Episodes

  • Cosmic Bubbles, Pancake Volcanoes & Celebrating 50 Years of ESA

    Cosmic Bubbles, Pancake Volcanoes & Celebrating 50 Years of ESA
    Jun 6 2025
    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 mins
  • 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
    Jun 3 2025
    Sponsor Details:
    This episode is brought to you by NordVPN and Insta360
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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 mins
  • Dwarf Planets, Peculiar Moons & the Mystery of Dark Matter

    Dwarf Planets, Peculiar Moons & the Mystery of Dark Matter
    May 30 2025
    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 mins
  • Cosmic Questions, Gravitational Waves & Dad Jokes from the Universe

    Cosmic Questions, Gravitational Waves & Dad Jokes from the Universe
    May 26 2025
    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 mins
  • 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.
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    33 mins
  • 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.
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    32 mins
  • 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 mins
  • 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.
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    34 mins
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