Episodios

  • Moon Mysteries, Hubble Tension & the Kuiper Belt's Triple Surprise

    Moon Mysteries, Hubble Tension & the Kuiper Belt's Triple Surprise
    May 22 2025
    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.
    Más Menos
    33 m
  • Black Holes, Gravity Theories & the Quest for Planet Nine

    Black Holes, Gravity Theories & the Quest for Planet Nine
    May 19 2025
    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.
    Más Menos
    32 m
  • Mars' Hidden Oceans, Sweat Shields & The Universe's Sudden End

    Mars' Hidden Oceans, Sweat Shields & The Universe's Sudden End
    May 16 2025
    Sponsor Details:
    1. Insta360 X5 Camera. To bag a free invisible selfie stick worth US$24.99 with your purchase, head to store.insta360.com and use the promo code "spacenuts", available for the first 30 standard package purchases only.
    Unveiling the Mysteries of Water on Mars and Beyond
    In this captivating episode of Space Nuts, host Andrew Dunkley and the ever-knowledgeable Professor Fred Watson delve into the latest discoveries surrounding water on Mars and innovative ideas for spacecraft re-entry. They explore a groundbreaking theory suggesting vast amounts of liquid water may exist beneath the Martian surface and discuss a revolutionary new cooling method for spacecraft during atmospheric re-entry.
    Episode Highlights:
    - The Water Beneath Mars: Andrew and Fred Watson discuss the findings from NASA's InSight mission, revealing that Mars may harbour significant amounts of liquid water trapped in porous rock beneath its surface. They explore the implications of this discovery for future Martian exploration and the potential for microbial life.
    - Innovative Cooling Solutions: The duo examines a new approach to spacecraft re-entry that involves a 3D printed material capable of 'sweating' to cool down, potentially revolutionising how we protect spacecraft from the intense heat of re-entry.
    - The Universe's Expiration Date: They also discuss a startling new theory from Dutch scientists that suggests the universe may end much sooner than previously thought, with calculations indicating it could be just 10 to the power of 78 years away, significantly shorter than earlier estimates.
    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 water beneath Mars
    (15:00) Innovative spacecraft cooling methods
    (25:30) New theories on the universe's lifespan
    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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    35 m
  • Oceans, Space-Time Stiffness & Ganymede's Hidden Crater: A Cosmic Q&A

    Oceans, Space-Time Stiffness & Ganymede's Hidden Crater: A Cosmic Q&A
    May 12 2025
    Sponsor Details:
    1. Saily - for all your travel data needs...making life much easier and hassle free. For the special Space Nuts deal, visit www.saily.com/spacenuts or use the coupon code SPACENUTS at checkout.
    2. Insta360 X5 Camera. To bag a free invisible selfie stick worth US$24.99 with your purchase, head to store.insta360.com and use the promo code "spacenuts", available for the first 30 standard package purchases only.
    Questions About Oceans, Space-Time, and Impact Craters
    In this engaging Q&A episode of Space Nuts, host Andrew Dunkley and the ever-knowledgeable Professor Fred Watson tackle a variety of intriguing listener questions. From the depths of Earth's oceans to the mysteries of space-time and the latest in astronomical discoveries, they provide insights and fascinating discussions.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Exploring Earth's Oceans: Listener Pete sparks a discussion on the origins and depth of Earth's oceans. Andrew and Fred Watson delve into theories about water's presence during Earth's formation and the intriguing idea of what our planet would look like without its vast oceans.
    - The Stiffness of Space-Time: Doug's question leads to a deep dive into the concept of space-time stiffness, comparing it to steel and exploring how scientists measure this property. Fred Watson explains the relationship between mass and the distortion of space-time, shedding light on this complex topic.
    - New Antenna Array Developments: John in New Mexico asks about the Next Generation Very Large Array (NGVLA), prompting a discussion on its significance in the astronomy community and how it compares to other major arrays like the Square Kilometre Array. Andrew and Fred Watson highlight the advancements and potential scientific contributions of these new technologies.
    - Impact Craters in the Solar System: Rusty raises questions about the largest impact crater on Ganymede and its comparison to the Aitken Basin on the Moon. The duo explores the implications of these findings and the fascinating history behind these celestial features.
    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 origins and depth of Earth's oceans
    (15:00) Exploring the stiffness of space-time
    (25:30) Updates on the Next Generation Very Large Array
    (35:00) The largest impact craters in the solar system
    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.
    Más Menos
    34 m
  • Little Bangs, Outer Planets & the Cosmic Budget Crunch

    Little Bangs, Outer Planets & the Cosmic Budget Crunch
    May 9 2025
    This episode is brought to by Incogni...removing your personal data online the easy and inexpensive way. To get the special Space Nuts listener deal with 30 day money back guarantee, go to www.incogni.com/spacenuts

    Exploring New Theories of the Big Bang and Beyond
    In this episode of Space Nuts, host Andrew Dunkley is joined by the ever-knowledgeable Professor Fred Watson to discuss groundbreaking theories and discoveries in the realm of astronomy. They delve into a new hypothesis regarding the Big Bang, potential discoveries of outer planets, and the latest updates on space missions.
    Episode Highlights:
    - A New Perspective on the Big Bang: Andrew and Fred Watson dissect a provocative theory suggesting that instead of a singular Big Bang, there may have been multiple smaller bangs. This theory challenges existing notions about dark matter and dark energy, which have long puzzled cosmologists.
    - The Search for Planet 8.5: The duo explores intriguing new data hinting at a potential outer planet, dubbed Planet 8.5, which may exist beyond the realm of the hypothesised Planet Nine. They discuss the implications of this discovery and what it could mean for our understanding of the solar system.
    - Spacecraft News from the Past: A look back at the fate of Cosmos 482, a Russian spacecraft originally intended for Venus, which is now on a collision course back to Earth after 53 years in orbit. Andrew and Fred Watson discuss the unpredictable nature of space debris and the potential for dramatic re-entries.
    - Updates on Artemis 2 and NASA Budget Cuts: The episode wraps up with exciting news about the completion of the Orion capsule for Artemis 2, set to carry astronauts on a lunar mission, juxtaposed with concerns over proposed budget cuts to NASA that could impact future space exploration efforts.
    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 a new theory regarding the Big Bang
    (15:00) Exploring the potential discovery of Planet 8.5
    (25:30) Fate of Cosmos 482 and space debris concerns
    (35:00) Updates on Artemis 2 and NASA's budget challenges
    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.
    Más Menos
    39 m
  • K2-18b, Gravitons & The Comet Conundrum: A Cosmic Q&A

    K2-18b, Gravitons & The Comet Conundrum: A Cosmic Q&A
    May 5 2025
    Sponsor Details:
    1. Insta360 X5 Camera. To bag a free invisible selfie stick worth US$24.99 with your purchase, head to store.insta360.com and use the promo code "spacenuts", available for the first 30 standard package purchases only.
    2. NordVPN: To get the special SpaceNuts discount deal with 4 extra free months, plus a 30 money back guarantee simply visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts
    In this engaging Q&A episode of Space Nuts, host Andrew Dunkley is back alongside the ever-insightful Professor Fred Watson. Together, they tackle a range of intriguing questions from listeners, covering the potential discovery of life on exoplanet K2 18b, the mysteries of gravity and gravitons, and the latest on the Swan Comet.
    Episode Highlights:
    - The Buzz Around K2 18b: Andrew and Fred Watson discuss the recent excitement surrounding the detection of dimethyl sulphide on K2 18b, a potential biosignature. They delve into the implications of this discovery and the ongoing debate about the planet's habitability, while also addressing the sensationalist headlines that often accompany such findings.
    - Gravity and Gravitons: A question from listener James prompts a fascinating discussion on the nature of gravity and the role of the Higgs particle versus the hypothetical graviton. Fred Watson explains the differences between these concepts and the complexities of how gravity operates at a fundamental level.
    - Observing the Swan Comet: Ted from an undisclosed location shares his experiences of observing the Swan Comet, prompting a conversation about its current visibility and characteristics. Andrew and Fred Watson discuss the comet's colour, tail, and what makes it an interesting object for amateur astronomers.
    - The Challenge of Fake News in Science: The episode wraps up with a thoughtful examination of how sensationalism in the media can distort scientific discoveries. Andrew and Fred Watson reflect on the responsibility of scientists and journalists alike to convey information accurately and responsibly.
    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 discovery of life on K2 18b
    (15:00) Exploring gravity and the role of gravitons
    (25:30) Observing the Swan Comet
    (35:00) The impact of sensationalism in scientific reporting
    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.
    Más Menos
    38 m
  • Shimmering Diamonds, Asteroid Encounters & Unraveling the Dark Ages of the Universe

    Shimmering Diamonds, Asteroid Encounters & Unraveling the Dark Ages of the Universe
    May 1 2025
    Sponsor Details:
    1. Insta360 X5 Camera. To bag a free invisible selfie stick worth US$24.99 with your purchase, head to store.insta360.com and use the promo code "spacenuts", available for the first 30 standard package purchases only.
    2. NordVPN: To get the special SpaceNuts discount deal with 4 extra free months, plus a 30 money back guarantee simply visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts
    Diamonds on Mercury, the Lucy Mission, and Mapping the Dark Ages
    In this exciting episode of Space Nuts, host Andrew Dunkley returns from his recent travels, ready to explore some of the most intriguing topics in astronomy alongside the ever-knowledgeable Professor Fred Watson. They dive into the possibility of a diamond layer on Mercury, the latest revelations from the Lucy spacecraft, and an ambitious plan to map the universe's Dark Ages.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Diamonds Beneath Mercury: Andrew and Fred Watson discuss groundbreaking research suggesting that Mercury may have a layer of diamonds beneath its surface. They unpack the findings from a recent paper that indicates the presence of carbon-rich materials under extreme pressure and temperature conditions, leading to the formation of diamonds deep within the planet.
    - The Lucy Mission's Surprising Discoveries: The duo delves into the latest images sent back by NASA's Lucy spacecraft, which is on a mission to study Trojan asteroids. They discuss a surprising flyby of an asteroid that turned out to be larger than anticipated, along with the innovative autonomous systems that allowed for stunning imaging of this cosmic object.
    - Mapping the Dark Ages of the Universe: Andrew and Fred Watson explore an ambitious project aimed at mapping the Dark Ages of the universe, a time when the first stars had yet to ignite. They discuss the challenges of detecting the faint signals from this era and how a fleet of satellites positioned on the far side of the Moon could help overcome these obstacles.
    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 back to Space Nuts with Andrew Dunkley and Fred Watson Watson
    (01:20) Discussion on the potential diamond layer on Mercury
    (15:00) Updates from the Lucy mission and its asteroid flyby
    (25:30) Exploring the plan to map the Dark Ages of the universe
    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.
    Más Menos
    36 m
  • Cosmic Questions, Angular Momentum & the Mysteries of the Expanding Universe

    Cosmic Questions, Angular Momentum & the Mysteries of the Expanding Universe
    Apr 28 2025
    Space Nuts Episode 516: Angular Momentum, Cosmic Inflation, and the Infinite Universe
    In this thought-provoking episode of Space Nuts, host Heidi Campo steps in for Andrew Dunkley, joined by the ever-knowledgeable Professor Fred Watson. Together, they tackle an array of fascinating listener questions that delve into the complexities of angular momentum, the nature of cosmic inflation, and the mysteries surrounding the universe's finiteness or infiniteness.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Angular Momentum Explained:Heidi and Fred kick off the episode by addressing a question from Buddy about angular momentum. They discuss how angular momentum affects spinning objects, the implications of expansion, and the intriguing concept of a potentially spinning universe.
    - Time Dilation and Cosmic Inflation: Scott from Sydney poses a compelling question regarding time dilation during the universe's hyperinflation period. Fred elaborates on how time behaves under extreme gravitational conditions and the significance of inflation in explaining the universe's homogeneity.
    - Is the Universe Finite or Infinite?The episode features a delightful audio question from young Enrique and his father Philip, exploring whether the universe is finite or infinite. Fred explains the concept of cosmic horizons and the challenges faced in determining the universe's boundaries.
    - Temperature Control on the ISS: Kevin from Melbourne asks about the temperature inside the International Space Station (ISS) and how it varies with sunlight exposure. Heidi and Fred discuss the engineering marvels that maintain a livable environment for astronauts, including the challenges of thermal regulation in space.
    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 angular momentum and its effects
    (15:00) Exploring time dilation and cosmic inflation
    (25:30) Is the universe finite or infinite?
    (35:00) Temperature control aboard the ISS
    For the 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.
    Más Menos
    25 m
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