. , TAMARAC FLA — Fri, 23 Jun 2006 03:25:02 GMT

It about the "SUPERMAN" , but not about comic book... You know that all the world watch the good movie superman ever had, really... It make me feel he was not a human person... He's a machine, like "Super Robot" Made from Alien!!! You know why he need charge himself ever more powerful sun's ray... Wow, that so scare of hero man. but he alien robot... But then Earth people calling him before " Superman!!" He really Doom!! Any bad guy will stop superman... Tell me why??? Because no other world do a favor to charge the sun's ray by yourseft,... He had a battery recharge... Cuz. he a machine, as a steel!!! Now , you know it ... It really cool, I love "SUPERMAN FOR EVER" You must vote superman to winner!!! Thank you... Earth!!! From Alien... ZZAAAMM!!

The science of Superman

John Charles Webb, Jr., - Maui, Hawaii — Fri, 23 Jun 2006 04:05:02 GMT

The Superman saga is a modern Sci-Fi interpretation of the heroes (Moses and Christ) of the Judaic-Christian bible.
Moses placed in a reed basket; Superman (as an infant) placed in a spaceship... an immortal among mortals on earth (Christ)... the implied notion that Superman's powers are related to his impeccable integrity... the duality between Superman and his alter ego Clark, which mirrors some theologians' interpretation of the duality of Jesus the man and Christ the Son of God... the overall 'saviour' context... the miraculous powers (Moses and Christ)... the metaphysical premise that 'Superman' appears when the human ego (Clark, as a symbol) takes a back seat to the trans-human spirit... and, of course, Superman rising to the heavens from the earth (Christ's resurrection)..... etc., etc.

Much of the Superman cosmology is rooted (veiled but present) in the Western spiritual paradigm without the never-ending pathos. It is a story of the perpetual triumph of good (God = good) over evil (evil = Devil).

The science of Superman

ryuken, Castaic, California — Fri, 23 Jun 2006 20:45:21 GMT

whats all this about Kryptons gravity being the only reason of supermans powers!! its our yellow sun, thats why when Doomsday "killed" superman in the comic, they had a funeral and buried him, if they laid him out in on the beach, he would have recovered fairly quik, but instead he was having circular memories in his head while slowly gaining strength...... its a made up story, why dont we talk about how a spider bite cant make you have spider atributes.

The science of Superman

Alan Boyle — Fri, 23 Jun 2006 21:12:11 GMT

Yes, the "yellow vs. red sun" is indeed the current explanation for Superman's powers. I should have made that clearer in the original item. When Superman's creators came out with the first comic books, they used the gravity explanation. But as the tale grew in the telling, the writers switched over to the yellow/red sun explanation ... which is a little less scientifically interesting to me, but who am I to judge?

The science of Superman

Mike Holsinger — Sat, 24 Jun 2006 15:05:05 GMT

Ummm....hey, guys....it's a COMIC BOOK. An entertaining story for children (of all ages, to be sure). So anything is possible. What is Superman fueled by, what is the scientific basis of his superpowers? Why, that one's easy, of course.

Imagination.

The science of Superman

Bill P., Metairie, LA — Sat, 24 Jun 2006 16:11:09 GMT

The explanation behind the red sun/yellow sun (which has been around for years) is that the cells of Superman's body essentially act as solar batteries, which recharge very quickly in the hotter, brighter yellow sun. When the Superman series rebooted in the 80s, it was also revealed that Kryptonite works sort of like carbon monoxide; Superman's body absorbs that radiation more easily than solar power. Kryptonite is also dangerous (long-term) to humans, as Lex Luthor found after making a Kryptonite ring to keep Superman at bay.

The science of Superman

Sara, Iowa — Sat, 01 Jul 2006 08:41:18 GMT

I just read the article about Superman. Well, I've just watched the movie "Superman Returns" a couple of days ago.
Yes, I know many people thinks that Superman is just some imaginary superhero who appeared in the movies and also in the comic books, at the same time trying to be a regular human being.
But the biggest question which made me really curious was "How did Superman even started?", "Who thought about Superman from the beginning?", and "Why of all Superman?". Plus why is Superman so special? Does he really exist that most probably none of us knew about him?
Not that I do not like Superman or anything, but he is still a mystery to me.

The science of Superman

Rissa,Tyrone,Georgia — Sat, 08 Jul 2006 02:00:14 GMT

Just so all of you know! some people believe in superman! you guys are just taring some people down! also, if some of you are purposly crushing people's dreams, you should stop! you have not crushed mine, and you should not try to crush other people's! it is mean! and superman is real for those of you who want to know! i have researched it and it is possible that he can fly, has super hearing, is fast,is strong and can see threw things. though, the least possible one is flying, and the most possible ones(in order) are Super hearing,super strength,super speed, seeing through things. also, why are you guys arguing. i know 1 think that none of you (unless you are guys)should argue about, he is super CUTE!

The science of Superman

David A. Brown, Manhattan, KS — Sun, 16 Jul 2006 14:19:40 GMT

Another way to think to of Superman's super powers: Variable density. Superman can change the density of each cell in his body the same way some animals change the color of each cell in their skin. Fly? Reduce your density to less than the density of air. Then swim through the air like most humans can swim submerged in the water. Bullet proof? Increase density to so great that bullets can't penetrate. Increased density = increased mass, so his mass would be so large as to be barely affected by the impact with the bullet. His uniform is made from materials that also came from Krypton. We use plant fibers to make our clothes. Plants on Krypton would have the same density control as the animals, mainly to cope with the huge gravity. Made into fabric, those fibers can still react to the minute electric impulse superman sends to his cells to change density. The fibers in contact with his skin react and change density when Superman changes density.

Can Superman fly and change direction in space? Assuming he doesn't need to worry about breathing, he might "sail" through space changing his density to the point that solar rays (photons, cosmic rays, radiaton, whatever) exert forces on him like wind does on sails.

Such precise control over every cell of his body might allow him to walk, talk, act, and react just like a human (Clark Kent). The same control can "reprogram" individual muscle fibers to give him the speed, strength, and perceptions of Superman.

Could be.

The science of Superman

Bashir Hicks 225 parkhill ave apt 4c staten island, NY 10304 — Wed, 09 Aug 2006 19:25:12 GMT

I really believe a higher power does exist and there possibly could be men of fame who dwells somewhere in the universe. I read the bible and if so many critics would take the time to analize the might come to an conclusion that certain things does exist remember we only use 7% of our brain power.

The science of Superman

Abubakar Bala, Kano, Nigeria — Sun, 19 Nov 2006 19:30:55 GMT

can he really fly? guess is just a movie

The science of Superman

Daron Mc — Mon, 20 Nov 2006 15:20:06 GMT

Here's the real answer. Krpton's inhabitants are a genetically altered race that dwell in interphasic multiple dimensions. The genetic altering allows them to control their phasing into and out of any number of dimensions that each have different properties. Its like how our body unconsciously needs to breath or blink, we don't control it, it just happens, but we can still consciously control blinking and breathing. For example. XRay vision/Super hearing: Superman merely shifts (either consciously or unconsciously) out of the dimension that objects in our dimension exist - allowing him to see/hear unhindered through objects.

The science of Superman

Davin Duvall; Shreveport, LA — Fri, 05 Jan 2007 03:22:55 GMT

After reading everyone's comments about Superman's powers, I still don't think everyone can see the big picture on "how"? I am not a scientist, but this is what I can gather. First, he is not in the sense "strong" like we believe. A being with a dense molecular structure also can have a strong gravitional pull on surrounding objects. Superman is basically a small planet of energy. His hold on objects is like the earth's pull on the moon. But because he is also able to manipulate the positive and negative ions of his polarity, he can shift through air giving flight. Now on how he does this kind of flight is the question. Maybe if we unlock the mystery of humans only being able to use ten percent of the brain, we could do more than we imagine.

The science of Superman

D. Adams, New York, NY — Sun, 13 May 2007 06:46:50 GMT

The best way to fly is to throw yourself at the ground and miss.

The science of Superman

Clark Kent, Metropolis, NY — Sun, 08 Jul 2007 16:02:29 GMT

People have asked me,
How can Superman hear a bullet going off, when a bullet travels literaly faster than the sound it creates?

How then...
If this is the case, could he hear it in time to fly in front of it.
Because if the sound hit his ear, after the bullet hit its target, he would have failed, right?"And, how can he hear anything at all, that is so far away."
[A pin dropping in a rock concert in brazil, for instance.]"And how can he fly, or lift a building without the building crumbling around him?"
There are many unexplained questions, surounding the concept of Supermans impossibly godlike abilities. Puzzlingly, they don't make sense to most.

Let me expain it better...
[From 'Supermans' point of view, so to speak.]

Hearing. Superman does not hear things, in the same sense that we do. He does, in the sense that sound waves affect his ears, like ours. But the minute tiny hairs in his ears are like steel needle tips, unlike our own hairs, which are thin strands of tightly woven dna and proteins... they are brittle, soft, and are suseptable to the powerfull vibrations emited from the waves of sound we hear every day.

his own eardrums, instead use a mixture of factors. One... his sight. Supermans greatest gift, is his sight. Not only can he transform energy that he absorbs from the sun into food, or life, or energy to be blunt. But the access, the wasted energy, he is able to convert into a array of different energies. Heat; can be emited from his eyes. X-rays as well, depending on his focus and ability to stretch the energy with his retinai. But aside from the two most popular...
He also has the ability to pick up certain things we cannot.
He can see infared, see in the dark, naturaly his eyes are stronger than ours and would be able to focus using less cones... where we see barely anything in the dark, he can use the tiny bit of light provided and see everything just fine.

But I'm getting off track. Point is, he can see sound waves, before he hears them. He can see radio waves... micro waves... he can see waves of energy, period. He does not have to hear the gunshot, he sees the waves of sound the second they are created, and the tear as the bullet leaves the wave and creates the suction of air, and the snap behind it that we all hear as a loud "bang!"
Superman, literally sees the sound, and the object, and reacts.
Then the day is saved.

As for hearing things while hovering over the planet.
Impossible, unless he were actually reading the soundwaves, by watching them.
But his eyes were closed, you say? X-ray vision! Easier to see soundwaves, when your eyes are frosted over from floating in space, where the temperature is insanely low. But he could see through the ice, you say? Why would he have to, if his eyes were closed to keep the ice out in the first place? Problem solved.

Now,
As for flying?
Its easy, try it.
Simply push gravity downwards with your mind. Call it tactile telekinesis, if you want. The ability to move an object with your mind, but only apon physical contact with the object. Touch a rock, and lift it with your mind, while touching it. That is tactile telekinetics.... now, think of lifting yourself, as for physical contact, you can't get any closer to yourself than you allready are.
Up, up, and away. Easy as pie.

And lifting a building, without having it crumble?
It takes practice, and it doesnt always work. It takes ballance, and since he can lift things with his mind, and a little physical contact...
Grab the building at a ballancing point, where its lightest, and sturdy.
Then your only limit is how much of the building you want to lift.
Expand your mind... and up it goes, along with the lifter.

Superman, is not so super...
He's just different, thats all.
And misunderstood.

As for richard donner, and all that flying around the world, and turning back time. Pish posh! Thats just...
Thats just like saying god is both omnipotent, and indestructable.
How can he be both imovable AND unstopable!?

Simple...
Because it was a stupid human who created those rules and wrote the laws.

God is one or the other, and he ~HAS~ the ability to break his own pinky if he wanted [blasphemy, I know... don't get your panties in a bunch]
What makes him God, however, is that he is wise enough to know better.

I can break my own arm, with my bare hands...
But why would I? Why would god make a rock so heavy he couldn't lift it?
Why? Thats all it is... it comes down to Why?

And as for Superman flying, and lifting heavy things, and turning back time...
It is manmade laws, that you are judging him by.

The next time you say, Superman is ridiculously fake...
Correct yourself, and then give yourself a slap on the hand
for not having the insight or open mindedness to see what
its really about.

Superman is not a god figure.
He is not unlimited in his abilities.
He is not a savior for the human race.

...What he is, is a symbol, of inspiration [and as an artist, I know that all I need, is inspiraton, to do great things.]
Superman is here to show us that no matter your strength, of body, or of mind, or heart, we all have the ability to stand up and do something different, something great. We all have that ability.

He is just here, to give an example.
He does not save the world, because its impossible.

He only does what he is able to do. Pushing the limits of his own strength and morality. Just as we as people, aught to strive to do. To do what is right, in our own eyes, as well as the eyes of those we love.

To save the world, any way we can.
I believe a man can fly.

Open your minds a little, and see whats really going on in the world.
Look past what you hear from your friends, what you see on Tv, on the news...
Look a little deeper inside yourself, and really ~see~ whats there to see.

The science of Superman

Cole,Leggett,Texas — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 14:40:53 GMT

Look people, everyone is gonna keep there original thoughts on whether it can or can't be done, these blogs are only gonna want to make you argue about it, i am a fan but not so much that i revolve my life around proving it true or false, some of his powers are strait up bogus, others are possible, for those who believe in what the bible says-have you ever read about the man with the strenght of 20 men, you could possibly build yourself up to that standard but you people get mad and argue about why it can and cant be done. so beleive what you want but the comics were for people that had nothing better to do than sit around reading them wishing they could do that kind of stuff. then they started making movies and people said "hey wait a minute that car should of fell apart" who cares if it should of fell to pieces, its just entertainment, so now we have these people who are looking for something to prove so just do me a favor and enjoy the comics and tv shows.

The science of Superman

Christopher James, Bellevue, WA — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 09:44:19 GMT

I feel pretty late here to comment. But accepting Superman's ability is simply escapism. The creators simply thought of his abilities and provided some limitations for the purpose of writing a good story with drama. There are technologies today that we have I still wonder how anybody could conceive of making them work. Take radio waves for example, how does one envision that. Or laser optical readers. How does one think of data being read by a beam of light? Superman could be possible, but is certainly not a subject to dwell on until we see a real Superman. The thing that makes him Superman is not the fact that he has powers, it is what he chooses to do with those powers. And that is something we all can do, choose to do good for one another. That is, I believe, to be the message.

The science of Superman

Jacob v muskegon, mi — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 14:50:31 GMT

does superman ever wash his costume? reply if u know

The science of Superman

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 21:54:20 GMT

C.O.O.L.

The science of Superman

Christopher Rodriguez — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 13:51:57 GMT

Ya, know what you guys watch way to much science fiction movies. This stuff IS NOT REAL or POSSIBLE, and although we really like the idea of a saviour with more abilities than us, it does NOT exist out side of Christ.

The science of Superman

Neel Patne, Dubai, UAE — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 11:09:40 GMT

In one of the above posts:

"As someone who has read the books for over 20 years I can attest to certain facts:

Superman uses solar radiation from our yellow sun to fuel his body, he does not need to eat but he does. When he leaves our sun's radiation he grows weaker and weaker until the point he's effectively "human" as he would have been had he grown up on Krypton.

This is the basis for all his other abilities. The supercharged cells allows him to manipulate the visual spectrum in order to produce xray and heat vision. The supercharged cells have profound effects on his strength. His skin isn't super thick or dense, it's protected by a thin layer of "radiation" produced by the supercharged cells. Bullets, fire and other things never even touch his skin. That's why his costume never gets torn and tattered but his cape does--it doesn't touch his body. As for flight, he is able to manipulate the gravitational field around his body using the same principles.

His body is a solar battery, the more sun he soaks up, the stronger and more capable he becomes.

Want full details? There's a book called "The Science of Superman." Find it, it explains everything complete details.
Jesse B, Burbank, CA (Sent Wednesday, June 21, 2006 2:13 PM)"

It's mentioned that superman is covered with a thin sheet of 'radiation' which scientifically is harmful to human. In this sense if superman saves any lives he automaltically jeopardizes them by the radiation. It is obvious, anything that is highly powered will emit harmful radiations just like the sun which is an unstable isotope.

Even Lois Lane should be dead by now!

Another thing I thought about was when he saved lives he caught falling people from skyscrapers just before they touched the ground, which is physically impossible because the velocity and speed Superman travels by the weight and speed of the falling person will cut the person into 3 halves as said superman is made of steel leaving him no room for reducing the impact as he is maybe just 2-3 feet above the ground.

The science of Superman

Adam Clark, Fort Myers, FL — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 12:02:54 GMT

Superman must be retconned out of continuity!!!!!!