3 Body Problem has finally arrived to Netflix and we’re already completely hooked on the sci-fi drama, starring Eiza González, John Bradley and more. But, what are the Sophons in the series?
The eight-part series, based on the best-selling book series by Liu Cixin, sees a group of scientists involved in an unsettling mystery which threatens planet Earth as we know it. It’s seriously mind-boggling TV!
So, if you’re like us and are wondering what, or who, the Sophons are in 3 Body Problem then we’ve explained it for you below. Thank us later, sci-fi fans!
What are the Sophons in 3 Body Problem?
The Sophons are proton-sized (meaning, super small) supercomputers that are sent to Earth by the Santi to sabotage scientific and technological progress until their fleet can arrive.
They’re the ones responsible for Auggie’s countdown, the sky “winking” and the aeroplane malfunction as they can cause accidents, disrupt computer networks and more. As a result, human scientific progress was slowed down for many years.

Netflix
The Sophon also spy on mankind so they can prevent humanity from advancing further. In 3 Body Problem, we also meet a character known as Sophon, played by Sea Shimooka, who serves as a guide in the game the Oxford Five play through the silver headset.
She is also, in fact, a spy and messenger for the Santi. Yep, not creepy at all!
3 Body Problem is streaming on Netflix now.
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Furvah Shah is Cosmopolitan UK’s junior entertainment and lifestyle writer. She covers everything from TV and films to music and books, plus lots of celebrity news. Furvah has previously written for , BBC, and and she is super passionate about highlighting diverse talent and projects, having interviewed the likes of Halle Bailey, India Amarteifio, Iman Vellani and more. She's been interviewed for Times Radio and BBC Asian Network, graduated with a First in BA Media and Communications from Goldsmiths University and is an NCTJ-qualified journalist. In her free time, you can find her at an arts or culture event, eating Middle Eastern or Asian food, searching for modest fashion inspiration on Pinterest, binge-watching a Netflix series or cuddling with her cat. You can follow Furvah on , , and .
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