6 episodes
The Celestial Tales Gemma Kerr
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- Science
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4.8 • 5 Ratings
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A podcast where we explore the night sky using mythology and astronomy.
Join me, Gemma Kerr, as I tell the stories that various cultures have linked to the constellations; as well as explaining the science behind the stars!
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Episode 5 - The Longest Night
The Longest Night - Winter Solstice
In this mini episode we explore some of the Yule stories behind Christmas - meeting characters from Pagan, Wiccan, and Norse Mythology.
In the astronomy section of the show, we'll find out what the winter solstice is and why it happens.
Happy Holidays everybody!
Research Survey
The Celestial Tales is part of a research project. For more information, and to get involved (by end of Dec 2021), find the survey here: https://uwe.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cGtfAsWfqsNb9YO
Music
Skye Cuillin by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4371-skye-cuillin
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
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Episode 4 - Constant as the Northern Star
Constant as the Northern Star - Polaris
This time we explore the North Star, Polaris, through a story from Hinduism. We'll meet Dhruva, a young boy whose family troubles will lead him to discover his own power. We'll learn that sometimes the best thing you can do is stay right where you are.
In the astronomy section of the show, we'll find out what's so special (or not?) about Polaris.
Research Survey
The Celestial Tales is part of a research project. For more information, and to get involved (by end of Dec 2021), find the survey here: https://uwe.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cGtfAsWfqsNb9YO
Music
Skye Cuillin by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4371-skye-cuillin
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
Indian Meditation by Liron
Link: https://filmmusic.io/song/7634-indian-meditation
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license -
Episode 3 - Tricks and Treats
Tricks and Treats - Atoq
In a bit of a Halloween special, we explore a 'dark constellation' called Atoq, through a collection of Andean myths surrounding the fox.
We'll meet Fox and watch him try to be taken seriously after a pretty unlucky start. There will be tricks played and treats given, though they might not all work out as expected.
In the astronomy section of the show, we'll find out what exactly a dark constellation is, and what causes it; as well as getting excited over a very cool photograph.
Announcement
The Celestial Tales is part of a research project. For more information, and to get involved, find the survey here: https://uwe.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cGtfAsWfqsNb9YO
Music
Skye Cuillin by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4371-skye-cuillin
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
No Frills Cumbia by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3571-no-frills-cumbia
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
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Episode 2 - Swan Song
Swan Song - Cygnus
In episode 2 of The Celestial Tales, we explore the recognisable constellation of Cygnus through the tale of Orpheus, from Ancient Greek mythology.
We'll join Orpheus on two of his quests as he discovers the power of music and learns that, when a god is giving you instructions that your life depends on, you really should be listening carefully!
We'll discuss just some of the many interesting objects in and around Cygnus, including two very famous asterisms (and get clearer on what asterisms are).
Content warnings:
While nothing is graphic, there are themes of death and grief in this episode - frequently mentioned from 14 minute mark onwards.
Announcement
The Celestial Tales is part of a research project. For more information, and to get involved, find the survey here: https://uwe.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cGtfAsWfqsNb9YO
Music
Skye Cuillin by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4371-skye-cuillin
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
A Lost Map Of A Heaven by Shaoqing "Luna" Li
Link: https://filmmusic.io/song/5070-a-lost-map-of-a-heaven
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license -
Episode 1 - Master of All Trades
Master of All Trades - Orion
In episode 1 of The Celestial Tales, we explore the well-known constellation of Orion through a character from Irish Mythology.
Lugh is a young Irish god ready to find his place in the world - and prove that he has a skill or two up his sleeve.
We talk about some of Orion's most famous features, and begin to explain what fuels them.
Content warnings:
While nothing is graphic, there are occasional violent moments, including violence directed at children.
4:14 - 4:38 - mention of child murder
12:44 - 14:04 - description of battle including death
Announcement
The Celestial Tales is part of a research project. For more information, and to get involved, find the survey here: https://uwe.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cGtfAsWfqsNb9YO
Music
Skye Cuillin by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4371-skye-cuillin
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
Teller of the Tales by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4467-teller-of-the-tales
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
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Welcome to The Celestial Tales
An introduction to The Celestial Tales podcast. Listen to this first to find out what it's all about!
Music:
Skye Cuillin by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4371-skye-cuillin
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license
Customer Reviews
Celestial tales
I gave so enjoyed Gemma’s storytelling and her Celestial Tales have increased my interest in the stars. Thank you Gemma. I have just listened to the tale of ‘Druva’. This had been my favourite she so far as i have an interest in Hinduism. Thanks Gemma. Grandma’s friend.
Gemma i loved the tale of the holly king and oak king. I think this is my favourite so far (and i know i say that every time)! Grandma’s friend
Celestial Tales
This podcast has a great mix of storytelling, humour and facts. Gemma is so easy to listen to and always tells such interesting myths. The real joy for me is the link to astronomy where I get to find out about the stars and space.
Phenomenal Stuff
A delightful mix of storytelling and science, presented beautifully. Gemma is an absolute pro.