Kielder Observatory Podcast

In this episode of the Kielder Observatory Podcast, join Ian Brannan and Director of Astronomy Dan Pye as they unveil the new experience at Twice Brewed Inn, located right on Hadrian's Wall. They discuss the significance of summer openings for stargazing, share exciting astronomical events happening this month, and explore the beauty of noctilucent clouds. Special guest Robson Green joins the conversation, sharing his passion for astronomy and the importance of reconnecting with the night sky. Don't miss this enlightening journey into the cosmos!

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In this episode, we dive deep into the "invisible scaffolding" of the cosmos with Professor Richard Massey. Richard and his team at Durham University recently made headlines by releasing the highest-resolution map of dark matter ever created, using 255 hours of data from the James Webb Space Telescope.

We explore how dark matter acts as the architect of our universe, why it’s more like a "ghost" than a "particle," and how we can "see" something that refuses to reflect, emit, or block light. Whether you're a physics buff or just someone who looks at the stars and wonders why they haven't flown away yet, this conversation will change the way you look at the "empty" space around you.

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In this episode, we venture beyond the dark skies of Northumberland to the launchpads of Florida. We dive deep into the Artemis II mission, NASA’s historic first crewed flight to the Moon in over half a century. We discuss the the crew’s journey, and why this mission is a pivotal stepping stone for the lunar south pole landings. Since recording the conversation the mission launch has been delayed until the first week of March following issues found during the "wet testing" over the weekend.

Plus, we look at the transition from winter to spring in our night sky, highlighting the "Planetary Parade" and the best time to see Orion before he departs for the season.

Book your tickets for our February events at kielderobservatory.org.

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In this episode Ian Brannan and Director of Astronomy Dan Pye chat under the virtual night sky of our planetarium, which you will find at our brand new extra location in Northumberland!

In addition to the observatory you know and love we are now running events at Twice Brewed Inn near Hadrians Wall. It's the same great experience, the same great night sky, but if you fancy a few more home comforts then this one could be for you.

Take a listen to hear what you can enjoy at our new location, which has the added benefit of, well, a pub, with rooms where you can also stay over if you with too!

We also take a look at a few big things happening in the wider Space world, and ahead to what the skies of December may bring us to look at!

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In this episode, Ian Brannan and Director of Astronomy Dan Pye explore the fascinating world of solar flares and their impact on Earth's auroras.

Dan shares insights on the recent X5.1 solar flare and its significance, as well as its ability to trigger stunning auroras across the globe.

We also discuss the interstellar comet 31P/ATLAS, its unique characteristics, and the potential for alien life in the clouds of exoplanets. 

Plus a look ahead to what to expect in the night sky for November!

Chapters:

(00:00) The aurora has been back with a vengeance thanks to a solar flare

(01:26) Solar flares are the biggest thing that drive aurora here on Earth

(10:25) People worry about Earth's magnetic fields drifting and polar reversal

(16:33) Keep an eye out for the aurora. It is going on at the moment

(18:31) We have an interstellar comet that could predate our solar system

(25:13) Do we know where this comet came from or where it might have been

(29:42) Scientists have been able to see the very early stages of a supernova

(32:37) Dense cloud coverage is something astronomers are looking out for on distant exoplanets

(39:50) Jupiter and Saturn are always around this time of year

(42:40) There's plenty of sessions and events going on at Keeldra Observatory

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Before you swat a fly next time, consider without them we wouldn't have chocolate! The advice of expert in all things flies Dr Erica McAlister, who joins Ian Brannan and Dan Pye to discuss the role flies have played in space travel, the work they do on earth doing the jobs we hate, and why if you get bitten by a midge, consider yourself a foster parent..!

All this and more, you'll never look at a fly the same way again!

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Summer means light nights but that doesn't mean there's nothing going on at the observatory, far from it there has been lots both at the observatory and in space to talk about!
Director of Astronomy Dan Pye joins Ian Brannan on the deck at Kielder to chat about why all eyes are on the North East when it comes to space. Plus the things you can look out for even if the nights are a little lighter, and how you can book for some of the great family events in the school summer holidays.

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In this episode of the Kielder Observatory Podcast, join Ian Brannan and Director of Astronomy, Dan Pye, as they explore the intriguing developments in the search for alien life and discuss Elon Musk's ambitious plans for humanity on Mars.

They also delve into the wonders of the summer night sky, highlighting the beauty of noctilucent clouds and the celestial events to look out for in the coming weeks.

From the mysteries of dimethyl sulphide detected by the James Webb telescope to the upcoming meteor showers and observatory events, this episode is packed with astronomical insights and tips for stargazers.

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Recorded live in Hexham Andy Saunders, the author of Apollo Remastered, discusses wit Dan Pye & Ian Brannan how he brought the Moon landings to life with stunning, high-definition images restored from NASA’s original Apollo film footage, which had been stored away for decades. 

His groundbreaking work reveals never-before-seen spacewalks, astronaut portraits, and breathtaking views of Earth and the Moon.

You can see the exhibition at Queen's Hall in Hexham until the end of May.

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In this episode Director of Astronomy Dan Pye, and Ian Brannan head to Seaton Delaval Hall in Northumberland, to get up close to The Sun! 

HELIOS is the latest creation of artist Luke Jerram, whose previous works of the Moon & Earth you may have previously seen in the North East. Luke chats to us about his latest project, and how the idea came about in the first place!

Plus with the upcoming partial Solar Eclipse we have advice on how to see it safely, as well as a look ahead to what to expect in the night sky in the coming few weeks heading into spring!

Helios is at Seaton Delaval Hall until April 6th, and will be touring the UK with the National Trust. More details can be found HERE

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