187 episodes

The Astronomy Daily Podcast team brings you a summary of the days Space and Astronomy News so you never feel left behind.

There's a lot going on 'out ,' and we endeavour to bring it all to you.

The team consists of Steve and Hallie on Mondays, Anna on Tuesday and Wednesdays and Charlie on Thursdays and Fridays.

For more visit, our website and sign up for the free daily newsletter and check out our continually updated newsfeed. www.astronomydaily.io.

Follow us on X (formerly Twitter) ...just search for AstroDailyPod. Enjoy!

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Astronomy Daily - The Podcast Space Nuts

    • Science
    • 4.6 • 18 Ratings

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The Astronomy Daily Podcast team brings you a summary of the days Space and Astronomy News so you never feel left behind.

There's a lot going on 'out ,' and we endeavour to bring it all to you.

The team consists of Steve and Hallie on Mondays, Anna on Tuesday and Wednesdays and Charlie on Thursdays and Fridays.

For more visit, our website and sign up for the free daily newsletter and check out our continually updated newsfeed. www.astronomydaily.io.

Follow us on X (formerly Twitter) ...just search for AstroDailyPod. Enjoy!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support.

Listen on Apple Podcasts
Requires subscription and macOS 11.4 or higher

    S03E40: Solar Sails & Martian Farms: Pioneering the Space Frontier

    S03E40: Solar Sails & Martian Farms: Pioneering the Space Frontier

    Set sail with us on the cosmic winds in today's enlightening episode of Astronomy Daily - The Podcast. We're charting a course through the latest astronomical innovations that are transforming our celestial expeditions and deepening our connection to the cosmos. From the cutting-edge solar sail technology that could redefine space travel to the ambitious quest of growing food on Mars, we're journeying to the very edge of possibility and imagination.We begin by celebrating NASA's advanced composite solar sail system, a marvel of engineering that promises to harness the sun's photons for propulsion, potentially revolutionizing our voyages across the solar system. Then, we delve into the trials and triumphs of Martian agriculture, where scientists are teasing life from the barren soils of the Red Planet, sowing seeds of hope for future settlers.Our cosmic quest then takes us to Saturn's icy moon Enceladus, where mysterious water plumes hint at the potential for life in extraterrestrial oceans. We'll unravel the intricate dance of cryovolcanic activity that fuels these fascinating eruptions.Back in our lunar neighborhood, we explore a novel concept for artificial gravity that could keep our moonwalkers healthy and strong. And as we look beyond to the outer planets, we introduce the science craft—a sleek, sunlight-propelled vessel designed to unlock the secrets of Neptune and its intriguing moon, Triton.Finally, we gaze into the potential future of space observation with NASA's FLUTE project, which aims to create large aperture liquid mirrors in space, offering a new window into the universe's most profound mysteries.Join us for a thrilling odyssey that spans from the sunlit expanses of our solar system to the fertile ground of Mars, and from the icy plumes of Enceladus to the cutting-edge concepts that could shape the future of interplanetary exploration. This is Astronomy Daily - The Podcast, your portal to the stars and beyond.1. **NASA's Solar Sail Revolution:** A new dawn for propulsion technology.2. **Martian Agriculture:** Sowing the seeds of life on the Red Planet.3. **Enceladus's Water Plumes:** The cryovolcanic keys to extraterrestrial habitats.4. **Lunar Artificial Gravity:** A simple yet ingenious solution for astronaut health.5. **Outer Planet Exploration:** The science craft's journey to Triton.6. **FLUTE Project:** Pioneering the future of space telescopes with liquid mirrors.As we conclude today's interstellar sojourn, we're reminded that the stories of the cosmos are as boundless as the universe itself. Each discovery, each technological leap, is a verse in the grand poem of our celestial exploration. Until next time, keep your eyes on the skies and your heart filled with cosmic wonder. Clear skies and inspired minds to all—this is Anna, signing off until our next cosmic convergence.For more astronomical adventures, visit our website at astronomydaily.io, and remember, in the vast theater of the universe, every star has a story, and every story is written in the stars.
    This episode is brought to you with the support of NordPass, the password manager we use and wouldn't be without. Check out the details and great deal we have for you by visiting www.bitesz.com/nordpass

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support.

    • 16 min
    S03E39: TAO's Summit & SMILE's Solar Quest: Unveiling Cosmic Frontiers

    S03E39: TAO's Summit & SMILE's Solar Quest: Unveiling Cosmic Frontiers

    Prepare for a celestial odyssey as we embark on today's episode of Astronomy Daily - The Podcast. Your daily guide to the cosmos is brimming with astronomical marvels and groundbreaking scientific exploits that stretch the very fabric of our universe. From the inauguration of the world's highest observatory to the collaborative ventures that redefine space exploration, each tale is a testament to human curiosity and the relentless pursuit of knowledge.
    Ascend to the dizzying heights of the Atacama Desert where the University of Tokyo Atacama Observatory (TAO) now claims the title of the world's highest astronomical observatory. With its unparalleled view of the heavens, TAO is set to unveil the secrets of planetary formation and the evolution of galaxies, all from its lofty perch of 5,640 meters above sea level. The journey of TAO is a narrative of endurance, international unity, and respect for both human culture and scientific advancement.
    Next, we delve into the ambitious SMILE mission, a testament to the power of international collaboration between the European Space Agency and the Chinese Academy of Sciences. This mission is set to unravel the mysteries of solar winds and their impact on Earth's magnetosphere, promising to deepen our understanding of space weather and its effects on our planet and beyond.
    Step back in time with us as we explore the National Museum of the US Air Force's latest exhibit, Mercury Atlas 9, a replica that stands as a monument to America's early spaceflight endeavors. Relive the pioneering spirit of astronaut Gordon Cooper's solo orbital mission and the legacy of an era that propelled humanity into the cosmos.
    Lift your gaze as NASA's long-duration scientific balloons prepare to ascend from Sweden's Esrange Space Center, embarking on a mission to capture the intricacies of cosmic rays, solar phenomena, and the enigmatic black holes. These balloons, akin to floating observatories, promise to bring home a wealth of knowledge from the edge of space.
    Join us in celebrating the bright minds at the 2024 FIRST Robotics World Championships, where NASA's presence underscored their commitment to inspire the next generation of space explorers. Witness the synergy of youthful innovation and NASA's pioneering technologies, fostering a future where the stars are within our reach.
    Finally, we report on the bustling activity aboard the International Space Station, where scientific experiments and international cooperation converge in a microgravity dance of discovery. From producing perfect optical fibers to 3D printing heart tissues, the ISS continues to be a beacon of human achievement and a symbol of our shared journey among the stars.
    This episode of Astronomy Daily - The Podcast is a voyage through the latest astronomical developments and the stories they tell. Join us as we traverse the universe, one discovery at a time.
    ---
    **Featured Topics:**
    1. **TAO - World's Highest Observatory:** A new pinnacle in astronomical observation.
    2. **SMILE Mission:** ESA and China's collaborative venture into solar wind mysteries.
    3. **Mercury Atlas 9 Exhibit:** Celebrating the golden age of spaceflight.
    4. **NASA's Scientific Balloons:** High-altitude expeditions for cutting-edge research.
    5. **FIRST Robotics World Championships:** NASA's role in fostering future innovators.
    6. **ISS Update:** A hub of scientific progress and international unity.
    ---
    **Additional Information:**
    For more cosmic content, visit astronomydaily.io, and join us on X @AstroDailypod) for the latest updates and stellar discussions. Until next time, this is Anna, reminding you to keep your eyes on the skies and your sense of wonder alive. Clear skies and...

    • 15 min
    S03E38: Mars Simulations & Electric Propulsion's Quantum Leap

    S03E38: Mars Simulations & Electric Propulsion's Quantum Leap

    Join host Anna on an enthralling expedition through the cosmos in today's episode of Astronomy Daily - The Podcast. We traverse the cutting-edge frontiers of space exploration, uncovering the innovative methods and ambitious missions that are shaping our extraterrestrial aspirations. From simulating the Martian experience here on Earth to the potential of small spacecraft propelled by groundbreaking electric thrusters, this episode is brimming with interplanetary intrigue.
    We begin with a look inside NASA's HERA, where four volunteers are immersed in a 45-day Mars habitat simulation at the Johnson Space Center. As they confront the challenges of isolation and confinement, their experiences offer vital insights into the psychological and physiological demands of deep space missions. With the support of international partners, this analog adventure is pivotal in preparing humanity for the red planet.
    Next, we celebrate NASA's unveiling of the H71M Hall effect thruster, a propulsion marvel set to revolutionize the journey of small spacecraft to the moon, Mars, and beyond. This technological leap promises to expand our reach into the solar system, making interplanetary travel more accessible and cost-effective.
    The conversation then shifts to China's Chang'e-6 mission, an ambitious lunar quest to retrieve samples from the enigmatic far side of the moon. As we anticipate the treasures it may uncover, we recognize the mission's potential to deepen our understanding of lunar geology and the history of our celestial neighborhood.
    As the sun reaches its solar maximum, we explore the implications of heightened solar activity on Mars exploration. With the help of NASA's MAVEN orbiter and the Curiosity rover's RAD instrument, scientists are piecing together strategies to protect future astronauts from the sun's powerful outbursts, seeking answers to Mars's climatic transformation.
    Lastly, we examine Nokia's pioneering efforts to establish a 4G LTE network on the moon. This lunar communication network, set to debut on an upcoming intuitive machines mission, could pave the way for robust, efficient communication systems supporting human and robotic operations on the lunar surface and beyond.
    Prepare to be enlightened as we embark on this interstellar voyage through the latest developments in astronomy and space science. This is Astronomy Daily - The Podcast, where every episode is a step further into the infinite expanse of the universe.
    ---
    **Featured Topics:**
    1. **HERA's Mars Simulation:** A deep dive into NASA's analog mission to prepare for life on Mars.
    2. **NASA's Hall Effect Thruster:** The propulsion breakthrough enhancing small spacecraft missions.
    3. **Chang'e-6's Lunar Sample Return:** China's historic mission to the moon's far side.
    4. **Solar Maximum and Mars Exploration:** Understanding solar activity's impact on future Mars missions.
    5. **Nokia's Lunar Network:** The development of a groundbreaking communication system for the moon.
    ---
    **Additional Information:**
    For more cosmic content, visit astronomydaily.io, and join us on X (@AstroDailypod) for the latest updates and stellar discussions. Until next time, this is Anna, reminding you to keep your eyes on the skies and your sense of wonder alive. Clear skies and cosmic dreams to all our fellow stargazers!
    This episode is brought to you by NordPass, the password manager that secures your celestial data. To grab our special offer and find out more, visit www.bitesz.com/nordpass
    Become a supporter of this podcast: a href="https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer...

    • 12 min
    S03E37: Starliner's Leap & The Controversy Over Weapons in Orbit

    S03E37: Starliner's Leap & The Controversy Over Weapons in Orbit

    Embark on a cosmic voyage with host Steve Dunkley in today's episode of Astronomy Daily - The Podcast. Recorded on April 29, 2024, Steve returns from a brief hiatus, refreshed and ready to navigate the latest celestial developments. From the UN's contentious debates over nuclear weapons in space to the hopeful promise of a new comet, this episode is packed with interstellar intrigue and excitement.
    We kick off with a look at the UN's standoff, where Russia's veto of a resolution against the militarization of space sets a tense backdrop for future cosmic diplomacy. Then, Steve shifts gears to the exhilarating discovery of Comet C/2023 A3 (Sachinchan-ATLAS), a celestial visitor that could dazzle us with its brilliance—or could it be another cosmic letdown? Steve shares his personal reflections on past cometary spectacles and the unpredictable nature of these icy wanderers.
    Our journey continues with NASA's upcoming Boeing Starliner crew flight test, a mission that places astronauts Butch Wilmore and SUNY Williams at the forefront of a new chapter in space exploration. The episode also celebrates Earth Day with a look back at NASA's global selfie event and the Dragonfly rotorcraft's ambitious mission to Saturn's moon Titan, promising to revolutionize our understanding of these distant worlds.
    Finally, we dive into the profound connection between water and the search for extraterrestrial life, as Steve discusses METI International's poignant message aboard NASA's Europa Clipper spacecraft, destined for Jupiter's icy moon Europa.
    Join us for an episode that bridges the gap between earthly concerns and the boundless potential of the cosmos. This is Astronomy Daily - The Podcast, where every episode is a journey into the heart of the universe.
    ---
    **Featured Topics:**
    1. **Nuclear Weapons in Space:** Russia's controversial veto at the UN and the implications for space security.
    2. **Comet C/2023 A3 (Sachinchan-ATLAS):** The discovery of a new comet and the anticipation of its potential spectacle.
    3. **Boeing Starliner's Crew Flight Test:** The countdown to a landmark mission with NASA astronauts aboard.
    4. **Earth Day Reflections:** NASA's celebration of our planet with a global selfie event.
    5. **Dragonfly's Titan Mission:** The future of extraterrestrial drone exploration on Saturn's intriguing moon.
    6. **Europa Clipper's Water Message:** METI International's transmission of humanity's connection to water across the cosmos.
    ---
    **Additional Information:**
    For more cosmic content, visit astronomydaily.io, and join us on our Space Nuts podcast group or on X (@AstroDailypod) to share your favorite stories and engage with fellow space enthusiasts. Until next time, this is Steve from Down Under, reminding you to keep your eyes to the skies and your heart in the stars. Clear skies and boundless curiosity to all our fellow stargazers!
    This episode is brought to you by NordPass, the password manager that secures your celestial data. To grab our special offer and find out more, visit www.bitesz.com/nordpass
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support
    #space #astronomy #news #podcast #comets #spaceexploration #NASA #UN #nuclearinspace #Starliner #EarthDay #Dragonfly #EuropaClipper #METI

     

    • 30 min
    S03E36: Stardust Revelations & The Enigma of Dark Matter

    S03E36: Stardust Revelations & The Enigma of Dark Matter

    Prepare to journey through the cosmos with host Anna on today's episode of Astronomy Daily - The Podcast. We delve into a treasure trove of astronomical breakthroughs, from the discovery of ancient stardust that defies our solar system's norms to the pioneering hunt for dark matter. We'll explore the origins of a supernova-born dust particle that challenges our astrophysical understanding and Yale University's innovative quest to capture the elusive axions that could unlock the mysteries of the universe's mass.
    Then, witness the dawn of Europe's Ariane 6 rocket as it stands poised for its maiden voyage, symbolizing a leap forward in Europe's space aspirations. But it's not all smooth sailing; the Hubble Space Telescope faces a gyroscope challenge, testing NASA's resolve and ingenuity. We'll discuss the implications of this temporary setback and the anticipation of Hubble's return to its celestial watch.
    The episode continues with the James Webb Space Telescope's surprising revelation of early galaxies' maturity, a finding that rewrites our narrative of cosmic evolution. Finally, we track the return of NASA's Dragon spacecraft, a beacon of scientific discovery, as it brings home invaluable research from the International Space Station.
    Join us on this interstellar odyssey as we unpack these cosmic stories and ponder the ever-expanding frontiers of space exploration. This is Astronomy Daily - The Podcast, where every episode is a revelation of the universe's endless marvels.
    ---
    **Featured Topics:**
    1. **Ancient Stardust Mystery:** Unveiling the supernova origins of a meteorite's dust particle with unprecedented magnesium isotopic ratios.
    2. **Dark Matter's New Hope:** Yale's axion detection experiment and the metamaterials revolutionizing our cosmic search.
    3. **Ariane 6's Inaugural Campaign:** Europe's monumental step towards sovereign space exploration.
    4. **Hubble's Gyroscope Woes:** Navigating the challenges of space technology and the resilience of NASA's iconic telescope.
    5. **James Webb's Galactic Insights:** The unexpected early maturity of ancient galaxies and the rethinking of universal history.
    6. **Dragon's Scientific Bounty:** NASA's spacecraft returns with a cache of knowledge from the orbital frontier.
    ---
    **Additional Information:**
    For more cosmic content, visit astronomydaily.io, and stay connected with us on X (@AstroDailypod) for the latest updates and stellar news. Until next time, this is Anna, reminding you to keep your eyes on the skies and your mind on the wonders above. Clear skies and boundless curiosity to all our fellow stargazers!
    This episode is brought to you by NordPass, the password manager that secures your celestial data. To grab our special offer and find out more, visit www.bitesz.com/nordpass
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support
    #space #astronomy #news #podcast #thestorieswetold 

    • 12 min
    S03E35: China's Successful Launch & The Optical Odyssey of Psyche

    S03E35: China's Successful Launch & The Optical Odyssey of Psyche

    Set your sights on the stars with host Charlie in today's episode of Astronomy Daily - The Podcast. We embark on a celestial journey, beginning with China's Shenzhou 18 mission's graceful docking with the Tiangong space station. This momentous event not only showcases China's burgeoning space prowess but also propels its moon-bound ambitions. With taikonauts delving into the realms of space aquaculture and life sciences, we glimpse into the future of living beyond Earth's confines.
    Our voyage then takes us to the cutting-edge realm of space communications, where NASA's Psyche spacecraft's Optical Communications project heralds a new era of data transmission across the vastness of space. With laser-based technology promising broadband-like speeds from the asteroid belt, we're on the brink of experiencing the universe like never before.
    We dive into the enigmatic world of black holes, shedding light on the baffling jets that defy our understanding. A recent study pits two models against the awe-inspiring jets of galaxy M87's supermassive black hole, with the BZ jet model taking the lead. This revelation paves the way for new cosmic insights and the potential to harness energy from these celestial giants.
    The episode continues with the anticipation of Boeing's Starliner spacecraft's crew flight test. Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams are ready to etch their names in the annals of space travel history, marking a pivotal partnership between NASA and commercial spaceflight.
    Finally, we celebrate the fusion of creativity and space exploration with the unveiling of two new Lego sets that promise to ignite the imaginations of space enthusiasts of all ages. From a detailed NASA Artemis Space Launch System model to an artistic rendition of the Milky Way galaxy, these sets connect us to the cosmos in a uniquely tangible way.
    Join us for an episode that not only explores the latest in space exploration but also honors the spirit of human curiosity and the boundless potential of our cosmic endeavors. This is Astronomy Daily - The Podcast, where every episode is a step further into the infinite expanse of the universe.
    ---
    **Featured Topics:**
    1. **China's Shenzhou 18 Mission:** A significant leap toward lunar exploration and the development of space life sciences.
    2. **Optical Communications Breakthrough:** NASA's Psyche mission introduces laser-based communication, revolutionizing data transmission from space.
    3. **Unraveling Black Hole Jets:** New studies align with the BZ jet model, offering clarity on the powerful emissions from these cosmic mysteries.
    4. **Starliner's Crew Flight Test:** The dawn of a new chapter in commercial spaceflight, with NASA astronauts poised for a historic mission.
    5. **Lego's Cosmic Creations:** Engaging space fans with intricate models of NASA's SLS and a stunning representation of the Milky Way galaxy.
    ---
    **Additional Information:**
    For more cosmic content, visit astronomydaily.io, where you can explore our extensive episode archive and immerse yourself in the wonders of the universe. Follow us on X (@AstroDailypod) for the latest updates and join the conversation with fellow space enthusiasts. Until our next celestial encounter, this is Charlie, reminding you to keep your gaze skyward and your sense of wonder alive. Clear skies and cosmic dreams to all our fellow stargazers!
    This episode is brought to you by NordPass, the password manager that will make your online life so much easier. To grab our special offer and find out more, visit www.bitesz.com/nordpass



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    • 11 min

Customer Reviews

4.6 out of 5
18 Ratings

18 Ratings

Toowoomba Teacher ,

Engaging Astro-journalism!

Steve, Tim and Halley make a great team. The news from Halley is solid enough but it’s the reports from Tim and Steve that are really waiting for. This is well-researched, timely and insightful journalism in a tight little package.

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Andrew is multitasking well but how is the golf swing going? Thx for this great little daily fix!

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Like a Falcon 9

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