Space Nuts: Astronomy Insights & Cosmic Discoveries

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1. Rubin’s New Dwarf Planet & Neptune’s Trojan Asteroid: Discoveries on the Solar System’s Edge

   5 november 2026 · 30 min

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   Space Nuts: A New Dwarf Planet, 3I/ATLAS, and Neptune’s Hidden Trojans
   In this episode of Space Nuts, Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson explore three discoveries from across the Solar System and beyond. They begin with the Vera C. Rubin Observatory’s discovery of a distant, potentially large dwarf planet, and discuss what its unusual orbit could tell us about the hunt for the elusive Planet Nine. Next, they examine new James Webb Space Telescope observations of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, whose unusual chemistry may preserve clues to its origins in a very cold environment billions of years ago. Finally, the hosts turn to Neptune’s long-sought Trojan asteroids, discovered in data from the Rubin Observatory by a team in Belfast. Join Andrew and Fred Watson for distant worlds, ancient cosmic ice and asteroids hiding in the dark.
   Key topics
   - The Vera C. Rubin Observatory’s discovery of dwarf planet candidate 2026 ED138.
   - What makes an object a dwarf planet, and how its orbit could inform the Planet Nine debate.
   - 3I/ATLAS’s unusual isotope ratios, methane and possible origins in an ancient, cold environment.
   - The discovery of Neptune’s Trojan asteroids and why they have been so difficult to observe.
   Timestamps
   00:00 - Introduction and episode overview
   01:20 - The Vera C. Rubin Observatory discovers a new distant dwarf planet
   05:30 - What defines a dwarf planet and how it may eventually be named
   09:00 - The object’s size, unusual orbit and possible relevance to Planet Nine
   12:00 - 3I/ATLAS and its unusual chemistry revealed by the James Webb Space Telescope
   16:00 - Isotope ratios, methane and clues to the comet’s age and origins
   20:00 - Neptune’s Trojan asteroids are finally discovered
   24:00 - How Trojan asteroids share a planet’s orbit and why Neptune’s were hard to find
   27:00 - Closing remarks and where to follow Space Nuts Lees meer

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2. The Great Attractor & Saturn’s Rings: Unravelling Cosmic Questions

   2 november 2026 · 31 min

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   Space Nuts: The Great Attractor, What Makes a Moon, and Life Beneath the Rings
   In this listener Q&A episode of Space Nuts, Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson tackle a curious collection of cosmic questions. They explain why a crescent Moon can appear alongside the Sun in the morning sky, then explore the Great Attractor: the enormous concentration of galaxy clusters influencing the motion of our Local Group. The conversation turns to a lingering classification puzzle — what exactly makes a moon a moon, and should it have to clear its orbit? Finally, they imagine the view from a rocky world with rings, considering how the rings might look through the seasons, how sunlight would filter through them and what spectacular shadows or eclipses might occur. Join Andrew and Fred Watson for astronomy, imagination and the occasional tractor joke.
   Key topics
   - Why the Sun and a crescent Moon can be visible together in the morning sky.
   - The Great Attractor, the Zone of Avoidance and the Laniakea Supercluster.
   - Whether moons need to be spherical or clear their orbits, and the case of Pluto and Charon.
   - What a ringed planet might look like from its surface, including seasonal changes, shadows and eclipses.
   Timestamps
   00:00 - Introduction and overview of listener questions
   01:20 - Why the Sun and crescent Moon can appear together in the morning
   06:00 - Moon phases and how sunlight illuminates the Moon
   09:30 - Paul’s question about the Great Attractor
   11:00 - The Zone of Avoidance and the Laniakea Supercluster
   16:00 - What defines a moon, and should it clear its orbit?
   20:00 - Binary planets, Pluto and Charon
   23:00 - What it might look like to stand beneath a planet’s rings
   26:00 - Seasonal ring illumination, shadows and possible eclipses
   30:00 - Listener feedback, updates and closing remarks Lees meer

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3. Japan’s Phobos Mission & Martian Quakes: Exploring Mars’ Moons, Canyons, and the Search for ET

   29 oktober 2026 · 34 min

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   Space Nuts: Mars’ Moons, Martian Quakes, and the Search for ET
   In this engaging episode of Space Nuts, Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson explore two mysteries from Mars, along with a new effort to listen for signs of life beyond Earth. First, they unpack Japan’s Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission, which will study Phobos and Deimos, attempt a landing on Phobos and bring samples back to Earth. The discussion turns to a Marsquake traced to the immense Valles Marineris canyon, offering fresh clues that the Red Planet may still be geologically active. Finally, Andrew and Fred Watson examine Saudi Arabia’s plans for a major astronomical observatory, including a site for Laser SETI detectors searching for brief flashes of possible extraterrestrial communication. Join them for a cosmic tour filled with planetary puzzles, ambitious missions and a little speculation about how aliens might get in touch.
   Key topics
   - Japan’s MMX mission to investigate Mars’ moons and return samples from Phobos.
   - The possible origins of Phobos and Deimos, and the challenges of landing on a world with almost no gravity.
   - A Marsquake linked to Valles Marineris and what it suggests about the planet’s geological activity.
   - Saudi Arabia’s planned observatory and the use of optical Laser SETI detectors in the search for extraterrestrial signals.
   Timestamps
   00:00 - Introduction and episode overview
   01:20 - Japan’s MMX mission and the mysteries of Phobos and Deimos
   06:00 - How the mission will study Phobos and attempt to collect samples
   12:00 - The challenges of landing on Phobos and the planned sample return to Earth
   15:45 - A Marsquake traced to Valles Marineris
   19:30 - What the quake reveals about Mars’ geological activity
   22:00 - Saudi Arabia’s new observatory and the Laser SETI search
   26:00 - How optical detectors could look for signals from extraterrestrial intelligence
   29:00 - Closing thoughts and listener engagement Lees meer

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4. Galactic Ejections & Black Hole Explosions: Exploring Cosmic Queries

   26 oktober 2026 · 31 min

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   Space Nuts: Ejected Stars, Black Hole Deaths, and Astronomy Resources
   In this engaging Q&A episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson tackle a variety of intriguing questions from listeners. The episode kicks off with Clark from Auckland, who wonders about the possibility of stars and planets being ejected from galaxies, and what that means for rogue celestial bodies. Next, Scott from Hobart delves into the life cycle of black holes, asking what happens when they can no longer hold back light and how they ultimately meet their end. Rusty from Brooklyn poses a thought-provoking hypothetical scenario about the sun disappearing and its effects on Earth's gravitational tether. Finally, Bea from Sydney seeks advice on resources for beginners in astronomy, prompting a discussion on apps, books, and equipment to kickstart a cosmic journey. Join Andrew and Fred Watson as they explore these cosmic curiosities with their signature blend of wit and insight.
   Key topics
   - The mechanics of stars and planets being ejected from galaxies and the existence of rogue celestial bodies.
   - Understanding the final stages of black holes, including Hawking radiation and potential explosive endings.
   - The implications of the sun's sudden disappearance on Earth's gravitational stability.
   - Resources and tips for beginners looking to dive into the world of astronomy.
   Timestamps
   00:00 - Introduction and overview of listener questions
   01:20 - Clark’s question about ejected stars and planets from galaxies
   15:30 - Scott’s inquiry on the life cycle and death of black holes
   25:00 - Rusty’s hypothetical scenario about the sun disappearing
   35:15 - Bea’s request for beginner astronomy resources
   45:00 - Closing thoughts and listener engagement Lees meer

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   00:00 - Introduction to Space Nuts and Listener Questions About Ejected Planets and Black Holes
   01:5…

5. Retrograde Orbits & Cosmic Collaborations: Unraveling NASA's Boeing Deal and Backward Exoplanets

   22 oktober 2026 · 37 min

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   Space Nuts: NASA's Starliner, Retrograde Exoplanets, and the Square Kilometre Array
   In this thought-provoking episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson delve into some of the latest developments in space exploration. They kick off with NASA's recent decision to stick with Boeing's Starliner for additional crewed missions, despite its rocky history. The conversation then shifts to the intriguing discovery of the exoplanet GJ 3090B, which is orbiting its star in the opposite direction, raising questions about planet formation and dynamics. Finally, they explore the innovative designs behind the Square Kilometre Array, examining how nature-inspired layouts may enhance its functionality while addressing technical challenges. Join Andrew and Fred Watson as they unravel these cosmic stories with their signature blend of wit and insight.
   Key topics
   - NASA's ongoing collaboration with Boeing for the Starliner missions and its implications for future space travel.
   - The unusual retrograde orbit of exoplanet GJ 3090B and what it reveals about planetary systems.
   - The design and challenges of the Square Kilometre Array and its nature-inspired antenna layout.
   Timestamps
   00:00 - Introduction and overview of today's topics
   01:20 - Discussion on NASA's partnership with Boeing and the Starliner missions
   15:30 - Exploration of the retrograde orbit of exoplanet GJ 3090B
   25:00 - Insights into the Square Kilometre Array and its innovative designs
   35:15 - Final thoughts and listener engagement

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6. Cosmic Questions & Stellar Insights: Diving into the Oort Cloud, Kuiper Belt, and Lunar Landers

   19 oktober 2026 · 35 min

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   Space Nuts: The Oort Cloud, Dwarf Planets, and Innovative Lander Designs
   In this enlightening Q&A episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson tackle a series of thought-provoking questions from listeners. Kicking off with Gerwin from Wales, they delve into the mysteries of the Oort Cloud and Kuiper Belt, discussing the potential mass of these distant regions and their influence on our solar system. Bob from Utah presents a unique perspective on dwarf planets, sparking a lively debate on definitions and classifications. Shumo from Oxford challenges the design of lunar landers, proposing a more insect-like approach to enhance stability on uneven terrain. Finally, Steve from the UK poses a fascinating hypothetical about gathering historical scientific greats to solve modern mysteries like dark matter and dark energy. Join Andrew and Fred Watson as they explore these cosmic curiosities with their signature blend of humour and insight.
   Key topics
   - The mass and significance of the Oort Cloud and Kuiper Belt in the solar system.
   - Redefining dwarf planets: A discussion on classifications and implications.
   - Innovative lunar lander designs inspired by nature's solutions to stability.
   - The potential of historical scientists collaborating on contemporary scientific challenges.
   Timestamps
   00:00 - Introduction and overview of listener questions
   01:20 - Gerwin’s question about the Oort Cloud and Kuiper Belt
   15:30 - Bob’s thoughts on the definition of dwarf planets
   25:00 - Shumo’s proposal for insect-inspired lunar landers
   35:15 - Steve’s hypothetical scenario of historical scientists solving modern mysteries
   45:00 - Closing thoughts and listener engagement

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7. Lunar Magnetism & Cosmic Signals: Insights into Moon Mysteries and Radio Discoveries

   17 oktober 2026 · 33 min

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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 Lees meer

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8. Time Dilation & Cosmic Mysteries: Unpacking Your Space Queries

   13 oktober 2026 · 27 min

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   Space Nuts: Fast-Moving Planets, Photon Pressure, and the Nature of Moons
   In this engaging Q&A episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson tackle a series of intriguing listener questions. Kicking off with Ron's query about the implications of living on a super fast-moving planet orbiting Sagittarius A*, they delve into the fascinating world of time dilation and its effects on scientific observations. Next, Jeff from Colorado poses a thought-provoking question regarding photon pressure and its potential influence on the universe's expansion, leading to a discussion on dark energy and cosmic mysteries. Brian from the Gold Coast wonders about the visibility of cosmic microwave background radiation behind black holes, while Bob rounds off the episode with a query on the characteristics that define a moon. Join Andrew and Fred Watson as they navigate these cosmic curiosities with their trademark wit and insight.
   Key topics
   - The effects of high-speed planetary motion near a black hole on time and observational science.
   - Exploring photon pressure and its relationship to the universe's expansion and dark energy.
   - The cosmic microwave background radiation and its interaction with black holes.
   - Defining moons: How small and irregular can they be while still being classified as moons?
   Timestamps
   00:00 - Introduction and overview of listener questions
   01:20 - Ron’s question about living on a fast-moving planet and time dilation effects
   15:30 - Jeff’s inquiry into photon pressure and its impact on cosmic expansion
   25:00 - Brian’s question regarding cosmic microwave background radiation and black holes
   35:15 - Bob’s exploration of what constitutes a moon
   45:00 - Closing thoughts and listener engagement

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9. Strange Spins and Cosmic Rings: Exploring NGC 4698 and Chariklo's Secrets

   12 oktober 2026 · 34 min

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   Space Nuts: Unraveling the Mysteries of NGC 4698 and Chariklo's Rings
   In this exciting episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson explore some truly peculiar cosmic phenomena. They kick off with a deep dive into the strange behaviour of the galaxy NGC 4698, known for its unusual rotational patterns and mysterious bulge, leading to discussions about possible galactic mergers. Next, the duo ventures into the intriguing world of Chariklo, a centaur object with changing rings, as they discuss the latest observations from the James Webb Space Telescope and the implications of its unique ring structure. Join Andrew and Fred Watson as they navigate these captivating astronomical tales with their signature blend of humour and insight.
   Key topics
   - The peculiar characteristics of NGC 4698: What makes this galaxy behave strangely?
   - Insights into the dynamics of galaxy mergers and their effects on structure.
   - Chariklo's rings: How have they changed since their discovery, and what does this mean for our understanding of ring systems?
   - The potential existence of a hidden moon influencing the structure of Chariklo's rings.
   Timestamps
   00:00 - Introduction and overview of today's topics
   01:20 - Discussion on the peculiar galaxy NGC 4698 and its unusual features
   15:30 - Exploring Chariklo and the changes in its ring system
   25:00 - Insights from the James Webb Space Telescope and the hidden moon hypothesis
   35:15 - Final thoughts and listener engagement

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10. Time Travel & Cosmic Questions: The Science Behind Our Universe

    10 oktober 2026 · 30 min

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    Space Nuts: Time Travel, Orbiting Telescopes, and Gold Origins
    In this Q&A episode of Space Nuts, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson tackle a range of thought-provoking listener questions. They begin with a fascinating inquiry from Andy, a train driver in the UK, about the implications of time travel at relativistic speeds. What does it mean to age differently when travelling close to the speed of light? The duo then dives into the mechanics of orbiting telescopes, addressing Nick's questions about how these instruments manage their observations while minimising interruptions from Earth. Finally, Ash from Brisbane poses an intriguing question about the origins of gold, prompting a discussion on neutron star collisions and the cosmic processes that create heavy elements.
    Key topics
    - Time travel and the effects of relativistic speeds on aging: Can we really travel through time?
    - The scheduling and operational strategies of orbiting telescopes like Hubble: How do they maximise observation time?
    - The origins of gold in the universe: What role do neutron star collisions play in the creation of heavy elements?
    Timestamps
    00:00 - Introduction and overview of listener questions
    01:20 - Andy’s question on time travel and relativistic speeds
    15:30 - Nick’s inquiry about orbiting telescopes and their observation strategies
    25:00 - Ash’s question regarding the origins of gold and neutron star collisions
    35:15 - Final thoughts and listener engagement

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