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Space Nuts Episode 509: Neptune's Secrets, Lunar Dust Shields, and the Helix Nebula
In this exciting episode of Space Nuts, fill-in host Heidi Campo joins astronomer Fred Watson to explore some of the cosmos' most intriguing phenomena. From the latest discoveries about Neptune's atmosphere to innovative solutions for lunar dust challenges, and the mysteries of the Helix Nebula, listeners are in for a treat filled with cosmic insights and engaging discussions.
Episode Highlights:
- Neptune's Atmosphere: Heidi and Fred dive into the recent observations made by the James Webb Space Telescope, revealing the presence of auroras on Neptune and discussing its unique atmospheric conditions, including record-breaking winds and intriguing cloud formations.
- Lunar Dust Shield Innovations: The duo explores NASA's new Electrodynamic Dust Shield, designed to repel lunar regolith, and its potential applications for future lunar missions and even everyday life on Earth.
- Helix Nebula Mysteries: The episode wraps up with a discussion about the Helix Nebula, its stunning visuals, and the fascinating theory surrounding the remnants of a planet that was destroyed as its star transitioned into a white dwarf.
For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, X, YouTube Music Music, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite platform.
If you'd like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about
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) Welcome to Space Nuts with Heidi Campo and Fred Watson
(01:40) Discussion on Neptune's auroras and atmospheric conditions
(11:20) The innovative Electrodynamic Dust Shield for lunar missions
(22:15) Exploring the Helix Nebula and its planetary ghost
(30:00) Final thoughts and reflections on space exploration
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-exploring-the-cosmos--2631155/support.

Space Nuts Episode 508: Space and Time, Movement in the Universe, and the Nature of Discovery
In this engaging Q&A edition of Space Nuts, host Andrew Dunkley is joined by astronomer Professor Fred Watson and special guest Heidi Campo as they tackle a variety of thought-provoking listener questions. From the intricate relationship between space and time within black holes to the inherent direction of movement in the universe, this episode is filled with fascinating insights and lively discussions that will ignite your curiosity about the cosmos.
Episode Highlights:
- Space and Time Dynamics: Andrew and Fred revisit a complex question about whether space and time switch roles inside the event horizon of a black hole, exploring the implications of this phenomenon and referencing an insightful video that clarifies the concept. Link: https://www.reddit.com/r/Physics/comments/raka0a/why_time_and_space_flip_inside_a_black_hole/?rdt=38918
- Movement of Celestial Bodies: A listener inquires about the inherent direction of rotation and movement in the universe, leading to a discussion on the anti-clockwise motion of planets and galaxies, and the fascinating reasons behind these patterns.
- Osiris Rex Mission Insights: The team delves into the findings from NASA's Osiris Rex mission, examining the similarities between the asteroid Bennu and Earth, and the implications of its origin and composition.
- Hypothetical Science: A thought-provoking hypothetical question from a listener prompts a discussion on the nature of scientific discovery and the importance of unanswered questions in driving scientific inquiry.
For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, X, YouTube Music Music, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite platform.
If you’d like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about
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) This is a Q and A edition of Space Nuts
(01:41) Fred asks question about if space and time can switch roles inside black hole
(03:04) A video on Reddit explains how space and time interact inside a black hole
(11:08) Most objects in the universe have some form of rotation or movement
(18:08) Andrew Dunkley answers John Foster's question on Space Nuts
(18:39) NASA's Osiris Rex mission returned with a sample of the asteroid Bennu
(21:48) Would you rather be a scientist with nothing left to solve or everything wrong
(25:05) Robert asks if our solar system is unique or not
(29:43) Space Nuts podcast available at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadioBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-exploring-the-cosmos--2631155/support.

Space Nuts Episode 507: Dark Energy, Square Kilometer Array, and Baby Moons
Join host Andrew Dunkley, astronomer Professor Fred Watson, and special guest Heidi Campo as they delve into the intriguing mysteries of the universe in this episode of Space Nuts. From the latest revelations about dark energy to the exciting developments from the Square Kilometer Array and the discovery of baby moons around baby planets, this episode is packed with cosmic insights and engaging discussions.
Episode Highlights:
- Dark Energy Insights: Andrew and Fred explore new research suggesting that dark energy may not be as constant as previously thought, potentially weakening over time and raising questions about the ultimate fate of the universe.
- Square Kilometer Array Update: The team discusses the first images from the Square Kilometer Array, highlighting its groundbreaking capabilities and the significance of its location in Western Australia for radio astronomy.
- Discovery of Baby Moons: Exciting findings from the Magellan telescopes reveal the existence of baby moons forming around young planets, providing new insights into planetary formation and the potential for life beyond our solar system.
For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, X, YouTube Music Music, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite platform.
If you'd like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about
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) Andrew Dunkley welcomes Professor Fred Watson back to Space Nuts
(01:48) Two astronauts successfully returned to Earth after 286 days in space
(06:03) The evidence that is being presented for dark energy weakening over time is tentative
(15:53) The Square Kilometer Array telescope in Western Australia has taken its first selfie
(24:37) Scientists trying to mitigate effects of satellite interference on radio astronomy
(27:26) Scientists have finally found baby moons forming around baby planets
(32:50) Andrew Dunkley: Anything to add, Heidi, to finish off podcast

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

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Space Nuts Episode 505: Black Holes, TRAPPIST Planets, and Cosmic Fluctuations
In this engaging Q&A edition of Space Nuts, host Andrew Dunkley and astronomer Professor Fred Watson tackle a variety of listener questions that delve deep into the mysteries of the universe. From the nature of black holes and their gravitational effects to the intriguing dynamics of the TRAPPIST system, this episode is packed with thought-provoking discussions and cosmic insights that will keep you captivated.
Episode Highlights:
- Black Hole Mysteries: Andrew and Fred explore whether objects entering a black hole, such as electrons or grains of sand, can be accelerated beyond the speed of light. They clarify the laws of physics that remain intact even within the event horizon and the implications of mass changes.
- TRAPPIST System Insights: The duo discusses the absence of gas giants in the TRAPPIST system and the possible reasons behind this phenomenon, including the formation processes and the potential for undiscovered planets.
- Star Collisions: Lloyd from Cairns asks whether everyday stars like our sun ever collide, leading to a discussion about the rarity of such events compared to black hole and neutron star collisions, especially during galaxy mergers.
- Early Universe Fluctuations: Mark from Louisiana poses a thoughtful question about the energy density fluctuations observed in the WMAP image of the early universe, prompting a conversation about quantum fluctuations and their role in cosmic structure formation.
For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, X, YouTube Music Music, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite platform.
If you'd like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about
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) This is a Q and A edition where we answer audience questions
(01:02) Doug Stone: I had a question about Earthrise from last year
(05:14) Question comes from somebody who didn't tell us their name
(06:32) Picking the voice is picking it. Yes. It's picking it
(06:46) Could anything entering a black hole be accelerated beyond the speed of light
(09:05) Some solar systems do not contain gas or ice giants, says Dave
(12:40) Is there any limit to how many planets a solar system can form
(15:46) Do everyday stars like our sun ever collide and what do they create
(20:30) Mark Rabelais has a question about fluctuations in the early universe
(27:08) New research suggests distant galaxies have a preferred direction of rotation
(28:47) Andrew Dunkley: Thank you to everybody who sent, uh, in questions

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

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Space Nuts Episode 504: Alien Objects, Exoplanets, and Mars Missions
In this episode of Space Nuts, host Andrew Dunkley is joined by astronomer Fred Watson and special guest Heidi Campo as they dive into the latest cosmic discoveries and ambitious space missions. From the intriguing tale of an alien object that may not be so alien after all to the confirmation of planets orbiting Barnard's Star, this episode is packed with fascinating insights and lively discussions that will pique your curiosity about the universe.
Episode Highlights:
- Alien Object Mystery: Andrew and Fred explore the story of an object that entered Earth's atmosphere, initially thought to be extraterrestrial, but later revealed to have a more terrestrial explanation involving a truck's seismic signal. The duo discusses the implications of this finding and the ongoing investigation led by Professor Avi Loeb.
- Discovery of Exoplanets: The conversation shifts to the confirmation of four sub-Earth-sized planets orbiting Barnard's Star, the closest star system to us. Andrew and Fred discuss the challenges of observing these planets and what their discovery means for the search for extraterrestrial life.
- Elon Musk and Mars Missions: The episode wraps up with an update on Elon Musk's ambitious plans for Mars colonization, including a timeline for robotic missions and the development of the humanoid robot, Optimus. Andrew and Fred discuss the feasibility of these plans and the technological advancements needed to make them a reality.
For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, X, YouTube Music Music, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite platform.
If you'd like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about
Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.
Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction and welcome
(01:30) Discussion on the alien object and its true nature
(10:15) Confirmation of planets around Barnard's Star
(20:45) Elon Musk's plans for Mars colonization
(30:00) Closing thoughts and listener engagement

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

In this Q&A episode of Space Nuts, host Andrew Dunkley and astronomer Fred Watson tackle intriguing questions from listeners about bright nebulae, the nature of light, and the mysteries of time. They discuss whether one could see the vibrant colors of nebulae from within, delve into the implications of two arrows of time emerging from quantum systems, and explore the feasibility of life on moons orbiting brown dwarf stars. Join us for a fascinating journey through the cosmos as we unravel these cosmic queries!
Chapters:
(00:00) This is a Q and A edition of Space Nuts
(01:34) Dan from the Gold Coast asks about color effects of telescopes in nebula
(06:28) Stan Vanning: Which nebula is the brightest and most colorful
(09:38) New study suggests opposing arrows of time can theoretically emerge from certain quantum systems
(15:59) Andrew Dunkley with Professor Fred Watson discuss the arrows of time
(16:30) Andrew and Fred answer a question from Rusty in Donnybrook
(16:51) If moon was orbiting the sun without the Earth, they'd be stable
(18:57) Is the sun moon Lagrange point a good place for a habitat
(23:32) Martin Berman Gorvine has a question about brown dwarf stars
(26:49) Could Earth sized moon orbiting brown dwarf star sustain life as we know it
For more Space Nuts, visit www.spacenutspodcast.com
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Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

Space Nuts Episode 503: Dark Matter Stars, Australia's Oldest Impact Crater, and Mission Updates
Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson in this captivating episode of Space Nuts as they explore the latest discoveries and updates from the cosmos. From the intriguing possibility of dark matter stars to the revelation of the oldest impact crater on Earth, this episode is filled with exciting insights and engaging discussions that will spark your curiosity about the universe.
Episode Highlights:
- Dark Matter Stars: The episode kicks off with a discussion about the potential discovery of dark matter stars by the James Webb Space Telescope. Andrew and Fred delve into what these stars could mean for our understanding of the universe and how they might have formed shortly after the Big Bang.
- Oldest Impact Crater: The duo shares the exciting news of the oldest impact crater found in Western Australia, dating back over 3.5 billion years. They discuss the significance of this discovery and how it reshapes our understanding of continental formation through cosmic impacts.
- Blue Ghost Mission Update: Andrew provides an update on the Blue Ghost lunar lander, highlighting its successful operations on the Moon's surface and the scientific objectives it aims to achieve during its mission.
- Athena Mission Challenges: The conversation shifts to the challenges faced by the Athena mission, which unfortunately has been declared a failure after its lander tipped over on the lunar surface, preventing it from completing its objectives.
- Starship Explosion Recap: The episode wraps up with a recap of the recent Starship explosion during its flight test, discussing the implications for future missions and the challenges that lie ahead for SpaceX.
For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, X, YouTube Music Music, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite platform.
If you'd like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about
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 dark matter stars
02:15 - Discussion on the oldest impact crater
10:30 - Blue Ghost mission update
18:00 - Athena mission challenges
26:45 - Starship explosion recap
30:00 - Closing thoughts and listener engagement
✍️ Episode References
James Webb Space Telescope Discoveries
https://www.nasa.gov/webb
Oldest Impact Crater Research
https://www.theconversation.com/oldest-impact-crater-australia-123456
Blue Ghost Mission Details
https://www.firefly.com/blueghost
Starship Updates
https://www.spacex.com/starship

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

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.
For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, X, YouTube Music Music, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite platform.
If you'd like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about
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

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

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Space Nuts Episode 501: Lunar Landings, Andromeda Mysteries, and Voyager-1 Update
Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson (yes, he's back) in this exciting episode of Space Nuts, where they dive into groundbreaking achievements in lunar exploration, the mysteries surrounding the Andromeda galaxy, and the latest updates from Voyager 1. This episode is packed with fascinating insights and updates that will keep you engaged and curious about the cosmos.
Episode Highlights:
- Blue Ghost Lunar Lander: The episode kicks off with the successful landing of the Blue Ghost lunar lander by Firefly Aerospace. Andrew and Fred discuss the significance of this commercial mission, how it differs from past government-funded endeavors, and what it means for future lunar exploration.
- Odin Asteroid Probe Troubles: The duo then shifts focus to the Odin asteroid probe, which has encountered some challenges en route to its target. They explore the implications of its current state and what this means for the future of asteroid mining and exploration missions.
- Andromeda Galaxy's Dwarf Galaxies: Andrew and Fred delve into the latest research on Andromeda, discussing how its dwarf galaxies are behaving unusually. They explore the potential gravitational influences at play and the surprising findings from Hubble observations that challenge existing theories about galaxy formation.
- Voyager 1's Communication Update: The episode wraps up with an update on Voyager 1, the most distant human-made object, which has resumed sending intelligible signals back to Earth after overcoming some technical difficulties. Andrew and Fred reflect on the incredible journey of Voyager 1 and its ongoing contributions to our understanding of the universe.
For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, X, YouTube Music Music, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite platform.
If you'd like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about
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 lunar lander success
02:15 - Discussion on the Blue Ghost lunar lander
10:30 - Updates on the Odin asteroid probe
18:00 - Insights into Andromeda's dwarf galaxies
26:45 - Voyager 1's communication update
30:00 - Closing thoughts and listener engagement
✍️ Episode References
Blue Ghost Lunar Lander Mission Details
https://www.firefly.com/blueghost
Odin Asteroid Mission Overview
https://www.astro.com/odin
Andromeda Galaxy Research Findings
https://www.hubblesite.org/andromeda
Voyager 1 Communication Updates
https://www.nasa.gov/voyager1

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.

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.
For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, X, YouTube Music Music, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite platform.
If you'd like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about
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

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.