Épisodes

  • Earth's Core, Hypervelocity Stars & Cosmic Dandruff: #497 - Unraveling the Mysteries Below and Beyond

    Earth's Core, Hypervelocity Stars & Cosmic Dandruff: #497 - Unraveling the Mysteries Below and Beyond
    Feb 20 2025
    This episode is brought to you with help of NordVPN. To get the special birthday deal, visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts - you'll be glad you did.

    Space Nuts Episode 497: Earth's Core Dynamics, Hypervelocity Stars, and Cosmic Dust
    Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Jonti Horner in this captivating episode of Space Nuts as they delve into the intriguing dynamics of our planet's core, the discovery of a hyperactive star with a planet, and the fascinating phenomenon of cosmic dust. From the slowing of Earth's inner core to the implications of interstellar objects entering our solar system, this episode is filled with insights that will ignite your curiosity about the universe.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Earth's Core Dynamics: Andrew and Jonti discuss the recent findings regarding the Earth's inner core, revealing that it has been slowing down. They explore how researchers used data from repeating earthquakes to uncover the complexities of the core's rotation and its implications for our understanding of Earth's geology.
    - Hypervelocity Stars: The duo introduces the concept of hypervelocity stars and highlights a newly discovered star that is moving at an astonishing speed of nearly 2 million kilometers per hour. They discuss the significance of this find and its connection to the planet orbiting this remarkable star.
    - Cosmic Dust from Neighboring Systems: Andrew and Jonti explore the idea of "space dandruff," where neighboring solar systems contribute to the influx of cosmic dust in our own. They discuss simulations that suggest a million objects from the Alpha Centauri system are currently passing through our solar system, and the potential for detecting these interstellar visitors.
    - Debate on Planetary Classification: The episode wraps up with a discussion on a newly discovered object that challenges the boundaries between planets and brown dwarfs. Jonti explains the ongoing debate regarding the definitions of these celestial bodies and how new discoveries are prompting scientists to reconsider traditional classifications.
    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 to the episode and topics
    02:15 - Discussion on Earth's core dynamics and slowing rotation
    10:30 - Exploration of hypervelocity stars and their implications
    18:00 - The phenomenon of cosmic dust from neighboring systems
    26:45 - Debate on planetary classification and the discovery of Gaia 4B
    30:00 - Closing thoughts and listener engagement
    ✍️ Episode References
    Earth's Inner Core Research
    https://www.nature.com/articles
    Hypervelocity Stars and Planet Discovery
    https://www.space.com/hypervelocity-stars
    Cosmic Dust Studies
    https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0019103519302003

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    44 min
  • Alien Signals, Bone Density & Cosmic Disks: #496 - The Great Space Q&A Returns

    Alien Signals, Bone Density & Cosmic Disks: #496 - The Great Space Q&A Returns
    Feb 17 2025
    Space Nuts Episode 496: Life on Other Planets, Centrifugal Forces, and Bone Density in Space
    Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Jonti Horner in this thought-provoking Q&A edition of Space Nuts, where they tackle some of the most intriguing questions from our listeners. From the possibility of detecting life on distant planets to the fascinating dynamics of centrifugal force, and the effects of zero gravity on bone density, this episode is brimming with scientific insights that will spark your curiosity about the universe.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Detecting Life on Distant Planets: Ron's compelling question leads the discussion on whether scientists in other solar systems could identify life on Earth using current technology, and vice versa. Jonti elaborates on the challenges and potential methods for detecting life beyond our planet.
    - Spheres vs. Disks: Dean asks why celestial objects form as spheres while others appear as disks. Jonti explains the physical processes at play, including hydrostatic equilibrium and angular momentum, shedding light on the fascinating shapes of stars, planets, and galaxies.
    - Bone Density in Space: Ann's insightful question about calcium loss in astronauts prompts a deep dive into the effects of microgravity on bone health. Jonti shares findings from recent studies and discusses the implications for long-term space missions.
    - Centrifugal Force Explained: Aussie Dean's inquiry about the nature of centrifugal force and its measurement leads to a discussion on reference frames and how they relate to our understanding of gravity and motion on Earth.
    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 to the episode and topics
    02:15 - Discussion on detecting life on other planets
    10:30 - Exploring the shapes of celestial objects
    18:00 - Insights into bone density loss in space
    26:45 - Understanding centrifugal force and reference frames
    30:00 - Closing thoughts and listener engagement
    ✍️ Episode References
    NASA's Studies on Bone Density
    https://www.nasa.gov/spaceflight
    Hydrostatic Equilibrium in Celestial Bodies
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrostatic_equilibrium
    Centrifugal Force and Gravity
    https://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/circles/Lesson-2/Centrifugal-Force

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-exploring-the-cosmos--2631155/support.
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    51 min
  • Megastructures, Exoplanet Myths & Satellite Showers: #495 - The Quipu Conundrum and More

    Megastructures, Exoplanet Myths & Satellite Showers: #495 - The Quipu Conundrum and More
    Feb 14 2025
    Space Nuts Episode 495: The Megastructure Quipu, Exoplanet Myths, and SpaceX Satellites
    Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Jonti Horner in this enlightening episode of Space Nuts, where they explore the cosmos' latest discoveries and debunk popular misconceptions. From the astonishing natural megastructure known as Quipu to the reality behind potentially habitable exoplanets, and the implications of SpaceX satellites re-entering Earth's atmosphere, this episode is packed with fascinating insights that will expand your understanding of our universe.
    Episode Highlights:
    - The Discovery of Quipu: Andrew and Jonti discuss the recently discovered megastructure, Quipu, which is a colossal natural formation in the universe. They delve into its size, significance, and the implications it has for our understanding of cosmic structures.
    - Exoplanet Misconceptions: Jonti shares his frustrations regarding the overselling of exoplanet discoveries and the potential for life. They dissect the media's portrayal of newly found planets and emphasize the complexities involved in determining habitability.
    - Asteroid 2024 YR4 Update: The duo provides an update on the asteroid's trajectory and the fluctuating odds of it impacting Earth. They explain how ongoing observations refine our understanding of its orbit and potential risks.
    - SpaceX Satellites and Atmospheric Concerns: Andrew and Jonti examine the increasing number of SpaceX satellites re-entering the atmosphere and the environmental implications of this phenomenon. They discuss the balance between technological advancements and potential ecological impacts.
    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 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 to the episode and topics
    02:15 - Discussion on the discovery of Quipu and its implications
    10:30 - Debunking myths around exoplanets and habitability
    18:00 - Update on asteroid 2024 YR4 and its potential impact
    26:45 - The environmental impact of SpaceX satellites re-entering
    30:00 - Closing thoughts and listener engagement
    ✍️ Episode References
    Quipu Discovery Article
    https://www.astronomy.com/news
    Exoplanet Research
    https://www.nasa.gov/exoplanets
    SpaceX Satellite Updates
    https://www.spacex.com/launches/

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-exploring-the-cosmos--2631155/support.
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    44 min
  • Cosmic Queries, Jovian Mysteries & Martian Quakes: #494 - The Great Space Q&A

    Cosmic Queries, Jovian Mysteries & Martian Quakes: #494 - The Great Space Q&A
    Feb 10 2025
    Space Nuts Episode 494: Radiation Around Jupiter, Light Refraction, and Brown Dwarfs
    Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Jonti Horner in this thought-provoking Q&A edition of Space Nuts, where they tackle a variety of intriguing questions from our listeners. From the complexities of radiation surrounding Jupiter to the effects of light refraction in space, and the mysteries of brown dwarfs, this episode is packed with insights that will expand your understanding of the cosmos.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Radiation Around Jupiter: Fenton from Minnesota dives deep into the types of radiation emitted by Jupiter and the charged particles from its volcanic moon Io. Jonti explains the implications for spacecraft navigating this hazardous environment and how these particles interact with Jupiter's magnetic field.
    - Light Refraction and Redshift: Kerry from Mount Gambier wonders about the impact of gas clouds on light refraction and redshift. Jonti clarifies how light behaves when passing through these clouds and reassures listeners that the redshift measurements remain largely unaffected.
    - Brown Dwarfs and Binary Systems: Nigel from Brisbane asks whether binary brown dwarfs are destined to collide. Jonti discusses the dynamics of binary systems and the various factors that could lead to such an event, while also exploring the potential for merging to create a star.
    - Marsquakes and Planetary Structure: Buddy poses a fascinating question about the origins of marsquakes and whether Mars could eventually break apart. Jonti unpacks the geological processes at play on Mars and the role of Jupiter in shaping the asteroid belt.
    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 to the episode and topics
    02:15 - Discussion on radiation around Jupiter and its implications
    10:30 - Light refraction and its impact on redshift
    18:00 - Insights into binary brown dwarfs and potential collisions
    26:45 - Marsquakes and the internal structure of Mars
    30:00 - Closing thoughts and listener engagement
    ✍️ Episode References
    Jupiter's Magnetosphere
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetosphere_of_Jupiter
    Marsquakes Research
    https://mars.nasa.gov/marsquake/
    Brown Dwarfs and Binary Systems
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brown_dwarf

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-exploring-the-cosmos--2631155/support.
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    35 min
  • Asteroid Alerts, Cosmic Rocks & Life's Building Blocks: #493 - The Great Space Rock Roundup

    Asteroid Alerts, Cosmic Rocks & Life's Building Blocks: #493 - The Great Space Rock Roundup
    Feb 7 2025
    This episode of Space Nuts is brought to you with the support of NordVPN...a must for when online privacy matters. Check out our great New Years deal by visiting www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts
    Space Nuts Episode 493: Asteroids, Cosmic Debris, and the Origins of Life
    Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Jonti Horner in this action-packed episode of Space Nuts as they delve into the fascinating world of asteroids and their implications for life on Earth. From the potential threat of asteroid 2024 YR4 to the surprising discovery of a Tesla Roadster masquerading as a space rock, this episode is filled with intriguing stories and scientific insights that will captivate your imagination.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Asteroid 2024 YR4: Discover the latest findings on asteroid 2024 YR4, which could come perilously close to Earth in 2032. Jonti explains the ongoing observations and calculations that are helping astronomers refine its orbit and assess the potential threat it poses.
    - Not an Asteroid: A new discovery reveals that a supposed asteroid was actually Elon Musk's Tesla Roadster launched into space. Andrew and Jonti discuss the implications of misidentifying space debris and the need for better tracking of objects in our solar system.
    - Osiris Rex Mission Insights: Learn about the groundbreaking results from NASA's Osiris Rex mission, which brought back samples from the asteroid Bennu. The findings suggest that asteroids like Bennu could have delivered essential building blocks for life on Earth, including amino acids and nucleobases.
    - Solar System Dynamics: Jonti discusses a new study exploring how a rogue planet may have disrupted the orbits of our solar system's planets, providing insight into the unique characteristics of our planetary system compared to others.
    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 to the episode and topics
    02:15 - Discussion on asteroid 2024 YR4 and its potential threat
    10:30 - The Tesla Roadster misidentified as an asteroid
    18:00 - Insights from the Osiris Rex mission and its findings
    26:45 - Richie planets and solar system dynamics
    30:00 - Closing thoughts and listener engagement
    ✍️ Episode References
    NASA's Osiris Rex Mission
    https://www.nasa.gov/osiris-rex
    Asteroid 2024 YR4 Tracking
    https://cneos.jpl.nasa.gov/
    Tesla Roadster in Space
    https://www.space.com/tesla-roadster-asteroid
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts--2631155/support.
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    45 min
  • Cosmic Questions, Solar Mysteries & Lunar Dreams: #492 - The Great Space Q&A

    Cosmic Questions, Solar Mysteries & Lunar Dreams: #492 - The Great Space Q&A
    Feb 3 2025
    Space Nuts Episode 492: Tidal Locking, Solar Mysteries, and Moon Travel
    Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Jonti Horner in this engaging Q&A edition of Space Nuts, where they tackle a variety of cosmic questions from our curious listeners. From the complexities of tidal locking in celestial systems to the intriguing heat discrepancies in the Sun's layers, and even how to get to the Moon, this episode is filled with fascinating insights that will deepen your understanding of the universe.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Tidal Locking Explained: Jake from Tennessee asks about the possibility of tidal locking between stars and their orbiting planets. Jonti dives into the mechanics of tidal interactions, using examples from our own solar system, including the Earth-Moon relationship and Pluto's moons.
    - Solar Mysteries: Clint from Georgia raises a thought-provoking question about the Sun's corona, which is millions of degrees hotter than its surface. Andrew and Jonti explore the latest theories on how gravitational interactions and magnetic fields could contribute to this phenomenon.
    - How to Get to the Moon: Emily from Melbourne wants to know how humans travel to the Moon. Jonti breaks down the journey, explaining the rocket science behind space travel, the challenges of exiting Earth's atmosphere, and the exciting prospects of future lunar missions.
    - Listener Engagement: Andrew and Jonti encourage listeners to submit their own questions, highlighting the importance of curiosity in the scientific community.
    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 to the episode and topics
    02:15 - Discussion on tidal locking and celestial mechanics
    10:30 - Insights into the Sun's corona and heat discrepancies
    18:00 - How to travel to the Moon explained
    26:45 - Listener Ash engagement and questions
    30:00 - Closing thoughts and future episodes
    ✍️ Episode References
    NASA's Lunar Missions
    https://www.nasa.gov/
    Tidal Locking
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tidal_locking
    Solar Corona Studies
    https://www.nasa.gov/solar-system/

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-exploring-the-cosmos--2631155/support.
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    36 min
  • Extreme Winds, Martian Clays & Hidden Stars: #491 - The Interstellar Exploration

    Extreme Winds, Martian Clays & Hidden Stars: #491 - The Interstellar Exploration
    Jan 30 2025
    Space Nuts Episode 491: The Windiest Planet, Martian Mysteries, and Light Pollution Concerns
    Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Jonti Horner in this captivating episode of Space Nuts, where they explore some of the most fascinating cosmic discoveries of our time. From the extraordinary winds of a distant exoplanet to intriguing geological findings on Mars, and the looming threat of light pollution on astronomical observations, this episode is packed with insights that will expand your cosmic perspective.
    Episode Highlights:
    - The Windiest Planet: Discover Wasp 127B, the exoplanet with astonishing wind speeds reaching up to 33,000 kilometers per hour. Andrew and Jonti delve into the implications of these extreme weather conditions and what they reveal about the planet's atmosphere and energy dynamics.
    - Martian Terrain Discovery: A new study uncovers a fascinating area on Mars that suggests the presence of permanent liquid water in the planet's ancient past. Jonti explains the significance of the clay deposits found in the northern lowlands and how they relate to the theory of a Martian ocean.
    - Protostar Insights: Learn about T Tauri North, a protostar set to fade from view as it moves behind a thick disk of material in a triple star system. Andrew and Jonti discuss the scientific opportunities this presents for studying the formation of stars and planets in such systems.
    - Light Pollution Threat: The Extremely Large Telescope, built in one of the darkest places on Earth, faces potential light pollution from a nearby renewable energy project. Explore the challenges this poses to astronomical research and the delicate balance between development and preservation of dark skies.
    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 to the episode and topics
    02:15 - Discussion on Wasp 127B and its extreme winds
    10:30 - Insights into Martian clay deposits and ancient oceans
    18:00 - The fading protostar T Tauri North and its implications
    26:45 - Light pollution concerns for the Extremely Large Telescope
    30:00 - Closing thoughts and listener engagement
    ✍️ Episode References
    Wasp 127B Discovery
    https://exoplanetarchive.ipac.caltech.edu/
    Mars Clay Deposits
    https://mars.nasa.gov/
    T Tauri Stars
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/T_Tauri_star
    Extremely Large Telescope
    https://www.eso.org/public/teles-instr/elt/

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-exploring-the-cosmos--2631155/support.
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    40 min
  • Origins of Life, Mars Missions & Cosmic Measurements: #490 - Q&A Edition

    Origins of Life, Mars Missions & Cosmic Measurements: #490 - Q&A Edition
    Jan 27 2025
    This episode is brought to you by NordVPN. When you need a VPN, make sure you get the best....the one we use personally. For special New Year deal, visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts

    Space Nuts Episode 490: Origins of Life, Mars Missions, and Cosmic Distances
    Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Jonti Horner in this enlightening Q&A episode of Space Nuts, where they tackle some of your most pressing cosmic queries. From the origins of life on Earth to the challenges of traveling to Mars, and how we accurately measure distances in space, this episode is brimming with intriguing discussions that will expand your understanding of the universe.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Origins of Life: Christian shares his exciting research published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, exploring the origins of life and its implications for other planetary bodies. Andrew and Jonti discuss the significance of these findings and how they relate to the conditions necessary for life to emerge.
    - Traveling to Mars: Rennie asks about the potential pitfalls of a Mars mission. Discover the realities of traversing the asteroid belt and the safety measures in place to ensure a successful journey to the Red Planet.
    - Measuring Cosmic Distances: Lawrence raises a thought-provoking question about how astronomers judge distances in space, especially with the effects of gravitational lensing. Andrew and Jonti explain the distance ladder method used to measure astronomical distances and the challenges involved.
    - Future of the James Webb Space Telescope: Lee inquires about the possibility of building additional James Webb Space Telescopes. Andrew and Jonti discuss the complexities of space telescope production and the exciting prospects for future astronomical 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 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 https://www.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 to the episode and questions
    02:15 - Discussion on the origins of life and Christian's research
    10:30 - Challenges of traveling to Mars and the asteroid belt
    18:00 - How astronomers measure distances in space
    26:45 - Future of the James Webb Space Telescope
    30:00 - Closing thoughts and listener engagement
    ✍️ Episode References
    Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
    https://www.pnas.org/
    Astrobiology Research
    https://www.astrobiology.com/
    James Webb Space Telescope
    https://www.jwst.nasa.gov/

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-exploring-the-cosmos--2631155/support.
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    46 min