Space Nuts Episode 500: Celebrating 500 Episodes with a Q&A Extravaganza
Join Andrew Dunkley, Professor Jonti Horner, and Professor Fred Watson in this monumental 500th episode of Space Nuts! In a special Q&A format, the team tackles a range of audience questions that span the cosmos, including the mysteries of the Big Bang, the impending collision of Andromeda with the Milky Way, and the fascinating phenomenon of cold welding in space. With humor and insight, they reflect on the journey of the podcast and share their thoughts on exciting upcoming missions that could redefine our understanding of the universe.
Episode Highlights:
- The Big Bang and the Universe: A listener's question about whether the Big Bang occurred in an already existing universe sparks a deep discussion about time, space, and the nature of our cosmos. Andrew, Jonti, and Fred explore the complexities of cosmological theories and the philosophical implications behind them.
- Andromeda's Approach: The team dives into the future collision between the Andromeda galaxy and the Milky Way, discussing how gravitational forces will start to influence each galaxy long before they physically collide. They clarify the likelihood of solar systems colliding and the dramatic cosmic events that will unfold.
- Understanding Cold Welding: A curious listener asks about cold welding in the vacuum of space, leading to an exploration of how metals can fuse together and its implications for planet formation and spacecraft design. The experts share their insights on this unique process and its significance.
- Favorite Upcoming Missions: In a heartfelt segment, Andrew, Jonti, and Fred reveal their favorite upcoming space missions, including the Europa Clipper and Dragonfly missions, discussing their potential to uncover extraterrestrial life and explore alien worlds.
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Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.
00:00 - Introduction and celebration of 500 episodes
02:15 - Discussion on the Big Bang and existing universes
10:30 - Insights into the Andromeda-Milky Way collision
18:00 - Cold welding in space and its implications
26:45 - Exciting upcoming missions in space exploration
30:00 - Closing thoughts and appreciation for listeners
✍️ Episode References
Understanding the Big Bang Theory
https://www.nasa.gov/bigbang
Andromeda and Milky Way Collision Studies
https://www.space.com/andromeda-milky-way-collision
Cold Welding in Space
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0013468618301234

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