TrueSciPhi

Podcast Profile: The Jodcast

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327 episodes
2006 to 2026
Median: 63 minutes
Collection: Physics, Math, and Astronomy

Description (podcaster-provided):

Themes and summary (AI-generated based on podcaster-provided show and episode descriptions):

This podcast is a student- and staff-produced astronomy show rooted in the work and culture of the Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics. Across its episodes it blends current astronomy and spaceflight news with longer interviews that explain research topics, instruments, and missions in accessible terms. A recurring structure combines a monthly roundup of developments—ranging from planetary exploration and solar missions to cosmology results and space-telescope updates—with a practical stargazing guide that highlights what listeners can observe in the night sky.

The interview segments span a wide sweep of modern astrophysics. Listeners hear about compact objects such as pulsars, magnetars, white dwarfs, and novae; high-energy phenomena including gamma-ray bursts; and large-scale questions about galaxy formation, active galactic nuclei, quasars, dark matter, and dark energy. Several discussions focus on observational methods and infrastructure: radio interferometry and VLBI, major observatories and proposed next-generation facilities, techniques like gravitational lensing and microlensing, simulations of cosmic structure, and measurements of the cosmic microwave background. Space missions are a frequent anchor for explaining science goals and results, including interplanetary sample-return and solar-wind studies, Mars and lunar exploration, outer Solar System flybys, and flagship missions to Saturn and beyond.

The show also incorporates audience engagement through an “ask an astronomer” style Q&A that tackles foundational concepts (such as coordinates, optical effects, and orbital dynamics) as well as timely questions prompted by news events. Beyond research, it occasionally steps into astronomy history and public outreach—covering landmark anniversaries, planetarium and science-center activities, amateur astronomy communities, and the day-to-day workings of major facilities—giving a sense of how astronomy is practiced, communicated, and supported. Overall, the content sits at the intersection of astronomy education, research interviews, and observational guidance for listeners who want both context and practical skywatching direction.