413 episodes

Join Professor Fred Watson, world-renowned Astronomer at Large, and Sci-Fi Author and Broadcaster Andrew Dunkley, on their captivating podcast, Space Nuts. Dive into the vast universe of space, astronomy and astrophysics as they discuss the latest news, exciting space travel adventures, groundbreaking discoveries, and unravel the enduring mysteries of the cosmos. This engaging series offers a unique blend of expert insights and imaginative storytelling and listener input, making it a must-listen for space enthusiasts and science fiction fans alike.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts--2631155/support.

Space Nuts Space Nuts

    • Science
    • 4.8 • 189 Ratings

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Join Professor Fred Watson, world-renowned Astronomer at Large, and Sci-Fi Author and Broadcaster Andrew Dunkley, on their captivating podcast, Space Nuts. Dive into the vast universe of space, astronomy and astrophysics as they discuss the latest news, exciting space travel adventures, groundbreaking discoveries, and unravel the enduring mysteries of the cosmos. This engaging series offers a unique blend of expert insights and imaginative storytelling and listener input, making it a must-listen for space enthusiasts and science fiction fans alike.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts--2631155/support.

Listen on Apple Podcasts
Requires subscription and macOS 11.4 or higher

    #400: Big Bang Echoes & Eternal Suns: Probing Gravitational Waves and Immortal Earth

    #400: Big Bang Echoes & Eternal Suns: Probing Gravitational Waves and Immortal Earth

    Prepare to have your curiosity catapulted to cosmic proportions in this enthralling Q&A edition of Space Nuts, where our intrepid hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson delve into the gravitational enigmas and hypotheticals of the universe.
    Firstly, Bo from Melbourne brings us a mind-bending question about the Big Bang and gravitational waves. Could the universe's colossal birth have sent ripples through the fabric of spacetime? Fred unpacks the complexities of detecting such ancient cosmic echoes and explores the tantalizing links to the cosmic microwave background radiation.
    Next, Rennie from sunny West Hills, California, presents a tantalizing 'what if' scenario: What if the Sun never died? Would Earth eventually succumb to its own demise? Our dynamic duo contemplates the slow dance of celestial mechanics, the potential for human adaptability, and the intriguing future of a planet with a 42-day-long day.
    Lastly, Daniel from Adelaide ponders a cosmic conundrum where time and dark energy might intertwine. As he questions the nature of the universe's accelerated expansion and the role of dark energy, Fred provides a nuanced response that sifts through the layers of cosmological understanding.
    With each query, Andrew and Fred traverse the vastness of space, time, and possibility, offering insights that will leave you pondering long after the episode ends. So join us on this intergalactic expedition, and don't forget to submit your own questions to Space Nuts for a chance to be featured in future Q&A escapades!
    For more space-time adventures and to satisfy your astronomical curiosity, subscribe to Space Nuts on your preferred podcast platform. Until we chart our next course through the cosmos, keep your eyes to the skies and your wonder boundless!
    Episode Chapters:
    (00:00) Welcome to Space Nuts Q&A with Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson
    ((01:08) Did the big Bang produce gravitational waves or echoes
    (08:47) Would the earth eventually erode, decay and die on its own
    (13:27) What if time and dark energy were actually the same thing
    (14:35) Daniel Winfred: Is time and dark energy the same thing
    (18:07) How to submit your questions and wrap-up

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts--2631155/support.

    • 19 min
    #399: Celestial Collisions & the Art of Extinguishing Stars: Probing Planetary Impacts and Fire Safety in Orbit

    #399: Celestial Collisions & the Art of Extinguishing Stars: Probing Planetary Impacts and Fire Safety in Orbit

    Strap in for a fiery cosmic conundrum and a celestial mystery spanning centuries in this latest episode of Space Nuts! Host Andrew Dunkley and the ever-knowledgeable Professor Fred Watson ignite a discussion on the dangers of fire in space. With a look back at some of history's most harrowing space blazes, they delve into NASA's sapphire experiments, which test the flammability of spacecraft materials to enhance future mission safety. From the tragic Apollo 1 disaster to a perilous inferno aboard the Mir space station, learn how these pivotal events are shaping the protocols that keep astronauts safe among the stars.
    Then, shift your gaze to a distant starlight drama as our Space Nuts duo investigates a puzzling stellar eclipse lasting 500 days. Could the dimming of a young, sun-like star be the aftermath of a colossal planetary collision? With the help of archival data from NASA's WISE mission, scientists have pieced together a story of cosmic destruction and creation. Discover how two exoplanets, each several times the mass of Earth, may have smashed together, leaving behind a glowing cloud of debris and the potential birth of new moons or even more planets.
    This episode is a testament to the relentless pursuit of knowledge and the ingenious methods astronomers use to unravel the secrets of the universe, even from 1850 light-years away. So, prepare for a journey that explores both the immediate concerns within our spacecraft and the cataclysmic events of distant solar systems.
    For a deeper dive into the universe's most burning questions and enigmatic events, subscribe to Space Nuts on your favorite podcast platform. And remember, the Q&A session now gets its spotlight in a dedicated episode every Monday, ensuring you get your full dose of cosmic curiosity. Until next time, keep your eyes to the cosmos and your mind open to the wonders it holds!
    Episode Chapters
    (00:00) Welcome to Space Nuts: Astronomy and Space Science
    (02:22) Fires in space - A look at NASA's sapphire experiments
    (12:45) The 500-day stellar eclipse and planetary collision aftermath
    (24:10) The future of space safety and celestial observations
    (29:55) Closing thoughts and the new Space Nuts Q&A episodes
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts--2631155/support.
    For more Space Nuts visit www.spacenuts.io or our HQ at www.bitesz.com

    • 29 min
    #399-400 Premium: Infernos in Orbit and Cosmic Collisions: Unveiling the Secrets of Space Fires and Ancient Impacts

    #399-400 Premium: Infernos in Orbit and Cosmic Collisions: Unveiling the Secrets of Space Fires and Ancient Impacts

    **Hosts:** Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson
    ---
    **Episode Summary:**
    Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson for a fiery discussion on the latest episode of Space Nuts. Amidst the cosmic wonders, they tackle the unnerving topic of fires on spacecraft, delving into NASA's experiments aimed at enhancing mission safety. Plus, they explore the intriguing aftermath of a planetary collision, shedding light on a glowing space cloud that might hold secrets to the violent early days of planetary formation.

    ---
    **Featured Topics:**
    1. **Fires on Spacecraft:** A hot topic as Andrew and Fred examine NASA's SAFIRE experiments, which aim to understand fire behavior in the microgravity of space, potentially improving safety protocols for future missions.
    2. **Aftermath of a Planetary Collision:** The duo discusses the discovery of a brightening and dimming star, theorized to be the result of two planets colliding, offering a glimpse into the tumultuous formation period of planetary systems.

    ---
    **Notable Quotes:**
    - "Stars may not be on fire, but the topic of fires in space definitely ignites our curiosity." - Andrew Dunkley
    - "Planetary collisions are not just the stuff of science fiction; they're a reality that shapes the universe as we know it." - Professor Fred Watson

    ---
    **Additional Information:**
    For those who seek the thrill of the cosmos, make sure to visit Space Nuts at spacenuts.io for more episodes. Join the conversation with fellow space enthusiasts in the Space Nuts podcast group on Facebook, and keep up with the latest episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeartRadio.

    ---
    **Next Episode Preview:**
    Stay tuned for the upcoming episode where Andrew and Fred will dive into new cosmic mysteries and share the latest advancements in space science and technology. Prepare for a journey that stretches from the theoretical frontiers to the practical implications of our space-faring endeavors.

    ---
    **Closing Remarks:**
    As we wrap up this stellar session, we're reminded that space is not just about the vast expanse above us, but also about the intricate dance of physics and chemistry that occurs within it. Until next time, this is Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson from Space Nuts, signing off with a reminder to keep your eyes to the skies and your mind open to the wonders of the universe.

    ---
    **Host Sign-off:** Andrew Dunkley: "Remember, space is not only about discovery, it's about understanding and safety." Professor Fred Watson: "Farewell, friends. May your thoughts be as boundless as the cosmos we explore."
    ---
    **Episode Chapters**
    (00:00) Introduction to Space Nuts with Andrew and Fred
    (01:45) Fires on spacecraft and NASA's SAFIRE experiments
    (07:30) A glowing space cloud: evidence of an ancient planetary collision?
    (13:50) The potential future of space exploration and safety measures
    (18:25) Q&A Segment: Gravitational waves from the Big Bang
    (22:34) Q&A Segment: The fate of Earth if the Sun never died
    (26:10) Q&A Segment: The relationship between time and dark energy
    For more Space Nuts, subscribe to our newsletter, and to hear more podcasts, visit spacenuts.io for the details.

    #398: Apollo Queries & the Chill of the Cosmos: Unraveling Spacecraft Skips and Absolute Zero

    #398: Apollo Queries & the Chill of the Cosmos: Unraveling Spacecraft Skips and Absolute Zero

    Prepare to embark on an interstellar Q&A adventure in this enlightening episode of Space Nuts, where your cosmic guides, Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson, tackle the perplexing questions from the far reaches of our listeners' imaginations. 
    First, we join Ash from Brisbane as he ponders the enigmatic mechanics of spacecraft reentry. Using Apollo 13's nail-biting descent as a springboard, Fred demystifies the concept of 'bouncing off the atmosphere' and reveals the delicate balance between gravitational pull and atmospheric drag. 
    Next, Darryl from South Australia challenges us with the icy extremes of absolute zero. Why does this ultimate chill exist, and is there a corresponding 'absolute hot'? Fred delves into the physics of temperature and the motion of atoms, shedding light on the limits of the thermal universe and the possibility of an 'absolute heavy' or 'absolute light'. 
    Finally, Alex from London, by way of Indiana, brings us face-to-face with the enigma of dark energy. Is this mysterious force the antithesis of gravity itself? Our hosts explore the repulsive power that's pushing galaxies apart and the ongoing quest to unravel the secrets of the cosmos.
    With each question, Andrew and Fred illuminate the wonders and oddities of the universe, blending humor with profound scientific insight. So, join the Space Nuts community, submit your own cosmic queries, and keep the spirit of discovery alive!
    For more space-time odysseys and answers to your astronomical inquiries, subscribe to Space Nuts on your favorite podcast platform. Until we venture again into the vast unknown, keep your gaze to the stars and your curiosity alight!
    Episode Chapters
    (00:00) Welcome to Space Nuts: Astronomy and Space Science
    (02:10) Ash from Brisbane questions the 'bouncing off the atmosphere' during spacecraft reentry
    (10:45) Darryl from South Australia inquires about absolute zero and the limits of temperature
    (17:30) Alex from London asks if dark energy could be considered antigravity
    (25:15) Closing remarks and how to submit your questions to Space Nuts

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts--2631155/support.
    For more Space Nuts visit www.spacenuts.io or our HQ at www.bitesz.com

    • 20 min
    #397: Venusian Shadows & Sulphur Scavenger Hunt: Decoding the Puzzles of Space Chemistry

    #397: Venusian Shadows & Sulphur Scavenger Hunt: Decoding the Puzzles of Space Chemistry

    This episode of Space Nuts is brought to you with the support of NordVPN....to get the special Space Nuts deal visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts

    Embark on a celestial detective story in this latest episode of Space Nuts, as your guides through the galaxy, Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson, unravel the curious case of Venus's quasi-moon. The tale begins with an asteroid that's not quite what it seems, orbiting Venus in a way that defies expectations. The mystery deepens with the asteroid's peculiar name, which comes with its own humorous backstory involving a podcast, a bedroom wall poster, and a case of mistaken identity.
    Then, shift gears and join the hunt for the universe's elusive sulfur. Why does this common element appear to be hiding in plain sight? The answer lies in the heart of the Milky Way, where a groundbreaking study using the Very Large Telescope has finally solved a long-standing astronomical puzzle. Discover how improved data quality has brought the cosmic abundance of sulfur into clear view, and why planetary nebulae, the final breaths of sun-like stars, are key to this revelation.
    With Fred on the mend from a pesky tick bite, the dynamic duo delves into the intricacies of celestial mechanics, the naming conventions of space objects, and the importance of sulfur in both the cosmos and our everyday lives. Don't miss this episode of Space Nuts, where the wonders of the universe are made accessible, the seemingly mundane becomes fascinating, and every question leads to a deeper appreciation of the cosmos.
    To continue your journey through the stars and uncover more secrets of the universe, subscribe to Space Nuts on your preferred podcast platform. Until we embark on our next stellar voyage, keep your eyes on the skies and your curiosity unbounded.
    Episode Chapters
    (00:00) Welcome to Space Nuts: Astronomy and Space Science
    (01:45) The story of Venus's quasi-moon and its mistaken identity
    (07:10) Andrew and Fred discuss the hunt for missing sulfur in the universe
    (15:23) Planetary nebulae and the solving of the sulfur anomaly
    (22:45) The broad applications of sulfur, from volcanoes to industry
    (24:30) Wrapping up and a reminder about Space Nuts Q&A

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts--2631155/support.

    • 32 min
    #397-398 Premium: Venusian Shadows & Sulfur Mysteries: Unveiling the Quasi-Moon Conundrum & the Cosmic Chemical Puzzle

    #397-398 Premium: Venusian Shadows & Sulfur Mysteries: Unveiling the Quasi-Moon Conundrum & the Cosmic Chemical Puzzle

    Prepare for an astronomical enigma as we unravel the celestial secrets of Space Nuts! In this episode, your hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson delve into the peculiar tale of a quasi-moon that's not quite mooning Venus. Discover the quirky story of 2002 VE68, an asteroid with a banana-shaped orbit and a name that's caused quite the confusion. But the mystery doesn't end there—where has all the sulfur in the universe gone? Join us as we sift through the cosmos to find the missing element that's been hiding in plain sight.

    As we tackle your burning questions, Ash from Brisbane ponders the perplexing concept of spacecraft 'bouncing' off Earth's atmosphere—could this really happen, or is it just Hollywood fiction? Darryl, a devoted patron from South Australia, probes the limits of temperature, pondering the existence of absolute hot, heavy, and light. And Alex, an American in London, seeks to understand the elusive nature of dark energy—is it truly the antigravity force that seems to be repelling galaxies apart?

    This episode is a cosmic concoction of humor, baffling anomalies, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. So, fasten your seatbelts for a journey through the wonders and oddities of our universe. And remember, we're always eager to hear your questions—they might just spark our next interstellar discussion!

    For the latest cosmic revelations and answers to your space queries, subscribe to Space Nuts on your preferred podcast platform. Until we venture again into the vast expanse, keep your eyes on the skies and your curiosity insatiable!

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts--2631155/support.

    Show notes created by https://headliner.app

    ---

    📋 Episode Chapters

    (00:00) This is Space nuts, where we talk astronomy and space science
    (02:45) A seemingly innocent asteroid turns out to be orbiting Venus
    (11:38) First quasi moon that's stuck itself to Venus
    (16:44) Fred Step says scientists are hunting for sulphur in the universe
    (28:51) Scientists have solved planetary Nebula, sulphur anomaly
    (29:27) QA is where we take questions from the audience
    (30:05) Ash from Brisbane raises question about bouncing off the atmosphere during reentry
    (38:52) Why does absolute zero exist in a universe of such extremes and vast emptiness
    (42:06) Question from Alex asks is dark energy anti gravity

Customer Reviews

4.8 out of 5
189 Ratings

189 Ratings

conaninspace ,

Legal Earthling

This wondrous podcast reminds me of the news on my Grezianik-fouty back home. I miss home but, to my surprise, applying for a “green card” was simply a matter of admitting I arrived from Enceladus to which my caseworker said “No problem there!” The odd thing is, my card indicates that I’m a native of Spain. Hola!

isksmkdifj ,

Why is THAT the name

Don’t name a podcast that is for kids space 🥜 but besides that it is a pretty good podcast

Devil pony 123456 ,

Love it

Keep up the great work this is so funny and freaky but in a great way!

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