Space Nuts Episode 502: Q&A on Black Holes, Cosmic Temperatures, and Starshot Missions
Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this engaging Q&A episode of Space Nuts, where they tackle a variety of intriguing questions from listeners around the globe. From the mysteries of black holes to the minimum temperature of space and the ambitious Starshot mission, this episode is packed with thought-provoking insights and lively discussions.
Episode Highlights:
- Black Hole Plasma Beams: Listener James from New Orleans sparks a fascinating discussion about plasma beams emanating from the M87 black hole and the recycling of matter in the universe. Andrew and Fred explore the implications of cooling plasma and its potential to change states.
- Minimum Temperature of Space: Buddy from Morgan raises a thought-provoking question about whether the minimum temperature of space will continue to drop as the universe expands. The duo dives into cosmic background radiation and its effects on the elements in the universe.
- Light and Gas Pressure: Jacob from Western Australia asks whether gas pressure can affect light. Andrew and Fred clarify the relationship between light, pressure, and the fascinating phenomenon of light refraction.
- Starshot Mission Hypotheticals: Ash from Brisbane presents a mind-bending hypothetical about launching a micro spacecraft to Alpha Centauri at a right angle to the galactic plane. The team calculates the time it would take to observe our galaxy from the outside, revealing the vastness of space travel.
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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 audience questions
02:15 - Discussion on black hole plasma beams
10:30 - Minimum temperature of space and its implications
18:00 - Light behavior under gas pressure
26:45 - Starshot mission hypothetical and calculations
30:00 - Listener Ash engagement and closing thoughts
✍️ Episode References
Hubble Telescope Observations of M87
https://www.nasa.gov/hubble
Cosmic Background Radiation Studies
https://www.nasa.gov/cosmic-background-radiation
Starshot Mission Overview
https://www.breakthroughinitiatives.org/initiatives/starshot

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