Space Nuts: Astronomy Insights & Cosmic Discoveries

Space Nuts
Space Nuts
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  • Astronomy
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5 million downloads and counting90+% Five Star ReviewsHosted by Astronomer At Large, Professor Fred Watson and Sci-Author/Broadcaster Andrew Dunkley660 Episodes and countingVery active (and friendly) listener communityAdvertising Free options available. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

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  1. 6 days ago

    How One Dinosaur-Killing Impact May Have Triggered Global Firestorms

    Sponsor Link: This episode of Space Nuts is brought to you with the support of NordVPN. Secure your online presence and enjoy a special deal at www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts.   Asteroid or comet, dinosaur impact firestorms, crater discovery, and Q&A on exoplanets and satellites Andrew Dunkley is joined by Professor Jonti Horner of the University of Southern Queensland for two tightly related Space Nuts conversations. The first explores how astronomy keeps blurring the lines between asteroids and comets, what new research says about the dinosaur-killing impact, and a surprising crater found by an amateur astronomer planning a trip. The second is a listener Q&A covering exotic exoplanet weather, space regulation, and whether planets can form without a star. Key topics In this episode, Andrew and Jonti explain why astronomy often uses tidy labels for objects that sit on a continuum, especially when the line between asteroid and comet gets blurry. They discuss near-Earth object 1998 SH2, which appears to have comet-like activity despite looking asteroid-like for decades. Jonti breaks down how outgassing can nudge a small body off its predicted path, revealing non-gravitational forces. The dinosaur-killing impact is revisited with new modelling suggesting the first hours after impact may have included global firestorms, not just long-term climate collapse. The show covers the terminology debate around meteor, meteorite, fireball, bolide, asteroid, and comet impact. A Canadian amateur astronomer, Joel LePointe, is credited with spotting a likely impact crater while planning a camping and hiking trip using satellite imagery. The newly identified crater near Lake Marcel in northern Quebec is described as about 390 million years old and roughly 25 kilometers wide. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

    How One Dinosaur-Killing Impact May Have Triggered Global Firestorms

  2. 17 Aug

    Exploring Moons with Atmospheres, Hot Jupiters, and the Mysteries of Black Holes

    Sponsor Link: This Q&A episode of Space Nuts is brought to you with the support of NordVPN. When you decide to get serius about your security online, do what we did and get NordVPN. We have a special deal for you too, chck out the details at www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts In this episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson delve into a captivating Q&A session, tackling a range of intriguing questions from listeners. From the possibility of moons having atmospheres to the mysteries surrounding hot Jupiters and the fascinating realm of black holes, this episode promises to ignite your curiosity about the cosmos. Key topics include: - Chris from Exmouth wonders if moons can have atmospheres and if they can share these with their parent planets, leading to a discussion on Titan and Pluto's unique characteristics. - An anonymous listener poses a thought-provoking question about 'secret astronomy' and the potential for military satellite technology to advance our understanding of the universe. - Fenton from Minnesota asks about the likelihood of rocky planets existing in solar systems with hot Jupiters, prompting a discussion on planetary migration and the diversity of solar systems. - Ed raises a classic black hole question regarding the merger of black holes and the concept of mass escaping, leading to an exploration of gravitational waves and their implications. Join Andrew and Fred Watson as they navigate these fascinating topics, providing insights and sparking further exploration into the wonders of space. 00:00 01:18 04:13 05:37 11:35 16:34 20:35 27:11 31:31 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

    Exploring Moons with Atmospheres, Hot Jupiters, and the Mysteries of Black Holes

  3. 13 Aug

    The Galaxy’s Sugary Center Could Change How Life Began

    This episode covers three very different astronomy stories and then moves into a lively Q&A with listener questions. Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson discuss a possible sugary molecule in the center of the Milky Way, the risk lunar landers may contaminate ice that could preserve clues to life’s origins, and a new way to track lost dogs using satellite connectivity. The second half of the episode answers questions about moons with atmospheres, secret astronomy, hot Jupiters, and black hole mergers. Key topics In this episode, Fred Watson explains an update from Peter Verweyen on MOND, now referred to as Aether Scalar Tensor Theory, and how it relates to dark matter and dark energy debates. We discuss the detection of erythrulose, a sugar molecule found in interstellar gas clouds near the center of the Milky Way, and why this matters for prebiotic chemistry. Fred describes how molecules like sugar can form in cold molecular clouds before stars and planets exist, making some ingredients for life surprisingly common. We discuss a new study warning that rocket exhaust from future lunar landings could contaminate ice in permanently shadowed craters at the Moon’s south pole. The Moon’s polar ice may contain ancient prebiotic molecules delivered by comets, asteroids, and dust, making it a possible time capsule for the chemistry that led to life. We discuss the practical and ethical problem that landers have to use rocket engines, and those exhaust plumes may spread methane and other organics across the lunar surface very quickly. Fred shares how satellite-based direct-to-cell or direct-to-mobile systems could help locate lost dogs in remote places without cell coverage. We discuss how this kind of tracking builds on existing GPS pet trackers, and how it could be useful in wilderness areas, while also noting the limits and concerns in national parks. Timestamps (00:00) Start of the episode and what’s coming up (03:12) MOND update and the new AEST name (07:10) A sugary molecule in the center of our galaxy (09:51) Why sugar can form in deep space before stars exist (12:24) Why lunar landings could contaminate the Moon’s ice (14:54) The Moon as a time capsule for prebiotic molecules (16:24) Methane exhaust and rapid contamination risk (18:37) Should the Moon be protected like a national park? (20:28) Satellite tracking for lost dogs in remote areas (24:52) Direct-to-mobile satellite technology explained (25:44) The Judas goat program and invasive species control Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

    The Galaxy’s Sugary Center Could Change How Life Began

  4. 10 Aug

    Cosmic Queries: Understanding Black Holes, Galactic Centres, and Mars Days

    In this engaging Q&A episode of Space Nuts, join host Andrew Dunkley and astronomer Fred Watson Watson as they tackle a variety of fascinating questions from listeners. From the peculiarities of Martian days to the mysteries of black holes and the galactic centre, this episode is filled with enlightening discussions that are sure to spark curiosity about the cosmos. In this episode: - John asks about the implications of Mars' longer day length on human biology and potential adaptations for future colonists. - Dan inquires about the growth of black holes, exploring how quickly they can develop into supermassive entities and what happens when there’s nothing left to consume. - Young Thomas, just 11 years old, poses several intriguing questions about the galactic centre, including whether it can swallow all stars and planets in the galaxy, and the limits of a black hole's gravitational reach. - Paul reflects on historical discoveries in astronomy, specifically how Harlow Shapley determined our Sun's position within the Milky Way, challenging the long-held belief that it was at the centre. Join Andrew and Fred Watson as they explore these thought-provoking questions and more, encouraging listeners to continue their journey of exploration and discovery in the universe. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support. (00:00) This is a Q and A edition where we take audience questions (02:16) When and if Mars is populated with humans, how would we work with longer day (08:50) Andrew: How astronauts deal with gravity when they land on Earth (11:47) Dan from the Gold coast has some questions about black holes (12:51) Fred: How fast do black holes grow? Dan asks fundamental astrophysics question (18:17) Fred asks five questions about black holes from Thomas Reid, 11 (22:03) Thomas asks if black holes can swallow up all stars and planets (24:31) Final question comes from Paul from Las Vegas (26:42) It was actually 1919 when that discovery was made (34:24) We continue to receive great questions from great listeners and long may it continue

    Cosmic Queries: Understanding Black Holes, Galactic Centres, and Mars Days

  5. 7 Aug

    The Hidden Impact of Landslides on Pluto’s Surface — What Scientists Are Discovering

    Landslides on Pluto and China's SpaceX-like Rocket Recovery Success Discover the intriguing discovery of landslides on Pluto, explained through recent image analysis from the New Horizons spacecraft, and learn how these features provide clues about the dwarf planet's geological activity. Plus, explore China's recent achievement in rocket recovery, mimicking SpaceX's successful landing techniques with innovative net capture technology, signaling a significant step forward in space debris management and reusability. Fred Watson and Andrew Dunkley discuss recent scientific findings on landslides around Sputnik Planitia on Pluto How climate change on Earth is increasing landslide activity, and how similar processes might be happening on other worlds The significance of the 2015 flyby of Pluto by the New Horizons spacecraft and what it revealed about planetary geology Details of China's recent successful rocket booster recovery using a net and its potential impact on space launch economics Comparison between China's new net capture method and SpaceX's chopsticks system for booster recovery The rapid advancement of Chinese space capabilities, including lunar and space station missions The broader context of international space race dynamics and the race to return humans to the Moon UAP Study Group Led by Avi Loeb and the Search for Extraterrestrial Phenomena Get an inside look at the White House-formed UAP science advisory council led by Harvard's Avi Loeb, emphasizing scientific rigor in studying unidentified anomalous phenomena. The discussion covers the composition of the council, the importance of unbiased research, and the challenges of interpreting mysterious aerial objects observed over the years. The formation and purpose of the UAP Science Advisory Council, chaired by Avi Loeb The diverse backgrounds of experts involved, including physicists, military personnel, computer scientists, and psychologists How modern technology and data are transforming the study of UAPs, with government and military reports analyzed over decades The debate over the nature of UAPs: natural phenomena, advanced human technology, or potential extraterrestrial origins The cultural and political implications of gaps in understanding these phenomena and the importance of scientific methodology Reader comments reflecting skepticism and intrigue about the investigations and the sensationalism surrounding UAP research Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

    The Hidden Impact of Landslides on Pluto’s Surface — What Scientists Are Discovering

  6. 4 Aug

    From Dark Matter to Dormant Comets: Your Astronomy Questions Answered

    In this enlightening Q&A episode of Space Nuts, join host Andrew Dunkley and astronomer Fred Watson Watson as they field a range of intriguing questions from listeners. From the hypothetical concept of dark matter stars to the mysteries of dormant comets and the mechanics of gravitational slingshots, this episode is packed with engaging discussions that spark curiosity in the cosmos. In this episode: - An exploration of dark matter stars: What are they, and how could they hypothetically shine without fusion? - Understanding dormant comets: What defines them, and how can we identify these ancient celestial bodies? - The mechanics behind gravitational slingshots: How do spacecraft gain speed from planetary gravity, and what role does the planet's rotation play? - The rise of smart telescopes: Are these automated devices a boon for budding astronomers, or do they undermine traditional astrophotography? - Personal experiences with smart telescopes and their impact on learning and engagement in astronomy. Resources & Links: - [Dark Matter and Dark Energy Overview](NASA) - Insights into these elusive components of the universe. - [NASA's Comet Research](NASA Comet Missions) - Discoveries and ongoing studies of comets in our solar system. - [Gravitational Slingshots Explained](NASA's Gravitational Assist) - How spacecraft use gravity to navigate the solar system efficiently. Join Andrew and Fred Watson as they unravel the complexities of space science, encouraging listeners to explore the universe and engage with the wonders of astronomy. Don't forget to submit your questions for future episodes! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support. (00:00) This is Space Nuts and we've got questions from our audience (01:57) Frederick: Greens Goddess started following me some time ago (02:47) Casey from Colorado says dark matter stars could be incredibly bright (09:13) Our next question comes from Michael about dark matter (10:27) What's a dormant comet and how do you detect them (16:28) Just wondering if you could explain the orbital mechanics behind Slingshots (22:32) Smart telescopes allow beginners to dive straight into astrophotography (28:56) Jason: Is there a privacy infringement there? Maybe, yeah (30:03) Astronomer Fred Watson answers your Space Nuts questions (32:16) Space Nick Nuts podcast available at Apple Podcasts and Spotify

    From Dark Matter to Dormant Comets: Your Astronomy Questions Answered

  7. 1 Aug

    SpaceX Tests Space-Ready Nuclear Power Using Tritium-Driven CubeSat

    Sponsor Link: NordVPN - Safeguard your online activity with our exclusive offer for Space Nuts listeners. Visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts for details. From SpaceX Nuclear Experiments to Galactic Discoveries Join host Andrew Dunkley and astronomer Fred Watson as they explore some of the most fascinating topics in space science, from innovative nuclear power tests in space to the expanding boundaries of our galaxy. Whether you're an astrophotography enthusiast or a space policy advocate, this episode delivers insights that broaden your cosmic perspective. In this episode: SpaceX's recent CubeSat launch featuring a tritium-based nuclear power source for space applications The potential and safety considerations of nuclear energy in space missions The possibility of nuclear weapons detection in space using neutron sensors and passive radiation monitoring The intriguing hypothesis of dark matter stars and their potential signatures The mystery surrounding Earth's dust origins—cosmic spherules and their unknown sources New research indicating our galaxy's spiral arms are about 10% longer than previous estimates, based on light echoes from gamma ray bursts The rise of smart telescopes and their role in making astrophotography more accessible for amateurs Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction and overview of today's headlines (02:00) SpaceX's CubeSat with tritium power source—what's happening? (04:33) Nuclear power in space: Safety and future applications (11:03) Detecting nuclear weapons in space: Challenges and innovations (22:45) Earth's dust origins: Micro-meteorites and cosmic spherules explained Resources & Links: SpaceX's CubeSat nitrogen launch story Beta-voltaic nuclear power technology NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory Universe Today article on Milky Way mapping James Webb Space Telescope and dark matter research Science Advances publication on Earth's micrometeorites Connect with Fred Watson: LinkedIn Twitter Enjoying the show? Support us on Patreon and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Thanks for tuning in and keep looking up! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

    SpaceX Tests Space-Ready Nuclear Power Using Tritium-Driven CubeSat

  8. 27 July

    The Cosmic Q&A: Redshift, Dark Matter & the Shape of the Universe

    Sponsor Link: NordVPN - Protect your online privacy with our special offer for Space Nuts listeners. Visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts for details. In this engaging Q&A episode of Space Nuts, join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson as they tackle a variety of intriguing questions from listeners. From the mysteries of redshift and the perplexing concept of dark photons to the vastness of deep space astronomy and the ongoing expansion of the universe, this episode is brimming with thought-provoking insights and scientific discussion. In this episode: - Understanding redshift: What does it mean for the energy of light from distant galaxies, and how does it relate to the universe's expansion? - A deep dive into dark photons: What are they, and how might they help explain dark matter and dark energy? - Clarifying deep space astronomy: Why do we observe light from distant galaxies as it was billions of years ago, and how does this relate to our understanding of cosmic history? - Exploring the universe's expansion: What is it expanding into, and what shapes might it take? - The implications of cosmic observations for our understanding of the universe's structure and evolution. Resources & Links: - [NASA's Cosmic Microwave Background](https://map.gsfc.nasa.gov/universe/uni_cmb.html) - Understanding the remnants of the Big Bang. - [Large Hadron Collider](https://home.cern) - The world's largest particle physics laboratory. - [Dark Matter and Dark Energy Overview](https://www.nasa.gov/feature/dark-energy-and-dark-matter) - Insights from NASA on these enigmatic components of the universe. Join Andrew and Fred Watson as they navigate the complexities of space science, encouraging curiosity and exploration of the cosmos. Don't forget to send in your questions for future episodes! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support. (00:00) This is a Q and A edition of Space Nuts (01:14) Question from Roger: Does red shift of galaxies contribute to universe expansion (07:53) Roger Stern: Well, generally speaking, you do get alternative views on this (08:33) Fred Watson uses term dark photon to describe hypothetical dark particles (13:29) Fred: I still can't get my head around deep space astronomy (22:03) If the universe is expanding, what is it expanding into (28:08) If you have questions for Space Nuts, please send them via email

    The Cosmic Q&A: Redshift, Dark Matter & the Shape of the Universe
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5 million downloads and counting90+% Five Star ReviewsHosted by Astronomer At Large, Professor Fred Watson and Sci-Author/Broadcaster Andrew Dunkley660 Episodes and countingVery active (and friendly) listener communityAdvertising Free options available. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

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