Space Nuts

Professor Fred Watson and Andrew Dunkley

Join Professor Fred Watson, world-renowned Astronomer at Large, and Sci-Fi Author and Broadcaster Andrew Dunkley, on their captivating podcast, Space Nuts. Dive into the vast universe of space, astronomy and astrophysics as they discuss the latest news, exciting space travel adventures, groundbreaking discoveries, and unravel the enduring mysteries of the cosmos. This engaging series offers a unique blend of expert insights and imaginative storytelling and listener input, making it a must-listen for space enthusiasts and science fiction fans alike.

Two episodes a week with news and explainer focused editions published on Thursday's and our Listener Q&A focused edition on Monday's.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts--2631155/support. read less

Our Editor's Take

The Space Nuts podcast goes into the depths of space to share news and insight. Professor Fred Watson and Andrew Dunkley call themselves "space nuts." They are both passionate about space and want to share their knowledge with the community.

Podcast cohost Fred is an astronomer. He has worked at the Royal Observatory in the UK and the Australian Astronomical Observatory. Fred has also had an award-winning career in radio and TV. Cohost Andrew has had an extensive journalism career, working for ABC for over 20 years. He has also published several books, including two sci-fi novels.

This podcast shares the latest space news, from significant achievements to fascinating failures. Fred explains that astronomers are often doing something for the first time. Any mistakes can often be even more spectacular. Each episode provides fresh insight, from life's origins to space voyages.

One episode explores the topics of "dark energy" and black holes. It's dedicated to listener questions for the Space Nuts team. One listener asks if light can stand still and whether a black hole can gain mass with light. Fred discusses the theory of refraction and experiments involving photons. He also estimates that a black hole can gain mass, as light equals energy. Other questions include queries on gravity and spacetime.

"The Sahara Mystery" is another fascinating episode in this podcast series. Andrew and Fred discuss the mystery behind a meteorite found in the Sahara desert. Was it created from volcanic eruptions? Or was it thrown from the Earth, only to return thousands of years later? The two hosts discuss the latest science news and debate this intriguing discovery.

Listeners can discover astronomy news and more in the informative Space Nuts podcast. Weekly episodes provide plenty of insight and knowledge for space fans to explore. The hosts discuss intel from the James Webb Space Telescope. Other space news includes updates about Enceladus, one of Saturn's moons. Anyone interested in the universe may find a listen here.

read less
ScienceScience
AstronomyAstronomy
Natural SciencesNatural Sciences

Episodes

#471: HERA's Martian Maneuvers, Black Hole Light Echoes & Ancient Healing Rays
Today
#471: HERA's Martian Maneuvers, Black Hole Light Echoes & Ancient Healing Rays
Space Nuts Episode 471: HERA's Journey and the Light of HealingJoin Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this enlightening episode of Space Nuts, where they explore the latest developments in Space exploration and the fascinating role of light in both astronomy and human healing.Episode Highlights:- HERA Mission Milestones: Discover the latest updates on the HERA mission, including critical trajectory corrections and its upcoming Mars gravity assist. Learn about its objectives, including a close encounter with Mars' moon Deimos, and its ultimate goal of orbiting the asteroid Didymos.- Black Hole Light Echoes: Delve into the intriguing concept of black hole light echoes and how light can be bent by gravity to create multiple observations of the same event. Understand the potential of using Very Long Baseline Interferometry to study these phenomena and what it could reveal about accretion discs.- Healing with Light: Explore the historical and modern uses of light in medicine, from ancient sun worship to contemporary phototherapy treatments. Hear Andrew's personal experience with radiation therapy and the importance of regular health checks.For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on facebook, X, YouTube, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform.For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support.Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.00:00 - Andrew Dunkley: Coming up on Space Nuts is the HERA mission02:11 - I'm interested in two different stories about light about the hero mission02:59 - ESA's HERA mission will make a close approach to Mars next year11:07 - Andrew Dunkley and Fred Watson discuss light echoes in Space Nuts13:17 - Measuring Black Hole Light Echoes with Very Long Baseline Interferometry21:42 - Measuring black hole light echoes with very long baseline interferometry22:39 - Even since ancient times, we've used light for medical purposes27:55 - Fred has been receiving radiation therapy for prostate cancer for five weeks now34:16 - Professor Fred Watson: Believe me, I'll be around for next episode✍️ Episode ReferencesEuropean Space Agencyhttps://www.esa.intPhys.orghttps://www.phys.orgUniverse Todayhttps://www.universetoday.comAstrophysical Journal Lettershttps://iopscience.iop.org/journal/82055--- The Conversationhttps://theconversation.comCancer Council New South Waleshttps://www.cancercouncil.com.au
#470: Cosmic Questions: Dark Matter, Titan's Secrets & Universe's Energy
3d ago
#470: Cosmic Questions: Dark Matter, Titan's Secrets & Universe's Energy
Space Nuts Q&A Edition #470 - Universe Enigmas and Titan's MysteriesJoin Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this captivating Q&A episode of Space Nuts, where they explore the cosmic questions posed by our curious audience. From the mysteries of a universe without black holes to the peculiar atmosphere of Saturn's moon Titan, this episode is brimming with fascinating insights and astronomical discussions.Episode Highlights:- Universe Without Dark Matter and Energy: Delve into the possibilities of a universe devoid of dark matter, dark energy, and black holes. Explore the implications for galaxy formation and the cosmic web, and ponder the nature of dark energy's role in the universe's expansion.- Energy Loss and the Universe's Age: Investigate the concept of energy loss in the universe and the methods used to calculate its age. Discover why uranium's half-life isn't the key to unlocking the universe's timeline and how the Hubble constant plays a role.- Early Universe Surprises: Question the surprises of finding ancient cosmic structures in the early universe. Examine how galaxy formation models are continually refined and the potential revelations from the Square Kilometre Array.- Titan's Unique Atmosphere: Unravel the mystery of Titan's dense atmosphere and compare it to Mars' inability to retain one. Consider the possible factors contributing to Titan's atmospheric retention and the role of cryovolcanism.For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on facebook, X, YouTube, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform.For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support.Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.00:00 - This is a Q and A edition of Space Nuts01:53 - Dark matter and dark energy are at the forefront of modern day cosmology09:10 - How much of the universe's energy is kind of like gone12:30 - Uranium was created in supernova explosions after the universe was formed13:33 - Using half life of uranium or lithium to calculate age of the universe is sinful15:33 - Ben Harding asks: Should we be surprised that galaxies formed so quickly21:39 - How did Saturn's moon Titan accumulate its thick nitrogen atmosphere26:45 - Andrew Dunkley: Thanks to everyone who's sending questions for Space Nuts
#469: Ryugu's Magnetic Mysteries, Arecibo's Silent Collapse & Venusian Impact Revelations
1w ago
#469: Ryugu's Magnetic Mysteries, Arecibo's Silent Collapse & Venusian Impact Revelations
Space Nuts Episode 469: Ryugu Revelations and Celestial MysteriesJoin Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this enthralling episode of Space Nuts, where they delve into the latest astronomical discoveries and cosmic stories. From the secrets of asteroid Ryugu to the mysterious demise of the Arecibo Observatory, this episode is packed with fascinating insights and stellar discussions.Episode Highlights:- Ryugu's Magnetic Mysteries: Uncover new findings from the Ryugu asteroid samples, revealing insights into the magnetic fields of the outer solar system. Explore how these discoveries might reshape our understanding of planetary formation and the solar nebula.- Arecibo's Tragic End: Learn about the sad fate of the iconic Arecibo Observatory and the invisible issues that led to its collapse. Discover the plans for transforming this historic site into an education centre for future generations.- Venusian Impact Crater Discovery: Dive into the intriguing discovery of a massive impact crater on Venus, revealing unexpected similarities with ice moons like Callisto and Europa. Delve into the theories that suggest a past where Venus had a lava-covered surface.For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on facebook, X, YouTube, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform.For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support.Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.00:00 - This is Space Nuts. Thank you for joining us00:35 - Professor Fred Watson discusses Venus on this episode of space nuts02:45 - Russia put 53 satellites into orbit in one launch the other day05:17 - Scientists have found no sign of a preserved magnetic field in Ryugu samples14:36 - Andrew Dunkley with Professor Fred Watson studying Ryugu asteroid sample15:21 - The Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico collapsed in 202023:13 - National Science foundation says the building will be turned into an education centre24:37 - Fred Call says Venus' craters are much younger than similar craters elsewhere32:53 - Yes. Isn't that amazing? That's really big pickup. Indeed. Um, Fred mentioned it. Yeah.33:03 - Please leave a review if you listen to us through whatever platform33:56 - All right, so, yeah, Fred Watson, astronomer at large
#468: Moon Lava Tube Dangers, Black Hole Light Tricks & Gravitational Wave Wonders
11-11-2024
#468: Moon Lava Tube Dangers, Black Hole Light Tricks & Gravitational Wave Wonders
This episode is brought to you by Saily. Get an exclusive 15% discount on Saily eSIMdata plans! Download Saily app and use code 'spacenuts' at checkout. For more details on what Saily can do for you, visit www.saily.com/spacenutsSpace Nuts Q&A Edition - Episode 468Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this lively Q&A episode of Space Nuts, where they dive into a variety of intriguing questions from our audience. From the mysteries of lunar lava tubes to the wonders of black holes and gravitational waves, this episode is packed with fascinating insights and cosmic discussions.Episode Highlights:- Lunar Lava Tubes: Discuss the potential hazards that lunar lava tubes might pose for future moon missions. Explore the implications for astronauts traversing the moon's surface and how NASA might mitigate these risks.- Black Hole Conundrums: Tackle a thought-provoking question about the behaviour of light within a black hole. Discover the complexities of singularities and the fascinating concept of frame dragging in rotating black holes.- Gravitational Waves and Cosmic Expansion: Delve into the nature of gravitational waves and their impact on our understanding of the universe. Learn whether these waves could influence cosmic phenomena like gravitational lensing and the expansion of the universe.- Instatravel Pod Adventure: Imagine a journey to any location in the universe with a hypothetical instatravel pod. Join Andrew and Fred Watson as they share where they would go and why, from viewing the Milky Way from afar to discovering intelligent life on another planet.For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on facebook, X, YouTube, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform.For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support.Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.00:00 - Andrew Dunkley answers audience questions on this edition of Space Nuts03:54 - Mikey from Illinois ponders about possible lava tubes on the moon10:02 - Jake from Australia has a question about Black holes14:48 - Would gravitational waves help explain the expansion of the universe17:49 - Do gravitational waves travel as a sphere or do they affect space time22:15 - Fred asks two questions about a unique opportunity to travel in a space pod25:17 - Andrew was asked where he would like to go in the universe31:37 - Andrew Dunkley: Thank you for listening to the Space Nuts podcast
#467: Decoding Mars Messages, Hungry Black Holes & Martian Water Mysteries
07-11-2024
#467: Decoding Mars Messages, Hungry Black Holes & Martian Water Mysteries
This episode is brought to you by Saily. Get an exclusive 15% discount on Saily eSIMdata plans! Download Saily app and use code 'spacenuts' at checkout.Space Nuts Episode: Mars Mysteries and Cosmic FeastsJoin Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this intriguing episode of Space Nuts, where they dive into the latest discoveries and discussions in the realm of astronomy and Space exploration. From mysterious messages from Mars to the insatiable appetite of black holes, this episode is packed with fascinating insights and cosmic wonders.Episode Highlights:- Mars Message Decoded: Explore the story behind a mysterious message sent from Mars in 2023, now decoded by a father-daughter Timms. Discover the artistic and scientific collaboration that led to this unique project and its implications for extraterrestrial communication.- Ancient Mars' Climate Conundrum: Delve into a new study that challenges our understanding of Mars' history. Learn about the planet's carbon dioxide cycle and the possibility of ancient lakes and rivers hidden beneath layers of ice and CO2.- Black Hole's Cosmic Feast: Uncover the staggering discovery of a black hole consuming matter at an unprecedented rate. Understand the implications of this finding for our knowledge of black hole growth in the early universe.For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on facebook, X, YouTube, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform.For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support.Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.
#466: Mysterious Spacecraft Sounds, Big Bang Beliefs & Saturn's Ring Dynamics
04-11-2024
#466: Mysterious Spacecraft Sounds, Big Bang Beliefs & Saturn's Ring Dynamics
This episode is brought to you by Saily. Get an exclusive 15% discount on Saily eSIMdata plans! Download Saily app and use code 'spacenuts' at checkout.Space Nuts Q&A Edition - Episode 466Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this captivating episode of Space Nuts, where they address intriguing questions from our audience. From unexplained spacecraft noises to the mysteries of the Big Bang, this episode is filled with fascinating insights and cosmic discussions.Episode Highlights:- Unexplained Spacecraft Noises: Dive into the mystery of strange noises reported on various spacecraft, including the Boeing Starliner and historical incidents on Space Shuttle Discovery and Shenzhou 5. Explore potential explanations and the quirks of space acoustics.- Challenging the Big Bang Theory: Join the debate as listener Binny shares his scepticism about the Big Bang and proposes an alternative theory involving a massive rotating black hole. Delve into the evidence for the Big Bang and the cosmic microwave background radiation.- Planetary Gyroscopes: Discover what happens if a planet is tilted off its axis and whether it could behave like a giant gyroscope. Learn about gravitational forces and the dynamics of planetary rings, with insights into Saturn and Uranus.- The Electromagnetic Spectrum in Astronomy: Explore the different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum and their significance in scientific discoveries. Professor Fred Watson shares his insights on the most interesting and impactful wavelengths, from visible light to the 22-centimetre line of hydrogen.For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on facebook, X, YouTube, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform.For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support.Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.
#465: Fred's New Frontier, Artemis Landing Zones & Ryugu's Revealing Secrets
31-10-2024
#465: Fred's New Frontier, Artemis Landing Zones & Ryugu's Revealing Secrets
Space Nuts #464Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in an engaging episode of Space Nuts as they explore significant developments in the world of astronomy and Space exploration. From Fred Watson Watson's career transition to groundbreaking lunar missions, this episode is packed with stellar discussions and intriguing insights.Episode Highlights:- The Future of Fred Watson: Discover the next chapter in Fred Watson Watson's illustrious career as he transitions from his role as Australia's Astronomer at Large to a new position in academia. Learn how this change could amplify his influence in advocating for Australian astronomy.- Artemis 3 Landing Sites Announced: NASA has unveiled potential landing sites for the Artemis 3 mission, marking humanity's return to the Moon since 1972. Explore the challenges and scientific potential of these lunar south pole sites.- New Insights from Ryugu: Delve into the latest findings from the asteroid Ryugu, which may hold clues to the origins of life on Earth. Uncover how these samples could reshape our understanding of planetary formation and life's emergence.- Titan's Mysteries Unveiled: Recent studies suggest that Saturn's moon Titan could rewrite planetary science. Learn about the unique features of Titan's surface and what they reveal about its geological history and potential for life.For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram, Tumblr, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform.For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support.Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.Sponsor Links:NordVPN - www.bitesz.com/nordvpn - get our special deal...save big!Old Glory - www.bitesz.com/oldglory - Music, Sports and Official NASA Merch.
#464: Dark Matter Dynamics, Spacecraft Synchronisation & Asteroid Belt Enigmas
28-10-2024
#464: Dark Matter Dynamics, Spacecraft Synchronisation & Asteroid Belt Enigmas
Space Nuts Q&A EditionJoin Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this engaging Q&A episode of Space Nuts, where they tackle fascinating questions from our audience. From the cosmic mysteries of dark matter to the practicalities of Space communication, this episode is filled with intriguing insights and stellar discussions.Episode Highlights:- Dark Matter and the Cosmic Web: Explore how dark matter interacts with the cosmic web and the gravitational forces that shape our universe. Fred Watson Watson unravels the complex relationship between galaxies and dark matter, shedding light on this cosmic conundrum.- Synchronising Spacecraft Communication: Discover how we maintain communication with distant spacecraft as they traverse the cosmos. Learn about the challenges of signal delays, gravitational influences, and the ingenious solutions that keep us connected to our spacefarers.- Asteroid Belts Beyond Mars: Uncover the mysteries of asteroid belts beyond the familiar one between Mars and Jupiter. Delve into the Kuiper Belt and the Oort Cloud, exploring their significance and the icy bodies that inhabit these distant regions.- The Future of Space Wheels: Contemplate the possibility of building a Von Braun wheel or a space station with artificial gravity. Fred Watson Watson discusses the engineering challenges and potential benefits of these futuristic structures.For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on facebook, X, YouTube, Tumblr,  Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform.For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support.Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.
#463: Cosmic Collisions, Double Dwarf Discoveries & SpaceX's Stellar Strides
24-10-2024
#463: Cosmic Collisions, Double Dwarf Discoveries & SpaceX's Stellar Strides
Space Nuts #463Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this intriguing episode of Space Nuts, where they delve into the latest cosmic discoveries and Space industry updates. From the origins of meteorites to the mysteries of brown dwarfs, and the environmental impact of SpaceX's prolific launches, this episode is packed with fascinating insights and stellar discussions.Episode Highlights:- Meteorite Origins Uncovered: Discover how scientists have traced the origins of 70% of known meteorites to just three significant events in recent history. Explore the detective work that led to these revelations and what it tells us about our solar system.- Brown Dwarfs Mystery Solved: Delve into the 30-year mystery of a brown dwarf that turned out to be two. Learn how this discovery reshapes our understanding of these celestial objects and their place in the universe.- SpaceX's Environmental Impact: Unpack the good news and the challenges facing SpaceX, from their record-breaking launch schedule to the environmental concerns raised by satellite re-entry and rocket emissions.For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram, Tumblr and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform.For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support.Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.
#462: Dark Matter Mysteries, Gravitons & Interferometry Insights
21-10-2024
#462: Dark Matter Mysteries, Gravitons & Interferometry Insights
This episode is brought to you with the support of NordVPN. For our special Black Friday deal complete with 30 day money back guarantee, visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts. Space Nuts #462 Q&A EditionJoin Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in another enlightening Q&A episode of Space Nuts, where they tackle intriguing questions from listeners around the globe. From the perplexing nature of dark matter and dark energy to the possibility of interferometry using Space and ground-based telescopes, this episode is packed with cosmic curiosities and insightful discussions.Episode Highlights:- Dark Matter and Dark Energy in the Solar System: Trent from St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada, questions why dark matter and dark energy, which comprise 96% of the universe, are not factored into the movements of our solar system. Fred Watson Watson explains the scale and influence of these mysterious forces.- Interferometry with Space Telescopes: Bo from Victoria wonders if it's theoretically possible to perform interferometry using Space telescopes like Hubble and James Webb, combined with ground-based telescopes. Explore the current limitations and future possibilities of this technology.- The Mystery of Gravitons: Vincent questions the existence of gravitons and their potential to form self-propagating waves. Delve into the intersection of quantum theory and relativity as Fred Watson Watson discusses this theoretical particle.- Biblical Floods and Astronomical Events: Christopher from Bayville, North Carolina, inquires about the possibility of biblical floods being linked to astronomical events. Discover the fascinating connections between historical events and cosmic phenomena.For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website at www.spacenutspodcast.com. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform.For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support.Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.
#461: Anglo-Australian Telescope's Golden Jubilee, Starship's Stunning Catch & Laser Links to Mars
17-10-2024
#461: Anglo-Australian Telescope's Golden Jubilee, Starship's Stunning Catch & Laser Links to Mars
Space Nuts #461Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this engaging episode of Space Nuts, where they explore the latest advancements and historical milestones in space exploration. From the 50th anniversary of the Anglo-Australian Telescope to the groundbreaking Starship 5 test flight, this episode is brimming with fascinating insights and cosmic discoveries.Episode Highlights:- Anglo-Australian Telescope at 50: Celebrate the half-century milestone of the largest optical telescope on Australian soil. Fred Watson Watson shares his personal connection and the telescope's impact on astronomy, from its iconic images to its world-first discoveries.- Starship 5's Spectacular Test Flight: Discover the audacious success of SpaceX's Starship 5, where the booster was caught mid-air by giant clamps. A game-changer in Space flight efficiency and technology.- Deep Space Laser Communication: Explore NASA's successful tests of laser data systems, achieving communication over distances equivalent to Earth-Mars separation. Learn how this technology could revolutionise Space communication.- Europa Clipper's Journey Begins: The mission to explore Jupiter's icy moon is underway. With its massive solar panels and advanced instruments, Europa Clipper promises to uncover the mysteries beneath Europa's surface.For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, X, YouTube Music, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform.For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support.Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.
#460: Gravity Reimagined, Quantum Field Fables & Black Hole Mysteries
13-10-2024
#460: Gravity Reimagined, Quantum Field Fables & Black Hole Mysteries
Space Nuts #460 Q&A EditionJoin Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this thought-provoking Q&A episode of Space Nuts, where they delve into the mysteries of the cosmos. From the curious nature of gravity and quantum fields to the potential of ultra-massive black holes, this episode is filled with insightful discussions and cosmic wonders.Episode Highlights:- Gravity Reimagined: Carrick from Wengari, New Zealand, poses a fascinating question about gravity. Could it be pushing us away rather than pulling us in? Fred Watson Watson explores the implications of this intriguing perspective on one of the universe's fundamental forces.- Quantum Field Interactions: Rennie from California inquires about the behaviour of quantum fields and their interactions, such as between magnetic fields and the Higgs field. Discover the complexities of quantum theory and the nature of these subatomic interactions.- Gravitational Lensing: Rusty from Donnybrook asks whether an ultra-massive black hole could be revealed by its gravitational lensing effects. Fred Watson Watson explains the principles of gravitational lensing and the challenges of detecting such cosmic phenomena.- Telescopic Limitations: David wonders why we can't use telescopes like the James Webb to see fine details on the moon. Learn about the limitations of angular resolution and the future of telescopic technology.- Star Wars Trivia: Martin Berman Gorvine from Maryland shares a humorous piece of Star Wars trivia, leaving listeners with a clever play on words.00:00 - Andrew Dunkley answers your questions on this week's Space Nuts01:38 - Fred: We understand gravity as a force that pulls us into objects with mass07:06 - How do quantum fields behave? Do they interact with each other10:12 - Andrew Dunkley with Professor Fred Watson on gravitational lensing questions13:13 - David Haven: The sensitivity to detail depends on the diameter of the telescope19:28 - Martin Berman Gorvine says the James Webb telescope will be worse than previous telescopes23:16 - If you've got a question for Space Nuts, send it inFor more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on facebook, X, YouTube Music, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform.For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support.Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.
Solar Secrets Unveiled, Earth's New Moon & Rethinking the Big Bang
10-10-2024
Solar Secrets Unveiled, Earth's New Moon & Rethinking the Big Bang
Space Nuts #459Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this intriguing episode of Space Nuts, where they delve into fascinating cosmic phenomena and challenge established theories. From mapping the sun's corona to the arrival of a mini moon, this episode is packed with stellar insights and astronomical wonders.Episode Highlights:- Mapping the Sun's Corona: Discover how scientists have successfully mapped the magnetic fields in the sun's corona, offering new insights into solar physics and potential advancements in Space weather forecasting.- Earth's New Mini Moon: Explore the phenomenon of Earth's temporary mini moon, a near-Earth asteroid that will orbit our planet before being expelled by gravitational forces.- Challenging the Big Bang: Dive into a new study that revisits the tired light theory, questioning the conventional understanding of the universe's expansion and its implications on the Big Bang theory.00:00 - Andrew Dunkley: Coming up on space nuts is a new study02:01 - Magnetic fields in the sun's corona have been successfully mapped06:37 - Inuya telescope uses light to measure magnetic fields in the sun's corona15:14 - What would a ten metre rock do to Earth, uh, or the moon21:12 - A new study challenging the big bang theory is based on 100-year-old dataFor more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Explore our shop for exclusive Space Nuts merchandise, including t-shirts, mugs, and more.Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on facebook, X, YouTube Music, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform.For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support.Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.This episode is brought to you with the support of NordVPN...it's the one we use and so should you. To get our deal as a listener of Space Nuts visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts
Navigating the Cosmos and Redshift Riddles
07-10-2024
Navigating the Cosmos and Redshift Riddles
For our EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/spacenuts Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee!Space Nuts #458 Q&A EditionJoin Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this engaging Q&A episode of Space Nuts, where they tackle a variety of intriguing questions from listeners. From the mysteries of light and redshift to the enigmatic cores of gas giants, this episode is packed with fascinating insights and cosmic curiosities.Episode Highlights:- Light and Redshift: Mario from Melbourne (Australia) queries how light can redshift if it doesn't experience time. Fred Watson Watson delves into relativity and the observer's role in this cosmic phenomenon.- Gas Giants' Cores: Nigel from Brisbane (Australia) wonders if there's a rocky planet beneath the gas layers of Jupiter and Saturn. Explore the theories about the mysterious cores of these colossal planets.- Galaxy Collisions: Raul from California asks about the collision of galaxies amidst the universe's expansion. Discover why some galaxies are on a collision course despite the ever-expanding cosmos.- Future Navigation: David from Tucson questions how we will navigate when exploring beyond our solar system. Learn about the quasars that provide a stable reference point for cosmic navigation.For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on facebook, X, YouTube Music, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform.For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support.Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.
Voyager's Roadside Rescue, Apophis Scenarios & Red Giant Revelations
03-10-2024
Voyager's Roadside Rescue, Apophis Scenarios & Red Giant Revelations
Space Nuts #457Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this captivating episode of Space Nuts, where they delve into the latest happenings in the cosmos. From the ingenious solutions keeping Voyager 1 operational to potential asteroid impacts and stunning images of a red giant star, this episode is packed with exciting discoveries and cosmic wonders.Episode Highlights:- Voyager 1 Thruster Fix: Discover how engineers have ingeniously solved a problem with Voyager 1's thrusters, keeping the iconic spacecraft operational as it continues its journey beyond the solar system.- Apophis Asteroid Threat: Explore the potential scenarios that could lead to the asteroid Apophis impacting Earth, as scientists calculate the odds and implications of such an event.- Red Giant Revelations: Learn about the extraordinary images captured by ALMA of the red giant star R Doradus, revealing fascinating details about its surface and what it tells us about the future of our own Sun.00:00 - This is Space nuts. Coming up in this episode we are going to fix Voyager thrusters02:26 - Voyager spacecraft is getting old and tired, so it breaks down03:34 - The Voyager one spacecraft was launched on September 5, 197713:06 - By about the mid 2030s, we expect Voyager one and two will die14:13 - Canadian scientist says asteroid could collide with Earth in 202920:23 - Asteroid Apophis could still hit Earth in 202923:24 - Scientists have successfully imaged a red giant star from 180 light years away26:13 - Fred says Alma telescope has revealed hotspots on the surface of a star30:43 - Professor Fred Watson thanks Andrew Dunkley for the Space Nuts podcastFor more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed, visit our website.Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on facebook, X, YouTube Music, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform.For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support.tay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.
#456: Safeguarding the Moon, Titan's Liquid Sounds & Dark Matter Drifts
30-09-2024
#456: Safeguarding the Moon, Titan's Liquid Sounds & Dark Matter Drifts
EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/spacenuts Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee!Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this engaging Q&A episode of Space Nuts, where they tackle a variety of intriguing questions from listeners. From the protection of the moon to the sounds of extraterrestrial liquids, this episode is packed with fascinating insights and cosmic curiosities.Episode Highlights:- Protecting the Moon: Mikey from Illinois asks about the measures in place to protect the moon from catastrophic asteroid impacts and what would happen if the moon were significantly altered.- Sounds of Titan: James from Minnesota wonders if the lakes and rivers on Titan would sound similar to those on Earth, given the differences in atmospheric pressure and liquid composition.- Dark Matter Movement: Bill from San Francisco Bay Area inquires about whether dark matter can move through Space and be influenced by gravitational events.- Formation of Atmospheres: Brady from Florida asks how atmospheres are formed on planets, transitioning from a ball of rock and lava to having a gaseous envelope.00:00 - This is a Q and A episode where we answer your questions01:25 - Fred and Andrew ask what would happen if an asteroid hit the moon06:20 - Extra solar might come through. Yes. The thing is, the bigger the object is06:58 - Next question comes from James Greenfield with Professor Fred Watson10:53 - Bill asks question about whether dark matter can move through space14:55 - Why does everyone who lives in Florida call it the great state of Florida15:58 - Brady from Florida asks how planets form their atmospheres19:15 - If you have questions for Space Nuts, go to our websiteFor more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed, visit our website at spacenutspodcast.com. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on facebook, X, YouTube Music, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform. For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support. Other supporter options can be found on our website.Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.
#455: Starship to Mars, Expanding Galaxies & Starliner Returns
26-09-2024
#455: Starship to Mars, Expanding Galaxies & Starliner Returns
Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this thrilling episode of Space Nuts, where they explore the latest in Space science and astronomy. From the return of the Starliner to groundbreaking missions to Mars, this episode is packed with fascinating insights and discoveries.Episode Highlights:- Starliner Success: The Boeing Starliner makes a flawless return to Earth, marking a significant achievement for Boeing's engineers and NASA. Discover the details of this textbook mission and the future prospects for the Starliner.- SpaceX Mars Missions: SpaceX's Starship mega rocket is gearing up for missions to Mars in the next few years. Learn about Elon Musk's ambitious plan to build a self-sustaining city on Mars and the technological advancements making it possible.- Galaxy Size Revelation: New research suggests our galaxies are much larger than previously thought. Find out how this discovery impacts our understanding of the Andromeda and Milky Way galaxies, and what it means for their impending merger.- Stellar Disruption: A passing star may have caused significant disruptions in the outer solar system. Explore the implications of this event on trans-Neptunian objects and the potential existence of Planet Nine.00:00:00 - This is space nuts, where we talk astronomy and space science00:01:15 - Professor Fred Watson says brush turkeys do serious damage to Australian gardens00:03:31 - Boeing's Starliner spacecraft successfully returned to Earth last week00:06:17 - SpaceX is developing a spacecraft called starship that will go to Mars00:07:48 - Elon Musk tweets timelines for first space starship missions to Mars00:14:15 - Professor Fred Watson says he has no problem with humans going to Mars00:22:49 - Scientists say gas makes up 70 to 90% of normal matter in universe00:25:30 - Scientists suggest disruption in solar system due to passing star billions of years ago00:30:03 - Andrew Dunkley: Planet nine theory has been around since 2016For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed, visit our website at spacenutspodcast.com. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on facebook, X, YouTube Music, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform. For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support. Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.Sponsor Links:Now more than ever we all need NordVPN....get our special savings deal by using our special link: NordVPNAnd check out our newest supporter - Old Glory - Iconic Music and Sports Fan Merch
#454: Universe's Speed Limits, Triple Star Systems & CME Mysteries
23-09-2024
#454: Universe's Speed Limits, Triple Star Systems & CME Mysteries
Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this lively Q&A episode of Space Nuts, where they tackle fascinating questions from listeners about the universe's expansion, three sun systems, black hole mergers, and coronal mass ejections.Episode Highlights:- Universal Expansion: What if the expansion of the universe slowed down? Could light overtake the edge of the universe?- Three Sun Systems: Chris from North Carolina asks about the possibility of a planet orbiting three suns and the gravitational effects of such a system.- Black Hole Mergers: Discover what happens when black holes merge. Is it like a mini big bang?- Coronal Mass Ejections: Have we ever collected matter from a coronal mass ejection? Lee from Canada wants to know the details and implications.For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed, visit our website at spacenutspodcast.com. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on facebook, X, YouTube Music, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform. For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support. Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.Sponsoor Links:NordVPNOld Glory - Iconic Music and Sports Fan Merch
#453: Starliner Suit Dilemma, Iron Rain on WASP 76b & Kuiper Belt Mysteries
19-09-2024
#453: Starliner Suit Dilemma, Iron Rain on WASP 76b & Kuiper Belt Mysteries
Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this captivating episode of Space Nuts, where they delve into the latest updates on the Boeing Starliner, the peculiar weather on planet Wasp 76 b, the bustling Kuiper Belt, and the mystery of Mars' missing water.Episode Highlights:- Starliner Troubles: Discover the latest issue plaguing the Boeing Starliner and the unique challenges faced by astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams.- Wasp 76 b: Learn about the extreme weather on this distant exoplanet, where iron rain is a reality.- Kuiper Belt Discoveries: New findings suggest the Kuiper Belt is more populated and extensive than previously thought.- Mars' Water Mystery: Uncover the latest research on where Mars' water went and what it means for the planet's history.For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed, visit our website at spacenutspodcast.com. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on facebook, X, YouTube Music, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform.For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support. Other supporter options can be found on our website.Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.For a great VPN deal visit bitesz.com/nordvpn .... now more than ever you need a good vpn to protect your online life. Us the one we use.
#452: Early Universe Mysteries, Galactic Demise & Dark Matter Interactions
16-09-2024
#452: Early Universe Mysteries, Galactic Demise & Dark Matter Interactions
This episode of Space Nuts is brought to you by Incogni...looking after your online privacy with no hassles. To check out our special Space Nuts deal, visit www.incogni.com/spacenutsJoin Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this engaging Q&A episode of Space Nuts, where they tackle intriguing questions from our listeners about the universe, galaxies, the origin of life, and dark matter.Episode Highlights:- The Older Universe: Bob from Florida asks about the appearance of galaxies in the older parts of the universe and their spatial relationships over time.- Galaxies and Black Holes: Shaun from British Columbia inquires if all galaxies will eventually be consumed by their central supermassive black holes.- Origin of Life on Earth: James from Maine discusses the potential for life on Earth to have begun as far back as 4.1 billion years ago and the implications for finding microbial life elsewhere in our solar system.- Dark Matter Interactions: Michael from Illinois questions whether dark matter interacts with itself gravitationally.Chapters:- 00:00:00 - Space nuts asks you to send us questions and we try to answer them- 00:02:03 - Bob says galaxies that far away should be closer together with expanding universe- 00:05:57 - Are all galaxies eventually going to get sucked into their central supermassive black holes- 00:08:32 - There is tantalising evidence that life may have begun on earth 4.1 billion years ago- 00:15:25 - Michael: Does dark matter gravitationally interact with itselfFor more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed, visit our website at spacenutspodcast.com. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on facebook, X, YouTube Music, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform. For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts/support. Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.