Cosmic Queries: Understanding Black Holes, Galactic Centres, and Mars Days
Space Nuts: Astronomy Insights & Cosmic DiscoveriesShow Notes
In this engaging Q&A episode of Space Nuts, join host Andrew Dunkley and astronomer Fred Watson Watson as they tackle a variety of fascinating questions from listeners. From the peculiarities of Martian days to the mysteries of black holes and the galactic centre, this episode is filled with enlightening discussions that are sure to spark curiosity about the cosmos. In this episode: - John asks about the implications of Mars' longer day length on human biology and potential adaptations for future colonists. - Dan inquires about the growth of black holes, exploring how quickly they can develop into supermassive entities and what happens when there’s nothing left to consume. - Young Thomas, just 11 years old, poses several intriguing questions about the galactic centre, including whether it can swallow all stars and planets in the galaxy, and the limits of a black hole's gravitational reach. - Paul reflects on historical discoveries in astronomy, specifically how Harlow Shapley determined our Sun's position within the Milky Way, challenging the long-held belief that it was at the centre. Join Andrew and Fred Watson as they explore these thought-provoking questions and more, encouraging listeners to continue their journey of exploration and discovery in the universe. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.
(00:00) This is a Q and A edition where we take audience questions (02:16) When and if Mars is populated with humans, how would we work with longer day (08:50) Andrew: How astronauts deal with gravity when they land on Earth (11:47) Dan from the Gold coast has some questions about black holes (12:51) Fred: How fast do black holes grow? Dan asks fundamental astrophysics question (18:17) Fred asks five questions about black holes from Thomas Reid, 11 (22:03) Thomas asks if black holes can swallow up all stars and planets (24:31) Final question comes from Paul from Las Vegas (26:42) It was actually 1919 when that discovery was made (34:24) We continue to receive great questions from great listeners and long may it continue
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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
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