Space Nuts Episode 310 with Professor Fred Watson & Andrew Dunkley Andrew: Hello there. My name is Andrew Dunkley from the Space Nuts podcast, where we talk astronomy and space science. And every week, I'm joined by Professor Fred Watson, astronomer at large. What's coming up on episode 310, Fred?Fred: Thank you, Andrew. Episode 310, because it's divisible by five, is actually an all questions episode. And today we've got a huge pile of questions on topics as diverse as and I've got to read this. The Big Rip, surviving the Vacuum of Space. Our closest neighbor in space, putting a hole through the Earth. What would it be like falling through it? Are there such things as gas moons, the triangular galaxy - Will it get gobbled up by our own galaxy? And what if you had a billiard cue long enough to poke somebody on Mars? Would they feel it faster than the speed of light? Andrew: Fantastic. Actually, that question about surviving in space turned out to be a very fascinating answer. So I'm looking forward to talking about that one. They refer to messiness in the question. And you know what? They're right. So we'll talk about that and much, much more on this edition of Space Nuts. Download from your favorite podcast distributor. Talk soon.Sponsor Links:NordVPN – the fast and best way of securing your data. Get our special price, plus one month free and a bonus gift by visiting https://nordvpn.com/spacenuts For more Space Nuts, visit our websites. Links: https://linktr.ee/biteszHQ New: Listen to Space Nuts on your favorite app with the Universal listen link: https://spacenutspodcast.com/listen Are you a Discord fan? If so…come and join our ever-growing community. https://discord.gg/V4822WSmnJ If you find value in Andrew & Fred’s work, you might like to consider buying them a coffee. They’d really appreciate the break. Thank you… https://www.buymeacoffee.com/spacenuts #podcast #spacenuts #space #science #astronomyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts--2631155/support.

Questions, Questions, Questions

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.Two episodes a week with news and explainer focused editions published on Thursday's and our Listener Q&amp;A focused edition on Monday's.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts--2631155/support.

Natural Sciences

Science & Medicine

Science

Astronomy

Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this captivating episode of Space Nuts as they explore some of the most intriguing phenomena in space science.First up, zebrafish are making waves in orbit! These tiny aquanauts are part of a Chinese space mission on the Tiangong space station. Discover why zebrafish are ideal candidates for space research and what their genetic similarities to humans could reveal about the effects of zero gravity on biological organisms.Next, delve into the mystery of the cold spot in space, a peculiar anomaly within the cosmic microwave background radiation. Fred explains the significance of this cold spot, its potential causes, and why it challenges our understanding of the universe's isotropy. Could a giant cosmic void be the culprit, or is there another explanation lurking in the cosmos?Additionally, the duo discusses the exciting progress of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, featuring the world's largest digital camera, which promises to revolutionise our view of the night sky. Learn about its remarkable capabilities and the potential discoveries it could unveil, including the elusive Planet Nine.00:00:00 This is space nuts, where we talk astronomy and space science00:01:54 The camera for the Vera C. Rubin telescope telescope has been delivered00:07:19 Zebrafish on Chinese space station for research into effects of space on fish00:12:46 Andrew Dunkley: Scientists trying to make aquariums in space self-sustainable00:15:22 Fred says there's a cold spot in space caused by cosmic microwave background radiation00:24:00 Cold spots in the cosmic microwave background radiation are not unusual00:29:27 There's so much going on in the world of spaceSupport Space Nuts and join us on this interstellar journey by visiting our website support page. Your contributions help us continue our mission to explore the wonders of the universe. Clear skies and boundless exploration await on Space Nuts, where we make the cosmos your backyard.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts--2631155/support.Visit our website: www.spacenuts.ioCheck out our sponsor: www.bitesz.com/nordpass

#421: Zebrafish & Cosmic Cold Spots: Swimming Through Space Mysteries

Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson for another riveting Q&A; edition of Space Nuts. This episode dives into some fascinating listener questions that challenge our understanding of space and science.First up, Mikey from Illinois poses a thought-provoking question: Can we drink water from the moon or Mars? Andrew and Fred explore the potential risks and benefits of consuming extraterrestrial water, including the presence of unknown substances and the impact of heavy water isotopes.Next, Sean from Nottingham inquires about the Nemesis theory, asking whether there could be a small sun or neutron star in our solar system, possibly linked to the elusive Planet Nine. Fred delves into the history and current standing of this hypothesis, examining its implications for mass extinctions and the structure of our solar system.Finally, Rusty from Donnybrook raises a question about the Hubble constant and whether the interstellar medium might be affecting the measurements of standard candles, leading to discrepancies in the universe's expansion rate. Fred explains the intricacies of this cosmic conundrum and why astronomers have considered and largely ruled out this possibility.From the safety of lunar water to the mysteries of distant stars and the expanding universe, this episode of Space Nuts promises to ignite your curiosity and expand your cosmic knowledge. Tune in and join the conversation!00:00:00 Andrew Dunkley answers audience questions on Space Nuts Q and a edition00:01:29 When we get to moon and Mars, should we drink contaminated water00:09:32 Fred asks whether small sun in solar system could be planet nine00:16:32 Recent scientific analysis no longer supports the nemesis hypothesis, NASA says00:19:13 Is it possible that the interstellar medium is causing standard candles to lose intensity00:26:51 Fred Watson: Andrew, thanks for hosting the Space Nuts podcastSupport Space Nuts and join us on this interstellar voyage by visiting our support page. Your contributions help us continue our mission to explore the wonders of the universe. Clear skies and boundless exploration await on Space Nuts, where we make the cosmos your backyard.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts--2631155/support.www.spacenuts.io  www.bitesz.com  Sponsor:  www.bitesz.com/nordpass

#420: Moon Water & Nemesis: Unveiling Lunar Mysteries and Stellar Theories

Embark on a celestial journey with Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this episode of Space Nuts, where they explore a variety of space phenomena that are as intriguing as they are mysterious. Firstly, they discuss Blue Origin's return to the stars with NS-25, a mission that marked a triumphant comeback after technical setbacks. The flight not only signifies Blue Origin's resilience but also the inspirational story of Ed Dwight, the first African-American astronaut candidate, who at 90 years old, set a record as the oldest person to reach space.Next, the conversation lightens with the discovery of a planet with the consistency of fairy floss, also known as cotton candy or candy floss. WASP-193b, a gas giant that defies the norms of density and composition, leaves astronomers scratching their heads. How does a planet become so 'fluffy'? What could it possibly be made of? These are the questions that Andrew and Fred ponder as they delve into the mysteries of planet formation.Lastly, the duo discusses the gravitational wave background in the universe, likening it to the cosmic microwave background radiation. They explore how pulsar timing arrays are providing new insights into the 'hiss' of gravitational waves created by countless cosmic events, offering a deeper understanding of the universe's dynamic fabric.From record-breaking astronauts to cotton candy planets and the cosmic symphony of gravitational waves, this episode of Space Nuts is packed with astronomical wonders that will leave you in awe. Tune in and let your curiosity soar to the farthest reaches of space.00:00:00 This is Space Nuts, where we talk astronomy and space science00:01:12 Professor Fred Watson discusses eating fairy floss with a moustache00:02:10 Bright flash in the sky over Europe turned out to be comet00:05:55 Ed Dwight was the first astronaut of colour to be selected by NASA00:10:10 This is a newly discovered planet, or newly identified planet00:17:14 Planet in orbit around red dwarf star 1200 light years away00:21:06 Fred: Some work is being done on background gravitational waves00:28:17 Fred Watson: People are fascinated by gravitational waves because of mystery Support Space Nuts and join us on this interstellar voyage by visiting our support page. Your contributions help us continue our mission to explore the wonders of the universe. Clear skies and boundless exploration await on Space Nuts, where we make the cosmos your backyard.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts--2631155/support.www.spacenuts.iowww.bitesz.comhttps://www.bitesz.com/show/space-nuts/support/Sponsor:www.bitesz.com/nordpass

#419: Blue Horizons & Fairy Floss Planets: Unveiling the Universe's Softest Secrets

Prepare to have your mind stretched to the cosmic limits in this Q&A; episode of Space Nuts. Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson answer a selection of thought-provoking questions sent in by our curious listeners, tackling the mysteries of light, the concept of a holographic universe, and the challenges of interstellar travel.First up, Alan from Medicine Hat, Canada, wonders how far light from an LED with one candle power can travel before it becomes undetectable by space telescopes. The duo discusses the persistence of light and the factors that influence our ability to observe its journey through the cosmos.Next, Charles probes the perplexing theory of a holographic universe, questioning whether our three-dimensional experience is merely a projection from a two-dimensional boundary. Andrew and Fred unravel the theoretical underpinnings of this mind-bending concept and its implications for our understanding of reality.The conversation then accelerates to relativistic speeds with Craig from sunny Merimbula, NSW, asking how fast a spacecraft must travel before encountering drag in the sparse medium of space. They also consider the potential hazards of high-speed collisions with cosmic dust and gas, pondering the aerodynamic and navigational challenges that would arise.From the eternal voyage of light to the enigmatic nature of our universe and the theoretical speed limits of space travel, this episode of Space Nuts is a cosmic conundrum of astronomical proportions. Tune in as Andrew and Fred navigate through the universe's most intriguing puzzles.00:00:00 Andrew Dunkley answers questions about light on this edition of Space Nuts00:01:38 First question comes from Alan from Medicine Hat, Canada00:03:44 There is no known limit to how far light can travel00:06:03 Charles: What do you think of the theory that we live in a holographic universe00:13:46 If all universes are expanding, would they eventually overlap00:17:41 Craig Miller calls from sunny Merimbula in New South Wales00:19:03 How much speed would drag depend on the concentration of particles in spaceSupport Space Nuts and join us on this interstellar quest by visiting our support page. Your contributions help us continue our mission to explore the enigmas of the universe.Clear skies and cosmic queries await on Space Nuts, where we make the cosmos your backyard.This episode is brought to you the support of NordPass....the password manager you need in your life to save time and reduce angst. Check out out special deal on pricing (hint....it's really cheap at the moment).... www.bitesz.com/nordpass

#418: From Cosmic Drag to Holographic Hype: Unraveling the Mysteries of Space Travel

This episode is brought to you with the support of NordVPN. Every Internet connected device deserves to have NordVPN for it's online safety. To check out the special Space  Nuts deal for you as a listener, visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenutsJoin Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson as they embark on another fascinating journey through the cosmos in the latest episode of Space Nuts. In this installment, the duo delves into a myriad of space phenomena, starting with the most significant solar flare in nearly a decade. They discuss the stunning auroral displays that resulted from this solar outburst and the potential impacts such events can have on our technology.Next, they celebrate a milestone for the Mars rover Perseverance, which has spent over 1000 days (or sols) on the Red Planet. The conversation explores the significance of the samples collected by Perseverance, including those that may contain ancient signs of life, and the future plans for their retrieval.The episode then propels into the future of space travel with NASA's innovative plasma rocket concept, which promises to cut travel time to Mars significantly. Andrew and Fred unpack the potential of this high-efficiency propulsion system and what it could mean for human exploration of the Red Planet.Finally, the pair examines a colossal protoplanetary disc discovery, the largest ever observed, which could herald the formation of some of the most massive planets we've ever seen. They ponder the possibilities of planet formation, the emergence of life, and the long-term evolution of these cosmic systems.From solar spectacles and Martian milestones to revolutionary rockets and planetary potential, this episode of Space Nuts is a cosmic cornucopia of astronomical insights. Tune in and let your imagination soar as we continue to uncover the secrets of the universe.00:00:00 Andrew Dunkley talks about budgets and dog issues on this week's Space Nuts00:02:31 The biggest solar flare in nearly a decade has just passed over the earth00:06:58 Perseverance mission to look for signs of past life on Mars00:14:22 Andrew Freedman says he could rerelease World War One audio under Australian copyright00:16:49 A proposed plasma rocket would cut the travel time to Mars to two months00:24:09 Fred: Have you seen a house before they build it00:25:47 New infrared observations show giant edge on protoplanetary disc00:32:10 Space Nuts podcast available at Apple Podcasts, Spotify and iHeartRadioSupport Space Nuts and join us on this interstellar voyage by visiting our support page. Your contributions help us continue our mission to explore the wonders of the universe. Clear skies and boundless exploration await on Space Nuts, where we make the cosmos your backyard.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts--2631155/support.

Questions, Questions, Questions

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