Naked Astronomy, from the Naked Scientists

Naked Astronomy, from the Naked Scientists discusses exciting discoveries in the physical universe. Topics on this show range from tiny seeds planted in space to large asteroids headed for Earth. Adam Murphy and Ben McAllister produce and sometimes host the podcast. Ben Valsler was the original host. In 2012, the Space Boffins podcast merged with this program. The "space boffins," Richard Hollingham and Sue Nelson, now host most episodes of this show. Listeners learn the latest news from NASA, SpaceX, and ESA (European Space Agency). They'll hear how space exploration is changing. Hollingham and Nelson seek answers to big questions, like what prompted the Big Bang. They also inquire about mundane things, like how to fix broken toilets in space.

The podcast reveals insights about Mars rovers, dark matter, and gamma-ray bursts. Naked Astronomy, from the Naked Scientists also studies the humans who observe them. In one episode, Hollingham and Nelson interview Meganne Christian. She's a reserve astronaut for ESA. The industrial chemist had to train in firefighting, electrical, and rescue skills for her research in Antarctica. It's impossible to ground electrical equipment in ice. She managed emergencies in 100 days of darkness. Those varied skills gave Christian the confidence to become an astronaut. She reveals exciting possibilities for manufacturing in space. Gravity limits capabilities on Earth. They discuss how factories of robots may soon orbit the planet. In outer space, robots might compose pharmaceuticals and advanced material semiconductors.

The hosts feature astronauts who made current missions possible, including Guion Bluford. In 1983, he became the first African American in space. With more moon and Mars missions underway, the hosts ask Nicola Fox what to expect. She is the NASA headquarters Associate Administrator and oversees about 100 missions. Fox shares discoveries from her favorite endeavors. Listeners learn the surprising number of things a recent asteroid sample revealed. This podcast keeps listeners enthralled and informed.

New episodes of Naked Astronomy, from the Naked Scientists arrive a few times a month.