Space Nuts: Astronomy Insights & Cosmic Discoveries

Waves, Signals, and Cosmic Aromas: A Q&A Journey Through Space

Space Nuts: Astronomy Insights & Cosmic Discoveries

Show Notes

In this intriguing Q&A episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Jonti Horner tackle a variety of cosmic queries from listeners. Join them as they explore the fascinating world of radio telescopes and how they produce images from radio waves, delve into the complexities of gravitational waves, and ponder the sounds and smells of space. Key topics include: - How photographic images are generated from radio telescopes, despite only receiving radio waves, and the fundamental principles behind this technology. - A deep dive into gravitational waves, their impact on space, and how LIGO detects these minute disturbances in the fabric of spacetime. - An imaginative discussion on what sounds might exist in space and the potential smells one could encounter beyond Earth’s atmosphere, including the curious idea of cosmic fragrances. Join Andrew and Jonty as they demystify these concepts, providing clarity and insights into the wonders of astronomy and space science.

00:00 - Space Nuts aims to answer questions from the audience about astronomy and space science 01:37 - Were the pyramids built by aliens or were they built by humans 04:26 - How is a photographic image produced from a radio telescope and not an optical telescope 12:36 - Dean: I often hear about gravity waves and I have a hard time visualising 20:15 - Andrew Dunkley: I think ideas become easier to explain over time 22:45 - Our next question comes from David from Port Washington, New York 30:37 - Several volcanoes have blown up since we've been to them 32:08 - The metropolitan area of Auckland contains 53 volcanoes 35:02 - If you could take a big inhale, what would space smell like 36:22 - If you would like to send us some questions, please do through our website

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

More from Space Nuts: Astronomy Insights & Cosmic Discoveries

Oct 22, 2026

Sponsor Link: This episode of Space Nuts is brought to you by NordVPN. Protect your online privacy today by visiting www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts for an exclusive offer!

Oct 19, 2026

Sponsor Link: This episode of Space Nuts is brought to you by NordVPN. Protect your online privacy today by visiting www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts for an exclusive offer!

Oct 17, 2026

Space Nuts: Lunar Magnetism, Exoplanet Signals, and the Evolution of Spacecraft Windows In this captivating episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson dive into a range of fascinating astronomical topics. The episode kicks off with an exploration of lunar magnetism, as they discuss new findings suggesting that the Moon may have once possessed a primordial magnetic field, stemming from solidified magma beneath its surface. The duo then shifts gears to a groundbreaking discovery of radio signals originating from the exoplanet Beta Pictoris B, revealing the presence of auroras on this distant gas giant. Finally, they examine the evolution of spacecraft windows, highlighting the importance of visibility for astronauts and the advancements in window technology over the decades. Join Andrew and Fred Watson as they unravel these cosmic mysteries with their signature blend of humour and insight. Key topics - The Moon's magnetic history and the implications of recent research on its geological structure. - Detection of auroras on exoplanets through radio signals and what it means for our understanding of planetary atmospheres. - The evolution of spacecraft windows: from early designs to modern innovations and safety considerations. Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction and overview of today's topics 01:20 - Discussion on lunar magnetism and the Moon's geological history 15:30 - Discovery of radio signals from exoplanet Beta Pictoris B and the significance of auroras 25:00 - Evolution of spacecraft windows and their importance for astronauts 35:15 - A unique photo capturing the International Space Station and a plane against the sun 45:00 - Closing thoughts and listener engagement

Oct 13, 2026

Sponsor Link: This episode of Space Nuts is brought to you by NordVPN. Protect your online privacy today by visiting www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts for an exclusive offer!

Oct 12, 2026

Sponsor Link: This episode of Space Nuts is brought to you with the support of NordVPN. To check out our special money-saving deal, visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts

See all episodes →