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What if I told you that the mysteries of the universe could be unraveled from your listening device? Brace yourselves for a cosmic ride with our guest, astrobiologist and science writer Caitlin Rasmussen. Her journey from gazing starry skies in rural Maryland to deciphering the universe's enigmas at Florida State University is as captivating as it is inspiring. 

In this episode, we go beyond our earthly confines, reaching out into the vast cosmos, touching upon intriguing concepts like the Drake equation and the Goldilocks Zone. With Rasmussen's insightful explanations, these cosmic conundrums become easily digestible, revealing the universe's secrets one piece at a time. The discussion gets even more exciting as we zoom into the TRAPPIST-1 system, exploring the possibilities of Earth-like planets and the potential for life beyond our blue planet.

But it's not all hard science here. We also trek into the realms of science fiction, discussing the influence of cult shows like Firefly and cinematic marvels like Interstellar on our understanding of time and relativity. Plus, we delve into the captivating intersection of astrobiology and fiction, as seen in Becky Chambers' mesmerizing novella, 'To Be Taught If Fortunate'. As we wrap up, we even manage to sneak in a few laughs and some exciting updates on our upcoming schedule changes. So gear up, fellow cosmic explorers – whether you're an aspiring astrophysicist, a Sci-Fi fan, or just someone who loves to wonder about the stars, this episode promises an enriching voyage through the cosmos.

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