Episodes

  • Snowball Earth Theories, High-Energy Neutrinos & The Fascinating MWC349A

    Snowball Earth Theories, High-Energy Neutrinos & The Fascinating MWC349A
    Oct 13 2025
    Q&A Edition: Snowball Earth, and Cosmic Neutrinos
    In this thought-provoking episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Jonti Horner tackle a range of intriguing listener questions. From the complexities of climate change and its effects on Earth’s axis to the mysteries of snowball Earth and the record-breaking neutrino KM M3230213A, this episode is packed with cosmic insights and scientific discussion.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Climate Change Explained: Andrew and Jonti address Peter's question on how CO2, despite being heavier than air, contributes to global warming. They discuss the greenhouse effect and the role of carbon dioxide in trapping heat, along with the challenges of public perception regarding climate science.
    - Snowball Earth Insights: Paul’s inquiry leads to an exploration of the snowball Earth hypothesis, examining how such extreme climate conditions could affect oxygen levels and what triggers these dramatic shifts in Earth’s climate.
    - Cosmic Neutrinos Unveiled: Casey’s question about the record-breaking KM M3230213A neutrino sparks a fascinating discussion on its origins, possible sources, and the implications of detecting such high-energy particles from the early universe.
    - Understanding MWC349A: Henrique asks about the mysterious object MWC349A and its unique emissions. The hosts delve into the science of masers and the significance of this object in understanding stellar evolution and mass loss.
    For more Space Nuts, including our continuously 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 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.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.
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    56 mins
  • Comet Updates, Meteor Showers & the Secrets of Uranus' Moon Ariel

    Comet Updates, Meteor Showers & the Secrets of Uranus' Moon Ariel
    Oct 10 2025
    Sponsor Details:
    This episode is brought to you with the support of NordVPN....enhance your online privacy with the best in the game. Tiy get our special Space Nuts price and bonus deal, visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts or use the code SPACENUTS at checkout.

    Comets, Meteor Showers, and Mysteries of Uranus
    In this engaging episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Jonti Horner explore the latest cosmic happenings, from the intriguing updates on interstellar comet 3I Atlas to the meteor showers lighting up our skies. They also delve into the fascinating story of Uranus's moon Ariel, which hints at a hidden ocean in its past, and the potential threat posed by asteroids influenced by Venus.
    Episode Highlights:
    - 3I Atlas Update: Andrew and Jonti discuss the latest observations of comet 3I Atlas, the third interstellar object observed, and its rapid journey through our solar system. With a close approach to the sun and Mars, the comet presents unique opportunities for data collection, despite being temporarily out of view from Earth.
    - Exciting Comet Discoveries: The hosts share news about other comets, including C 2025 R2 Swan and A6 Lemon, highlighting their visibility and potential for amateur astronomers. They discuss the thrill of unexpected comet appearances and the importance of ongoing observation.
    - Meteor Showers in Focus: Andrew and Jonti provide insights into the upcoming Orionid and Draconid meteor showers, including optimal viewing times and conditions. They discuss the rarity of meteor storms and the impact of moonlight on visibility.
    - Ariel and Its Hidden Ocean: The episode takes a deeper look at Uranus's moon Ariel, revealing new findings that suggest the presence of a subsurface ocean in its past due to tidal heating. The discussion emphasizes the implications for understanding the potential for life beyond Earth.
    - Venus and Asteroid Dynamics: The hosts conclude with a thought-provoking discussion about near-Earth asteroids that may be influenced by Venus's gravity, exploring how these objects could pose a long-term threat to Earth in the future.
    For more Space Nuts, including our continuously 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 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.
    Got a question for our Q&A episode? https://spacenutspodcast.com/ama

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.
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    55 mins
  • Cosmic Collapses, Black Hole Illusions & Antimatter Mysteries

    Cosmic Collapses, Black Hole Illusions & Antimatter Mysteries
    Oct 6 2025
    Sponsor Details:
    This episode is brought to you with the support of NordVPN....enhance your online privacy with the best in the game. Tiy get our special Space Nuts price and bonus deal, visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts or use the code SPACENUTS at checkout.

    Cosmic Questions: Black Holes, Antimatter Stars, and Meteor Photography
    In this enlightening Q&A episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson tackle a series of fascinating listener queries. From the enigmatic nature of black holes to the potential existence of antimatter stars, and practical tips for capturing meteors on camera, this episode is a treasure trove of cosmic insights and practical advice.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Collapse of the Universe: Listener Nate raises an intriguing question about the future of the universe and the concept of the Gnab Gib, or the reverse Big Bang. Andrew and Fred Watson discuss how gravity might pull everything back together and what happens to light during this cosmic collapse.
    - The Nature of Black Holes: Tad's thought-provoking question leads to a discussion on gravitational time dilation and the observer's perspective of black holes. The hosts explore how black holes form and why it appears as if nothing ever falls into them from our vantage point.
    - Antimatter Stars: Mark from London and Canada revisits the idea of antimatter stars, prompting a conversation about their potential existence and how we might detect them through unique gamma ray emissions.
    - Astrophotography Tips: Dave from Inverel shares his passion for nighttime photography and seeks advice on capturing meteors. Andrew and Fred Watson provide practical tips on the best times and techniques for successful meteor photography, including the benefits of using specific apps.
    For more Space Nuts, including our continuously 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.
    Got a question for our Q&A episode? https://spacenutspodcast.com/ama

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.
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    35 mins
  • Celebrating 25 Years of the ISS, Moon Crater Mining & Cutting-Edge Rocket Tech

    Celebrating 25 Years of the ISS, Moon Crater Mining & Cutting-Edge Rocket Tech
    Oct 2 2025
    In this exciting episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson delve into the remarkable achievements of the International Space Station as it approaches its 25th anniversary of continuous human occupation. The discussion also explores the potential for lunar mining, particularly in the moon's craters, and the innovative advancements in 3D printed rocket motors that are shaping the future of space exploration.
    Episode Highlights:
    - International Space Station Milestone: Andrew and Fred Watson celebrate the ISS's 25 years of human presence in space and discuss its significance as a model of international cooperation among space agencies, including NASA, ESA, Roscosmos, JAXA, and the Canadian Space Agency.
    - The Future of the ISS: The hosts explore the impending decommissioning of the ISS and the possibilities for commercial space stations that could take its place, highlighting NASA's partnerships with private companies to ensure ongoing human presence in low Earth orbit.
    - Lunar Mining Potential: The conversation shifts to the intriguing idea of mining the moon's craters for valuable resources, including precious metals and water. Andrew and Fred Watson examine the feasibility and ethical implications of such endeavours in the context of space exploration.
    - 3D Printed Rocket Motors: Andrew introduces a groundbreaking Australian project involving the creation of 3D printed rocket motors made from two different metals. The hosts discuss the potential applications of this technology for future space missions and the role of Australian innovation in the global space industry.
    For more Space Nuts, including our continuously updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, YouTube Music, Tumblr and Instagram. 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.
    Got a question for our Q&A episode? https://spacenutspodcast.com/ama

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.
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    32 mins
  • Full Moon Myths, Space Curvature & The Simulation Debate

    Full Moon Myths, Space Curvature & The Simulation Debate
    Sep 29 2025
    Full Moons, Curved Space, and the Simulation Hypothesis
    In this captivating Q&A episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson tackle an array of intriguing questions from listeners. From the effects of full moons on human behaviour to the complexities of curved space and the possibility of living in a simulation, this episode is packed with thought-provoking discussions that will stretch your cosmic imagination.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Full Moon Effects: The hosts address a listener's concerns regarding the alleged impact of full moons on human behaviour. Peter from Adelaide Hills raises important points about the lack of scientific evidence supporting the full moon effect, prompting a lively discussion on anecdotal experiences and sleep patterns.
    - Curvature of Space: Rob from the Central Coast poses a fascinating question about how voids in space might counterbalance the curvature caused by matter. Andrew and Fred Watson explore the implications of this idea and its potential connection to dark matter, while clarifying the current understanding of the universe's shape.
    - Detecting Light-Speed Vessels: Ian's question leads to a discussion on whether we could detect spacecraft travelling at light speed. The hosts clarify the physics behind light speed and the challenges of observing objects moving at such extreme velocities.
    - Are We Living in a Simulation? Martin presents a philosophical inquiry about the nature of our reality. The hosts delve into the simulation hypothesis and discuss the complexities of proving or disproving such a theory, while reflecting on the nature of consciousness and existence.
    For more Space Nuts, including our continuously 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.
    Got a question for our Q&A episode? https://spacenutspodcast.com/ama

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.
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    27 mins
  • Wormholes, Artemis 2 Updates & The Einstein Cross Explained

    Wormholes, Artemis 2 Updates & The Einstein Cross Explained
    Sep 25 2025
    Artemis 2, Wormholes, and Einstein Crosses
    In this thrilling episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson bring you the latest updates from the world of astronomy. From the anticipated Artemis 2 mission to the tantalising possibility of wormholes, and the discovery of a rare Einstein cross, this episode is a cosmic journey through some of the most exciting developments in space science.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Artemis 2 Update: Andrew and Fred Watson discuss the Artemis 2 mission, which is set to launch as early as February 5th, 2026. The hosts explore the significance of this mission, which will see astronauts venture beyond low Earth orbit for the first time in over 50 years, and the implications for future lunar exploration.
    - Wormhole Discovery? The conversation shifts to a fascinating gravitational wave event detected in 2019, which has led to speculation about the existence of wormholes. Andrew and Fred Watson delve into the new interpretations of this event and what it could mean for our understanding of the universe.
    - Einstein Chris Observations: The episode wraps up with a discussion on the recent discovery of a rare Einstein cross, a phenomenon that provides unique insights into the distribution of dark matter and the nature of distant galaxies. The hosts explain how this discovery can enhance our understanding of cosmic structures.
    For more Space Nuts, including our continuously 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.
    Got a question for our Q&A episode? https://spacenutspodcast.com/ama

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.
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    33 mins
  • Gravitational Wonders, Fast Radio Bursts & Your Questions Answered

    Gravitational Wonders, Fast Radio Bursts & Your Questions Answered
    Sep 22 2025
    Sponsor Details:
    This episode of Space Nuts is brought to you with the support of Insta360. Capture your adventures with their latest game-changer, the GOUltra. For a special Space Nuts offer, visit store.insta360.com and use the promo code SPACENUTS at checkout. Help support Space Nuts and get a great deal. Win/win!
    NordVPN:
    This episode is also brought to you with the support of NordVPN. For the best price and 4 extra months free, visit nordvpn.com/spacenuts and use the coupon code SPACENUTS at checkout.

    Cosmic Queries: Binary Planets, the Nature of Light, and Fast Radio Bursts
    In this engaging Q&A episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson tackle a series of thought-provoking questions from listeners around the globe. From the intriguing concept of binary planets to the mysteries of light and fast radio bursts, this episode is packed with insightful discussions that will spark your curiosity about the cosmos.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Binary Planets and Moons: Tony from Scotland wonders if planets and moons can exist in a binary configuration like binary stars. Andrew and Fred Watson explore the formation of such celestial bodies and the gravitational dynamics involved, revealing fascinating examples from our solar system.
    - The Nature of Light: Kevin poses a compelling question about the longevity of light from the universe's early days. The hosts discuss how light behaves over vast distances and the implications of an expanding universe on our observations.
    - Fast Radio Bursts Explained: Alan from Texas seeks clarity on the strongest fast radio burst ever recorded. Andrew and Fred Watson delve into the nature of these mysterious signals, their origins, and how astronomers measure their distances, shedding light on the ongoing research in this area.
    - Vertical Oceans: Rennie brings a whimsical question about Earth's oceans and gravity. The hosts clarify the three-dimensional nature of gravitational wells and how it affects the behaviour of water on our planet.
    For more Space Nuts, including our continuously 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.
    Got a question for our Q&A episode? https://spacenutspodcast.com/ama


    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support.
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    30 mins
  • Mars Life Mysteries, Black Hole Stars & Quasi Moons Unveiled

    Mars Life Mysteries, Black Hole Stars & Quasi Moons Unveiled
    Sep 19 2025
    Sponsor Details:
    This episode of Space Nuts is brought to you with the support of Insta360. Capture your adventures with their latest game-changer, the GOUltra. For a special Space Nuts offer, visit store.insta360.com and use the promo code SPACENUTS at checkout. Help support Space Nuts and get a great deal. Win/win!
    And NordVPN. Just visit nordvpn.com/spacenuts for the best price and 4 extra moths for free.

    Life on Mars? New Black Hole Stars and Quasi Moons
    In this riveting episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson delve into some of the most exciting developments in astronomy. From the tantalising possibility of past life on Mars to the discovery of a new class of black hole stars, this episode is brimming with cosmic revelations that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
    Episode Highlights:
    - Evidence of Life on Mars: The hosts discuss recent claims about the discovery of biological processes on Mars, focusing on a rock sample named Chavaja Falls. They explore the implications of "leopard spots" and the potential for past life, while emphasising the need for further analysis and sample return missions.
    - New Class of Black Hole Stars: Andrew and Fred Watson examine the evolving understanding of red dots detected by the James Webb Telescope. What was once thought to be galaxies may actually be gigantic stars with black holes at their centres, reshaping our understanding of the early universe.
    - Quasi Moons: The episode wraps up with a discussion on the latest quasi moon discovered orbiting Earth. The hosts explain the unique characteristics of these objects and their temporary nature, as well as the implications for future studies.
    For more Space Nuts, including our continuously 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.
    Got a question for our Q&A episode? https://spacenutspodcast.com/ama

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