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  • Galactic Encounters, Flying Bananas & the Fate of Andromeda

    Galactic Encounters, Flying Bananas & the Fate of Andromeda
    2025/06/13
    Sponsor Details:
    This episode is brought to you by Saily...your passport to seamless global connectivity. Get your special Space Nuts offer from Saily by visiting www.saily.com/spacenuts for a great discount price and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

    Collision Course? And the Mysteries of the Aurora
    In this captivating episode of Space Nuts, hosts Heidi Campo and Professor Fred Watson delve into a range of astronomical topics that illuminate our understanding of the universe. From the latest findings regarding the fate of the Milky Way and Andromeda galaxies to the enchanting phenomena of auroras, this episode is sure to spark your cosmic curiosity.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Milky Way and Andromeda Collision: The episode kicks off with an exciting update on the potential collision between our galaxy and Andromeda. Fred discusses new research suggesting that gravitational influences from nearby galaxies may alter the predicted course of this cosmic encounter, making the odds of a disastrous collision lower than previously thought.
    - Understanding Fiducial Models: Heidi and Fred explore the concept of fiducial models in astronomical predictions, clarifying their role in understanding complex orbital dynamics and the challenges of measuring motion across vast cosmic distances.
    - The Flying Banana and Aurora Chasers: The duo transitions to a whimsical story about a laser-emitting train dubbed the "Flying Banana," which inadvertently confused aurora hunters with its blue light. Fred shares insights into the aurora borealis and the technology used to monitor and study these stunning natural displays.
    - Japanese Moon Mission Setback: The episode also covers the recent setback of the Japanese lunar lander mission, highlighting the challenges faced by space exploration endeavors and the lessons learned from failures.
    - Mars Odyssey's Stunning Views: Lastly, Fred discusses the Mars Odyssey orbiter's recent capture of breathtaking images of Martian volcanoes peeking above morning clouds, showcasing the ongoing exploration and discoveries being made on the Red Planet.
    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
    (01:20) Discussion on the Milky Way and Andromeda collision predictions
    (15:00) Exploring fiducial models in astronomy
    (25:30) The Flying Banana and aurora phenomena
    (35:00) Japanese moon mission failure and its implications
    (45:00) Mars Odyssey's stunning volcanic views
    For commercial-free versions of Space Nuts, join us on Patreon, Supercast, Apple Podcasts, or become a supporter here: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support
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    34 分
  • Cosmic Questions, Red Dwarfs & the Search for Life Beyond Earth

    Cosmic Questions, Red Dwarfs & the Search for Life Beyond Earth
    2025/06/09
    Sponsor Details:
    This episode is brought to you by Incogni...your personal data removal assistant. Take control of your online presence and enjoy a peaceful digital existence by visiting incogni.com/spacenuts and using the code word Space Nuts for a 60% discount!

    Cosmic Curiosities: Probing the Depths of Our Universe
    In this enlightening Q&A episode of Space Nuts, host Heidi Campo and the ever-insightful Professor Fred Watson tackle some of the most thought-provoking questions from our listeners. From the nature of light speed in alternate universes to the intriguing concept of protoplanetary disks and the potential for life beyond Earth, this episode is packed with cosmic insights and fascinating discussions.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Light Speed Across Universes: Heidi and Fred delve into a listener's question about whether an observer from a different universe would measure the speed of light differently. The implications of varying fundamental constants across universes are explored, igniting a discussion about the fine-tuning of our own universe for life.
    - Protoplanetary Disks and Water: The duo examines the structure of protoplanetary disks and whether Earth could have formed in a belt where liquid water existed. Fred explains the Goldilocks zone and how temperature variations influence planet formation and the presence of water.
    - Population III Stars: A question from Ron about the existence of Population III red dwarf stars leads to a fascinating exploration of the earliest stars formed after the Big Bang. Fred explains the characteristics of these stars and why red dwarfs likely did not emerge until later generations.
    - Life Beyond Earth: The episode wraps up with a discussion about the most promising locations in our solar system to search for life beyond Earth. From Mars to the icy moons of Europa and Enceladus, Fred and Heidi weigh the possibilities of finding microbial life in these intriguing environments.
    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
    (01:20) Discussion on light speed in alternate universes
    (15:00) Exploring protoplanetary disks and water formation
    (25:30) Population III stars and their characteristics
    (35:00) The search for life beyond Earth in our solar system

    Link to the L'Space Program: https://www.lspace.asu.edu/

    For commercial-free versions of Space Nuts, join us on Patreon, Supercast, Apple Podcasts, or become a supporter here: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.
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    23 分
  • Cosmic Bubbles, Pancake Volcanoes & Celebrating 50 Years of ESA

    Cosmic Bubbles, Pancake Volcanoes & Celebrating 50 Years of ESA
    2025/06/06
    Sponsor Details:
    This episode is brought to you with the support of Insta360...the ultimate in 360-degree video technology. Check out their amazing cameras and grab your special Space Nuts offer by visiting store.insta360.com and using the coupon code Space Nuts at checkout.

    Cosmic Bubbles, Pancake Volcanoes, and 50 Years of the European Space Agency
    In this exciting episode of Space Nuts, host Heidi Campo and the ever-knowledgeable Professor Fred Watson explore a range of fascinating topics that stretch the imagination. From the discovery of a perfectly spherical cosmic bubble to the intriguing pancake volcanoes of Venus, and a celebration of the European Space Agency's 50th anniversary, this episode is a must-listen for all space enthusiasts.
    Episode Highlights:
    - The Cosmic Bubble Telios: Fred shares insights into a newly discovered cosmic bubble, dubbed Telios, that is captivating astronomers with its geometric perfection. The duo discusses the significance of this discovery and the technology behind the radio imaging that revealed this stunning celestial object.
    - Pancake Volcanoes on Venus: The conversation shifts to Venus, where unique pancake-shaped volcanic formations have sparked curiosity among scientists. Fred explains the geological processes that may lead to the formation of these unusual structures and how they differ from typical volcanoes on Earth.
    - Celebrating 50 Years of ESA: The episode wraps up with a look at the European Space Agency's 50th anniversary and the release of commemorative coins. Heidi and Fred discuss the significance of ESA's contributions to space exploration and the design elements of the newly minted coins, inviting listeners to engage in a scavenger hunt to decode their mysteries.
    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
    (01:20) Discussion on the discovery of the cosmic bubble Telios
    (15:00) Exploring pancake volcanoes on Venus
    (25:30) Celebrating 50 years of the European Space Agency
    For commercial-free versions of Space Nuts, join us on Patreon, Supercast, Apple Podcasts, or become a supporter here: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.
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    32 分
  • Black Holes, Time Twists & the Future of Life on Mars: A Q&A Episode

    Black Holes, Time Twists & the Future of Life on Mars: A Q&A Episode
    2025/06/03
    Sponsor Details:
    This episode is brought to you by NordVPN and Insta360
    To get your Space Nuts NordVPN offer, visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts - a special price and a 30 day moneyback guarantee await. Check it out
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    Black Holes, Time Dimensions, and the Future of Life on Mars
    In this thought-provoking episode of Space Nuts, host Andrew Dunkley and the ever-insightful Professor Fred Watson tackle a variety of intriguing questions from listeners. From the mysteries of black holes to the complex nature of time and the potential for life on Mars, this episode promises to stimulate your cosmic curiosity.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Black Holes and Time: Andrew and Fred Watson delve into a listener's question about black holes and the nature of time as one approaches the event horizon. Can time really reverse, or does it simply stop? The duo explores these mind-bending concepts and the implications of black hole physics.
    - The Nature of Time: A fascinating discussion arises from a question about whether time can be considered a true dimension. Andrew and Fred Watson unpack the complexities of time as a dimension, including its unique properties compared to spatial dimensions and how it affects our understanding of the universe.
    - Future Habitats on Mars: The conversation shifts to the potential for life on Mars and the impact of Milankovitch cycles on the planet's climate. Can Mars become a habitable world again, and what does that mean for the future of life in our solar system? The duo examines the possibilities and the ongoing search for extraterrestrial life.
    - Listener Ideas and Cosmic Creativity: Andrew shares an exciting book premise suggested by a listener, exploring the idea of Martian microbes merging with human cells. This sparks a conversation about the implications of such a scenario and the creative possibilities it presents.
    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, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite 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 Andrew Dunkley and Fred Watson Watson
    (01:20) Discussion on black holes and the nature of time
    (15:00) Exploring the potential for life on Mars and Milankovitch cycles
    (25:30) Listener Ash ideas and cosmic creativity
    For commercial-free versions of Space Nuts, join us on Patreon, Supercast, Apple Podcasts, or become a supporter here: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.
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    34 分
  • Dwarf Planets, Peculiar Moons & the Mystery of Dark Matter

    Dwarf Planets, Peculiar Moons & the Mystery of Dark Matter
    2025/05/30
    This episode of Space Nuts is brought to you with the support of Insta360...the leaders in 360 degree video making. Check out their range and grab your special Space Nuts offer by visiting store.insta360.com and using the coupon code Space Nuts at checkout.

    Exploring the Outer Solar System: New Dwarf Planets, Iapetus Mysteries, and Primordial Black Holes
    In this captivating episode of Space Nuts, host Andrew Dunkley and the ever-knowledgeable Professor Fred Watson delve into the latest astronomical discoveries and theories that are reshaping our understanding of the cosmos. From the potential identification of a new dwarf planet to the intriguing features of Saturn's moon Iapetus and the enigmatic nature of primordial black holes, this episode is packed with cosmic insights.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Potential New Dwarf Planet: Andrew and Fred Watson discuss the discovery of a new Trans-Neptunian object that could challenge the existence of Planet Nine. With its elongated orbit and significant distance from the Sun, this potential dwarf planet offers fresh perspectives on our solar system's architecture.
    - The Peculiar Moon Iapetus: The conversation shifts to Iapetus, a unique moon of Saturn known for its stark contrast in surface coloration and mysterious equatorial ridge. Andrew and Fred Watson explore the various theories regarding its formation and the renewed interest it has garnered in recent discussions.
    - Primordial Black Holes and Dark Matter: The episode wraps up with a deep dive into the theoretical research surrounding primordial black holes and their potential role in explaining dark matter. Fred shares insights from recent studies suggesting these ancient black holes might be more stable than previously thought, reigniting the debate on their contribution to the universe's missing mass.
    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, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite 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 Andrew Dunkley and Fred Watson Watson
    (01:20) Discussion on the potential new dwarf planet in the solar system
    (15:00) Exploring the mysteries of Saturn's moon Iapetus
    (25:30) Theoretical research on primordial black holes and dark matter
    For commercial-free versions of Space Nuts, join us on Patreon, Supercast, Apple Podcasts, or become a supporter here: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.
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    37 分
  • Cosmic Questions, Gravitational Waves & Dad Jokes from the Universe

    Cosmic Questions, Gravitational Waves & Dad Jokes from the Universe
    2025/05/26
    This episode is brought to you with the support of Insta360...the video camera you have to see to believe. To get our special offer and to check out the range of cameras available, visit store.insta360.com and remember to use the product coupon 'SPACENUTS' on checkout.

    Surfing Gravitational Waves, Space-Time Rotation, and Cosmic Jokes
    In this engaging Q&A edition of Space Nuts, host Andrew Dunkley and the ever-knowledgeable Professor Fred Watson tackle a range of thought-provoking questions from listeners worldwide. From the mechanics of gravitational waves to the mysteries of dark matter and some cosmic humour, this episode promises to enlighten and entertain.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Gravitational Waves Explained: Andrew and Fred Watson dive into a listener's question about whether gravitational waves can carry objects like a surfer riding a wave. They clarify the nature of gravitational waves and how they interact with matter, debunking some common misconceptions along the way.
    - Space-Time and Dark Matter: The duo discusses another intriguing question about the relationship between space-time, energy, and dark matter. They explore Rusty's complex theories about the rotation of space and its implications for our understanding of the universe.
    - Light Sails and Laser Propulsion: Dave from Indiana asks about the feasibility of using lasers to propel spacecraft via light sails. Andrew and Fred Watson unpack this fascinating concept, referencing ongoing research and experiments in the field of space propulsion.
    - Cosmic Jokes: The episode takes a light-hearted turn as Andrew and Fred Watson attempt to unravel some space-themed jokes sent in by listeners. They explore the humour behind these cosmic quips, including the infamous "faster than light" neutrino joke and the intricacies of barred spiral galaxies.
    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, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite 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 Andrew Dunkley and Fred Watson Watson
    (01:20) Discussion on gravitational waves and listener questions
    (15:00) Exploring the relationship between space-time and dark matter
    (25:30) The concept of laser propulsion and light sails
    (35:00) Cosmic jokes and their scientific explanations
    For commercial-free versions of Space Nuts, join us on Patreon, Supercast, Apple Podcasts, or become a supporter here: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.
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    30 分
  • Moon Mysteries, Hubble Tension & the Kuiper Belt's Triple Surprise

    Moon Mysteries, Hubble Tension & the Kuiper Belt's Triple Surprise
    2025/05/22
    Diving Deep: The Moon's Secrets, Hubble Tension, and a Triple System Discovery
    In this fascinating episode of Space Nuts, host Andrew Dunkley and the ever-knowledgeable Professor Fred Watson explore the latest revelations about the Moon's interior, the complexities of Hubble tension, and an exciting discovery in the Kuiper Belt. Buckle up for a cosmic ride through these intriguing topics!
    Episode Highlights:
    - The Moon's Interior Unveiled: Andrew and Fred Watson discuss the findings from the Grail mission, revealing surprising differences in the Moon's mantle and how temperature variations may explain the stark contrasts between the near and far sides of our lunar companion.
    - Understanding Hubble Tension: The duo dives into a new theory surrounding Hubble tension, exploring the evolving nature of dark matter and dark energy, and how recent data might reshape our understanding of the universe's expansion.
    - A Triple System in the Kuiper Belt: They discuss the discovery of a potential triple system involving the asteroid 148780 Algeria, made using the Hubble Space Telescope, highlighting the rarity of such systems and their significance in understanding the solar system's 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, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite 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 Andrew Dunkley and Fred Watson Watson
    (01:20) Discussion on the Moon's interior and the Grail mission findings
    (15:00) Exploring the latest theories on Hubble tension
    (25:30) Discovery of a triple system in the Kuiper Belt
    For commercial-free versions of Space Nuts, join us on Patreon, Supercast, Apple Podcasts, or become a supporter here: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.
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    33 分
  • Black Holes, Gravity Theories & the Quest for Planet Nine

    Black Holes, Gravity Theories & the Quest for Planet Nine
    2025/05/19
    Sponsor Details:
    1. NordVPN - This episode brought to you with the support of NordVPN...the official Sapce Nuts VPN service. To grab your special deal as mentioned on the show, head over to www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts and click on 'Get the Deal'. Use the coupon code SpaceNuts at checkout...and it all comes with a 30 day money back guarantee.
    Unraveling the Cosmos: Black Holes, Gravity Theories, and Planet Nine
    In this thought-provoking Q&A episode of Space Nuts, host Andrew Dunkley and the ever-insightful Professor Fred Watson dive into a variety of compelling questions from listeners. They tackle the intriguing concept of the universe potentially being born inside a black hole, explore a new theory of gravity, and discuss the ongoing search for the elusive Planet Nine.
    Episode Highlights:
    - The Universe Inside a Black Hole: Listener Ash from Brisbane poses a fascinating question about the possibility of our universe being trapped inside a black hole and the implications of such a theory. Andrew and Fred Watson discuss the mechanics of black holes and what it would mean for our existence.
    - A New Gravity Theory: Casey from Colorado asks about the latest advancements in gravity theories, prompting a discussion on the unification of quantum field theory and relativity, and the potential breakthroughs from Finnish researchers that could reshape our understanding of gravity.
    - Understanding Hubble Tension: The duo explains the concept of Hubble tension, highlighting the discrepancies between two methods of measuring the universe's expansion rate and what this could mean for cosmology.
    - The Quest for Planet Nine: Simon from New South Wales raises questions about the search for Planet Nine and the methods used to detect it, while Joe from Washington inquires about the limits of gravitational assists for interstellar travel, leading to a discussion on the practicality of such missions.
    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, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite 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 Andrew Dunkley and Fred Watson Watson
    (01:20) Discussion on the universe inside a black hole
    (15:00) New theory of gravity from Finnish researchers
    (25:30) Explaining Hubble tension
    (35:00) The search for Planet Nine and gravitational assists
    For commercial-free versions of Space Nuts, join us on Patreon, Supercast, Apple Podcasts, or become a supporter here: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.
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    32 分