Found in Space: A Science Podcast for Kids and Teens

Latest Episodes:

What Are The Voyagers? Sep 06, 2023

Show notes

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Introduction:
- Podcast: Found In Space - Kids & Teens Science
- Episode Title: Voyager Missions: Journey to the Stars
- Host: Arwen Hubbard
- Release Date: September 6, 2023
- Summary: Arwen delves into the iconic Voyager missions, two spacecraft that have journeyed far beyond our solar system, providing insights into their remarkable voyage.
1. The Legendary Voyager Missions:
- Introduction to the Voyager missions.
- Their status as among the most famous space missions ever.
- Active duration of 46 years in space as of September 2023.
2. NASA's Dual Mission Strategy:
- NASA's approach to spacecraft design in the 1970s.
- Building duplicate spacecraft for the same mission.
- The example of the Mars rovers Spirit and Opportunity.
3. Planetary Alignments and Mission Opportunities:
- Solar system dynamics and planet positions.
- Special planetary alignment in the 1970s for the Voyager missions.
- A rare opportunity to visit multiple outer planets in a single mission.
4. Voyager Mission Targets:
- Target planets: Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune.
- Remarkable discoveries, including Saturn's ring system and Enceladus geysers.
- The original intention to explore Pluto.
5. Voyager 1 and Voyager 2: Different Paths:
- Distinct mission trajectories of Voyager 1 and Voyager 2.
- Voyager 1's trajectory towards interstellar space.
- Voyager 2's encounters with Uranus and Neptune.
6. Pioneering Interstellar Exploration:
- Voyager spacecraft's transition to studying the heliosphere.
- The heliosphere as the region influenced by the Sun's magnetic field.
- Crossing into interstellar space and clarifying "leaving the solar system."
7. Voyager's Golden Records: Messages to the Stars:
- Inclusion of the Voyager Golden Records.
- Features of the Golden Records, including music, greetings, and Earth's location.
- The possibility of distant civilizations discovering the records.
Conclusion:
- The enduring mission of the Voyagers.
- Reflecting on the profound idea of future civilizations encountering the spacecraft.
- Gratitude to listeners for exploring space and science together.
- Encouragement to submit questions or topics for future episodes.

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What Is Jupiter Made Of? Sep 04, 2023

Show notes

Introduction:

Release Date: September 4, 2023
Episode Summary: In this episode, Arwen answers two intriguing questions about the chemical composition of gas planets like Jupiter and Saturn and whether gas dwarf planets exist. Dive into the world of elements, molecules, and exotic celestial bodies.

1. Building Blocks of Matter:

Introduction to the concept of atoms as the fundamental building blocks of matter.
Explanation of elements and their role as the basic constituents of everything.
Comparison of elements to versatile Lego blocks that can be combined in various ways to create different substances.

2. Chemical Composition of Gas Planets:

Discussion on the primary chemicals found in gas planets, focusing on Jupiter and Saturn.
Clarification of the dual meaning of "gas" in space science, referring to both the state of matter and a specific type of chemical.
Emphasis on hydrogen and helium as the dominant elements in gas giants, making up 99% of their composition.

3. Gas Giants: More than Gas:

Explanation of the misconception that gas giants are entirely gaseous.
Description of the layered structure of gas giants, where the outer layers consist of gas while the inner regions transition into a hot liquid due to intense pressure.
Insights into the presence of other elements, such as iron and nickel, deeper within these planets.

4. The Mysterious Ice Giants:

Brief mention of Uranus and Neptune, known as the ice giants, despite their misleading names.
Explanation of how the ice giants share a similar layered structure with gas giants, featuring gas at the top and liquid deeper inside.
Highlighting the extreme temperatures at the cores of these planets.

5. Exoplanets: A Variety of Worlds:

Introduction to the study of exoplanets, planets outside our solar system.
Mention of the diverse exoplanets discovered, including gas giants similar to those in our solar system.
Exploration of the possibility of gas dwarf planets and the challenges of their detection with current technology.

6. Planet Classification and Evolving Understanding:

Discussion on the evolving understanding of planetary classification, including terms like dwarf gas giants, mini Neptunes, and super Earths.
Insight into the dynamic nature of space science terminology as new discoveries reshape our knowledge.
Enthusiastic encouragement for listeners to send in questions and topics for future episodes.

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How Many Stars, Planets, Blackholes, Galaxies, and Nebulas in Our Universe? Sep 01, 2023

Show notes

Show Notes

Introduction:

Podcast: Found In Space - Science Podcast for Kids and Teens
Episode Title: Counting Stars, Planets, and Galaxies
Host: Arwen Hubbard
Release Date: September 1, 2023
Episode Summary: In this episode, host Arwen addresses a stellar question about estimating the number of stars, planets, galaxies, and nebulae in the universe. The episode delves into the complex challenge of counting celestial objects and sheds light on the evolving understanding of the universe's vastness.

1. The Cosmic Puzzle:

Introduction to the episode's focus on estimating the quantities of celestial objects.
Explanation of the analogy between space exploration and assembling a puzzle.
Highlighting the challenge of piecing together the puzzle without knowing the final image.

2. Stars, Planets, and Galaxies:

Discussion on the difficulty of determining the exact numbers of stars, planets, and galaxies.
Mention of the evolving knowledge with advances in technology and observation.
Explanation of how telescopes expanded our understanding of planets beyond those visible to the naked eye.

3. The Mystery of Exoplanets:

Introduction to the concept of exoplanets and their discovery using telescopes.
Discussion on the limitations of current methods for detecting exoplanets.
Mention of the prevalence of large exoplanets close to their stars.

4. Calculating Stellar Numbers:

Explanation of methods used to estimate the number of stars in our galaxy.
Discussion on counting stars within observable sections of the sky.
Mention of using luminosity to estimate the total number of stars.

5. A Crowded Universe:

Presentation of the emerging picture of a densely populated universe.
Mention of trillions of stars, planets, galaxies, and nebulae.
Emphasis on the ongoing work of space scientists, particularly astronomers, to uncover the universe's secrets.

Conclusion:

Recap of the exploration into the estimation of celestial objects.
Gratitude for the insightful question and to the listeners for engaging in space and science discussions.
Encouragement for listeners to submit their questions and topics for future episodes.
Farewell message, inviting listeners to stay curious and embrace the mysteries of the universe.

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Why Does NASA Still Use Landers? Aug 30, 2023

Show notes

Certainly, here's a condensed version of the show notes with five sections:

Show Notes: Found In Space - Episode: "Why Does NASA Still Send Landers?"

Introduction:

Podcast: Found In Space - Science Podcast for Kids and Teens
Episode Title: Why Does NASA Still Send Landers?
Host: Arwen Hubbard
Release Date: August 30, 2023
Episode Summary: In this episode, host Arwen explores the importance of NASA's lander missions in planetary exploration. The episode delves into the different types of robotic missions, the value of flybys, orbiters, landers, and rovers, and why NASA continues to utilize landers for studying other planets.

1. Types of Robotic Missions:

Introduction to the focus on robotic missions for planetary exploration.
Explanation of the main mission types: flybys, orbiters, landers, and rovers.

2. The Role of Lander Missions:

Explanation of the significance of lander missions in planetary exploration.
Discussion on why some early missions were flybys due to technical limitations.
Addressing the challenge of slowing down fast-moving crafts for orbit.

3. Importance of Gathered Data:

Highlighting the value of the data collected from flyby and lander missions.
Discussing the surprising discoveries and dispelling preconceived notions.
Mention of examples like New Horizons and the Kuiper Belt.

4. Rover Missions and Beyond:

Explanation of the capabilities and limitations of rover missions.
Mentioning slow mobility and remote control operation due to signal delay.
Introduction to Ingenuity, the drone on the Perseverance rover, and its historic flight.

5. Balancing Costs and Objectives:

Addressing the question of why NASA still uses landers for missions.
Case study of InSight on Mars and its specialized objectives.
Highlighting the balance between costs, complexity, and mission goals.

Conclusion:

Recap of the episode's exploration of lander missions.
Encouragement for listeners to submit questions and topics for future episodes.
Farewell message, inviting listeners to stay curious and explore the universe.

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How Does the Artemis Program Work? Aug 28, 2023

Show notes

Show Notes: Found In Space - Episode: "How Does the Artemis Program Work?"

Introduction:

Podcast: Found In Space - Science Podcast for Kids and Teens
Episode Title: How Does the Artemis Program Work?
Host: Arwen Hubbard
Release Date: August 28, 2023

Episode Summary: Host Arwen delves into the exciting Artemis program, NASA's initiative to return humans to the Moon and establish a sustainable presence there. She explains the concept of space programs, highlights the significance of Artemis, and breaks down the program's goals, missions, and potential impact on space exploration. The episode also discusses the Apollo program and other key details related to Artemis.

1. Introduction to Space Programs and Apollo:

Definition of a space program as a large-scale project with specific goals and missions.
Mention of the iconic Apollo program, which landed humans on the Moon in the 1960s and 70s.
Discussion of the Apollo program's achievements in sending missions to the Moon and safely bringing back astronauts.

2. The Artemis Program and Its Goals:

Introduction to the Artemis program as NASA's new initiative for Moon exploration.
Explanation of the program's objective: returning humans to the Moon and establishing a sustainable presence.
Comparison of Apollo's lunar visits to Artemis' plans for moon bases and long-term presence.

3. The Lunar Gateway and Its Significance:

Introduction to the Lunar Gateway, a space station planned to orbit the Moon.
Comparison with the International Space Station (ISS) and the decommissioning timeline for ISS.
Highlighting the Lunar Gateway's potential for human habitation, research, and exploration.

4. Artemis Missions and Their Progress:

Explanation of the Artemis missions and their sequence.
Description of Artemis I as an uncrewed mission around the Moon, testing the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion capsule.
Discussion of cubesats deployed during Artemis I and their role in various experiments.
Preview of Artemis II, a crewed mission to orbit the Moon with diverse crew members.

5. Artemis III and Beyond:

Anticipation for Artemis III, the mission aiming to land humans on the Moon's surface.
Reflection on the historic nature of Artemis III and its potential for setting up lunar bases.
Personal excitement for future exploration missions to Mars, Venus, and beyond.

Closing Remarks:

Gratitude for the question and exploration of the Artemis program.
Encouragement for listeners to send in questions and topics for further discussions.
Farewell message, wishing listeners a passion for space exploration and curiosity.

Stay Curious! To contribute questions or topics, please use the provided email address in the description.

[End of Show Notes]

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What is a Black Hole Star? Aug 25, 2023

Show notes

Introduction:

Podcast: Found In Space - Science Podcast for Kids and Teens
Episode Title: Black Hole Stars: The Quasistars
Host: Arwen Hubbard
Release Date: August 25, 2023

Episode Summary: Host Arwen dives into the intriguing topic of black hole stars, also known as quasistars. She discusses the concept, formation, and potential existence of these unique objects that could have played a role in the early universe. The episode explores the intricate interplay between gravity, fusion, and black holes, shedding light on how these objects might have formed.

1. Introduction to Quasistars:

Source of the topic: Miss Healy and her space-loving friend.
Explanation of the term "quasistar" as something nearly a star but not quite.
Highlighting the potential existence of these objects in the early universe.
Discussion about the speculative nature of quasistars and their current absence in the observable universe.

2. Formation and Nature of Quasistars:

Describing a quasistar as a massive sphere of luminous material with a black hole at its core.
Emphasis on the significant mass requirement, needing to be millions of times the mass of the Sun.
Exploration of the origin of quasistars in densely packed areas of the early universe.
Explanation of gravity's role in pulling matter together and creating massive objects.

3. The Lifecycle of Stars:

Overview of how stars form from collapsing material and achieve fusion in their cores.
Detailed explanation of fusion and its role in generating energy within stars.
Illustration of the balance between fusion's outward push and gravity's inward pull.
Mention of massive stars eventually running out of fusion fuel and collapsing under gravity's force.

4. Formation of Black Hole Stars and Their Potential Role:

Clarification of the fate of massive stars collapsing into black holes.
Hypothetical scenario of a massive star collapsing around a black hole's core.
Explanation of how material falling into the black hole generates energy, akin to fusion.
Speculation about black hole stars' existence in the early universe and potential links to the formation of supermassive black holes at galactic centers.

5. Duration and Exploration:

Discussion of the short duration of black hole stars, likely lasting only a few million years.
Comparison of this timescale to cosmic times and the universe's evolution.
Acknowledgment that the existence of quasistars is still a mystery and subject to ongoing research.
Hopeful perspective on uncovering more about these objects through future observations and studies.

Closing Remarks:

Gratitude to the listeners and question contributors for their curiosity.
Encouragement for listeners to send in more questions and topics for exploration.
Farewell message, wishing listeners clear skies and a continued passion for learning.

Stay Curious! To contribute questions or topics, please email FoundInSpacePodcast@gmail.com

[End of Show Notes]

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What Part of the Milky Way Do We See? Aug 23, 2023

Show notes

Show Notes: Found In Space - Episode: What Part of the Milky Way Do We See?

Introduction:

Podcast: Found In Space - Science Podcast for Kids and Teens
Episode Title: Navigating the Milky Way: Our Galactic Address
Host: Arwen
Release Date: August 23, 2023

Episode Summary: Host Arwen delves into a listener's question about the Milky Way's appearance in the night sky, explaining how the galaxy's structure and Earth's orbit contribute to what we observe. She introduces the concept of constellations and discusses the Milky Way's position in different seasons.

1. Isaac's Inquiry:

Listener's question: Is the Milky Way we see in the night sky part of the spiral arm we're in or another spiral arm? Does it have a name?

2. Galactic Overview:

Analogy comparing galaxies to cities: Stars as buildings, creating a vast structure held together by gravity.
Introduction to the Milky Way's spiral structure with arms and other components.
Explanation of the Milky Way's classification as a spiral galaxy.

3. Milky Way's Spiral Arms and Constellations:

Naming of the Milky Way after its appearance in the night sky resembling spilled milk.
Description of the Milky Way's central disk and the arms spiraling out from it.
Introduction to the Perseus arm and the Scutum Centaurus arm as the main arms.
Explanation of constellations and their naming from Greek and Roman mythology.
Circumpolar constellations (e.g., Big Dipper) visible throughout the year.

4. Earth's Orbit, Seasons, and Milky Way Views:

Relating the Earth's orbit to its rotation, creating day and night cycles.
Mention of Earth's axial tilt leading to the changing of seasons.
Connection between Earth's position in orbit and the visibility of constellations.
Explanation of Milky Way visibility changes in different seasons.
Highlighting the Milky Way's appearance in August and September, facing the center of the galaxy (Sagittarius) for more Milky Way visibility.
Description of how in six months, during winter in the Northern Hemisphere, we face away from the galaxy's center (Perseus arm), resulting in a narrower view of the Milky Way.

Closing Remarks:

Expressing gratitude to Isaac for the engaging question and exploration of galaxy concepts.
Encouragement for listeners to send in questions for future podcast episodes.
Farewell message, wishing listeners clear skies and continued curiosity.

Stay Curious!

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Animals in Space Aug 21, 2023

Show notes

Show Notes: Found In Space - Episode: "Animals in Space: Exploring the Cosmos"

Introduction:

Podcast: Found In Space - Science Podcast for Kids and Teens
Episode Title: Animals in Space: Exploring the Cosmos
Host: Arwen
Release Date: August 20, 2023

Episode Summary: Host Arwen delves into the history of animals in space exploration, discussing the animals sent into space, their purpose, and the importance of studying them for future space colonization.

1. Animal Space Inquiry:

Listener Rami's question: What animals have been in space, like dogs, and why are they sent into space?

2. Pioneering Animal Spaceflights:

Overview of early animal spaceflights; fruit flies sent in 1947 via V-2 rocket.
Background on repurposed missiles for space exploration pre-NASA era.

3. Animal Participants and Outcomes:

Discussion of animals sent into space: Laika the dog, Miss Baker the squirrel monkey, and Ham the chimp.
Comparison between Soviet and U.S. space programs' animal experiments.

4. Animal Research in Modern Space Exploration:

Transition to modern animal research using mice due to mammal similarities.
Experiments involving spiders' web weaving and mice reproduction in microgravity.
Importance of studying animals to ensure human safety in future space colonization.

5. Ecosystem Role and Future Colonization:

Recognizing the role of animals in space ecosystems for food, soil health, and overall system balance.
Necessity of bringing diverse life forms for survival on Moon, Mars, or space stations.
Encouragement for questions and topics from listeners via provided email.

Closing Remarks:

Arwen expresses gratitude for the engaging topic.
Thanking listeners for joining and promoting curiosity in space and science.

Stay Curious!

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How Do We Find Out How Fast a Planet Spins? Aug 18, 2023

Show notes

Here is a video related to this topic I wrote for SciShow Space: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nbnks2NXryY

Show Notes: Found In Space - Episode: "How Do We Find Out How Fast Planets Spin?"

Introduction:

Podcast: Found In Space - Science Podcast for Kids and Teens
Episode Title: How Do We Find Out How Fast Planets Spin?
Host: Arwen
Release Date: August 18, 2023

Episode Summary: Host Arwen explores how scientists determine planetary rotation speeds, from nearby planets to distant exoplanets, and why it matters.

1. Question of Planetary Rotation:

"How do we find out how fast planets spin?"

2. Observing Rotation:

Telescopes observe nearby planets like Mars using visible light
Earth's rotation and thick atmospheres like Venus pose challenges.

3. Studying Exoplanets:

Methods for distant exoplanet study include observing star behavior and light-blocking effects.

4. Analyzing Light Reflection:

Arwen explains light reflection on planetary surfaces, tracking feature appearance to measure rotation.

5. Doppler Spectroscopy & Conclusion:

Introduction to Doppler spectroscopy
Understanding rotation informs climate and history study.
Listener interaction encouraged for future topics.
Arwen thanks listeners, emphasizes curiosity in space and science.

Stay Curious! Tune in to Found In Space for more, and send questions to FoundInSpacePodcast@gmail.com

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Can Any Types of Light Escape a Black Hole? Aug 14, 2023

Show notes

Show Notes: Found In Space - Episode: "Gravity and Light: Exploring Black Holes"

Introduction:

Podcast: Found In Space - Science Podcast for Kids and Teens
Episode Title: Gravity and Light: Exploring Black Holes
Host: Arwen
Release Date: August 14, 2023

Episode Summary: Arwen takes on a listener's questions about black holes, dissecting the relationship between gravity, light, and escape velocity.

1. Questions on Black Holes:

"Does a black hole's gravity surpass light's speed? And how does supermassive black hole gravity differ?"

2. Unpacking Gravity:

Black holes as gravity-intensive regions; need escape velocity surpassing light's speed.
Explanation of the singularity's density warping spacetime and causing strong gravity.

3. Light's Role Near Black Holes:

Light's behavior near the event horizon (Schwarzschild radius); escape is possible if not crossed.
All light forms, including the invisible spectrum, travel at equal speed.

4. The Inverse Square Law: