SPACE NUTS PREMIUM

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Space Nuts: Astronomy Insights & Cosmic Discoveries

Space Nuts
  • 4.8 (218)
  • ASTRONOMY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Join Professor Fred Watson and Sci-Fi Author Andrew Dunkley on Space Nuts as they delve into astronomy, space travel, and cosmic mysteries. Explore groundbreaking discoveries and listener Q&A in captivating discussions. Follow us on social media to engage with our community! 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-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

  1. One Million Satellites, Space Mushrooms & the Search for Martian Shorelines

    4H AGO

    One Million Satellites, Space Mushrooms & the Search for Martian Shorelines

    One Million Satellites, Space Mushrooms, and Martian Shorelines In this action-packed episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson explore a variety of cosmic topics that will leave you both informed and entertained. From the ambitious plan to launch a million satellites to the intriguing discovery of Martian shorelines, this episode covers the latest in space exploration and technology. Episode Highlights: - One Million Satellites: Andrew and Fred dive into the shocking news of SpaceX's application to launch up to one million satellites. They discuss the implications of this vast constellation on astronomical observations and the potential challenges it poses for the night sky. - Good News from Chile: The hosts celebrate the cancellation of a large energy project in Chile that threatened to introduce light pollution near some of the world's most significant telescopes. They commend the decision to prioritize astronomical integrity over industrial development. - Artemis II Launch Delay: Following the latest updates on NASA's Artemis II mission, Andrew and Fred discuss a hydrogen leak that has postponed the launch. They reflect on the importance of safety in space exploration and the challenges faced by the Artemis program. - Space Mushrooms: In a delightful twist, the hosts share a fascinating story about astronauts who grew mushrooms in space and enjoyed them upon their return. They highlight the significance of this experiment for future long-duration space missions and food sustainability. - Perseverance Goes AI: The episode wraps up with a discussion on the Perseverance rover's recent milestone of executing its first autonomous drive on Mars, planned entirely by artificial intelligence. Andrew and Fred explore what this means for future Mars exploration and the potential benefits of AI in space missions. - Martian Shorelines: Finally, the hosts reveal exciting new evidence of ancient shorelines on Mars, suggesting that large bodies of water once existed on the planet. This discovery expands the timeline for potential life on Mars and adds to the growing body of evidence supporting a more Earth-like past for our neighboring planet. For more Space Nuts, including our continuously updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite platform. If you’d like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about. Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

    34 min
  2. One Million Satellites, Space Mushrooms & the Secrets of Martian Shorelines | SN597 & 598

    18H AGO • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    One Million Satellites, Space Mushrooms & the Secrets of Martian Shorelines | SN597 & 598

    One Million Satellites, Space Mushrooms, and the Martian Shoreline In this exciting episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson explore a myriad of captivating topics that span our universe. From the ambitious plans for one million satellites to the delightful discovery of space-grown mushrooms, this episode promises to intrigue and inform. Episode Highlights: - One Million Satellites: Andrew and Fred discuss the recent application by SpaceX to launch a staggering one million satellites into orbit. They delve into the implications of such a massive project for astronomy and the potential challenges it poses to our night sky. - Good News from Chile: The hosts share the positive development regarding a proposed energy project in Chile that was set to disrupt some of the world's most important telescopes. The project's cancellation is a win for astronomers and the preservation of dark skies. - Artemis 2 Delays: The episode covers the latest on the Artemis 2 mission, including a hydrogen leak that has pushed back the launch timeline. Andrew and Fred reflect on the importance of safety in space exploration and the challenges faced by engineers. - Space Mushrooms: In a fascinating segment, the hosts discuss a project that successfully grew mushrooms in space, exploring the implications for future long-duration missions and the nutritional needs of astronauts. - AI in Mars Exploration: The conversation shifts to the Perseverance rover, which has begun using AI to navigate the Martian terrain, marking a significant milestone in autonomous exploration. - Definitive Evidence of a Martian Shoreline: The episode concludes with thrilling news about the discovery of definitive evidence of a shoreline on Mars, suggesting that the planet once had conditions suitable for life. For more Space Nuts, including our continuously updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite platform. If you’d like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about. Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.

    1h 2m
  3. Solar Secrets, Cosmic Siblings & the Quest for Breathable Exoplanets

    4D AGO

    Solar Secrets, Cosmic Siblings & the Quest for Breathable Exoplanets

    Solar Curiosities, Stellar Siblings, and the Quest for Sun Missions In this enlightening episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson dive into a plethora of solar-themed questions submitted by their curious audience. From the intriguing arc of the sun across the sky to the search for the sun's long-lost siblings, this episode is packed with cosmic insights that will leave you pondering the mysteries of our solar system. Episode Highlights: - The Sun's Arc: Andrew kicks off the episode with a question about the sun's arc as observed from the French Alps. Fred explains the celestial mechanics behind this phenomenon, illustrating how our perspective from Earth creates the illusion of an arc due to the spherical nature of the celestial sphere. - Searching for Solar Siblings: Ernie's inquiry about the sun's siblings leads to a fascinating discussion on galactic archaeology. The hosts explore ongoing research aimed at identifying stars with similar chemical compositions to the sun, potentially revealing our sun's stellar family tree. - Close Encounters with the Sun: Mark's question about missions to the sun sparks an exploration of the Parker Solar Probe, which has been gathering invaluable data by flying close to the sun. Andrew and Fred discuss the probe's findings and the various other missions dedicated to studying our star. - Exoplanetary Possibilities: Martin shares his sci-fi aspirations and questions the potential for breathable atmospheres on exoplanets. The hosts reflect on recent discoveries of Earth-sized exoplanets and the challenges of confirming their atmospheres, while also encouraging Martin's creative writing endeavors. For more Space Nuts, including our continuously updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite platform. If you’d like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about. Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

    32 min
  4. Challenger's Legacy, Cosmic Moons & the Mystery of Rapid Black Hole Growth

    6D AGO

    Challenger's Legacy, Cosmic Moons & the Mystery of Rapid Black Hole Growth

    Challenger Remembrance, Australian of the Year, and the Mystery of Massive Moons In this poignant episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson reflect on the 40th anniversary of the Challenger space shuttle disaster, sharing their memories and insights about this tragic event. They also celebrate the announcement of the Australian of the Year and delve into intriguing discussions about the definition of moons and the rapid growth of black holes. Episode Highlights: - Challenger Space Shuttle Disaster: Andrew and Fred discuss the Challenger disaster of 1986, revisiting the events leading to the tragic explosion and the lessons learned from this pivotal moment in space history. They reflect on the human cost and the impact it had on the space program. - Australian of the Year: The hosts celebrate the recognition of Catherine Bennell Pegg, an Australian astronaut and Director of Space Technology at the Australian Space Agency, as the Australian of the Year. They discuss her contributions to space science and her role in inspiring future generations. - Defining a Moon: Andrew and Fred explore a recent study that challenges our understanding of what constitutes a moon. They discuss the discovery of a massive potential moon orbiting a gas giant and the implications for our definitions in astronomy. - The Rapid Growth of Black Holes: The episode concludes with a fascinating examination of how black holes can grow rapidly in chaotic conditions, as discussed in recent research. The hosts analyze the findings and what they mean for our understanding of the universe. For more Space Nuts, including our continuously updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite platform. If you’d like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about. Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

    36 min
  5. Challenger's Legacy, Australian Astronauts & the Enigma of Exomoons: SN595 & 596

    6D AGO • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    Challenger's Legacy, Australian Astronauts & the Enigma of Exomoons: SN595 & 596

    Challenger Disaster Reflection, Australian of the Year, and Cosmic Discoveries In this poignant episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson take a reflective look at the 40th anniversary of the Challenger space shuttle disaster while also celebrating the announcement of the Australian of the Year. Join them as they discuss the significance of defining moons, the rapid growth of black holes, and the intriguing implications of recent astronomical discoveries. Episode Highlights: - Challenger Disaster Remembrance: Andrew and Fred delve into the tragic events of January 28, 1986, recounting the launch of the Challenger space shuttle and its catastrophic failure. They explore the causes of the disaster, including the infamous O-ring failure, and reflect on the impact it had on space exploration. - Australian of the Year: The hosts celebrate the recognition of Australian astronaut Catherine Bennell Pegg, who has been awarded the prestigious title. They discuss her contributions to the Australian Space Agency and her role as a STEM ambassador, inspiring the next generation of scientists and explorers. - Defining a Moon: A recent study raises questions about the definition of a moon, as astronomers observe a massive exomoon candidate orbiting a gas giant. Andrew and Fred debate the implications of such a discovery and what it means for our understanding of celestial bodies. - Rapid Growth of Black Holes: The episode concludes with a discussion on new research suggesting that supermassive black holes formed much faster in the early universe than previously thought. The hosts explore the chaotic conditions that may have allowed these black holes to grow at unprecedented rates. For more Space Nuts, including our continuously updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite platform. If you’d like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about. Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.

    1h 7m
  6. Black Hole Temperatures, Cosmic Mapping & the Mystery of Dark Matter| Q&A

    JAN 26

    Black Hole Temperatures, Cosmic Mapping & the Mystery of Dark Matter| Q&A

    Sponsor Link: This episode is brought to you with the support of NordVPN. When you really need to do something about your online privacy, go with the best...NordVPN. Get our extra 4 months free offer by visiting Nordvpn.com/spacenuts Temperature of Black Holes, Cosmic Mapping, and the Nature of Space In this thought-provoking episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson tackle some of the most intriguing questions from their audience. Join them as they delve into the chilling temperatures of black holes, the expansive mapping of the universe by cutting-edge telescopes, and the enigmatic nature of space itself. Episode Highlights: - The Temperature of Black Holes: Andrew and Fred discuss Casey's question regarding the temperature of black holes. They explore the stark contrast between the scorching accretion disks and the surprisingly frigid temperatures within the event horizons, shedding light on the complexities of black hole physics. - Mapping the Universe: Eli's inquiry about the James Webb and Vera Rubin telescopes leads to a fascinating discussion on how much of the universe has been mapped and what we can expect in the coming decade. The hosts highlight the capabilities of these telescopes and the potential discoveries that await. - The Emptiness of Space: Robert poses a thought-provoking question about the nature of space and the Higgs boson. Andrew and Fred unravel the concept of the Higgs field, discussing its implications for our understanding of the universe and whether space is truly empty or filled with these elusive particles. - The Impact of Dark Matter and Energy: Rennie challenges the hosts to consider how discovering the true nature of dark matter and dark energy might affect life on Earth. Andrew and Fred reflect on the long-term benefits of such knowledge, drawing parallels to historical scientific advancements. For more Space Nuts, including our continuously updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite platform. If you’d like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about. Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

    33 min
  7. Artemis 2 Progress, Iron Bars in Space & Life's Deadly Origins

    JAN 23

    Artemis 2 Progress, Iron Bars in Space & Life's Deadly Origins

    Sponsor Link: This episode is brought to you with the support of NordVPN. When you really need to do something about your online privacy, go with the best...NordVPN. Get our extra 4 months free offer by visiting Nordvpn.com/spacenuts Artemis 2 Updates, Cosmic Iron Bars, and the Role of Hydrogen Cyanide in Life's Origins In this exciting episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson delve into the latest developments in space exploration and cosmic phenomena. Join them as they discuss the progress of the Artemis 2 mission, the discovery of a mysterious iron bar in the Ring Nebula, and the intriguing role of hydrogen cyanide in the potential origins of life. Episode Highlights: - Artemis 2 Progress: Andrew and Fred provide an update on the Artemis 2 mission, which recently moved to launch pad 39B at Cape Canaveral. They discuss the upcoming wet dress rehearsal and the significance of this mission as a precursor to future lunar explorations. - The Iron Bar Mystery: The hosts explore a fascinating discovery in the Ring Nebula, where scientists have identified a linear structure made of highly ionized iron gas. They discuss its potential origins and what this could mean for our understanding of planetary nebulae. - Hydrogen Cyanide and Life: Andrew and Fred examine a study suggesting that hydrogen cyanide, often seen as a deadly substance, may play a crucial role in the formation of prebiotic molecules. They ponder the implications for life on other celestial bodies, such as Titan. For more Space Nuts, including our continuously updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite platform. If you’d like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about. Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

    36 min
  8. Artemis 3 Countdown: Iron Bars in Space & the Deadly Origins of Life| SN593 & 594

    JAN 22 • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    Artemis 3 Countdown: Iron Bars in Space & the Deadly Origins of Life| SN593 & 594

    Artemis 2 Progress, Mysterious Iron Bar, and the Role of Hydrogen Cyanide in Life's Origins In this exciting episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson explore the latest developments in space science and astronomy. From the promising advancements of the Artemis 2 mission to the discovery of an enigmatic iron bar in the Ring Nebula, this episode is packed with intriguing insights. Additionally, the hosts delve into the surprising role of hydrogen cyanide in the origins of life, challenging our understanding of what constitutes a habitable environment. Episode Highlights: - Artemis 2 Update: Andrew and Fred discuss the latest progress on the Artemis 2 mission, including the successful transportation of the Orion capsule to Launchpad 39B and the upcoming wet dress rehearsal that will set the stage for this historic lunar mission. - The Iron Bar Mystery: The hosts examine a fascinating discovery in the Ring Nebula, where scientists have identified a linear structure made of highly ionized iron gas, raising questions about its origin and the processes at play in this planetary nebula. - Hydrogen Cyanide and Life's Origins: A discussion on the dual nature of hydrogen cyanide, a deadly molecule present in space, and its potential role in the formation of prebiotic molecules, suggesting that life could arise in environments previously deemed inhospitable. For more Space Nuts, including our continuously updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, X, YouTube Music Music, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite platform. If you’d like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about. Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.

    1h 5m
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4.8
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Join Professor Fred Watson and Sci-Fi Author Andrew Dunkley on Space Nuts as they delve into astronomy, space travel, and cosmic mysteries. Explore groundbreaking discoveries and listener Q&A in captivating discussions. Follow us on social media to engage with our community! 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-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

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