Ep. 295: The Observable Universe

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (0.0KB) We understand our place in the Universe because of our direct observations. We can see the light that traveled billions of light years across space to reach us. This sphere of space is the observable universe; everything we can detect. But it’s really...

Ep. 294: The Arecibo Observatory

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (0.0KB) The mighty Arecibo Radio Observatory is one of the most powerful radio telescopes ever built – it’s certainly the larger single aperture radio telescope on Earth, nestled into a natural sinkhole in Puerto Rico. We’re celebrating the 50th...

Ep. 256: Resolution

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (0.0KB) When it comes to telescopes, astronomers really just care about resolution: how much can you see? Your resolution defines how much science you can get done, and it depends on your gear, wavelength, and conditions. Putting a telescope in space really helps...

Ep. 248: Carina Constellation

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (0.0KB) Time for another detailed look at a constellation; one of the most fascinating in the sky, but hidden to most of the northern hemisphere: Carina. Home to one of the most likely supernova candidates we know of: Eta Carinae. Let’s talk just about this...

Ep. 245: Calendars

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (0.0KB) Our lives are ruled by calendars. And calendars are ruled by astronomy. As we near the end of 2011, and get ready to ring in the new year, let’s discover the astronomy underlying the days, weeks, months and years that segment our lives. Ep. 245:...

Ep. 234: Lunar Phases

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (0.0KB) The Moon is a stark reminder that we actually live in a Universe filled with stars and planets and moons. The changing phases of the Moon show us the relative positions of the Earth, the Sun and the Moon as they interact with one another. Let’s learn...