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The 365 Days of Astronomy

The 365 Days of Astronomy podcast launched in 2009 as part of the International Year of Astronomy. This community podcast continues to bring you day after day of content across the years. Everyday, a new voice, helping you see the universe we share in a new way. This show is managed by Avivah Yamani, edited by Richard Drumm. This podcast is funded through Patreon.com/CosmoQuestX and produced out of the Planetary Science Institute.
- 4268 - EVSN - Betelgeuse: Smaller & Closer Than Previously Thought… What?
From October 19, 2020.
Hosted by: Dr. Pamela L. Gay (@CosmoQuest)
Today's top story brings back our favorite red giant star, Betelgeuse. A new paper published in The Astrophysical Journal (ApJ) with lead author Dr. Meridith Joyce looks at Betelgeuse as a pulsating variable star and uses atmospheric physics to bring us new insights on what the red giant is up to.
This paper combines new observations with new computer models to derive the star's mass and size from its outward behavior in much the same way that one might derive the size of a jug based on what notes can be created by blowing across its opening. Different sized objects naturally resonate in specific ways. By understanding how Betelgeuse pulsates in the fundamental mode and first overtone mode – those first two pitches you can make with your bottle – they were able to work backward to figure out Betelgeuse's physical size. This method let them then figure out more accurately the star's distance because we know how big it appears on the sky, and there is a simple mathematical relationship between how big something is and how big it appears.
Our current estimates had been based on Hipparcos measurements of how Betelgeuse appears to move relative to background objects when the Earth moves around the Sun. This technique, called parallax, can be super useful, but, trying to measure how much an object shifts, when that object is a blobby star like Betelgeuse, can be a challenge!
Betelgeuse appears to be about 42 microarcseconds (mas) across and seems to shift just 5.95+0.58 or -0.85 mas. This is a really hard measurement, and Betelgeuse hasn't been looked at yet with Gaia.
By working from the theoretical size they got from its pulsation modes, and calculating a new distance, this team found that the lower edge of that error in the distance appears to be accurate, putting Betelgeuse just 530 lightyears away. This is 25% of the distance from the prior estimate, but as I said, it's within error. This closer distance makes Betelgeuse a bit smaller; it appears to be 750 times the radius of the Sun. Nevertheless, it still probably started with 20+ solar masses of material, and it will still explode in about 100,000 years. At this point, they believe, it is still burning helium in its core and is nowhere near going boom.
It's always cool when completely different techniques can narrow in on more precise values. This shows us once again that there is no one way to do science.
We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
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Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
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------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Fri, 18 Sep 2026 - 16min - 4267 - Actual Astronomy - Top Ten Techniques for Buying Used Telescope Gear
Hosted by Chris Beckett & Shane Ludtke, two amateur astronomers in Saskatchewan who enjoy teaching astronomy classes and showing the public views through their telescopes. actualastronomy@gmail.com
Top ten techniques for buying used telescope gear on Episode 552 of the Actual Astronomy podcast. I'm Chris and joining me is Shane. We are amateur astronomers who love looking up at the night sky and this podcast is for everyone who enjoys going out under the stars.
New vs. used:
Baked in discount Cheaper way to try different things Less cost to buy try sell than new and get hit by depreciation Great out of production gearTop 10 Ways to Choose Used Telescope Equipment:
Dedicated Astronomy Classifieds: Buy through enthusiast platforms like Cloudy Nights or AstroBuySell or online Japan Auction Sites rather than general marketplaces although I've had good luck on eBay too. Astronomy forums feature seller rating systems, community feedback, and knowledgeable owners who generally take better care of their optics. Inspect Glass and Mirrors for Mold or Coating Loss: A little dust on optics is normal, but avoid equipment with scratches, flaking coatings, or fungus/mold. Mold grows in damp storage conditions and permanently eats away at optical coatings. Test Mechanical Operations In Person: Arrange local pickup whenever possible to test the gear. Rack the focuser through its full range to ensure smooth motion, verify that mount lock knobs tighten properly, and check for wobbles or stripped threads. Verify GoTo Electronics and Tracking Motors: For computerized or tracking mounts, power on the unit to test motor slewing, controller screens, and firmware updates. Check battery compartments for acid corrosion, which frequently ruins neglected electronics. Compare Against Retail Pricing:Cross-reference the original retail listing to check the standard asking price (fair used prices generally hover around 60–75% of current retail) and confirm that missing essentials like counterweights, hand controllers, or finder scopes are accounted for in the deal.
Ask for Close-Up Photos and "Pencil" Tests: If buying remotely, request high-resolution, unedited photographs of optics from multiple angles. Asking the seller to place a specific object (like a handwritten note) next to the gear helps verify that they actually possess the equipment. Inquire About Storage and Service History: Ask where the equipment was stored. Mounts kept in unconditioned sheds or outdoor garages are prone to rusted gears, degraded grease, and moisture damage. High-end mounts may also have a documented service history. Watch Out for DIY Modifications: Amateur astronomers frequently alter equipment. Ensure any past modifications—such as custom focuser upgrades, flocking, or drilled mounting plates—were executed professionally and won't hinder performance or future resale value. Evaluate Mount Payload Capacity Realistically: Don't evaluate a telescope tube in isolation; ensure the bundled or intended mount can handle the weight. For astrophotography, plan for a payload weight that is no more than half of the mount's advertised maximum capacity. Use Secure Payment Methods with Buyer Protection: When paying online or via long-distance shipping, always use payment channels that offer buyer protection (such as standard PayPal Purchase options rather than "Friends & Family") to safeguard against scams or damaged goods. Ensure the item is well protected with proper packaging. Purchase shipping insurance when acquiring expensive gear.We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
Just visit: https://www.patreon.com/365DaysOfAstronomy and donate as much as you can!
Share the podcast with your friends and send the Patreon link to them too!
Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
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------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Thu, 17 Sep 2026 - 55min - 4266 - Deep Astronomy - The Triangulum Galaxy: The Most Distant Naked Eye Object
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VmzJj2i81H0
Hosted by Tony Darnell.
From Nov 7, 2017.
Have you ever wondered what the most distant object we can see with our naked eyes is? The answer is The Triangulum Galaxy some three million light years from Earth. This galaxy, along with the Great Andromeda Galaxy will collide with our Milky Way in about four billion years. This galaxy collision will herald in a new era for our home galaxy The Milky Way. We will transform into an entirely new galaxy with billions more stars.
If you like this content, please consider supporting Deep Astronomy on Patreon!
Created with Stellarium Open Source Software:
Original Music - Mark C. Petersen, Lochness Productions:
https://www.lochnessproductions.com/
We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
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Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
Do go visit http://www.redbubble.com/people/CosmoQuestX/shop for cool Astronomy Cast and CosmoQuest t-shirts, coffee mugs and other awesomeness!
http://cosmoquest.org/Donate This show is made possible through your donations.
Thank you! (Haven't donated? It's not too late! Just click!)
------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Wed, 16 Sep 2026 - 06min - 4265 - Cheap Astronomy - Dear CA # 139: Clearing the Neighborhood
Saving the world on a tight budget.
Hosted by Steve Nerlich.
Dear Cheap Astronomy – Can we clear all the PHOs from around Earth?
A key feature of Cheap Astronomy's CSOTM (Crash Shirt On The Moon) proposal is that the most readily available source of shirt to crash are near Earth asteroids and a small number of comets. This has the double benefit of putting all the raw materials in one place, plus you are clearing out potentially hazardous objects that could collide with Earth at some time in the future.
Dear Cheap Astronomy – Can we really deflect asteroids with rocket engines?
This is a follow up episode to our recent one about crashing near-Earth objects on the Moon. Where a listener wrote to critique a throw-away line we made about attaching a rocket engine to an asteroid, particularly if it was a rubble pile asteroid. They were too polite to say it's a dumb-@$$ idea, but yeah, it is probably a dumb-@$$, well sort-of maybe.
We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
Just visit: https://www.patreon.com/365DaysOfAstronomy and donate as much as you can!
Share the podcast with your friends and send the Patreon link to them too!
Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
Do go visit http://www.redbubble.com/people/CosmoQuestX/shop for cool Astronomy Cast and CosmoQuest t-shirts, coffee mugs and other awesomeness!
http://cosmoquest.org/Donate This show is made possible through your donations.
Thank you! (Haven't donated? It's not too late! Just click!)
------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Tue, 15 Sep 2026 - 15min - 4264 - Astronomy Cast Ep. 800: The Beginning & End of Everything - Part 1
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CDFCqCj0ofk
Streamed live on Sep 7, 2026.
Hosted by: Fraser Cain (@frasercain) and Dr. Pamela L. Gay (@CosmoQuest)
This show is supported through people like you on Patreon.com/AstronomyCast
To celebrate our 20th season, we thought we'd go back right to the beginning… of everything. Let's wind the clock back to the earliest moments of the Universe, where we'll measure time in fractions of a second. As the foundational laws of physics were laid down and we experience the repercussions to this day!
We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
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Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
Do go visit http://www.redbubble.com/people/CosmoQuestX/shop for cool Astronomy Cast and CosmoQuest t-shirts, coffee mugs and other awesomeness!
http://cosmoquest.org/Donate This show is made possible through your donations.
Thank you! (Haven't donated? It's not too late! Just click!)
------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Mon, 14 Sep 2026 - 40min - 4263 - Travelers in the Night Eps. 375 & 376: Extraterrestrial Whales & Tiny Space Rock
Dr. Al Grauer hosts. Dr. Albert D. Grauer ( @Nmcanopus ) is an observational asteroid hunting astronomer. Dr. Grauer retired from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2006. travelersinthenight.org
From February 2026.
Today's 2 topics:
- In an area which is about 1/400th of the entire sky, the NASA Kepler spacecraft has discovered 30 Earth like planets which are likely to have liquid water on their surfaces orbiting distant stars. These planets are likely to represent a tiny sample of the habitable planets which exist in the Milky Way. In spite of our efforts to find them, the question remains where are the alien civilizations? In a recent talk given at the Division of Planetary Sciences meeting Dr. Alan Stern of the Southwest Research Institute suggests that perhaps the majority of worlds with biology and intelligent civilizations exist on interior water ocean worlds where their existence is hidden by the thick layers of rock and ice which separate them from the hostile vacuum of space.
- Eighteen hours before my Catalina Sky Survey teammate Rose Matheny first spotted 2017 UJ2, a small space rock with our Schmidt telescope on Mt. Bigelow, Arizona it had passed less than the Earth's diameter from the surface of our planet. Rose was able to discover this Smart Car sized space rock after it moved out of the Sun's glare. At this point it was about the Moon's distance from her and was traveling away at 3.4 mi/s. After Rose posted her discovery observations on the Minor Planet Center's Near Earth Object Confirmation page, for the next 24 hours it was tracked by telescopes in Spain, Illinois, and Arizona.
We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
Just visit: https://www.patreon.com/365DaysOfAstronomy and donate as much as you can!
Share the podcast with your friends and send the Patreon link to them too!
Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
Do go visit http://www.redbubble.com/people/CosmoQuestX/shop for cool Astronomy Cast and CosmoQuest t-shirts, coffee mugs and other awesomeness!
http://cosmoquest.org/Donate This show is made possible through your donations.
Thank you! (Haven't donated? It's not too late! Just click!)
------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Sun, 13 Sep 2026 - 06min - 4262 - NOIRLab - The DESI Legacy Imaging Surveys
Hosted by Rob Starks.
The newest DESI Legacy Imaging Surveys map, 13 years in the making, covers three-quarters of the sky and catalogs nearly four billion objects. This treasure trove is available to all and contains stars, galaxies, supernovae, gravitational lenses, and much more. Two NSF NOIRLab facilities contributed data to the map: the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) Mayall telescope and the NSF Blanco telescope, equipped with the U.S. Department of Energy-fabricated DECam. In this podcast, Dr. John Moustakas discusses the surveys, the data and how it will impact future astronomical research.
Dr. John Moustakas is an associate professor of physics and the Department Chair in the Department of Physics & Astronomy at Siena University.
His broad research interests are in observational cosmology and astrophysics, with a focus on using the most powerful telescopes on earth and in space to understand how galaxies have formed and evolved (changed) in a 14 billion-year universe which is dominated by dark matter. He is also interested in dark energy, the mysterious cosmic phenomenon which is causing the expansion rate of the universe to accelerate.
Rob Sparks is in the Communications, Education and Engagement group at NSF's NOIRLab in Tucson, Arizona.
We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
Just visit: https://www.patreon.com/365DaysOfAstronomy and donate as much as you can!
Share the podcast with your friends and send the Patreon link to them too!
Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
Do go visit http://www.redbubble.com/people/CosmoQuestX/shop for cool Astronomy Cast and CosmoQuest t-shirts, coffee mugs and other awesomeness!
http://cosmoquest.org/Donate This show is made possible through your donations.
Thank you! (Haven't donated? It's not too late! Just click!)
------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Sat, 12 Sep 2026 - 18min - 4261 - EVSN - Newly Discovered Solar System Object is 'Farfarout'
From February 15, 2021.
A newly found object nearly four times farther out from the Sun than Pluto now holds the record for the farthest observed in our solar system. Plus, forming Super Earths, finding potentially habitable planets, jellyfish galaxies, the Crab Nebula, and this week's What's Up.
D100 in the Coma Cluster:
https://science.nasa.gov/asset/hubble/h-alpha-tail-of-d100/
We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
Just visit: https://www.patreon.com/365DaysOfAstronomy and donate as much as you can!
Share the podcast with your friends and send the Patreon link to them too!
Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
Do go visit http://www.redbubble.com/people/CosmoQuestX/shop for cool Astronomy Cast and CosmoQuest t-shirts, coffee mugs and other awesomeness!
http://cosmoquest.org/Donate This show is made possible through your donations.
Thank you! (Haven't donated? It's not too late! Just click!)
------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Fri, 11 Sep 2026 - 23min - 4260 - Guide To Space - Universe Today News: 7 Stage Journey Reveals How Falling Space Rocks Survive Air
https://www.universetoday.com/articles/7-stage-journey-reveals-how-falling-space-rocks-survive-air
By Laurence Tognetti, MSc - August 31, 2026.
Recorded by our Editor, Richard Drumm.
At least once in our lives, we've all seen a bright streak of light briefly blaze across the sky and have quickly referred to it as an asteroid, meteor, shooting star, comet, or some other whimsical name we've heard others use to describe it. For those calling it a meteor, you would be correct, but we'll touch upon this later. The time it takes for a space rock, bolide being its scientific name, to travel through Earth's atmosphere and crash into the ground literally takes only a few seconds. But what happens to a space rock during this very brief travel time, and how can scientists use this to learn about a specific space rock's origin and the potential damage it could cause if it explodes in mid-air?
Phase 1: Atmospheric entry;
Phase 2: Brightness begins;
Phase 3: Brightness increases with fireball appearance;
Phase 4: Brightness maintains while melting begins;
Phase 5: Front of rock begins to break apart;
Phase 6: Back of rock breaks apart;
Phase 7: Melting and breaking apart continue until glowing stops, followed by melting ending and wind discards crusted pieces.
[Editor's Note: OK, that could be 8 stages if you'd prefer…]
We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
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Share the podcast with your friends and send the Patreon link to them too!
Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
Do go visit http://www.redbubble.com/people/CosmoQuestX/shop for cool Astronomy Cast and CosmoQuest t-shirts, coffee mugs and other awesomeness!
http://cosmoquest.org/Donate This show is made possible through your donations.
Thank you! (Haven't donated? It's not too late! Just click!)
------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Thu, 10 Sep 2026 - 08min - 4259 - Big Impact Astronomy - Inspiring the World Through Astronomy With Dr. Kelly Blumenthal
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6lOpIWbly4
From July 23, 2026.
Hosted by Mike Simmons. Episode 19.
https://astro4equity.org - Visit our website!
Dr. Kelly Blumenthal is an astrophysicist and science communicator who has lived in and worked with many communities across the United States and worldwide. These experiences have shaped Kelly's perspectives on the importance of astronomy communication in building STEM opportunities for under-resourced people worldwide and its role in science generally. Kelly is now the director of the International Astronomical Union's Office of Astronomy Outreach (OAO), hosted by the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan in Tokyo. The Office is represented by its network of National Outreach Coordinators in more than 100 countries.
In this episode, Kelly shared her experience working as an astrophysicist and how she became the OAO's Director, the importance of science communication, dark skies, and the development of AstroACCEL.
The Role of Astronomy in Science Communication: 0:00 Engaging Communities Through Astronomy Outreach: 5:44 Professional Development in Astronomy Communication: 9:02 The Importance of Conferences in Astronomy Outreach: 11:18 Case Studies in Astronomy Education: 13:20 Astronomy as a Gateway to STEM: 18:10 Highlighting Women in Astronomy: 23:40 Protecting Our Dark Skies: 27:49 Engaging Youth in Astronomy Education: 32:20 Bridging Gaps in Astronomy Communication: 34:32 Personal Journeys in Astronomy: 41:22 Navigating Challenges in Astronomy Careers: 53:10
We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
Just visit: https://www.patreon.com/365DaysOfAstronomy and donate as much as you can!
Share the podcast with your friends and send the Patreon link to them too!
Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
Do go visit http://www.redbubble.com/people/CosmoQuestX/shop for cool Astronomy Cast and CosmoQuest t-shirts, coffee mugs and other awesomeness!
http://cosmoquest.org/Donate This show is made possible through your donations.
Thank you! (Haven't donated? It's not too late! Just click!)
------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Wed, 09 Sep 2026 - 51min - 4258 - Ask A Spaceman Ep. 279: What Can We Actually Find on an Exoplanet?
Mapping Alien Worlds!
Hosted by Dr. Paul M. Sutter.
Just how hard are exoplanets observations? What kind of telescope will it take to find life? And how much information can we get out of a single pixel of light? I discuss these questions and more in today's Ask a Spaceman!
Support the show: http://www.patreon.com/pmsutter
All episodes: http://www.AskASpaceman.com
Watch on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/PaulMSutter
Read a book: https://www.pmsutter.com/books
Keep those questions about space, science, astronomy, astrophysics, physics, and cosmology coming to #AskASpaceman for COMPLETE KNOWLEDGE OF TIME AND SPACE!
Big thanks to my top Patreon supporters this month: Justin G, Chris L, Alberto M, Corey D, Michael P, Naila, Sam R, Joshua, Scott M, Rob H, Scott M, Louis M, John W, Alexis, Gilbert M, Rob W, Jessica M, Jules R, Jim L, David S, Scott R, Heather, Mike S, Pete H, Steve S, Lisa R, Kevin B, Aileen G, Deb A, Michael J, Phillip L, Steven B, Mark R, Alan B, Craig B, Richard K, Joe R, David P, Justin, Tracy F, Thomas K, James C, Syamkumar M, Homer V, Mark D, Bruce A, Tim Z, Linda C, The Tired Jedi, Bob C, Stephen A, James R, Allen E, Michael S, Sheryl, David W, Chris, Michael S, Erlend A, James D, Karl W, Den K, Edward K, Scott K, Vivek D, M0PPET, Brad, Azra K, Steve R, M D Malahy, Brian O, Alonna M, Joseph B, and Anders J!
We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
Just visit: https://www.patreon.com/365DaysOfAstronomy and donate as much as you can!
Share the podcast with your friends and send the Patreon link to them too!
Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
Do go visit http://www.redbubble.com/people/CosmoQuestX/shop for cool Astronomy Cast and CosmoQuest t-shirts, coffee mugs and other awesomeness!
http://cosmoquest.org/Donate This show is made possible through your donations.
Thank you! (Haven't donated? It's not too late! Just click!)
------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Tue, 08 Sep 2026 - 31min - 4257 - Astronomy Cast Ep. 53: Astronomy in Science Fiction
From September 10, 2007.
Hosted by: Fraser Cain (@frasercain) and Dr. Pamela L. Gay (@CosmoQuest)
This is a very different episode of Astronomy Cast. As we mentioned last week, Pamela recently attended the Dragon*Con science fiction convention in Atlanta, Georgia. While she was there, she participated in a special live edition of Astronomy Cast with special guest Dr. Kevin Frazier. Kevin is a NASA scientist, and the science consultant for the TV shows Battlestar Galactica and Eureka. He and Pamela work through physics and astronomy in popular science fiction. What they get right, and what they get wrong... so very wrong.
Role of Science Consultants in Media: Dr. Grazier shares insights into his work as a science consultant, emphasizing the importance of scientific accuracy in storytelling and how it enhances narrative credibility. Analysis of Battlestar Galactica and Eureka: The conversation explores specific examples from these series, highlighting where scientific principles are accurately depicted and where creative liberties are taken. Common Misconceptions in Sci-Fi: They address prevalent scientific inaccuracies in science fiction, such as sound in space and unrealistic space travel mechanics, and discuss their impact on public understanding of science. Balancing Science and Storytelling: The discussion delves into the challenges writers face in integrating complex scientific concepts into engaging narratives without overwhelming the audience. Audience Interaction: Recorded live at Dragon*Con, the episode features questions from the audience, providing additional perspectives and inquiries about science in media.We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
Just visit: https://www.patreon.com/365DaysOfAstronomy and donate as much as you can!
Share the podcast with your friends and send the Patreon link to them too!
Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
Do go visit http://www.redbubble.com/people/CosmoQuestX/shop for cool Astronomy Cast and CosmoQuest t-shirts, coffee mugs and other awesomeness!
http://cosmoquest.org/Donate This show is made possible through your donations.
Thank you! (Haven't donated? It's not too late! Just click!)
------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Mon, 07 Sep 2026 - 58min - 4256 - Travelers in the Night Eps. 373 & 374: Plant Companionship & Earth's Pet Rock
Dr. Al Grauer hosts. Dr. Albert D. Grauer ( @Nmcanopus ) is an observational asteroid hunting astronomer. Dr. Grauer retired from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2006. travelersinthenight.org
From January & February 2026.
Today's 2 topics:
- On Earth, human life is enabled by plants which provide us with calories, vitamins, fuel, medicines, and oxygen to breathe. In addition, recent scientific studies indicate that plant cultivation reduces anxiety and depression and has a positive influence on diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and longevity. Perhaps this is the reason that 80% of the cultivated plant species on planet Earth are not used for any food related purpose. On long duration space missions astronauts live in close quarters isolated from the natural world where the basic activities like eating, sleeping, and attending to bodily functions are difficult and stress producing.
- On it's gravitational leash, Earth's pet space rock, 2016 HO3, accompanies us at a distance of between 38 and 100 times the Moon's distance from Earth as we both travel about the Sun. As this tiny asteroid orbits the Sun it spends about half of its time inside the Earth's orbit where it moves faster and passes ahead of us and the other half of its yearly path outside of our orbit which causes it to lag behind our home planet. Since its discovery little has been known about Earth's pet space rock leaving some to speculate that perhaps it is an old rocket booster or other piece of space junk.
We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
Just visit: https://www.patreon.com/365DaysOfAstronomy and donate as much as you can!
Share the podcast with your friends and send the Patreon link to them too!
Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
Do go visit http://www.redbubble.com/people/CosmoQuestX/shop for cool Astronomy Cast and CosmoQuest t-shirts, coffee mugs and other awesomeness!
http://cosmoquest.org/Donate This show is made possible through your donations.
Thank you! (Haven't donated? It's not too late! Just click!)
------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Sun, 06 Sep 2026 - 06min - 4255 - Equatorial Sky Guide - September
Hosted by our Director, Avivah Yamani.
September's equatorial sky features Venus, Saturn, Mars, Jupiter, dark Milky Way nights, the September equinox, and a lunar occultation of Venus.
We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
Just visit: https://www.patreon.com/365DaysOfAstronomy and donate as much as you can!
Share the podcast with your friends and send the Patreon link to them too!
Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
Do go visit http://www.redbubble.com/people/CosmoQuestX/shop for cool Astronomy Cast and CosmoQuest t-shirts, coffee mugs and other awesomeness!
http://cosmoquest.org/Donate This show is made possible through your donations.
Thank you! (Haven't donated? It's not too late! Just click!)
------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Sat, 05 Sep 2026 - 09min - 4254 - EVSN - On Background: The Anatomy of a Comet
Hosted by: Dr. Pamela L. Gay (@CosmoQuest)
From September 1, 2026.
In this special episode, funded by the National Science Foundation, we're taking a break from the headlines to study the changing anatomy of a comet.
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Fri, 04 Sep 2026 - 12min - 4253 - Actual Astronomy - The Observer's Calendar for September
Hosted by Chris Beckett & Shane Ludtke, two amateur astronomers in Saskatchewan who enjoy teaching astronomy classes and showing the public views through their telescopes. actualastronomy@gmail.com
In Episode 549 of Actual Astronomy, hosts Chris and Shane present the Observer's Calendar for September 2026, highlighting key celestial events for amateur astronomers throughout the month. Highlights include the Sept 1 Aurigids meteor shower peak, a Venus-Spica conjunction on Sept 2, two regional star parties in early September, and a Moon occultation of Jupiter on Sept 8. Observing targets throughout the month feature various lunar features like the Lunar X and Straight Wall, deep-sky objects, multiple carbon stars, Neptune reaching opposition on Sept 25, and the Harvest Full Moon on Sept 26.
Sept 1: Aurigids peak (ZHR=10) predawn; γ Del double star; M27 well placed in evening
Sept 2: Venus 1.7° South of Spica
Sept 4: Last Quarter Moon (2:11)
Sept 5: Lunar X visible
Sept 6: Alberta Star Party begins; Mars 3° South of Moon; Moon at perigee; NGC 6781 well placed; B142/3 well placed; Carbon star W Orionis in pre-dawn
Sept 7: Labour Day; M71 well placed; Carbon star HK Lyr in evening
Sept 8: Northern Prairie Star Party begins; Moon occults Jupiter (2:58 pm); M27 well placed; Max R Aql (9:00 pm); Star Trek 60th anniversary
Sept 9: NGC 6905 well placed; Carbon star RV Mon in pre-dawn; Zodiacal Light in E before morning twilight
Sept 10: New Moon (23:27); Uranus Stationary; Old crescent Moon in E before sunrise; M39, M29 well placed
Sept 11: Veil Neb well placed
Sept 12: NGC 7000 well placed
Sept 13: NGC 6946 well placed
Sept 14: Venus 0.5° South of Moon; IC 5146 well placed; Carbon star U Cyg in evening
Sept 15: NGC 6819 well placed
Sept 16: NGC 6826 well placed
Sept 17: First Quarter Moon (18:44)
Sept 18: Venus greatest illuminated extent;
Sept 19: Lunar Straight Wall this evening; Two shadows on Jupiter visible (9:03 pm)
Sept 20: Follow Capella unaided into daylight this week
Sept 22: Autumnal Equinox (12:00 am); Jeweled Handle (12:00 am)
Sept 24: Crater Billy (9:00 pm)
Sept 25: Neptune at opposition;
Sept 26: Full Moon / Harvest Moon (12:49); Two shadows on Jupiter (10:56 pm); Mare Orientale (9:00 pm); Crater Einstein (4:00 am); Carbon star V Cyg in evening
Sept 30: 192 Nausikaa at opposition (m=8.4)
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Thu, 03 Sep 2026 - 26min - 4252 - Awesome Astronomy - Holy Flipping Galaxies Batman!
September Part 1!
Paul Hill and Dr. Jenifer "Dr. Dust" Millard host.
Damien Phillips, John Wildridge and Dustin Ruoff produce.
So it turns out…
-The Milky Way may have done a back flip…
-News about the Swift telescope,
-NASA raiding its bare cupboards, and
-A super fast star.
-A nova in Sagitta!
Also…
-Our usual skyguide and wittering.
-Oh, and a song.
You will be full of antici……….pation!
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------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Wed, 02 Sep 2026 - 59min - 4251 - Deep Astronomy - The Most Distant Galaxy Ever Measured
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frcLSXuzzyY
Hosted by Tony Darnell.
From October 24, 2010.
On Oct 19, 2010, astronomers announced the measurement of a redshift of 8.6 for one of the galaxies in the Ultra Deep Field. That corresponds to a galaxy seen just 600 million years after the Big Bang!
Here's the news release from ESO's website:
http://www.eso.org/public/news/eso1041/
The Nature paper:
https://www.eso.org/public/archives/releases/sciencepapers/eso1041/eso1041.pdf
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Tue, 01 Sep 2026 - 06min - 4250 - Astronomy Cast Ep. 8: Meteor Showers. Yes, the Sky is Falling!
http://www.astronomycast.com/archive/
Hosted by: Fraser Cain (@frasercain) and Dr. Pamela L. Gay (@CosmoQuest)
From October 30, 2006.
Dress warmly, gather some friends and family, and head outside to watch sand burn in the upper atmosphere. There's nothing like a good meteor shower. Fraser and Pamela explain this beautiful phenomenon: what causes them, the best storms and showers to watch for, and different types of meteors you might see.
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------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Mon, 31 Aug 2026 - 26min - 4249 - Travelers in the Night Eps. 371 & 372: Kiwi Nights & Close Ones
Dr. Al Grauer hosts. Dr. Albert D. Grauer ( @Nmcanopus ) is an observational asteroid hunting astronomer. Dr. Grauer retired from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2006. travelersinthenight.org
From January, 2026.
Today's 2 topics:
- New Zealand's 4.5 million people are concentrated in three major population centers which to various degrees suffer from the modern plague of light pollution. However, most of New Zealand's large rural areas and land reserves, covering an area as large as the UK, have unpolluted natural night skies. A completely unique place to experience New Zealand's natural night sky is the Aotea-Great Barrier Island International Dark Sky Sanctuary. It encompasses New Zealand's, 110 square mile, sixth largest island, which is located about 62 miles from central Auckland. It is easily accessible by boat or a short airline flight.
- In less than 24 hours, while observing with the Catalina Sky Survey's 60 inch telescope on Mt. Lemmon, Arizona, I discovered two 25 foot diameter space rocks that can theoretically pass less than a quarter of the Moon's distance from us. After I posted my discovery observations on the Minor Planet Center's Near Earth Object Confirmation page one of them received immediate attention, as an incoming object, and was tracked by observers at 14 different observatories around the world. Scientists at the Minor Planet Center used these data to calculate its 926 day orbital path around the Sun, estimate its size, and give it the name 2017 TH5.
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Sun, 30 Aug 2026 - 06min - 4248 - Space Stories - Syzygy, When Worlds Line Up
Hosted by our Director, Avivah Yamani.
What is a syzygy? Explore one of astronomy's strangest words and discover how the Sun, Earth, Moon, eclipses, transits, and tides are all connected by cosmic alignment.
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Sat, 29 Aug 2026 - 07min - 4247 - EVSN - After Hours #8: Making Moons & Getting Cratered With William K Hartmann
Hosted by: Dr. Pamela L. Gay (@CosmoQuest)
From August 13, 2026.
Across a long career, Dr. William Hartmann has done everything from innovating how the Moon was formed to founding the Planetary Science Institute to defining space art for a new generation; a generation that included host Pamela Gay. Tune in to hear about science, art, and how they can mix as individuals both make new discoveries, and the illustrations to accompany them!
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------------------------------------
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------------------------------------
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Fri, 28 Aug 2026 - 50min - 4246 - Guide To Space - Are Aliens Watching Us & How Could We Hide? With Dr. David Kipping
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rx1276dpHe4
From Jan 14, 2020.
Hosted by: Fraser Cain (@frasercain)
Once again, at the AAS Meeting in Hawaii, I got a chance to sit down with another astronomer to talk about their research. This time it was Dr. David Kipping from Columbia University's Cool World's Lab. We talked about how easy it'll be for aliens to know our planet is inhabited, and some ways we might be able to hide the evidence of our existence.
Dr. Kipping's channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGHZpIpAWJQ-Jy_CeCdXhMA
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------------------------------------
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Thu, 27 Aug 2026 - 25min - 4245 - Deep Astronomy - NASA's TESS Finishes First Year of Exoplanet Science Operations
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivzbZRWkMUg
Hosted by Tony Darnell.
From Nov 12, 2019.
NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite has completed its first year of science operations and to show for it, NASA has released this amazing mosaic of the entire southern celestial hemisphere.
This video was written by NASA Goddard folks, you can watch the original here:
https://svs.gsfc.nasa.gov/13285
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Wed, 26 Aug 2026 - 05min - 4244 - Cheap Astronomy - Dear CA #138: In Space!
Some place in space.
Hosted by Steve Nerlich.
Dear Cheap Astronomy – What is the role of AI in space?
AI simulates human decision-making and finds most practical usage in the sorting and analysing of various kinds of data. So. you can feed an AI program pictures of galaxies and the classifications they fit into and then the AI can then identify and classify new ones that you feed it. It's kind of like how Galaxy Zoo used to work, except with Galaxy Zoo it was actual crowd-sourced people that did the work.
Dear Cheap Astronomy – What will space warfare look like?
We've previously discussed on this podcast that fighting a war from space is probably a bad idea. You might conceivably drop a bomb from orbit, but once you've identified yourself as an enemy it's pretty easy to take you out from the ground. You may be able to dodge a few missiles at the start, but once you're out of maneuvering fuel you'll be stuck in a straight-line orbit and hence a sitting duck.
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Tue, 25 Aug 2026 - 14min - 4243 - Astronomy Cast Ep. 101: Advanced Propulsion Systems
From August 11, 2008.
Hosted by: Fraser Cain (@frasercain) and Dr. Pamela L. Gay (@CosmoQuest)
Last week we talked about rockets. How they work, how they go BOOM!, their limitations. And this week we're going to look at the future of propulsion systems. From the ion engines that are already working to explore the Solar System to the prototype solar sails to futuristic technologies like magnetic sails, and bussard ramjets. This is how we'll travel to other stars.
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Mon, 24 Aug 2026 - 36min - 4242 - Travelers in the Night Eps. 369E & 370E: Night Vision & Double Comet
Dr. Al Grauer hosts. Dr. Albert D. Grauer ( @Nmcanopus ) is an observational asteroid hunting astronomer. Dr. Grauer retired from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2006. travelersinthenight.org
From December 2025 & January 2026.
Today's 2 topics:
- Many people in our modern world rarely if ever experience night vision. To achieve this interesting state of sensory awareness you cannot look at your cell phone or any other source of bright light for 30 to 45 minutes. Your night vision comes about over time because the rod sensors in the retina of your eye undergo a chemical change when they are placed in total darkness. The process starts immediately but takes 20 to 30 minutes to get 80% of maximum sensitivity. The night vision process can be reversed in seconds by exposure to a bright light. In its most sensitive state your eye can function with a billion times less light than is present in strong sunlight enabling you to see a candle flame from 1.6 miles away.
- In November of 2006, University of Arizona's Spacewatch astronomers on Kitt Peak discovered a faint moving point of light in the night sky which appeared to be a garden variety main belt asteroid orbiting the Sun between Mars and Jupiter. The Minor Planet Center calculated it's orbit and gave it the name 2006 VW139. Five years later when it again moved closest to the Sun the Pan-STARRS group in Hawaii discovered that 2006 VW139 is surrounded by a gas cloud like a comet and it was given a comet designation, 288P.
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Sun, 23 Aug 2026 - 06min - 4241 - Actual Astronomy - Messier Objects for August
Hosted by Chris Beckett & Shane Ludtke, two amateur astronomers in Saskatchewan who enjoy teaching astronomy classes and showing the public views through their telescopes. actualastronomy@gmail.com
On Episode 547 of Actual Astronomy, hosts Chris and Shane guide listeners through observing an array of August Messier objects across the constellations Ophiuchus, Scorpius, and Sagittarius. The show details viewing techniques for globular and open clusters—highlighting targets like the egg-shaped globular M19, the historical Ptolemy's Cluster (M7), and the beginner-friendly M23. Additionally, they explore iconic Milky Way nebulae, including the active star-forming Lagoon Nebula (M8) and the nearby Trifid Nebula (M20) with its distinctive three-lobed dark dust lanes.
1. M10 & M12 (Globular Clusters in Ophiuchus)
- Binoculars: Sweeping through central Ophiuchus reveals these two bright globulars in the same binocular field. They appear as soft, distinct bluishgray spheres.
- Telescope: In an 8-inch telescope, M12 resolves well into individual stars across its core, while M10 appears somewhat more tightly packed, brighter toward the center, and slightly fuzzier at the edges.
- Compare the two side-by-side: Despite being located near each other in our sky, M12 has lost a significant portion of its lower-mass stars due to repeated passages through the Milky Way's dense galactic disk.
2. M107 (Globular Cluster in Ophiuchus)
- Binoculars: A challenging target for binoculars; requires dark skies and averted vision to spot as a minute, faint smudge.
- Telescope: Small-to-medium telescopes reveal a delicate, somewhat un-concentrated patch of light with a loose core.
- M107 contains noticeable dark dust lanes or obscuring regions, which is relatively rare for a globular cluster, giving it a unique visual texture in medium-to-large scopes.
3. M9 (Globular Cluster in Ophiuchus)
- Binoculars: Similar in scale to M107, though slightly brighter and easier to catch in 10x50s on a clear night.
- Telescope: Small scopes show a bright, unresolved central nucleus surrounded by a faint, grainy halo.
- M9 is located remarkably close to the Galactic Centre—only about 5,500 light-years away from it. It lies near dark nebulae like Barnard 64, making the surrounding starfield visually compelling.
4. M19 & M62 (Globular Clusters in Ophiuchus)
- Binoculars: Separated by about 4 degrees, both fit easily into a standard binocular field of view south of M10/M12. They look like round, soft patches brightening toward their centers, with M19 appearing noticeably brighter.
- Telescope: Smaller telescopes show compact, fuzzy disks. Moderate magnification begins resolving outer stars on both.
- M19 is famous for being one of the most distinctly oblate (egg-shaped) globular clusters known, likely due to tidal forces from its proximity to the galactic core.
- M62 has an asymmetric core, heavily deformed by galactic tidal forces, and hosts a rich population of millisecond pulsars.
5. M6 (The Butterfly Cluster) & M7 (Ptolemy's Cluster) Scorpius
- Naked Eye: Both are bright and obvious to the naked eye under dark skies near the "stinger" of Scorpius.
- Binoculars: Binoculars provide the absolute best view. Both clusters fit together in a wide 10x50 field. M7 is larger and brighter; M6 displays a striking butterfly-like star arrangement.
- M7 is one of the oldest recorded deep-sky objects, noted by Ptolemy in 130 AD.
- The orange giant star BM Scorpii, which sits on the wing of the "Butterfly" in M6 and adds a nice pop of stellar color contrast.
6. M8 (The Lagoon Nebula) Sagittarius
- Naked Eye: Appears as a distinct, hazy patch in the Milky Way band above Scorpius.
- Binoculars: Shows as a huge, glowing oval patch—larger than the full Moon—with several bright stars embedded within it.
- Telescope / Filters: A UHC or O-III filter enhances the dark dust lane ("the lagoon") bisecting the bright nebulosity.
- M8 is an active star-forming region containing Bok globules (collapsing clouds of protostellar gas) and the famous "Hourglass Nebula" region at its core.
7. M20 (The Trifid Nebula) Sagittarius
- Binoculars: Located just 1.4 degrees northwest of M8. Appears as a faint, ghostly glow surrounding a central triple/multiple star system.
- Telescope: Medium scopes under dark skies reveal the dark dust lanes splitting the bright emission portion into three distinct lobes.
- M20 is a rare "triple threat" nebula containing an emission nebula (red in photos), a reflection nebula (blue in photos), and a dark dust lane network (Barnard 85) that gives it its name.
8. M21 (Open Cluster) Sagittarius
- Binoculars: Situated right next to M20. Appears as a small, compact, bright knot of stars.
- Telescope: Low-power views easily resolve 20–30 stars packed tightly together.
- The "Trifid Trio": In wide-field eyepieces or binoculars, you can view M8, M20, and M21 all in a single field of view, offering one of the most spectacular Milky Way vistas available to visual observers.
9. M23 (Open Cluster) Sagittarius
- Telescope: Low magnification is key. Small telescopes easily resolve over 80–100 stars spread across a wide field in subtle arc-like patterns.
- M23 sits against a rich background Milky Way star field, making low-power wide-field views ideal. It is an excellent target for beginners practicing star-hopping in northern late-summer skies.
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Sat, 22 Aug 2026 - 24min - 4240 - Space Stories - The Fastest Star in the Milky Way
Hosted by our Director, Avivah Yamani.
Meet S301, the fastest known star in the Milky Way, racing around Sagittarius A* and offering astronomers a new way to measure the spin of our galaxy's supermassive black hole.
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Fri, 21 Aug 2026 - 09min - 4239 - EVSN - After Hours: Doing Big Science With Light Tools & Guest Dr. Danny Jacobs
From July 30, 2026.
Hosted by: Dr. Pamela L. Gay (@CosmoQuest)
Science comes from many corners, and there is a need for both 600-m radio telescopes made on a great plain (Like the RATAN-600) and 60cm radio dishes built in a living room. In this After Hours, we talk with ASU professor Dr. Danny Jacobs (https://danielcjacobs.com)about how he engages students of all kinds in space sciences through educational tools like the cardboard radio telescope (https://astrochart.github.io), and in space telescope operations with the SPARCS small sat. (https://sparcs.asu.edu/)
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Thu, 20 Aug 2026 - 1h 02min - 4238 - Awesome Astronomy - The Eclipse & the Perseids
August Part 2.
Paul Hill hosts solo!
Damien Phillips, John Wildridge and Dustin Ruoff produce.
Join Paul in his Astronomy lair as he live sketches the Eclipse, chats to neighbours and talks Astronomy news while spotting Perseid meteors.
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------------------------------------
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------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Wed, 19 Aug 2026 - 48min - 4237 - Ask A Spaceman Ep. 278: What's A Good Story About Chandrasekhar?
Physics under pressure!
Hosted by Dr. Paul M. Sutter.
What was the big deal about Chandrasekhar's discovery? Why did he meet so much resistance? How is his work tied to everything from supernovae to black holes? I discuss these questions and more in today's Ask a Spaceman!
Support the show: http://www.patreon.com/pmsutter
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Keep those questions about space, science, astronomy, astrophysics, physics, and cosmology coming to #AskASpaceman for COMPLETE KNOWLEDGE OF TIME AND SPACE!
Big thanks to my top Patreon supporters this month: Justin G, Chris L, Alberto M, Corey D, Michael P, Naila, Sam R, Joshua, Scott M, Rob H, Scott M, Louis M, John W, Alexis, Gilbert M, Rob W, Jessica M, Jules R, Jim L, David S, Scott R, Heather, Mike S, Pete H, Steve S, Lisa R, Kevin B, Aileen G, Deb A, Michael J, Phillip L, Steven B, Mark R, Alan B, Craig B, Richard K, Joe R, David P, Justin, Tracy F, Thomas K, James C, Syamkumar M, Homer V, Mark D, Bruce A, Tim Z, Linda C, The Tired Jedi, Bob C, Stephen A, James R, Allen E, Michael S, Sheryl, David W, Chris, Michael S, Erlend A, James D, Karl W, Den K, Edward K, Scott K, Vivek D, M0PPET, Brad, Azra K, Steve R, M D Malahy, Brian O, Alonna M, Joseph B, and Anders J!
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Tue, 18 Aug 2026 - 38min - 4236 - Astronomy Cast Ep. 118: Sky Surveys
http://www.astronomycast.com/archive/
From December 12, 2008.
Hosted by: Fraser Cain (@frasercain) and Dr. Pamela L. Gay (@CosmoQuest)
In the old days, astronomers had to beg for telescope time. They'd put together a proposal, convince observatories to gather data for them, crunch that data and release the results. No telescope, no results. But everything's different now. Fleets of robotic telescopes constantly scan the skies, building up a vast database of raw data about the Universe. Anyone who wants can access the information through the Internet, download what they need to do real science. No telescope necessary. Let's look at the development of sky surveys, and how they're changing how astronomy gets done.
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Mon, 17 Aug 2026 - 30min - 4235 - Travelers in the Night Eps. 367 & 368: Moons of Florence & Roving Venus
Dr. Al Grauer hosts. Dr. Albert D. Grauer ( @Nmcanopus ) is an observational asteroid hunting astronomer. Dr. Grauer retired from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2006. travelersinthenight.org
From December 2025.
Today's 2 topics:
- Dr. Lance Benner of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory headed up a team of scientists who used the 70 meter antenna at NASA's Goldstone Deep Space Communications Complex to bounce RADAR beams off of the asteroid Florence as it made a close approach to Earth in September of 2017. The RADAR images these researchers obtained reveal that Florence consists of a 2.8 mile diameter primary asteroid which is orbited by two small moons.
- Venus and Earth are similar in size, composition, density, and mass. Unfortunately, our sister planet Venus is an example of a place where green house gases have created an extreme situation. Venus's thick carbon dioxide atmosphere has a surface pressure 90 times that of Earth. It would crush a submarine. Additionally, the thick atmospheric blanket holds in the heat causing Venus's surface temperature to be 864 F, hot enough to melt lead.
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------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Sun, 16 Aug 2026 - 06min - 4234 - Astroman - E is for Eclipse
Today's episode is all about last Wednesday's total solar eclipse. But you have a partial lunar eclipse that's coming up that you can look forward to on August 27-28!
"ASTROMAN: the Dark Sky Guardian" is a podcast channel that aims to explore popular science in multiple disciplines and research on interdisciplinary approaches, such as sustainability, dark-sky protection, astrophotography, space exploration, astronomy innovation, inclusive science communication, and STEAM Education by integrating science and arts.
Exodus Chun-Long Sit, also known as the ASTROMAN, is a transmedia astronomy educator, popular science author, STEAM educator, and science communicator in Hong Kong. He is recently the National Astronomy Education Coordinator (Chair of Hong Kong, China) of the International Astronomical Union and President of Starrix. He was also an International Committee Member of the Dark Sky International, regularly organizing public lectures at the Hong Kong Space Museum and the Hong Kong Science Museum. He was also the author of a popular science book "Decoding the Starry Night: A Guide to Stargazing and Astrophotography".
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Sat, 15 Aug 2026 - 07min - 4233 - EVSN - After Hours: International Moon Day 2026 With guest Jekan Thanga
Hosted by: Dr. Pamela L. Gay (@CosmoQuest)
From July 22, 2026.
On July 20, the world celebrates International Moon Day. This UN designated holiday marks the anniversary of humanity's first landing on the Moon. The Apollo 11 landing in 1969 is now only a distant memory or a date from history for most people, but it is worth thinking about as the world prepares to return humans to the Moon in the coming decade. Joining us to discuss International Moon Day is Dr. Jekan Thanga, the head of the Space TREx Laboratory at the University of Arizona. Come learn how his interdiciplinary team is taking a page from the past as we plan for a Lunar future.
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------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Fri, 14 Aug 2026 - 59min - 4232 - Guide To Space - Where Do Comets Come From? Exploring the Oort Cloud
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IQtdQ94jy8I
From Oct 17, 2017.
Hosted by: Fraser Cain (@frasercain)
Some comets orbit the Sun on a regular basis, but others come in from deep space, a region known as the Oort Cloud. What causes them to make this journey, and will we ever be able to explore the Oort Cloud?
Before I get into this episode, I want to remind everyone that it's been several decades since I've been able to enjoy a bright comet in the night sky. I've seen mind blowing auroras, and witnessed a total solar eclipse with my own eyeballs. The Universe needs to deliver this bright comet for me, and it needs to do it soon.
[Editor's note: Rich here. I'm spoiled by comet Hyakutake.]
By recording this video now, I will summon it. I will create a video that'll be hilariously out of date in a few months, when that bright comet shows up.
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Thu, 13 Aug 2026 - 11min - 4231 - Equatorial Sky Guide - August 2026
Hosted by our Director, Avivah Yamani.
Explore the August 2026 equatorial sky, from the Perseids and Milky Way to bright planets and the August 12 total solar eclipse.
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Wed, 12 Aug 2026 - 08min - 4230 - Cheap Astronomy - Dear CA Ep. 137: Space Missions
Hosted by Steve Nerlich.
We are still out there.
Dear Cheap Astronomy – Why do some space missions last so long?
So, we're all familiar with the stories of the Mars rovers, Spirit and Opportunity, landing with mission lifespans of 90 days, that then went on to rove the surface of Mars for 15 years. And the Voyager probes, launched in 1977, were supposed to have five-year missions, which are now going on 47 years and counting. So, what's going on? Is NASA just crap at predicting mission lifetimes?
Dear Cheap Astronomy – How much faster is nuclear thermal propulsion?
The idea behind nuclear thermal propulsion or NTP is that you have a nuclear fission core, which is probably uranium-based. This can generate a lot of heat over long periods and you then feed in a propellant that will expand on heating, for example liquid hydrogen. The expanded gas then shoots out a rocket nozzle and pushes your spacecraft forward on the basis of Newton's actions produce opposite reactions.
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Tue, 11 Aug 2026 - 14min - 4229 - Astronomy Cast Ep. 160: Eclipses
http://www.astronomycast.com/archive/
From October 19, 2009.
Hosted by: Fraser Cain (@frasercain) and Dr. Pamela L. Gay (@CosmoQuest)
Every now and then, the Moon destroys the Sun. Okay, not destroys, covers. Well, not really covers, but from here on Earth, sitting inside the shadow of the Moon, that's what it sure looks like. These events are called eclipses, or more precisely, transits and occultations. They occur whenever one object passes in front of another from a 3rd perspective. They're beautiful and exciting, and deliver a tremendous amount of science as well.
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Mon, 10 Aug 2026 - 33min - 4228 - Travelers in the Night Eps. 365E & 366E: Spotting Meteors & Mars Rocks
Dr. Al Grauer hosts. Dr. Albert D. Grauer ( @Nmcanopus ) is an observational asteroid hunting astronomer. Dr. Grauer retired from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2006. travelersinthenight.org
From December 2025.
Today's 2 topics:
- Meteors, shooting stars, or falling stars are different names for the streaks of light in the night sky which are in reality the dying embers of tiny asteroids. These small interplanetary travelers were speeding along at between 7 and 44 miles per second when they entered the Earth's atmosphere. In space, they are called meteoroids and typically ranged in size from that of a grain of sand to perhaps ones as big as of a piece of driveway gravel. Large space pebbles can produce fireballs which are brighter than the planet Venus.
- At about 2AM on July 18, 2011 several people in near Tata, Morocco saw a bright fireball which was described by one of them to be initially yellow, then turned green, and finally exploded into several pieces producing two sonic booms. In October of 2011 desert wandering nomads began finding very fresh looking dark fusion-crusted stones which were radioactively dated by Dr. John Duke of the University of Alberta to be less than 5 years old. In total 15-24 lbs of meteorites consistent with a very recent fall were found in a strewn field, were whisked away to receive high prices from collectors, and named after the town of Tissint, about 30 miles from their discovery location.
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Sun, 09 Aug 2026 - 06min - 4227 - NOIRLab - The Start of the LSST
Hosted by Rob Sparks.
The 10-year Legacy Survey of Space and Time has officially started, marking the beginning of a new era in astronomy and astrophysics. Over the next ten years, Rubin will relentlessly observe the entire southern sky every few nights to create an ultra-wide, ultra-high-definition time-lapse record of our Universe. This long-awaited milestone is the culmination of years of effort by thousands of people around the world. In this podcast, Dr. Christina Williams and Dr. Yumi Choi describe the LSST and its science goals as well as what they are most excited about researching with its groundbreaking data.
Bios:
- Rob Sparks is in the Communications, Education and Engagement group at NSF's NOIRLab in Tucson, Arizona.
- Dr. Yumi Choi is an Assistant Astronomer at NSF NOIRLab. Her research focuses on understanding the formation and evolution of nearby galaxies. Her primary work utilizes high-precision, multi-band photometry to analyze resolved stellar populations in those galaxies. Beyond my independent research programs, she is a dedicated member of the Rubin Observatory Community Science Team.
Dr. Choi earned her PhD in Astronomy from the University of Washington in 2016. She subsequently held postdoctoral research positions at the University of Arizona's Steward Observatory, Montana State University, and the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI). Prior to her current appointment at NSF NOIRLab in 2023, she spent a year as an Assistant Researcher at the University of California, Berkeley.
- Dr. Christina C. Williams is an Associate Astronomer at NSF NOIRLab in Tucson, Arizona And an Assistant Research Professor at University of Arizona and a member of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) NIRCam instrument and science teams. Her research focuses on high-redshift galaxies, galaxy evolution, and star formation in the early Universe.
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Sat, 08 Aug 2026 - 12min - 4226 - EVSN - After Hours: Space Rocks Collected for Science With Guest Dr. Rhonda Stroud
From July 15, 2026.
Hosted by: Dr. Pamela L. Gay (@CosmoQuest)
Our solar system readily provides us with free samples of other worlds in the form of meteorites. The trick comes in first recognizing them, and then in understanding what science is locked in their minerals. One major center for collecting and studying these space rocks is Arizona State University's Buseck Center for Meteorite Studies which houses the Carleton B. Moore Meteorite Collection. Join us as we discuss the collection with Director Rhonda Stroud.
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Fri, 07 Aug 2026 - 52min - 4225 - Actual Astronomy - The Observer's Calendar for August 2026
Hosted by Chris Beckett & Shane Ludtke, two amateur astronomers in Saskatchewan who enjoy teaching astronomy classes and showing the public views through their telescopes. actualastronomy@gmail.com
Episode 545 of the Actual Astronomy podcast features hosts Chris and Shane discussing the observer's calendar and planetary visibility for August 2026. Throughout the month, skywatchers can track key planetary positions, including Venus in the morning sky and Jupiter rising around 3:00 AM. Notable astronomical highlights include the Perseid meteor shower, multiple lunar feature viewings, and a partial lunar eclipse accompanying the Full Moon on August 28th.
Planet Positions & Visibility:
- Mercury: Very close to the Sun. Superior conjunction on the 27th.
- Venus: In W, evening sky all month.
- Mars: Rises at 3 AM in ENE.
- Jupiter: Hidden behind the Sun at the start of Aug. Will rise around 5 AM by the end of month.
- Saturn: Rises in E around midnight, transits around 5:00 AM, high in SSE at dawn.
Astronomical Events by Date:
- August 2
- Mercury at greatest morning elongation (19° from Sun)
- Comet 10P/Tempel 2visible at 2:25 AM
- Image for when moon leaves in second week of Aug.
- August 3
- Lunar Feature (Mare Orientale) visible at 4:45 AM
- Carbon star RS Cyg best in evening
- August 5
- Last Quarter Moon at 22:21
***August 5 Falcon 9 Upper Stage lunar impact anyone?***
- August 9
- Mars 4° SW of crescent Moon before dawn.
- Star cluster NGC 6791 well placed this evening
- August 10
- Moon at perigee
- Wild Duck Cluster (M11) well placed this evening
- August 11
- Mercury 2° South of Moon, just before dawn.
- Globular clusters M22 and M28 well placed this evening
- August 12
- New Moon at 13:37 — Partial solar eclipse for US east coast.
- Perseid meteors (ZHR=100), late evening, but best seen after midnight
- August 16
- Venus 9° W of Moon
- August 19
- First Quarter Moon at 22:46
- Lunar feature Barrow Ray visible at 8:30 PM
- Carbon star S Sct best in evening
- August 23
- Lunar feature Jeweled Handle visible at 12:00 AM
- Carbon star V CrB best in evening
- August 26
- Crater Bailly visible at 10:00 PM
- 57 Aql (colorful double star) visible
- August 28th
- Full Moon: Occurs at 0:19.
- Partial (96%) Lunar Eclipse
- 9 Metis at Opposition: Visible at magnitude m = 9.3 The asteroid was discovered on April 25, 1848, by Irish astronomer Andrew Graham. It was his only asteroid discovery and holds historical significance as the only asteroid ever discovered from an observatory in Ireland (the Markree Observatory). Scientists believe 9 Metis has a cataclysmic history. It is highly dense and rich in metals, leading researchers to conclude that it is likely the core remnant of an ancient, much larger primordial asteroid. This parent body was completely destroyed and stripped of its outer crust by a colossal space collision billions of years ago.
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------------------------------------
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------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Thu, 06 Aug 2026 - 27min - 4224 - Ask A Spaceman Ep. 277: What's It Like to Travel Near the Speed of Light?
Life at lightspeed!
Hosted by Dr. Paul M. Sutter.
What does high-speed motion through the Universe do to your perspective? What is the Rindler horizon, and how does it appear? Would you get vaporized by a high-energy bath of radiation? I discuss these questions and more in today's Ask a Spaceman!
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Big thanks to my top Patreon supporters this month: Justin G, Chris L, Alberto M, Corey D, Michael P, Naila, Sam R, Joshua, Scott M, Rob H, Scott M, Louis M, John W, Alexis, Gilbert M, Rob W, Jessica M, Jules R, Jim L, David S, Scott R, Heather, Mike S, Pete H, Steve S, Lisa R, Kevin B, Aileen G, Deb A, Michael J, Phillip L, Steven B, Mark R, Alan B, Craig B, Richard K, Joe R, David P, Justin, Tracy F, Thomas K, James C, Syamkumar M, Homer V, Mark D, Bruce A, Tim Z, Linda C, The Tired Jedi, Bob C, Stephen A, James R, Allen E, Michael S, Sheryl, David W, Chris, Michael S, Erlend A, James D, Karl W, Den K, Edward K, Scott K, Vivek D, M0PPET, Brad, Azra K, Steve R, M D Malahy, Brian O, Alonna M, Joseph B, and Anders J!
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Wed, 05 Aug 2026 - 25min - 4223 - Awesome Astronomy - August Part 2: Jodrell Bank Murder Club
Paul Hill and Dr. Jenifer "Dr. Dust" Millard host.
Damien Phillips, John Wildridge and Dustin Ruoff produce.
Angry episode where Paul and Jeni have their blood boiled by the decision to defund Jodrell Bank Observatory and the plans to launch over a million satellites, thousands of which will be brighter then the full moon!
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Tue, 04 Aug 2026 - 1h 13min - 4222 - Astronomy Cast Ep. 85: Detectors
http://www.astronomycast.com/archive/
Hosted by: Fraser Cain (@frasercain) and Dr. Pamela L. Gay (@CosmoQuest)
From April 21, 2008.
Our senses can only detect a fraction of the phenomena happening in the Universe. That's why scientists and engineers develop detectors, to let us see radiation and particles that we could never detect with our eyes and ears. This week we'll go through them all, so you can understand how we see what we can't see.
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Mon, 03 Aug 2026 - 31min - 4221 - Travelers in the Night Eps. 363E & 364E: House Sized Space Rocks & Jupiter
Dr. Al Grauer hosts. Dr. Albert D. Grauer ( @Nmcanopus ) is an observational asteroid hunting astronomer. Dr. Grauer retired from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2006. travelersinthenight.org
From November 2025.
Today's 2 topics:
- Throughout history small close approaching space rocks have been a part of our environment. Now, thanks to improved telescopes and cameras, asteroid hunters are routinely discovering these small asteroids as they pass closer than the Moon is to us. Since these tiny asteroids are only bright enough to detect for a few days out of their long, many month duration paths about the Sun, astronomers have had difficulty in determining how many of these small space rocks may exist in near Earth space. This effort received more emphasis when a house sized space rock exploded over Chelyabinsk, Russia in 2013 releasing about 10 times the energy of the Hiroshima atomic bomb.
- Jupiter has been observed throughout human history and is so bright that you can even spot it under the artificial light dome of one of our cities. Even so it is less than 40 years ago that we were first able to view Jupiter in detail as the Voyagers streaked by it. Jupiter contains more than twice the mass of all of the other planets, dwarf planets, asteroids, and comets in our solar system combined. Eons ago, our solar systems very own giant planet, Jupiter, appears to have cleared out the inner solar system leaving enough rocky debris to form Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars.
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Sun, 02 Aug 2026 - 06min - 4220 - Space Stories - Betelgeuse Was Never Alone
Hosted by Avivah Yamani, our Director!
Was Betelgeuse ever truly alone? For over 100 years, astronomers searched for a hidden companion to Orion's famous red supergiant. Now, new observations from ESO's Very Large Telescope have revealed the clearest evidence yet that Betelgeuse has a stellar companion. Discover the science, the mystery, and why this finding is changing our understanding of one of the sky's most famous stars.
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Sat, 01 Aug 2026 - 08min - 4219 - EVSN - Betelgeuse Smaller Than Previously Calculated, Still A Mystery
From February 10, 2021.
Hosted by Dr. Pamela L. Gay.
Scientists collected fresh data on Orion's bright star Betelgeuse to try and understand this star that caused so much controversy. They found it's smaller than previously calculated, and last year's dimming was likely caused by dust, but it's also more complex than thought. Plus, galaxies, Earth's forests, ice on Mars, and Saturn's moon Rhea.
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Fri, 31 Jul 2026 - 22min - 4218 - UNAWE Space Scoop - A Blazing Hot World With A Buzzing Secret
https://spacescoop.org/en/scoops/2608/a-blazing-hot-world-with-a-buzzing-secret/
Hosted by our editor, Richard Drumm.
Far, far away from Earth, over 300 light-years away, is an incredible exoplanet called WASP-189b, in the constellation Libra, the scales. It lies a bit to the NW of Beta Librae, or Zubeneschamali, and almost exactly due north of the Libra star with my favorite star name: Zubenelgenubi! WASP-189 is the star & 189b is the planet.
It has about twice Jupiter's mass and about 1 1/2 times its diameter. It orbits its star in 2 days & 17 hours, so it's really close in! But this isn't just any old planet. 189b is a giant, blazing-hot world with a secret that has astronomers buzzing with excitement!
Ah, that's where the buzzing in the title comes from!
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Thu, 30 Jul 2026 - 07min - 4217 - Guide To Space - Betelgeuse Is Still Dimming! And We Have the Pictures to Prove It
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gC4LEozmqXE
From Feb 16, 2020.
Hosted by Fraser Cain.
Near the end of 2019, astronomers watching the red giant Betelgeuse noted how much the star had dimmed, continuing to steadily fade for months. It's a variable star, and it's known to get dimmer and brighter, but the big surprise is that it's still continuing to dim, recently passing magnitude 1.56 and still getting dimmer. This is unprecedented in the decades that astronomers have been watching the star.
The world's biggest telescopes are on the case, and the European Southern Observatory released dramatic new images of Betelguese, resolving features on the star's surface and surrounding area showing how it's dramatically changed over the course of 2019.
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Wed, 29 Jul 2026 - 08min - 4216 - Awesome Astronomy - Eclipse Girl Summer!
July Part 2!
Paul Hill & Dr. Jenifer "Dr. Dust" Millard host.
Damien Phillips, John Wildridge and Dustin Ruoff produce.
Summer is here, so is the heat and so is the Eclipse! Chat, tips and hints about August's Eclipse and the Perseid meteor shower, as well as summer vibes, emails and Jeni dressing up as Max Wall.
Link:
https://github.com/marcel-jan/inkystarmap
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Tue, 28 Jul 2026 - 1h 10min - 4215 - Astronomy Cast Ep. 89: Adaptive Optics
http://www.astronomycast.com/archive/
Hosted by: Fraser Cain (@frasercain) and Dr. Pamela L. Gay (@CosmoQuest)
From May 19, 2008.
Since the dawn of humanity, astronomers have wished to destroy the atmosphere. Oh sure, it's what we breathe and all, but that stupid atmosphere is always getting in the way. Since destroying the atmosphere is out of the question, astronomers have figured out how to work with it. To distort the mirror of the telescope itself though the magic of adaptive optics.
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Mon, 27 Jul 2026 - 30min - 4214 - Travelers in the Night Eps. 361E & 362E: Newest Moon & Tiny Beasts
Dr. Al Grauer hosts. Dr. Albert D. Grauer ( @Nmcanopus ) is an observational asteroid hunting astronomer. Dr. Grauer retired from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2006. travelersinthenight.org
From November 2025.
Today's 2 topics:
- The moon cycle from new moon through full moon and back to new moon again was used by many nations to regulate their activities and forms the basis of the Islamic lunar calendar. A calendar based on the first visibility of the lunar crescent is difficult to predict in advance since this observation depends on the clarity of the atmosphere and other local conditions. The interesting observational problem of when it is possible to spot the new moon has been analyzed in the scientific literature as an aid to historians who are seeking to interpret the writings of ancient civilizations.
- Humans have a long history of partnerships with a variety of micro organisms. Although the proportions vary widely with individuals, recent scientific estimates suggest that a typical human being has approximately the same number of bacteria and other microbes as they do actual human cells. Now it appears that a partnership with yeast and algae will enable spacefaring humans to use their waste products to produce food and plastics during long duration space flights.
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Sun, 26 Jul 2026 - 06min - 4213 - The Cosmic Savannah Ep. 84: Celebrating 10 Years of IDIA
Hosted by Dr. Jacinta Delhaize, Dr. Tshiamiso Makwela, Dr. Daniel Cunnama & François Campher.
In this special episode of The Cosmic Savannah, we celebrate the 10th anniversary of IDIA(Inter-University Institute for Data Intensive Astronomy) with three very special guests: the new director Professor Roger Deane, astronomy support specialist Walter Silima, and head of outreach and development Associate Professor Sally McFarlane.
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Sat, 25 Jul 2026 - 39min - 4212 - EVSN - Black Holes, Giant Galaxies & A Baby Planet
From May 21, 2020.
Hosted by Dr. Pamela L. Gay.
Join us today as we discuss the impressive work by an undergraduate student who figured out how galaxy mergers influence the growth of supermassive black holes. We talk about a gigantic galaxy found in the early Universe. And finally, we look at amazing images of a planet being formed around a distant star.
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Fri, 24 Jul 2026 - 09min - 4211 - Actual Astronomy - Messier Objects For July 2026
Hosted by Chris Beckett & Shane Ludtke, two amateur astronomers in Saskatchewan who enjoy teaching astronomy classes and showing the public views through their telescopes. actualastronomy@gmail.com
Description: This month we talk about some of the globular clusters from the Messier catalogue you can easily see on summer nights. From big and bright M5 and M4 to small and mighty M80 we talk about viewing some of the best globular clusters of the year. We also talk about a large, faint face on spiral galaxy. All of these objects are possible with binoculars, most are down right easy even with small binoculars.
M3
This globular cluster in Canes Venatici is one of the brightest objects in the sky. In binoculars this object is definitely not star like, but more of a bright, small snowball easy to see. Small telescopes will begin to resolve M3 into individual stars. The hardest part of this object is locating it in a portion of sky that contains few bright landmarks.
M53
Another globular cluster in Canes Venatici. While not quite as big or bright as M3 it is still an obvious binocular object. Resolvable in small telescopes, it as easy object to find sharing the same low power telescope field as fifth magnitude Alpha Coma Berenices.
M5
A big, bright globular cluster located in Serpens Caput. M5 is as nice as M3 but lies near a fifth magnitude naked eye star (5 Serpentis) making it an easy object to find.
M68
An eighth magnitude globular cluster in Hydra, M68 is a difficult binocular object for Northern observers. It appears as a faint fuzz spot in binoculars, you may need to use averted vision or large binoculars to find this one. Appearing as a round fuzzy patch in a 8" telescope, you will need a much larger aperature to really resolve it.
M83
A face on spiral in Hydra. M83 is fairly easy in binoculars as a faint, fuzzy patch of light. In a telescope look for a large patch of light with a bright center.
M4
A big bright globular in Scorpius, easily located near Antares. This is an easy binocular object appearing as a round snowball. Partially resolvable in a telescope, the trade mark of this globular is a line of bright stars crossing the center.
M80
This is the smallest and faintest globular cluster this month. Located in Scopius, M80 is a very tough binocular object appearing as a faint star with slight fuzziness around the edges. This is confirmed with a telescope, M80 has a bright central condensation in the middle of faint fuzz. It is one of the Messier objects that even through a medium telescope still looks like a comet.
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Thu, 23 Jul 2026 - 51min - 4210 - Guide To Space - Where Are All The Alien Robots? The Chilling Idea Of Von Neumann Probes
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHMIv_zAbrM
From Oct 6, 2016.
Hosted by Fraser Cain.
As you know, I'm obsessed about the Fermi Paradox. Where are all the aliens? But an even stranger question is: where are all the robot aliens? If you've seen at least one other episode of the Guide to Space, you know I'm obsessed about the Fermi Paradox. This idea that the Universe is big and old, and should be teeming with life. And yet, we have no evidence that it exists out there.
We wonder, where are all the aliens?
PBS Space Time Von Neumann:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4H55wybU3rI
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Wed, 22 Jul 2026 - 08min - 4209 - Ask A Spaceman Ep. 276: What Would Happen if the Sun…Stopped?
Solar Apocalypse!
Hosted by Dr. Paul M. Sutter.
What really keeps the Sun shining? How long would it stay warm if fusion stopped? How long would it take before we noticed? I discuss these questions and more in today's Ask a Spaceman!
Support the show: http://www.patreon.com/pmsutter
All episodes: http://www.AskASpaceman.com
Watch on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/PaulMSutter
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Keep those questions about space, science, astronomy, astrophysics, physics, and cosmology coming to #AskASpaceman for COMPLETE KNOWLEDGE OF TIME AND SPACE!
Big thanks to my top Patreon supporters this month: Justin G, Chris L, Alberto M, Duncan M, Corey D, Michael P, Naila, Sam R, Joshua, Scott M, Rob H, Scott M, Louis M, John W, Alexis, Gilbert M, Rob W, Jessica M, Jules R, Jim L, David S, Scott R, Heather, Mike S, Pete H, Steve S, Lisa R, Kevin B, Aileen G, Deb A, Michael J, Phillip L, Steven B, Mark R, Alan B, Craig B, Richard K, Joe R, David P, Justin, Tracy F, Thomas K, James C, Syamkumar M, Homer V, Mark D, Bruce A, Tim Z, Linda C, The Tired Jedi, Bob C, Stephen A, James R, Allen E, Michael S, Sheryl, David W, Chris, Michael S, Erlend A, James D, Karl W, Den K, Edward K, Scott K, Vivek D, M0PPET, Brad, Azra K, Steve R, M D Malahy, Brian O, Alonna M, Joseph B, and Anders J!
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Tue, 21 Jul 2026 - 28min - 4208 - Astronomy Cast Ep. 58: Inflation
http://www.astronomycast.com/archive/
From October 15, 2007.
Hosted by: Fraser Cain (@frasercain) and Dr. Pamela L. Gay (@CosmoQuest)
We interrupt this tour through the solar system to bring you a special show to deal with one of our most complicated subjects: the big bang. Specifically, how it's possible that the universe could have expanded faster than the speed of light. The theory is called the inflationary theory, and the evidence is mounting to support it. Einstein said that nothing can move faster than the speed of light, and yet astronomers think the universe expanded from a microscopic spec to become larger than the solar system, in a fraction of a second.
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Mon, 20 Jul 2026 - 36min - 4207 - Travelers in the Night Eps. 899 & 900: Hitch Hiking an Asteroid to Mars & Earth Life From Mars
Dr. Al Grauer hosts. Dr. Albert D. Grauer ( @Nmcanopus ) is an observational asteroid hunting astronomer. Dr. Grauer retired from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2006. travelersinthenight.org
From May 2026.
Today's 2 topics:
- Asteroids could provide a solution for the serious problem of how to protect astronauts from harmful solar and cosmic radiation during long duration space flights and thus eliminate the need for the spacecraft itself to have heavy shielding material. The idea is for the spacecraft to spend most of the journey inside the asteroid.
- Some of the 635,000 impact craters found on Mars are the result of such violent impacts that pieces of Mars are ejected, travel around the solar system, and a few become one of the several hundred Martian meteorites which have been discovered here on Earth. An experiment is described which does not prove we are descendants of martian bacteria however it does improve our ability to protect our planet and understand where life may be possible elsewhere in the Universe.
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Sun, 19 Jul 2026 - 06min - 4206 - AstroMan - D for Dark Sky Protection
When was the last time you saw the Milky Way? In this episode of Astroman, Exodus Chun-Long Sit explores how light pollution is changing our night skies, affecting wildlife, wasting energy, and limiting our view of the universe. Learn why protecting dark skies matters—and how simple actions can help bring the stars back.
"ASTROMAN: the Dark Sky Guardian" is a podcast channel that aims to explore popular science in multiple disciplines and research on interdisciplinary approaches, such as sustainability, dark-sky protection, astrophotography, space exploration, astronomy innovation, inclusive science communication, and STEAM Education by integrating science and arts.
Exodus Chun-Long Sit, also known as the ASTROMAN, is a transmedia astronomy educator, popular science author, STEAM educator, and science communicator in Hong Kong. He is recently the National Astronomy Education Coordinator (Chair of Hong Kong, China) of the International Astronomical Union and President of Starrix. He was also an International Committee Member of the Dark Sky International, regularly organizing public lectures at the Hong Kong Space Museum and the Hong Kong Science Museum. He was also the author of a popular science book "Decoding the Starry Night: A Guide to Stargazing and Astrophotography".
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Sat, 18 Jul 2026 - 08min - 4205 - EVSN - Astronomy Asks: How Did You Get There?
From July 1, 2026.
How is this the last episode of the season? July snuck up on us. We'll be back Sept 2 with Season 5! For now, we've got astronomers asking questions; questions like "Did you eat a planet?" and "How did you get there?" Expect the unexpected with a side of rockets.
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------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Fri, 17 Jul 2026 - 19min - 4204 - Space Stories - Starburst Galaxy: The Universe's Stellar Baby Boom
Hosted by Avivah Yamani, our Director!
Some galaxies don't just make stars. They go on a star-making frenzy! Discover what turns an ordinary galaxy into a starburst galaxy, and why these spectacular events help astronomers understand how galaxies evolved over billions of years.
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Thu, 16 Jul 2026 - 06min - 4203 - Guide To Space - What Are Fast Radio Bursts? A Big Mystery in Astronomy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ikdOTj6g_Zw
Hosted by Fraser Cain.
From Apr 26, 2017.
Here's a big mystery in astronomy: fast radio bursts. Brief shrieks of radio waves coming from space. What are they? Where do they come from? Astronomers have no idea.
Team: Fraser Cain - @fcain / frasercain@gmail.com
Karla Thompson - @karlaii
Chad Weber - weber.chad@gmail.com
You might think you're watching an educational channel, where I explain fascinating concepts in space and astronomy, but that's not really what's going on here.
What's actually happening is that you're tagging along as I learn more and more about new and cool things happening in the Universe. I dig into them like a badger hiding a cow carcass, and we all get to enjoy the cache of knowledge I uncover.
Okay, that analogy got a little weird. Anyway, my point is. Squirrel!
Fast radio bursts are the new cosmic whatzits confusing and baffling astronomers, and now we get to take a front seat and watch them move through all stages of process of discovery.
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Wed, 15 Jul 2026 - 12min - 4202 - Deep Astronomy - Exolife Hangout: Happy Pi Day!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zXW7uXo04aE
Hosted by Tony Darnell.
Streamed live on Mar 14, 2018.
Join Tony Darnell, Dr. Jeff Kuhn, Dr. Svetlana Berdugina and Kevin Lewis as they discuss the latest development in the field of astrobiology. Want to learn the latest in Exoplanet research? The cutting edge of finding related to our search for life elsewhere? Then this is the hangout for you!
This week we'll talk about Pi Day, Stephen Hawking's death, the GAO report on the JWST mission and much, much more.
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------------------------------------
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------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Tue, 14 Jul 2026 - 57min - 4201 - Astronomy Cast Ep. 41: The Rise of The Supertelescopes
Hosted by: Fraser Cain (@frasercain) and Dr. Pamela L. Gay (@CosmoQuest)
From June 18, 2007.
The last decade has been the golden age of astronomy, with new observatories and space telescopes pushing out our understanding of the Universe. We see billions of light years away, watch dynamic events unfold in almost real-time, and see into every corner of the electromagnetic spectrum. But just you wait: things will only get better. Here come the supertelescopes!
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Mon, 13 Jul 2026 - 30min - 4200 - Travelers in the Night Eps. 897 & 898: Kacper's Comet & Pandora
Dr. Al Grauer hosts. Dr. Albert D. Grauer ( @Nmcanopus ) is an observational asteroid hunting astronomer. Dr. Grauer retired from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2006. travelersinthenight.org
From May 2026.
Today's 2 topics:
- In 2007 a small icy object moving in the constellation of Ursa Minor crossed the orbit of Pluto at a speed of approximately 4.2 mi/s starting its journey towards the inner solar system. It was between the orbits of Saturn and Jupiter traveling at some 9 mi/s towards the Sun, when my Catalina Sky Survey teammate Dr. Kacper Wierzchoś discovered it on March 3, 2024, while asteroid hunting, in the constellation of Draco, with our 60 inch telescope on Mt. Lemmon, Arizona. Kacper studies comets passionately was thus excited to observe that it has a coma and a tail. On its way out of the solar system, in 2045, Kacper's COMET C/2024 E1 (Wierzchos) will cross the orbit of Pluto heading in the direction of the constellation Ursa Major and is destined to wander between stars in the Milky Way till the end of time.
- Looking into a star filled sky at a place like the Cosmic Campground International Dark Sky Sanctuary in New Mexico inspires a person to wonder if our home planet is unique in the Universe. To begin to answer this question, NASA launched the small satellite Pandora on January 11, 2026 . It is on at least a one year long mission to study the chemical composition of more than 20 planets orbiting nearby stars in the Milky Way. The Pandora satellite's results will hopefully include a list of potentially habitable planets to be observed the James Webb Space Telescope and other observatories in the search for life elsewhere in the Universe.
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------------------------------------
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Sun, 12 Jul 2026 - 06min - 4199 - NOIRLab - The First Magnetar Progenitor
Neutron stars, the compact remains of a massive star following a supernova explosion, are the densest matter in the Universe. Some neutron stars, known as magnetars, also claim the record for the strongest magnetic fields of any object. How magnetars, which are a mere 15 kilometers across, form and produce such colossal magnetic fields remains a mystery.
New observations by a team of astronomers, including NSF's NOIRLab's Dr. André-Nicolas Chené, may shed important light on the origin of these magnetic powerhouses. Using various telescopes around the globe, including the Canada-France-Hawai'i Telescope (CFHT) on Maunakea, the researchers have identified a new type of astronomical object — a massive magnetic helium star (an unusual variant of a Wolf-Rayet star), which may be the precursor of a magnetar.
In this podcast, André-Nicolas Chené describes the process of finding the first known potential magnetar progenitor.
Bios:
- Rob Sparks is in the Communications, Education and Engagement group at NSF's NOIRLab in Tucson, Arizona.
- Dr. André-Nicolas Chene is an associate astronomer at NOIRLab. He completed his PhD at the Université de Montréal in 2007 and learned everything about the fundamentals of astronomical observations at the Observatoire du Mont Mégantic. He was research fellow at the NRC Herzberg Astronomy and Astrophysics Research Centre and postdoc jointly at the Universidad de Concepción and the Universidad de Valparaíso before joining the Gemini Observatory (now a program of NOIRLab) in 2013. For almost 10 years, André-Nicolas took part in every phase of a Gemini observing program life cycle and has played a central role in Gemini's user support effort. André-Nicolas's research interests are massive stars, hot winds, star clusters, and stellar evolution.
Links:
NOIRLab Press Release: https://noirlab.edu/public/news/noirlab2323/
NOIRLab social media channels can be found at:
https://www.facebook.com/NOIRLabAstro
https://twitter.com/NOIRLabAstro
https://www.instagram.com/noirlabastro/
https://www.youtube.com/noirlabastro
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------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Sat, 11 Jul 2026 - 17min - 4198 - EVSN - After Hours: Exploring Physics Through Spaceflight Missions with author Trisha Muro
Hosted by Dr. Pamela L. Gay.
From July 8, 2026.
The physics behind modern spaceflight explores everything from aerodynamics to thermodynamics with a lot of kinematics playing a role along the way. We welcome on guest Trisha Muro to discuss her new book, "It's (Just) Rocket Science", which explores how we can learn physics through spaceflight missions.
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------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Fri, 10 Jul 2026 - 47min - 4197 - UNAWE Space Scoop - Why Does Jupiter Have Bigger Moons Than Saturn
https://spacescoop.org/en/scoops/2609/why-does-jupiter-have-bigger-moons-than-saturn/
Hosted by our editor, Richard Drumm.
Jupiter and Saturn are the gas giants in our Solar System. Ummm… Uranus & Neptune are now called ice giants. But back to Jupiter & Saturn.
They are the largest planets, have the most moons compared to the other planets, and if that isn't cool enough, they're home to some of the largest moons in the Solar System. Saturn has 280 or more moons in total, a total that seems to be changing daily. Jupiter has over 100 known moons so far.
As for me, I don't even try to keep count any more.
Here's where things get really interesting: Jupiter has four big moons, including Ganymede, the biggest one in the whole Solar System. Jupiter's Galilean moons from closest to farthest are Io, Europa, Ganymede & Callisto.
The first 3 are in a 1:2:4 orbital resonance with Io making 4 orbits, Europa 2 and Ganymede 1. It's been calculated that Ganymede & Callisto were in a 7:3 resonance a couple million years ago but are slipping toward a 6:3 which is a nice, stable 2:1 resonance. Callisto will likely fall into that resonance in a billion and a half years making the system 1:2:4:8. Nice & stable.
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Thu, 09 Jul 2026 - 07min - 4196 - Awesome Astronomy - When Cosmologists Get Spicey
Paul Hill & Dr. Jenifer "Dr. Dust" Millard host.
Damien Phillips, John Wildridge and Dustin Ruoff produce.
This month it appears cosmology is saved, Swift maybe saved and exoplanets have their magnetosphere measured. Jeni has been in the States where she may have been turned into an android visiting Silicon Valley.
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Wed, 08 Jul 2026 - 1h 02min - 4195 - Ask A Spaceman Ep. 275: Why Can't the Universe Be Cyclic?
Hosted by Dr. Paul M. Sutter.
What are the weaknesses of inflation theory? How did the ekpyrotic theory attempt to improve it? How did it open up its own can of worms? I discuss these questions and more in today's Ask a Spaceman!
Support the show: http://www.patreon.com/pmsutter
All episodes: http://www.AskASpaceman.com
Watch on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/PaulMSutter
Read a book: https://www.pmsutter.com/books
Keep those questions about space, science, astronomy, astrophysics, physics, and cosmology coming to #AskASpaceman for COMPLETE KNOWLEDGE OF TIME AND SPACE!
Big thanks to my top Patreon supporters this month: Justin G, Chris L, Alberto M, Duncan M, Corey D, Michael P, Naila, Sam R, Joshua, Scott M, Rob H, Scott M, Louis M, John W, Alexis, Gilbert M, Rob W, Jessica M, Jules R, Jim L, David S, Scott R, Heather, Mike S, Pete H, Steve S, Lisa R, Kevin B, Aileen G, Deb A, Michael J, Phillip L, Steven B, Mark R, Alan B, Craig B, Richard K, Joe R, David P, Justin, Tracy F, Thomas K, James C, Syamkumar M, Homer V, Mark D, Bruce A, Tim Z, Linda C, The Tired Jedi, Bob C, Stephen A, James R, Allen E, Michael S, Sheryl, David W, Chris, Michael S, Erlend A, James D, Karl W, Den K, Edward K, Scott K, Vivek D, M0PPET, Brad, Azra K, Steve R, M D Malahy, Brian O, Alonna M, Joseph B, and Anders J!
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------------------------------------
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------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Tue, 07 Jul 2026 - 33min - 4194 - Astronomy Cast Ep. 6: Ep. 6: More Evidence For the Big Bang
Mon 06: Astronomy Cast Ep. 6: Ep. 6: More Evidence For the Big Bang
http://www.astronomycast.com/archive/
From October 16, 2006.
Last week's episode started out with a bang… a Big Bang. This week we continue our discussion into the beginning of everything. We present three additional lines of evidence that have led astronomers to the conclusion that our Universe started out as a singularity 13.7 billion years ago, and has been expanding ever since.
Fraser Cain: So Pamela, last week we started out with the big bang and discussed the cosmic microwave background radiation. Now, if people still aren't convinced that the universe began as a singularity 13.7 billion years ago, and has been expanding ever since, fine. We've got more evidence: take your pick. Okay Pamela, continue convincing us!
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Mon, 06 Jul 2026 - 29min - 4193 - Travelers in the Night Eps. 895 & 896: Tracking Space Junk & Sneaky But Potentially Dangerous
Dr. Al Grauer hosts. Dr. Albert D. Grauer ( @Nmcanopus ) is an observational asteroid hunting astronomer. Dr. Grauer retired from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2006. travelersinthenight.org
From April 2026.
Today's 2 topics:
- According to NASA an average of one catalogued piece of space junk per day has come down to Earth over the past 50 years. Research is described which can track space junk in the atmosphere and provide the starting location and altitude for tracking clouds of environmentally problematic toxic chemical and/or nuclear contaminants released by the disintegration of reentering spacecraft.
- My Catalina Sky Survey teammate Greg Leonard was asteroid hunting with our 60 inch telescope on Mt. Lemmon, Arizona when he came across an unknown moving point of light in the night sky. After Greg reported his observations to the Minor Planet Center his discovery was tracked by telescopes in California, Romania, Germany, New Mexico, Arizona, Bavaria, and Japan. Astronomers used these data to calculate that Greg's discovery orbits the sun between Venus and Earth, estimate its size to be approximately twice the length of a football field, and give it the name 2026 BX4.
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Sun, 05 Jul 2026 - 06min - 4192 - Equatorial Sky Guide For July
Hosted by our Director, Avivah Yamani.
Discover the highlights of the July 2026 equatorial night sky, including Venus meeting Regulus, Mars and Uranus' closest conjunction until 2053, the Buck Moon, meteor showers, and the best nights to observe the Milky Way.
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Sat, 04 Jul 2026 - 07min - 4191 - EVSN - Tracing the Hidden & Revealing the Past
From June 24, 2026.
In this episode we look at the hidden and unexpected geology that may lurk beneath East Antarctica's ice sheet, evidence of past worlds and lost moons that may once have populated our solar system, and evidence of a past Supernova that today may be showering the Earth with material.
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Fri, 03 Jul 2026 - 18min - 4190 - Actual Astronomy - Observer's Calendar For July
Hosted by Chris Beckett & Shane Ludtke, two amateur astronomers in Saskatchewan who enjoy teaching astronomy classes and showing the public views through their telescopes. actualastronomy@gmail.com
Patreon thanks go out to Justin Y.
Also thanks for all the kind comments on the David Nagler Episode.
[Rich] I'm sorry, but the lads didn't give me a detailed list of sky treats to put here in the show notes. Maybe next time. I share those with my astronomy club members & they really appreciate it!
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------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Thu, 02 Jul 2026 - 34min - 4189 - H'ad Astra Historia - Ep 304: More 'This Month in Astronomical History' Sedna & Lunokhod
Today's 'guest' is HAD's This Month in Astronomical History. I'll be reading more essays from the archives: Emily McMahon's November 2020 essay titled, "Sedna: In the Depths of the Solar System", and Dr. Ken Rumstay's November 2022 essay titled, "Lunokhod 1 - The First Extraterrestrial Rover". Please note that Emily was a high school student when she wrote her essay, so you don't have to be an astronomer or astrophysicist to write for TMIAH.
H'ad astra historia is the official podcast for the Historical Astronomy Division of the American Astronomical Society. We're here to share stories from and about the people who study the stars, planets, and the cosmos. We'll be hearing from individuals who not only study the history of astronomy, but also those who lived it, who were "in the room" during pivotal events within the last 50 years or so.
Podcast theme music: "Frost Waltz" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under creative commons: by attribution 4.0 license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Loretta Cannon (an AAS affiliate via Rose City Astronomers) is a science-and-word-nerd who really likes outer space and the people who study it. She quite enjoys working as HAD's podcaster, sharing astronomy stories to you.
This Month in Astronomical History:
https://had.aas.org/resources/astro-history
Dr. Mugdha Polimera:
https://www.mugdhapolimera.com/
Sedna: In the Depths of the Solar System
TMIAH Nov 2020 "Sedna: In the Depths of the Solar System":
https://aas.org/posts/news/2020/11/month-astronomical-history-november-2020
Emily McMahon:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilykmcmahon/
Sedna (2003 VB12):
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sedna_(dwarf_planet)
Sedna (Inuit legend):
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sedna_(mythology)
Kuiper Belt:
https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/kuiper-belt/
Oort Cloud:
https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/oort-cloud/
Palomar Observatory:
https://sites.astro.caltech.edu/palomar/homepage.html
https://sites.astro.caltech.edu/palomar/about/chronology.html
Mike Brown (CalTech):
https://mikebrown.caltech.edu/
Chad Trujillo (NAU, Gemini):
https://directory.nau.edu/person/cat382
https://www.sciencefriday.com/person/chad-trujillo/
David Rabinowitz (Yale):
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_L._Rabinowitz
https://physics.yale.edu/people/david-rabinowitz
Samuel Oschin 48" Schmidt Telescope:
https://sites.astro.caltech.edu/palomar/about/telescopes/oschin.html
Quasar Equatorial Survey Team (QUEST) Camera:
https://www.astro.yale.edu/mschwamb/Quest_La_Silla_KBO_Survey/Telescope_and_Camera.html
SkyMorph program:
https://ui.adsabs.harvard.edu/abs/1998BAAS...30.1036L/abstract
Palomar Sky Survey:
https://voyages.sdss.org/expeditions/expedition-to-galaxies/sky-surveys/the-palomar-sky-survey/
Gemini Telescope:
Keck Observatory:
Hubble Space Telescope:
https://science.nasa.gov/mission/hubble/
NASAs's Dwarf Planets (including Pluto, Eris):
https://science.nasa.gov/dwarf-planets/
Mike Brown's paper describing Sedna's discovery:
https://web.gps.caltech.edu/~mbrown/sedna/#planets
Sedna webpage (by Mike Brown):
https://web.gps.caltech.edu/~mbrown/sedna/#planets
animation of Sedna's orbit by Robert Hurt (Spitzer Sci Ctr):
https://www.spitzer.caltech.edu/video/ssc2004-05v1-orbit-of-sedna
2012 VP113 'Biden':
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2012_VP113
2015 TG387 'The Goblin':
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/541132_Lele%C4%81k%C5%ABhonua
https://www.npr.org/2018/10/02/653453443/a-small-planet-with-big-implications
Lunokhod 1 – The First Extraterrestrial Rover
TMIAH Nov 2022 "Lunokhod 1 – The First Extraterrestrial Rover":
https://aas.org/posts/news/2022/11/month-astronomical-history-november-2022
Prof Kenneth Rumstay:
https://meritpages.com/KennethRumstay
HAD News:
https://had.aas.org/news/had_news
Mars Curiosity rover:
https://science.nasa.gov/mission/msl-curiosity/
Soviet Union:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soviet_Union
Soviet N1 rocket:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/N1_(rocket)
NASA's Apollo program:
https://www.nasa.gov/the-apollo-program/
Lunokhod ('moonwalker') 1:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lunokhod_1
Baikonur Cosmodrome:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baikonur_Cosmodrome
Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter:
https://science.nasa.gov/mission/lro/
Sky and Telescope magazine:
NPR article on Lunokhod 2 rover (discusses Garriott's purchase):
https://www.npr.org/2010/03/20/124956591/lunar-rover-is-spotted-for-first-time-in-37-years
China's Yutu rovers:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yutu_(rover)
https://www.planetary.org/space-missions/change-4
Sputnik I:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sputnik_1
Artemis Program:
https://www.nasa.gov/humans-in-space/artemis/
A Little Bit of Trivia – NASA mission patches
Artemis Program:
https://www.nasa.gov/humans-in-space/artemis/
Artemis I:
https://www.nasa.gov/mission/artemis-i/
Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., season 3:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agents_of_S.H.I.E.L.D._season_3
Mission patch:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mission_patch
https://www.nasa.gov/gallery/human-spaceflight-mission-patches/
Loretta Cannon's LinkedIn page (for transcripts' pdf files):
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorettajcannon-neptuneedit/
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Wed, 01 Jul 2026 - 28min - 4188 - Cheap Astronomy - Dear CA Ep. 136: Complexities
Things aren't always straight-forward.
Hosted by Steve Nerlich.
Dear Cheap Astronomy – What's all the current fuss about dark energy?
Some preliminary data from the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument, also known as DESI has resulted in a swath of popular science articles claiming dark energy is diminishing.
Well…
It's worth starting by saying that many of the core project team have stressed it's just the first data release – there'll be at least four more, so everyone should probably just chill a bit until more data is available.
Dear Cheap Astronomy – Why do eclipse paths run in different directions?
Yes folks, it's that rare event when we actually answer an astronomy question. So, solar eclipses. As you know, the Earth's rotation makes the Sun appear to cross the Earth's daytime sky following a line we call the ecliptic. And yep, that's no coincidence, but we'll get to that. The ecliptic is not a fixed path because of the Earth's tilted axis of rotation. So as the Earth progresses in its orbit around the Sun, from the Earth's surface at the equinoxes, the Sun appears to be overhead at the equator, but for the rest of the year it's either shifting north towards the Tropic of Cancer or south towards the Tropic of Capricorn.
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Tue, 30 Jun 2026 - 15min - 4187 - Astronomy Cast Ep. 799: Heavy Lift Rockets
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aDgA3eiUANs
Hosted by: Fraser Cain (@frasercain) and Dr. Pamela L. Gay (@CosmoQuest)
Streamed live June 22, 2026.
The Saturn 5 was a monster, capable of sending humans and a lander to the Moon and bringing them back again. But the number of heavy lift rockets since then has gotten pretty sparse. Now, with tens if not hundreds of thousands of satellites in the works, giant new space telescopes and multi-ton lunar landers in development there are heavy lift solutions to match. So let's talk about them! From yesterday's Saturn V to today's Ariane VI, rockets capable of launching large telescopes or small space stations in a single go are modern marvels. They are also wildly dangerous, and not exactly compatible. Let's look at today's fleet of rockets and just what they're accomplishing.
This show is supported through people like you on Patreon.com/AstronomyCast
In this episode, we'd like to thank: Andrew Poelstra, Burry Gowen, David, David Rossetter, Ed, Eric Lee, Gerhard Schwarzer, Jason Kwong, Jeanette Wink, Joe McTee, Michael Purcell, Sergey Manouilov, Siggi Kemmler
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Mon, 29 Jun 2026 - 39min - 4186 - Travelers in the Night Eps. 893 & 894: DarkSky Oregon & Discovery Night at the Schmidt
Dr. Al Grauer hosts. Dr. Albert D. Grauer ( @Nmcanopus ) is an observational asteroid hunting astronomer. Dr. Grauer retired from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2006. travelersinthenight.org
From April 2026.
Today's 2 topics:
- Artificial light at night also known as light pollution is degrading human safety and health as well as damaging the natural environment on which we all depend. The loss of the connection with the natural night sky has happened over the past 100 years. Restoring the natural night sky is relatively simple and can even save money. Before restoration can effectively begin it is essential to make night sky brightness measurements in both natural night sky and urban locations.
- On a recent night my Catalina Sky Survey teammate Vivian Carvajal found 4 Earth approaching space rocks with our small but mighty Schmidt telescope on Mt. Bigelow, Arizona. These Earth approaching asteroids are all small with an average diameter about the width of tennis court. On their current paths none of them come closer than about 4 lunar distances from our home planet.
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Sun, 28 Jun 2026 - 06min - 4185 - The Cosmic Savannah Ep. 083: Celebrating 20 Years of SALT
Hosted by Dr. Jacinta Delhaize & François Campher.
Jacinta and Francois wrap up Season 6 of The Cosmic Savannah with this exciting and reflective episode, discussing the history, science and legacy of the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) which celebrated it's 20th anniversary in November of 2025. The team is joined by Professor David Buckley from the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO), who served as the project scientist for the SALT project.
In this episode, we discuss the full evolution of SALT, from idea to instrument and all the chaos along the way and also what the future holds for SALT and South African astronomy. Join us for this fascinating look at the history and continued work of SALT!
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Sat, 27 Jun 2026 - 55min - 4184 - EVSN After Hours: Our Shape-Shifting Universe With Author Chanda Prescod-Weinstein
Hosted by Dr. Pamela L. Gay.
From June 17, 2026.
Join Pamela for an hour that looks at science and society as she talks with author and cosmologist Chanda Prescod-Weinstein. In her new book, "The Edge of Space-Time: Particles, Poetry, & the Cosmic Dream Boogie" Prescod-Weinstein weaves scientific and lyrical understandings of cosmology, bringing together the language of elders with the math of modern computational models. This combination puts our human state in a greater perspective of time and space that looks beyond western textbooks (Oh, and there is a lot of Star Trek referenced in there too!)
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Fri, 26 Jun 2026 - 1h 10min - 4183 - Space Stories: Habitable Zone: The Search for Another Earth
Hosted by our Director, Avivah Yamani.
What makes a planet potentially habitable? In this episode of Astronomy Words, we explore the habitable zone, also known as the Goldilocks Zone, and learn why worlds like Earth, Mars, Venus, TRAPPIST-1, and Kepler-186f are helping astronomers search for life beyond our Solar System.
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Thu, 25 Jun 2026 - 07min - 4182 - Awesome Astronomy - June Part 2: The Secret History of a Space Mission
Paul Hill and Dr. Jenifer "Dr. Dust" Millard host.
Damien Phillips, John Wildridge and Dustin Ruoff produce.
The idea that sparked a billion-dollar space telescope was recorded in the most unlikely of places: a scrap of paper fished out a pocket while gondolas sailed by in Venice. In this talk, award-winning astrophysicist and science communicator Steve Eales of Cardiff University takes us on the unlikely journey of the Herschel Space Observatory, the most sensitive far-infrared space telescope yet launched. This talk was recorded at the recent AstroCamp in Cwmdu, Wales.
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Wed, 24 Jun 2026 - 1h 12min - 4181 - Deep Astronomy - Planetary Environments and Health Risks
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cil0v7dIkgc
Hosted by Tony Darnell.
Streamed live on Jul 6, 2017.
If we send humans to Mars, will they be able to survive? How hostile is the solar system for human exploration?
The Mars environment presents many challenges to human survival and long-term residence. In addition to radiation, unbreathable atmosphere, and dust storms, surviving alien microorganisms can present a health risk.
The US Congress has directed NASA to plan for a human mission to Mars. A critical element of the planning is to ensure the health and safety of astronauts travelling to, working on, and returning from the Red Planet.
Join Tony Darnell, Harley Thronson and Alberto Conti as they explore with Arnauld Nicogossian (George Mason University), Catharine A. Conley (NASA Planetary Protection Officer) and Charles Doarn (University of Cincinnati) the challenges of living and working on Mars.
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Tue, 23 Jun 2026 - 1h 04min - 4180 - Astronomy Cast Ep. 798: Our Summer Media List
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3vQt1UYsV24
Hosted by: Fraser Cain (@frasercain) and Dr. Pamela L. Gay (@CosmoQuest)
Streamed live on Jun 15, 2026.
Well, we're just a couple of weeks away from summer hiatus and so it's time to give you some homework. Here's our list of stuff we've been reading watching and playing. This should fill the Astronomy-Cast-shaped hole in your media landscape. On the plane, on the beach, from the passenger seat in a car, summer is a time for escaping into a good book, video, or game. From classics to the latest releases, here are our recommendations for keeping your brain occupied while your body is renewed.
This show is supported through people like you on Patreon.com/AstronomyCast
In this episode, we'd like to thank: Andrew Poelstra, Burry Gowen, David, David Rossetter, Ed, Eric Lee, Gerhard Schwarzer, Jason Kwong, Jeanette Wink, Joe McTee, Michael Purcell, Sergey Manouilov, Siggi Kemmler
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Mon, 22 Jun 2026 - 35min - 4179 - Travelers in the Night Eps. 891 & 892: 2026 AA & 140 Meter Asteroids
Dr. Al Grauer hosts. Dr. Albert D. Grauer ( @Nmcanopus ) is an observational asteroid hunting astronomer. Dr. Grauer retired from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2006. travelersinthenight.org
From March 2026.
Today's 2 topics:
- My Catalina Sky Survey teammate Tracie Beuden was observing with our Schmidt telescope on Mt. Bigelow, Arizona in the constellation of Perseus when she found 2026-AA, the first asteroid of 2026. Asteroid hunters are trying to track Tracie's discovery with our number on it far enough in advance so humans could give it a tiny nudge and make it miss Earth.
- Humans can mitigate the damage done by the impact of an asteroid given a sufficient lead time. In 1998, the US Congress mandated NASA to detect and track 90% of the 1 km sized asteroids capable of effecting local mass destruction as well as global disruption of agriculture and other human activities. This goal has been accomplished. In 2005 Congress extended the mandate to require NASA to detect and track 90% of the 140-m asteroids capable of destroying a large metropolitan area.
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The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
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Sun, 21 Jun 2026 - 06min - 4178 - Astroman - C Is For Constellation
From Orion and the Summer Triangle to Indigenous sky traditions, this episode explores how constellations became tools for navigation, storytelling, and understanding the night sky.
"ASTROMAN: the Dark Sky Guardian" is a podcast channel that aims to explore popular science in multiple disciplines and research on interdisciplinary approaches, such as sustainability, dark-sky protection, astrophotography, space exploration, astronomy innovation, inclusive science communication, and STEAM Education by integrating science and arts.
Exodus CL Sit, also known as the ASTROMAN, is a transmedia astronomy educator, popular science author, STEAM educator, and science communicator in Hong Kong. He is recently the National Astronomy Education Coordinator (Chair of Hong Kong, China) of the International Astronomical Union and President of Starrix. He was also an International Committee Member of the Dark Sky International, regularly organizing public lectures at the Hong Kong Space Museum and the Hong Kong Science Museum. He was also the author of a popular science book "Decoding the Starry Night: A Guide to Stargazing and Astrophotography".
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Sat, 20 Jun 2026 - 08min - 4177 - EVSN - Tails SpaceX Fails, Heads We Lose the Earth
Hosted by Dr. Pamela Gay.
From June 10, 2026.
In this episode, we look at the SpaceX SEC initial filing and put its facts and figures in context and ask, can they do it? And can the Earth survive if they succeed?
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Fri, 19 Jun 2026 - 28min - 4176 - Actual Astronomy - Telescope Powers
Hosted by Chris Beckett & Shane Ludtke, two amateur astronomers in Saskatchewan who enjoy teaching astronomy classes and showing the public views through their telescopes. actualastronomy@gmail.com
This month we talk about the full range of telescopic magnification powers from Low, Medium to High and how to achieve them using exit pupil. Topics include using exit pupil as a guide to power and how to successfully use high powers.
To recap Exit Pupils and Eyepieces:
We have High, Medium and Low powers,
- Low Power is in the Exit Pupil Range 2-4mm, so on my 180mm f6 that's 12-24mm eyepieces giving 45x-90x
- Medium Power is around 1.5mm Exit pupils, so a 9mm for my scope for 120x
- High equates to about a 0.5mm Exit pupil which for an F6 scope that would be a 3mm which on my 180mm would give 360x
In addition to these we have RFT or very low power for me I use my 40mm and 32mm for 27-35x and Ultra-high which is anything above 0.5mm. Careful in going to low as beyond 6-7mm exit pupils the pupil will cut into the light path.
The most favored eyepiece exit pupils are those in the 1.5-3mm range for galaxies, globular clusters. This is where the eye performs best under low light conditions and these magnifications help reduce the sky brightness without reducing the object brightness to the same extent,,,thus making such objects more visible. This is why I use my 17mm, 12.5, 12, 10mm's the most when making observations of these targets. For low power wide field nothing beats the 40mm XW which gives me a 2.5TFOV and 27x and I use my 5mm XW lots on the planets and Moon.
Shane do you have any high power eyepieces? What is the highest power you've successfully used? What are some of the challenges with using high powers?
My introduction to using high power came by accident. I wanted to buy all the Pentax XW's, while designed for spotting scopes, they work perfectly with eyeglasses and each year Pentax would put some on sale. The 20mm is arguable the dog of the lot, the 14mm is a bit better but the rest are of the highest quality so I ended up with these first but soon a after the 3.5mm went on sale and I thought…well…I'd eventually get it anyway so even if I didn't use it that much it'd be nice to have. Oddly I ended up using it all the time and it is one of my most used eyepieces and not only that but it barlows very well with my 1.6x Nikon creating a 2mm eyepiece.
Eventually I acquired the 5mm, 7mm and 10mm and use my 2x and 3x barlows on them. Typically you don't want to exceed the 0.5mm exit pupil size as on planets floaters and other eye issues challenge the observer. So why would I go above this threshold?
So wind the clock back to the Nova East Star party in 2003, Mars was at it's closest point to earth in 60,000 years and Tony Jones showed up late at night with his 5-inch Astrophysics APO refractor. We ended up barlowing a 4.8mm Nagler 2x for 430x. The details were amazing. Roy Bishop, who has authored that section on Exit Pupils and Eyepieces for the OH was there, he explained that while no additional detail could be seen past about 300x making the image this large made the details that could be seen larger.
I've always enjoyed running high power on Mars and the 3.5mm on my 60mm Tak gives splendid views of Venus in the 100x range. With the 180mm f6 my 3.5mm gives 308x and on steady nights I have used up to 500x. After experimenting I determined the optimal magnification limit is about 430x and that coincides with the actual theoretical limits discussed in many texts and online posts.
I found that the Pentax 70-degree AFOV was a bit restrictive and wanted to use my 84-degree Docter. I ran across the SkyWatcher Nomad 5x Telecentric Barlow, Telecentrics don't move the exit pupil around and I have found sometimes SkyWatcher has a few hidden gems…it was only about $100EU and not available in NA so I thought I'd give it shot. It works perfectly, I get 432x and the field of view is excellent!
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------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026 - 1h 02min - 4175 - Cheap Astronomy - Dear CA Ep. 135: Going Nuts
Are we really ready?
Hosted by Steve Nerlich.
From Dec 1, 2025.
Cheap Astronomy tries to stay sane on a trip to Mars?
Dear Cheap Astronomy – Will we just go nuts on a two-year mission to Mars
Well, we might if the space radiation doesn't kill us first. As we may have noted in previous episodes, current timelines for when we'll land on Mars seem to take little account of the fact that there are many mission components we don't even have conceptual solutions for let alone anything flight-tested or even prototyped. So current aspirations of having footprints on Mars in the 2030s are just aspirations.
Dear Cheap Astronomy – Will we just go nuts on a two-year mission to Mars, Part 2
In the last episode, we discussed the mental duress involved in sending a crew of up to five on a two year mission to Mars – which is 7 months each way with an extended stopover in the middle, with the whole experience involving relentless exposure to the risk of imminent death, and where radio delays with Earth may stretch out towards 20 minutes, enhancing the whole experience of isolation and helplessness.
We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
Just visit: https://www.patreon.com/365DaysOfAstronomy and donate as much as you can!
Share the podcast with your friends and send the Patreon link to them too!
Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
Do go visit http://www.redbubble.com/people/CosmoQuestX/shop for cool Astronomy Cast and CosmoQuest t-shirts, coffee mugs and other awesomeness!
http://cosmoquest.org/Donate This show is made possible through your donations.
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------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026 - 13min - 4174 - Ask A Spaceman Ep. 274: Is Dust the Best Thing in the Universe?
All Hail Dust!
Hosted by Dr. Paul M. Sutter.
Why is dust so annoying? But where does it come from, and what can it do? And is dust responsible for the creation of life? I discuss these questions and more in today's Ask a Spaceman!
Support the show: http://www.patreon.com/pmsutter
All episodes: http://www.AskASpaceman.com
Watch on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/PaulMSutter
Read a book: https://www.pmsutter.com/books
Keep those questions about space, science, astronomy, astrophysics, physics, and cosmology coming to #AskASpaceman for COMPLETE KNOWLEDGE OF TIME AND SPACE!
Big thanks to my top Patreon supporters this month: Justin G, Chris L, Alberto M, Duncan M, Corey D, Michael P, Naila, Sam R, Joshua, Scott M, Rob H, Scott M, Louis M, John W, Alexis, Gilbert M, Rob W, Jessica M, Jules R, Jim L, David S, Scott R, Heather, Mike S, Pete H, Steve S, Lisa R, Kevin B, Aileen G, Deb A, Michael J, Phillip L, Steven B, Mark R, Alan B, Craig B, Richard K, Joe R, David P, Justin, Robert B, Tracy F, Ella F, Thomas K, James C, Syamkumar M, Homer V, Mark D, Bruce A, Tim Z, Linda C, The Tired Jedi, Bob C, Stephen A, James R, Allen E, Michael S, Sheryl, David W, Chris, Michael S, Erlend A, James D, Karl W, Den K, Edward K, Scott K, Vivek D, M0PPET, Barbara C, Brad, Azra K, Steve R, Koen G, Scott N, M D Malahy, Brian O, and Alonna M!
We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
Just visit: https://www.patreon.com/365DaysOfAstronomy and donate as much as you can!
Share the podcast with your friends and send the Patreon link to them too!
Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
Do go visit http://www.redbubble.com/people/CosmoQuestX/shop for cool Astronomy Cast and CosmoQuest t-shirts, coffee mugs and other awesomeness!
http://cosmoquest.org/Donate This show is made possible through your donations.
Thank you! (Haven't donated? It's not too late! Just click!)
------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Tue, 16 Jun 2026 - 28min - 4173 - Astronomy Cast Ep. 797: Summer in Space
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSIp-RwWegA
Hosted by: Fraser Cain (@frasercain) and Dr. Pamela L. Gay (@CosmoQuest)
Streamed live June 10, 2026.
We're about to take a much needed 2 month hiatus. But just because we're not here doesn't mean space stops existing and doing things. Today, let's give a preview of the big events due to happen in space this summer so you can prepare yourself and make sure you don't miss a thing! From meteors to moon landings and more, join Fraser and Pamela as the look at what you can enjoy this summer, after we go to hiatus in July.
This show is supported through people like you on Patreon.com/AstronomyCast
In this episode, we'd like to thank: Andrew Poelstra, Burry Gowen, David, David Rossetter, Ed, Eric Lee, Gerhard Schwarzer, Jason Kwong, Jeanette Wink, Joe McTee, Michael Purcell, Sergey Manouilov, Siggi Kemmler
We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
Just visit: https://www.patreon.com/365DaysOfAstronomy and donate as much as you can!
Share the podcast with your friends and send the Patreon link to them too!
Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
Do go visit http://www.redbubble.com/people/CosmoQuestX/shop for cool Astronomy Cast and CosmoQuest t-shirts, coffee mugs and other awesomeness!
http://cosmoquest.org/Donate This show is made possible through your donations.
Thank you! (Haven't donated? It's not too late! Just click!)
------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Mon, 15 Jun 2026 - 35min - 4172 - Travelers in the Night Eps. 889 & 890: Lick Observatory & Comet 467P (Linear-Grauer)
Dr. Al Grauer hosts. Dr. Albert D. Grauer ( @Nmcanopus ) is an observational asteroid hunting astronomer. Dr. Grauer retired from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2006. travelersinthenight.org
From March 2026.
Today's 2 topics:
- In 1892 the world's largest telescope, the Lick Observatory's 36 inch refracting telescope made the news when E.E. Barnard discovered, Amalthea, the 5th moon of Jupiter. In 2025 this historic telescope made the news again when on Christmas morning winds of 114 mph blew off a 3 ton piece of the shutter on its dome. The adaptive optics research pioneered at Lick Observatory helped in the creation of the twin giant 10 meter telescopes that sit atop Mauna Kea in Hawaii.
- Astronomers using the 8.1 m Gemini South Telescope in Chile were excited by the fact that 467P (LINEAR-Grauer)'s Centaur like orbit had been changed as the nucleus emitted rocket like bursts of gases as it was warmed by the Sun. Inert inactive asteroids orbit the Sun following the law of gravity whereas active asteroids can emit little rocket like bursts of gas which can change their path about the Sun in interesting ways. It is important to study objects like 467P (LINEAR-Grauer) to make sure their path about the Sun doesn't change to make them a threat to our home planet.
We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
Just visit: https://www.patreon.com/365DaysOfAstronomy and donate as much as you can!
Share the podcast with your friends and send the Patreon link to them too!
Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
Do go visit http://www.redbubble.com/people/CosmoQuestX/shop for cool Astronomy Cast and CosmoQuest t-shirts, coffee mugs and other awesomeness!
http://cosmoquest.org/Donate This show is made possible through your donations.
Thank you! (Haven't donated? It's not too late! Just click!)
------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Sun, 14 Jun 2026 - 06min - 4171 - NOIRLab - Strong Hints of Magnetic Fields On Exoplanets
Using the Gemini North telescope in Hawai'i and the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope, a team of astronomers measured wind speeds on seven very hot, Jupiter-like exoplanets. The observations revealed that the winds on these planets are most likely governed by magnetic fields, providing the first robust measurement of magnetic activity on planets outside the Solar System. In this podcast, Dr. Hayley Beltz describes how these magnetic fields were discovered from observations using data from the Gemini North telescope in Hawai'i and the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope.
Bios:
- Rob Sparks is in the Communications, Education and Engagement group at NSF's NOIRLab in Tucson, Arizona.
- Dr. Hayley Beltz currently a Postdoctoral Associate at the University of Kansas and an incoming NHFP Sagan Fellow. Her work focuses looking at hot and ultrahot Jupiter atmospheres with three-dimensional atmospheric models and exploring how magnetic effects might change atmospheric circulation and appear observationally. She is also very passionate about teaching and mentoring students. You can find more about her, including recent papers at hayleybeltz.com
We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
Just visit: https://www.patreon.com/365DaysOfAstronomy and donate as much as you can!
Share the podcast with your friends and send the Patreon link to them too!
Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
Do go visit http://www.redbubble.com/people/CosmoQuestX/shop for cool Astronomy Cast and CosmoQuest t-shirts, coffee mugs and other awesomeness!
http://cosmoquest.org/Donate This show is made possible through your donations.
Thank you! (Haven't donated? It's not too late! Just click!)
------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Sat, 13 Jun 2026 - 10min - 4170 - EVSN - Chasing Chemistry: Missions Measure Comet & Planet Atmospheres
From June 3, 2026.
In this episode, we're going to look at Psyche's success at Mars, the cool 3I-ATLAS science coming from Europa Clipper and JUICE en route to the Jupiter system, and we also look at JWST's efforts to study exoplanetary atmospheres and the weird weather of other worlds.
We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
Just visit: https://www.patreon.com/365DaysOfAstronomy and donate as much as you can!
Share the podcast with your friends and send the Patreon link to them too!
Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
Do go visit http://www.redbubble.com/people/CosmoQuestX/shop for cool Astronomy Cast and CosmoQuest t-shirts, coffee mugs and other awesomeness!
http://cosmoquest.org/Donate This show is made possible through your donations.
Thank you! (Haven't donated? It's not too late! Just click!)
------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Fri, 12 Jun 2026 - 16min - 4169 - Actual Astronomy - Observer's Calendar for June
Hosted by Chris Beckett & Shane Ludtke, two amateur astronomers in Saskatchewan who enjoy teaching astronomy classes and showing the public views through their telescopes. actualastronomy@gmail.com
This month we talk about the Moon meeting up with the planets and some interesting Lunar Features. We also talk about some of the best deep sky objects to observe at this time of year.
I was away then sick so haven't replied to everyone's emails or I've been late. We'll read some on the next show and I'll go over what I've been up to.
Perpetual Twilight started for us on May 29th and runs through until July 15th!
We've added a new way to donate to 365 Days of Astronomy to support editing, hosting, and production costs.
Just visit: https://www.patreon.com/365DaysOfAstronomy and donate as much as you can!
Share the podcast with your friends and send the Patreon link to them too!
Every bit helps! Thank you!
------------------------------------
Do go visit http://www.redbubble.com/people/CosmoQuestX/shop for cool Astronomy Cast and CosmoQuest t-shirts, coffee mugs and other awesomeness!
http://cosmoquest.org/Donate This show is made possible through your donations.
Thank you! (Haven't donated? It's not too late! Just click!)
------------------------------------
The 365 Days of Astronomy Podcast is produced by the Planetary Science Institute. http://www.psi.edu
Visit us on the web at 365DaysOfAstronomy.org or email us at info@365DaysOfAstronomy.org.
Thu, 11 Jun 2026 - 26min
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