Embark on an astronomical adventure with Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in the latest episode of Space Nuts, where they celebrate a historic moment for Australia with the announcement of the nation's first female astronaut, Catherine Bennell Pegg. Discover her remarkable journey to the stars and the aspirations she harbors for future Australian spacefarers.
Then, take a volcanic voyage to Jupiter's moon Io with Juno's latest flybys, revealing a lava lake in Loki Patera so vast and smooth it mirrors the gas giant itself. Marvel at the newly dubbed Steeple Mountain, a geological spire that evokes Earth's own gothic cathedrals, and ponder the mysterious forces sculpting Io's tumultuous terrain.
The episode continues to probe the secrets of the Solar System as Juno also sheds light on Jupiter's elusive water content, challenging previous theories about the giant planet's formation. And finally, the duo turns their gaze to Mars, where a new theory suggests that humans may inadvertently be unearthing the Red Planet's methane mysteries with the tread of rovers.
From celebrating trailblazing astronauts to unraveling the enigmas of alien worlds, this episode of Space Nuts is a cosmic journey not to be missed. Tune in for these interstellar stories, and remember to bring your curiosity as we explore the wonders of our universe.
Support the podcast and unlock a universe of knowledge by visiting https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts--2631155/support. Don't forget to subscribe for more deep space discoveries and celestial insights with Space Nuts, where the cosmos is just a play button away. Until our next cosmic rendezvous, keep your eyes to the skies and your questions at the ready.

And for your daily space news fix, check out the team at our sister podcast 'Astronomy Daily the Podcast. Available wherever you get podcasts or stream from the website at www.astronomydaily.io

Journey through the cosmic conundrums and celestial curiosities in this riveting Q&A edition of Space Nuts. Join host Andrew Dunkley and the ever-enlightening Professor Fred Watson as they tackle a smorgasbord of listener questions that will leave you contemplating the vastness of the universe.
First on the docket, Jose from California stirs the space-time pot with a heady question about the nature of black holes and their role in birthing universes. Could the Big Bang have been a supernova from another realm? Is our universe expanding within the event horizon of a colossal black hole? Fred weighs in on these tantalizing theories, sharing insights that may just expand your mind faster than the universe itself.
Next, Alan probes the cosmic forge, wondering how the chaos of supernovae could lead to the concentrated caches of gold and other heavy metals we find on Earth. Fred demystifies the process, explaining how gravity and planet formation turn stellar detritus into the precious lodes we treasure.
Then, Justin from Brisbane ponders the uniqueness of Earth amidst the ever-growing catalog of exoplanets. As we discover more worlds, each more bizarre than the last, could it be that our pale blue dot is truly one of a kind? The discussion delves into the Fermi Paradox and the rarity of life's complex leap from single cells to sentient beings.
Lastly, James presents a duo of hypotheticals that challenge the limits of science fiction and science fact. Can we reverse gravity by reversing time? And could we engineer a magnetosphere on an asteroid like Psyche? Fred's responses to these queries are sure to electrify your imagination.
From the theoretical to the astronomical, this episode of Space Nuts is a cosmic buffet of brain food. Remember to send your own stargazing stumpers and interstellar inquiries via the Space Nuts website, and keep your ears tuned for more galactic greatness. Until next time, let the universe inspire wonder, and keep looking up!
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Prepare for liftoff with Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson on this thrilling installment of Space Nuts, as they recount Fred's astronomical escapades across the US, complete with eclipses, rocket launches, and the unexpected excitement of space junk crashing through a Floridian roof. Fred's journey is a celestial enthusiast's dream, featuring a spectacular total solar eclipse in Texas, a snowy adventure in Canada, and a close encounter with the northern lights.
But the cosmic wonders don't stop there. The duo dives into the discovery of the most massive stellar black hole yet found in our galaxy, a behemoth 33 times the mass of our sun, a mere 2,000 light-years away. This revelation challenges our understanding of stellar evolution and the formation of black holes, leaving astronomers pondering the mysteries of our cosmic backyard.
From the awe-inspiring vastness of black holes to the personal tales of stargazing and aurora hunting, this episode offers a universe of discovery. Don't miss out on the latest astronomical insights and Fred's interstellar journey that's sure to leave you starstruck.
Remember to subscribe and follow Space Nuts for more deep space tales and intergalactic insights. Until next time, keep your eyes on the cosmos and your mind open to the endless possibilities of the universe.
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 Episode Chapters
(00:00) Professor Fred Watson returns from trip to North America fully jet lagged
(02:40) Fred Watson uses his iPhone to take photographs of aurora in Canada
(06:32) Fred Watson went to Houston for the total solar eclipse in 1970
(11:27) Andrew Gannadar watched SpaceX Falcon nine rocket launch from Orlando hotel
(15:34) A gentleman in Florida had something come through his roof
(17:51) Talking about the ISS brings back memories of our 1960s trip to Kennedy
(18:33) Life size replica of Hubble space telescope at Kennedy Space Centre
(22:52) Most massive stellar black hole yet found in our galaxy
(24:27) Scientists detect massive black hole in sky using Gaia mission
(30:29) Andrew Dunkley welcomes Fred Watson back to the Space Nuts podcast

In this episode of Space Nuts Q&A, Andrew and Fred answer questions about supernovae, 3D printed telescopes, the Voyager space probe missions, and the possibility of using particle collision in space. They discuss how supernovae explosions do not blow away the gravitational field and how neutron stars develop as a result. They also provide insights into 3D printed telescopes and suggest that beginners may find it easier to start with an off-the-shelf telescope. They talk about the trajectory and potential fate of the Voyager spacecraft and discuss the challenges of building particle colliders in space. Overall, they provide informative and engaging answers to the audience's questions. Takeaways   Supernovae explosions do not blow away the gravitational field because gravity is associated with mass. The explosion only affects the outer envelope of the star, while the core collapses to become a neutron star. 3D printed telescopes can be a good option for beginners, but it may be easier to start with an off-the-shelf telescope. 3D printed telescopes require more components and may involve more fiddling around. The Voyager spacecraft will continue on their current trajectories and are not expected to pass near any star systems within human lifetimes. However, if they were near enough to Earth, they could be detectable by extraterrestrial intelligence. Building particle colliders in space is challenging due to the need for precise guidance and the high velocities of the particles. It may be more cost-effective and realistic to continue building particle colliders on Earth. The fate of the Voyager spacecraft is uncertain, but they could potentially be captured into orbit around another star or collide with other objects. They will likely outlast our species and continue on their trajectories away from the solar system. Chapters   00:00 Volcanic Features and Pyroclastic Deposits 00:28 Q&A: Supernovas and Neutron Stars 07:03 Q&A: 3D Printable Telescopes 11:07 Q&A: Voyager Space Probe Missions 15:12 Q&A: Particle Collisions and Voyager's Fate

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Embark on a cosmic odyssey with Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson as they unravel the mysteries of the universe's expansion and unearth a colossal Martian secret in this episode of Space Nuts. Dive into the perplexing debate over the universe's expansion rate, as new findings from the James Webb Space Telescope reignite the Hubble tension. With precision cosmology at our fingertips, discover why the universe's growth spurs more questions than answers, leaving us to ponder the potential for undiscovered physics that could reshape our cosmic understanding.
Then, join the expedition to Mars where a hidden giant lay dormant until now. The discovery of a monstrous volcano, nestled in the labyrinthine Noctis Labyrinthus, has scientists buzzing with excitement. Towering over 9,000 meters with a footprint spanning 450 kilometers, this Martian marvel could hold vital clues to the planet's fiery past and icy secrets beneath its surface. As explorers eye this volcanic behemoth as a future landing site, the prospects of unlocking Mars' ancient mysteries have never been more alluring.
From the enigmatic expansion of the cosmos to the volcanic vistas of Mars, this episode is a treasure trove for space enthusiasts and cosmic detectives. Tune in and let your imagination soar to new interstellar heights with Space Nuts. Remember to subscribe and follow us for more celestial tales and astronomical adventures. Until our next galactic gathering, keep your eyes to the skies and your heart in the stars.
🚀 Episode Chapters
(00:00) Andrew Dunkley introduces the cosmic conundrums
(05:12) The Hubble tension and the universe's expansion speed
(11:34) Professor Fred Watson discusses the James Webb Space Telescope's findings
(18:20) Unveiling the newly discovered Martian volcano
(24:45) The potential of Mars' glacial ice and future explorations
(28:57) Wrapping up with a look ahead to Space Nuts Q&A
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Strap in for an astronomical journey as Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson return to answer your burning cosmic questions in this enlightening episode of Space Nuts. Beam up to the cosmos as we tackle the challenges of snapping photos at supersonic speeds with the Breakthrough Starshot project. Viano from Florence brings into focus the hurdles of capturing clear images of distant planets when traveling at a third the speed of light. Could the blur of speed and the distortion of space-time leave us with just a glimpse of Proxima Centauri's secrets?
Next, we delve into the cosmic dance of celestial bodies. Brady from Florida, with a front-row seat to rocket launches, ponders the possibility of a moon having its own moon. Could a satellite's satellite exist, or are the gravitational tugs within our solar system too much for such a delicate balance? Professor Watson explains the intricate gravitational ballet that determines these cosmic relationships.
Then, Scott from Oregon opens a window into the fascinating world of triple star systems with a question about HD 110067. How can stars so far apart still be considered gravitationally bound? Discover the cosmic ties that bind these stellar companions across vast distances.
And for a bonus, we tackle an impromptu query from Dean about the Hubble Space Telescope's remarkable ability to maintain steady images while orbiting Earth. The secret lies in the dance of gyroscopes, but how long can this celestial photography session last?
From interstellar photography to the gravitational waltz of moons and stars, this episode is packed with insights into the mechanics of our universe. Remember to send us your space-related questions, and join us on this voyage of cosmic discovery. Subscribe to Space Nuts on your favorite podcast platform, and until our next stellar encounter, keep gazing at the stars and wondering about the wonders above. 
📋 Episode Chapters
(00:00) Andrew Dunkley welcomes your questions for Space Nuts Q and A
(01:52) Riano from Florence in Italy has two questions for us
(04:13) Andrew: Breakthrough project aims to send micro spacecraft to Alpha Centauri
(10:06) I talked about pluto about 100 times, I think
(10:21) Viana raises doubts about whether taking pictures from space is feasible
(12:40) Vienna's question was about the orbits of planets
(14:06) Andrew Dunkley with professor Fred Watson on space nuts podcast
(18:05) Andrew Dunkley: Scott from Oregon questions distance of triple star system
(23:57) Fred Watson says Hubble's lifetime will eventually be limited because gyroscopes failed



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Prepare to traverse the Martian landscapes and cosmic frontiers in this intriguing episode of Space Nuts, where Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson uncover the secrets of the Red Planet and the tiniest worlds beyond our solar system. In this episode, we're dusting off the Martian surface to reveal new evidence that hints at the planet's potential past life. A recent study from Japan brings to light ancient atmospheric conditions that could have fostered the formation of life-essential molecules. Dive into the science of how formaldehyde, a chemical you wouldn't typically associate with life, may have been a critical ingredient in Mars' primordial soup.
Then, we shrink our focus to the smallest exoplanet ever discovered, Kepler 37b. Is it a planet, an asteroid, or something in between? This celestial object, roughly the size of our Moon, challenges our definitions and understanding of planetary bodies. The team discusses the criteria that separate planets from dwarf planets and the exciting prospect of future discoveries with the upcoming Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope.
From Martian mysteries to minuscule exoplanets, this episode is a cosmic cocktail of astrophysical wonder and discovery. So, fasten your seatbelts, and let's embark on another Space Nuts adventure. Don't forget to hit the subscribe button on YouTube, and join us as we continue to explore the vast expanse of our universe. For more Space Nuts content, visit our website or tune in for the next episode. Until then, keep your eyes on the skies and your mind open to the endless possibilities of space.
📋 Episode Chapters
(00:00) This episode of Space nuts features Professor Fred Watson, astronomer at large
(01:33) Fred Koteman has just returned from a trip to Egypt
(06:58) There were issues with language and translation on our Egypt trip
(08:43) New research suggests ancient Mars could have harboured life
(15:56) Professor Fred Watson says Kepler 37 b is the smallest exoplanet ever found
(26:57) Fred Watson: Kepler 37 b is the smallest exoplanet thus found



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Your questions....our answers!
Buckle up, space cadets! Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson as they navigate through a new constellation of cosmic queries in this episode of Space Nuts. In this interstellar Q&A session, we're launching straight into the terraforming terrain, pondering massive megastructures, and the cooling conundrum of Venus. Dan from California, or "Caladan," sparks a stellar discussion on whether a colossal solar panel at Venus's L1 point could reverse its runaway greenhouse effect.
Next, we're rocketing over to Dan in Brisbane, who's curious about the protostar L1527 and its captivating James Webb Space Telescope image. Our hosts explore the fate of material ejected during the formation of our solar system and the forces exerted by our sun's solar wind and photonic pressure. Could the remnants of our solar system's early cloud still linger in the cosmic winds?
Then, we're warping into the realms of science fiction with Star's question: Does scientific accuracy enhance the enjoyment of sci-fi, or is imagination the final frontier? Andrew shares his favorites, from the plausible "The Martian" to the fantastical "Dune," while Fred reflects on the genre's influence on his scientific path.
Lastly, young Ted from the UK, with some help from his father Joe, wonders why the moon is sometimes visible during the day and what that means for the other side of the Earth. Prepare for a lunar lesson that spans the globe!
So, ignite your curiosity engines and prepare for a journey through the mysteries of space and science fiction. Remember to send us your astronomical questions for a chance to be featured in our cosmic conversations. Subscribe to Space Nuts on your preferred podcast platform and join us as we continue our voyage through the vastness of the universe. Until next time, keep your telescopes trained and your dreams space-bound!
(00:00) Andrew dunkley: We've got a few questions about terraforming
(01:29) Recent data suggests Titan probably not as life worthy as we once thought
(04:00) How long would it take Venus to cool down and would that eventually lead to
(08:45) Fred: Dan from Brisbane wants to know about protostar formation
(15:23) We've got a question from star. Um, so we're talking about a proto star now
(15:51) When it comes to Sci-Fi does your enjoyment depend on how accurate it is
(21:59) Why can I sometimes see the moon during the day in the UK
(24:18) Andrew Dunkley: Thank you for joining us on Space Nuts

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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



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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!
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(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

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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

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