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Space Nuts

Space Nuts

Professor Fred Watson and Andrew Dunkley

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.

414 - #403: Stellar Synthesis & Quasar Quests: Crafting Cosmic Particles & Unveiling the Universe's Brightest Beacon
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  • 414 - #403: Stellar Synthesis & Quasar Quests: Crafting Cosmic Particles & Unveiling the Universe's Brightest Beacon

    Prepare for a stellar foray into the frontiers of astrophysics with your seasoned spacefarers, Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson, in this riveting episode of Space Nuts. Today, we're delving into the realm of nuclear alchemy, where scientists have replicated the cosmic crucible of colliding neutron stars right here on Earth. Andrew and Fred unpack the groundbreaking synthesis of new isotopes, previously the exclusive handiwork of the universe's most cataclysmic events. Discover how a platinum beam and a carbon target in the lab have opened a new window into the cosmic generation of elements like gold and silver, and what this means for our understanding of matter's deepest secrets.
    Then, brace for a journey to the edges of space-time, as we shed light on the discovery of the fastest-growing and brightest quasar ever observed. This celestial behemoth, with a black hole 17 billion times the mass of our Sun, is not only a record-breaker but a window into the universe's youthful past, some 12 billion years ago. With a luminosity of 500 trillion suns and an event horizon stretching seven light years, this quasar is a true cosmic titan. Fred and Andrew explore the implications of such discoveries and ponder the evolution of these quasars, which now lie dormant in the current epoch of the universe.
    And lest we forget, the episode is graced with a surprise guest—a goanna in Fred's backyard, reminding us of the enduring connection between Earth's ancient inhabitants and the stars that light our skies.
    So, join us on this intergalactic voyage of discovery, where the wonders never cease, and the universe's secrets are yours to uncover. For the full Space Nuts experience and to keep your cosmic curiosity fueled, subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. And remember, your questions and fascination are the stars that guide our Space Nuts odyssey!
    📋 Episode Chapters
    (00:00) Andrew dunkley: Coming up on this episode of Space nuts is some science
    (01:08) Professor Fred Watson says goannas can do a lot of damage
    (02:32) Scientists have synthesised isotopes created by colliding neutron stars
    (12:20) Professor Andrew Dunkley says neutron star collisions may have created some rare isotopes
    (16:25) Fred says Australian astronomers have found the brightest quasar and possibly a black hole
    (23:16) Quasars are extinct at this point in the age of the universe
    (28:25) Andrew Dunkley: Thanks to Huw not in studio today when AWOL



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

    Thu, 28 Mar 2024
  • 413 - #402: Pergola Projections & Proxima Possibilities: Solar Shields and Exoplanetary Expeditions

    Embark on another cosmic journey with your favorite celestial explorers, Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson, in this insightful Q&A episode of Space Nuts. This time, the mysteries of the outer solar system take center stage as we delve into the elusive Planet Nine. Duncan from Weymouth, Dorset, ponders whether a rogue planet might have once danced through our neighborhood, stirring the orbits of distant objects before continuing on its cosmic path. Could this explain the peculiar movements without the need for a ninth planet?
    Next, Rusty revisits his solar pergola concept, but with a twist. Imagine a constellation of satellites, each casting a penumbral shadow upon Earth, designed to reduce solar exposure by a subtle 2%. With advances in technology, could this be the geoengineering marvel we deploy within a decade to temper our planet's fever?
    David from Seguin, Texas, presents us with a tantalizing "what if": If you could step foot on any exoplanet, which would it be? Andrew and Fred share their interstellar real estate preferences, revealing the allure of Earth-like worlds and the practical considerations of cosmic travel.
    Lastly, we're tackling some homework from our inquisitive listeners. Wayne's curiosity about supernovas and gravitational waves leads to a discussion on cosmic symmetry, while Lee's question about InSight's ability to triangulate Marsquake epicenters unveils the intricate modeling of the Red Planet's inner structure.
    So, fasten your seatbelts for a voyage through the wonders of space science, where questions spark discovery and the universe's secrets are just waiting to be unlocked. Don't forget, your questions might just be the next puzzle piece in our grand cosmic understanding, so keep them coming!
    For more interstellar intrigue and to continue feeding your space curiosity, subscribe to Space Nuts on your preferred podcast platform. Until our next celestial navigation, remember to look up and let your imagination soar through the infinite expanse!
    For more Space Nuts visit www.spacenuts.io  or our HQ at www.bitesz.com.

    (00:00) Andrew Dunkley: This is the separated second half of Space Nuts q&a
    (02:23) Our first question comes from a regular Duncan. Just wondering about planet nine episode
    (03:47) Andrew says rogue planet could be caused by passing star or other interference
    (08:10) The solar system is very difficult to understand without planet nine, says Mike Brown
    (10:26) Rusty suggests solar pergola could help solve climate crisis
    (17:03) Plus it increases our classification as a. Civilization in doing so
    (17:29) What if y'all could step foot on any planet outside our solar system
    (21:34) Whether or not a supernova can cause a gravitational wave was asked recently
    (26:36) Professor Fred Watson and Huw in the studio for Space Nuts podcast

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

    Sun, 24 Mar 2024
  • 412 - #401: Titan's Troubles & UN's Satellite Summits: Life on Ice Moons and Space Traffic Control

    This episode of Space Nuts is brought to you with the support of NordVPN. For our special discount deal and 30 day money back guarantee, visit nordvpn.com/spacenuts ...You'll be glad you did!

    Embark on a cosmic exploration with your favorite interstellar enthusiasts, Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson, in this latest episode of Space Nuts. Today's celestial journey takes us to Saturn's moon, Titan, where new research casts a shadow on the prospects of finding life in its sub-ice oceans. Despite the rich hydrocarbons on Titan's surface, the study by astrobiologist Catherine Neish suggests that the transfer of essential organic materials to the ocean below is far too slow to foster life as we know it. The implications of this finding could extend to other icy moons, potentially dampening hopes for habitability across our solar system.
    Then, we pivot to Earthly matters as we join the United Nations' cosmic conversation. The UN has finally agreed to tackle the burgeoning issue of satellite constellations cluttering our orbit. With over 8,000 satellites circling our planet and plans for many more, astronomers are increasingly concerned about light pollution and radio interference. But can the UN's agenda lead to effective regulation, or will it be a case of too little, too late in the fast-paced space industry?
    From the icy depths of Titan to the crowded skies of Earth, this episode of Space Nuts is a testament to the ever-evolving quest for knowledge and the challenges of preserving our cosmic frontiers. So, sit back, tune in, and let your imagination take flight as we unravel these astronomical enigmas.
    For the full spectrum of space-time adventures and to keep your astronomical curiosity quenched, subscribe to Space Nuts on your preferred podcast platform. And don't forget to tune in to our Space Nuts Q&A episodes every Monday for more cosmic queries and celestial insights. Until next time, keep your eyes to the stars and your passion for discovery burning bright!
    📋 Episode Chapters
    (00:00) Professor Fred Watson joins us on this episode of Space Nuts
    (02:02) New study suggests Titan's subsurface ocean could be right for potential life
    (10:35) There have been speculations that Titan could have a different basis of life
    (13:47) Andrew Dunkley says there will be methane and ethane rainbows on Titan
    (15:32) United nations to meet later this year to discuss concentrations of satellites
    (25:38) Space company SpaceX to deorbit 100 older starlink satellites to reduce satellite interference

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

    Thu, 21 Mar 2024
  • 411 - #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.

    Sun, 17 Mar 2024
  • 410 - #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

    Thu, 14 Mar 2024
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