Description (podcaster-provided):
This is The Supermassive Podcast from the Royal Astronomical Society. Every month, science journalist Izzie Clarke and astrophysicist Dr Becky Smethurst take you through the universe with the latest research, history from the society’s archives and astronomy you can do from your own home.Themes and summary (AI-generated based on podcaster-provided show and episode descriptions):
➤ Astronomy updates • Space research highlights • Planetary missions • Astrophysics discussions • Listener Q&A sessions • Historical astronomy insights • Stargazing tips • Space exploration news • Celestial phenomena • Cosmic mysteriesThe Supermassive Podcast, produced by Izzie Clarke and Richard Hollingham, and hosted by science journalist Izzie Clarke and astrophysicist Dr. Becky Smethurst, offers listeners an exploration of the universe through the lens of contemporary research, historical insights, and accessible astronomy activities. Each month, the hosts present a diverse array of topics that include cutting-edge scientific discussions, celestial events, and practical guidance for stargazing and amateur astronomy.
Recurring themes in this podcast include the study of celestial phenomena such as pulsars, black holes, and aurorae, as well as other significant events in the cosmos like lunar standstills and the notable missions of spacecraft like the Voyager probes. The hosts frequently invite expert guests including astrophysicists, astronomers, and project scientists to provide in-depth knowledge and insight into specialized topics such as the structure and formation of galaxies, the detailed study of planets, both in our solar system and exoplanets, and the evolutionary history of cosmic objects.
In addition to scientific discussions, this podcast often delves into philosophical and speculative topics, such as the potential existence of the multiverse and the fate of the universe. Listeners are also given the opportunity to engage with the show by submitting questions, which the hosts and guest experts answer in dedicated Q&A episodes. Questions addressed range from the practical aspects of astronomy, like the functionality of telescopes and observations of night skies, to more theoretical discussions on gravitational waves and cosmological phenomena.
The podcast strives to make complex astronomical subjects accessible and engaging, often interspersing episodes with historical anecdotes, archival insights, and even light-hearted discussions on diverse and sometimes whimsical topics within the realm of space science.