In a serendipitous moment, Andrew Dunkley's passion for astronomy was sparked by a chance encounter with a telescope at a friend's house. Little did he know that a simple gaze through the lens would ignite a lifelong curiosity for the mysteries of the universe. As he delved into books, documentaries, and conversations with fellow enthusiasts, his thirst for cosmic knowledge only grew stronger. What cosmic wonders await those who seek to understand the stars and galaxies?
In this episode, you will be able to:
· Explore the fascinating world of galaxies' rotation curves and their intriguing variations. · Discover the hidden secrets of spiral arms visibility through the lens of infrared observations. · Understand how gravity bends space and its profound implications on the universe.
· Uncover the crucial distinctions between dark matter and dark energy, unraveling cosmic mysteries.
"You can do anything in science fiction.' - Andrew Dunkley
Bending of Space due to Gravity
Gravitational influence on the bending of space is a central concept in Einstein's theory of relativity. It proposes that the force of gravity resulting from an object's mass distorts space around it. This remarkable insight about the interplay between gravity and spacetime allows us to understand extraordinary phenomena, such as the distortion of star positions during an eclipse. This theory immensely enriches our understanding of the universe and shapes our perception of space and time.
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
· Visit spacenutspodcast.com to send in your own audio or text questions for the show.
· Check out the AMA link on the website to submit your questions for the next episode. ·
Click on the tab on the right-hand side of the homepage to send in your audio questions. · Listen to the Space Nuts podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or your favorite podcast player. ·
Stream on demand at bitesz.com to catch up on previous episodes. ·
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Thank you and break announcement
00:02:22 - Q&A Episode Introduction
00:08:01 - Understanding Gravity
00:11:14 - Theoretical Walk on a Neutron Star
00:16:46 - Clarification on Biochemical Processes
00:17:25 - RNA as the precursor to DNA and proteins
00:18:57 - Dark energy and dark matter web
00:22:17 - Universe's expansion and the role of dark energy
00:25:03 - White holes and dark matter
00:29:13 - Period of inflation and the speed of light
00:34:21 - The World Wide Web nickname
00:36:14 - Speed of light and space travel
00:37:22 - Counting stars in the Milky Way
00:43:16 - Planetary diversity and moon composition
00:47:22 - Tipler cylinder and time travel
00:51:37 - The spacecraft design and terraforming challenges
00:52:29 - Science fiction and John Birmingham's latest series
00:53:38 - The Super Dunk series and a request to the author
00:54:27 - Audience engagement and question submissions
00:55:23 - Conclusion and farewell
Variation of Rotation Curves
The variation of rotation curves is an intriguing aspect of galaxies that fascinates astronomers. It refers to the speed at which stars and other celestial objects move around the center of a galaxy, and how this speed impacts the overall shape and structure of the galaxy. This element of astrophysics provides critical insights into how galaxies evolve over time, contributing significantly to our understanding of the universe's dynamics.
Infrared Observations and Spiral Arms
Infrared observations are pivotal to astronomy, allowing us to perceive celestial bodies and phenomena that remain concealed in other wavelengths. One interesting feature that can be detected in this way is the dust in spiral arms of galaxies. Observing these spirals in the infrared offers us enriching perspectives on the galaxy formation and evolution, as well as the intriguing role of shockwaves and dust in these processes.
Bending of Space due to Gravity
Gravitational influence on the bending of space is a central concept in Einstein's theory of relativity. It proposes that the force of gravity resulting from an object's mass distorts space around it. This remarkable insight about the interplay between gravity and spacetime allows us to understand extraordinary phenomena, such as the distortion of star positions during an eclipse. This theory immensely enriches our understanding of the universe and shapes our perception of space and time.
#AskanAstronomer
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Are You Ready For An Intergalactic Adventure Through Kindness, Compassion, And Empathy?
Embark on an extraordinary cosmic journey with "Spacewalks to Kindness," the latest enchanting addition to the captivating "Cosmic Kids" series. Are you prepared for the ultimate space adventure? Meet Astra Lumin, an intrepid and inquisitive navigator, whose upcoming spacewalk takes an unexpected turn when she encounters Hurgul, a timid alien kid gripped by fear and nervousness.
Why Kids (And Their Parents) Love “Spacewalks of Kindness”
As Astra recalls her mother's timeless advice on the significance of caring for others, the duo ventures through the boundless expanse of the galaxy, forging a remarkable bond that transcends interstellar distances. "Spacewalks to Kindness" unfolds a heartwarming narrative, skillfully woven with the themes of kindness, empathy, and friendship, making it an ideal exploration for young readers. This will help kids understand how to treat others with respect, recognize and manage their feelings, and promote acts of kindness.
In this beautifully illustrated tale, Astra and Hurgul discover the profound value of compassion by extending helping hands to each other. Delve into the pages and witness the transformation of fear into friendship as these cosmic companions navigate the challenges of the universe together.
This cosmic odyssey is not merely a story but a lesson, as young readers absorb the virtues of empathy and caring. With its engaging narrative and visually stunning illustrations, "Spacewalks to Kindness" becomes a captivating tool for parents and educators alike, fostering a sense of understanding and compassion in the hearts of children.
Join the ranks of cosmic enthusiasts as you explore the galaxy alongside Astra Lumin and Hurgul, unlocking the secrets of kindness and camaraderie. "Spacewalks to Kindness" is more than just a book; it's a portal to a universe where the power of empathy lights up the darkest corners, leaving young minds inspired and enlightened.
Discover The Must-Read Space Educational Kid’s Storybook Series
This is the first installment in the “Cosmic Kids” book series. It follows the adventures that the children of space scientists get themselves into and focuses on learning lessons through epic journeys. Other books in the series will focus on Curiosity, Responsibility, Honesty, Respect, Gratitude, and more.
The Ultimate Gift That Keeps On Giving
Whether you are looking for a new educational illustrated storybook for your child or a thoughtful gift idea for your niece, nephew, grandson, or granddaughter, look no further! Surprise any young astronaut today and harness the power of story-telling and eye-catching art to teach valuable lessons.
Don't miss the chance to be part of this intergalactic expedition—strap in, soar through the stars, and discover the transformative magic of kindness with "Spacewalks to Kindness." Your cosmic adventure awaits!
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𝐒𝐲𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐥𝐬 𝐢𝐧
𝐃𝐈𝐕𝐈𝐍𝐔𝐌 𝐄𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐅𝐄𝐑𝐍𝐔𝐌
I don’t know why I wanted to describe the symbolism and imagery that I’ve kneaded into my story. Perhaps because I use it a lot in my writing, even for replies, to give it more depth. However, it’s also because it’s fun.
What we’ll cover
The Sun — Who is Amira?
Space — Who is August Wang?
The Sky and Flight — Amira, Freedom, and Divinehood
The Moon — What is The Essence of Evil?
Reflections — How Evil Seeps Through
Night — Vampires, Demons, and Things That Go Bump in The Night
Snakes — Villains
Other Minor Symbols
The Sun
Divinum et Infernum was Solis et Lunae, so my story always had the sun and moon symbolism. Amira represents the sun and it’s in her surname— Shams is Arabic for the sun. Though Amira is technically more powerful, it’s more about what the sun represents. So, for me, the sun represents life, vitality, happiness, and the reason why we exist. Without the sun, we’re likely to feel hopelessness and misery. When the sun dawns warding off the darkness of the night, it symbolizes a new day and the dawning of hope. The sun is why everything exists and is the center of the story.
This is what I hope I can convey about Amira through my writing. She’s she represents the light of humanity, the hope humans need, and the golden vitality of the sun. It’s why golden is one of the colours that represent her.
The sun also represents power and Amira’s coming to terms with power is an important aspect of the story. What happens to her happens because she is one of the most powerful beings in the multiverse. She doesn’t want this power and funnily, she doesn’t want this responsibility. Summer days when the sun is at its brightest, represent childhood, and Amira is stuck in the golden glow of her childhood. She doesn’t want to grow up — the reluctant hero.
In saying that, the sun is also glaringly in your face and self-centered, this is also represented in Amira. Not only does she have an intolerably annoying personality, but she can also be quite self-centered at times.
Space
Curiosity, intellect, and vastness are traits we associate with space. It defies time, restraints, and borders and that goes beyond comprehension. That’s who the king of the gods is — he is beyond comprehension and beyond time. He walks where no one can walk and he exists where few others do.
Though I use some space imagery for Amira as well, August represents cosmic entities for me. He is more powerful than Amira is simply because he has the depth to contain his powers better. He has a lot more depth than her and he is the sage that guides the hero and she needs him in more than one way.
The Sky + Flight
The sky represents infinity, eternity, immortality, and transcendence — it’s a symbol of the universe. Nonetheless, it also represents freedom and flight. The lightness of air and the freedom of flight nestles in Amira. She takes flight and rarely touches the earth, it shows her lightness and childishness as she lacks the ability to ground herself in practicality. However, it also illustrates her connection to her divine self, the thing that severs her from earth.
The Moon
If Amira is the sun, then there must be a moon in the story. It represents enigma, emotions, loneliness, the night, spirituality, renewal, and transition. Moreover, it represents the eclipse.
That moon is represented by different characters throughout the story. The most obvious one is Cintinv, the higher power serving under Amira and August who betrays her after the Celestial Wars. Then there is Xariyah, the higher power that waged the Celestial Wars to take August’s throne and attempted to kill all deities as a means to her end.
You’d wonder why is that? That’s because the moon represents the essence of evil itself in the story. It’s represented in an unnamed personification of evil who takes the name Shen Yue. She’s the one that “gave birth” to evil and is the reason why evil even exists. She’s not a being but an essence that exists in everything.
However, this essence can only tamper with human emotions as it’s intangible, a concept. So, it can’t appear on earth unless powered by a spiritual force. That’s where reflections come in.
Reflections
In many ancient cultures, things that cast reflections are considered doorways to spirit realms. The moon reflects on earth via its reflection in water bodies. Shen Yue makes her way through our world via her reflections in her preferred vessels (lakes and rivers). When we look at our reflection in water bodies, it’s half what we perceive rather than what’s real. Shen Yue has the power to tap into our darkest side and emotions. She mangles them until they blind us and lead us to ruin. Think of Narcissus and his reflection in the lake or sirens luring sailors to their deaths.
Though why does she choose water? Quite simple really, water bodies are an incredibly powerful spiritual energy. It’s perhaps the only spiritual energy on earth that can rival heavenly dimensions in power. They are actually connected to many spiritual realms. It’s why Amira remains wary of water bodies without knowing it.
It’s imperative that I note here that water in itself doesn’t represent evil in my story. It actually represents spirituality and life. Like the sunlight, water is essential for existence to flourish. (Besides, water-based muses are my favourite from an oh-so-excellent mun!)
The Night
The night is when demons, vampires, and other supernatural creatures are at their strongest. In my lore, vampires and demons are creatures linked to hell dimensions. Their blood is diluted from the primordial beings roaming the lower dimensions. Therefore, the night symbolizes hell, monsters, as well as mysteries, secrets, and intuition. Shadows and darkness are extremely impotent dark spiritual energy (but we love hell muses here, this is a we-stan-the-king-of-hell dimensions house)
Snakes
In fiction, snakes represent lies, and deceit, but also renewal and immortality. In my lore, many hell beasts take the shape of a serpent. Snakes represent Phillipa, a hell beast and a devout follower of Shen Yue. She is a ‘cold-blooded’ creature who enjoys causing pain and is essentially a pet of the moon, tying snakes to the moon.
It’s vital to note that Amira has a severe phobia of snakes.
Other Minor Symbols
Acoustic guitar: August’s love for Amira
Ballet-related objects: Sabrina
Black cats: Percival
Blood splattered on white surfaces: Cintinv
Blue: Shen Yue
Bubblegum: Stella
Cars: Jack
Cherries: Aaliyah
Clocks, hourglass, metronome, anything time-related: August
Cosmic things: August and Amira
Daisies: Darlene
Earphones: August and Amira
Earth and dirt: Jack
Fallen Angel (painting): Cintinv
Fireworks: Aaliyah
Golden and pink: Amira
Graveyards: Cintinv
Green: Phillipa
Howl’s Moving Castle (book and movie): August and Amira
Knives and daggers: Cintinv
Lakes and rivers: Shen Yue
Orange tulips: Pinar
Piano music: Taewon and Amira
Pink and white roses: Amira
Red roses: the vampires of Los Angeles
Summer mornings: Amira’s childhood and her love for Taewon
Sun shining through leaves: Amira and Taewon
Stars: August and Amira
Violin music: Amira’s love for August
Waterlilies: Shen Yue
Weather phenomenon (rain, sunshine, breeze, hail, snow, lightning, etc.): Amira
White azaleas: Shen Yue
White: Shen Yue
Wolves: Cintinv
Yellow: Tate
more to be added
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