Neil deGrasse Tyson answers whether Texas is at the center of the universe

Renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson hosts “Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey,” a 13-part epic adventure that will transport viewers across the universe. Renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson hosts “Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey,” a 13-part epic adventure that will transport viewers across the universe. Photo: Fox Photo: Fox Image 1 of / 24 Caption Close Neil deGrasse Tyson answers whether Texas is at the center of the universe 1 / 24 Back to Gallery

Famed astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson has an intriguing answer to the question that has plagued Texans for centuries: "Is Texas really at the center of the universe?"

Tyson told KUT reporter Nathan Bernier that "just as a ship at sea looking in every direction will conclude that it is at the exact center of its own horizon," the Lone Star State is truly at the center of the known universe.

"It doesn't mean you'll get anyone else to agree with you, but anyone in Texas has full right to say that it's the center of the universe," Tyson, laughing, told Bernier during an interview published online Friday.

The 56-year-old astrophysicist, an active tweeter and host of the rebooted television series "Cosmos," obtained a master's degree in astronomy from the University of Texas at Austin in 1983. He told Bernier that he lived in Texas for about six years.

“Something I took to heart is, when you’re driving from Texas to anywhere else, when you reach the border of Texas, you’re halfway there. No matter where else you’re going,” Tyson said.

Tyson, scheduled for several appearances throughout the state in June, will host "An Evening with Neil deGrasse Tyson" on June 16 at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts.

jfechter@mySA.com

Twitter: @JFreports