David Grinspoon

Can there be life on planets without magnetic fields? Neil deGrasse Tyson and comedian Chuck Nice discuss exoplanets, extraterrestrials, and answer extraordinary questions from our fans with astrobiologist, David Grinspoon. NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can listen to this entire episode commercial-free here: https://startalkmedia.com/show/cosmic-queries-silicon-aliens-with-david-grinspoon/Thanks to our Patrons el EC Podcast, neutronforce, Jim Crutcher, S Mokry, and Sly Sparkane for supporting us this week.Photo Credit: NASA/Goddard/Francis Reddy, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of StarTalk Radio ad-free and a whole week early.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.

In this engaging discussion, David Grinspoon, a NASA astrobiology strategist and author, sheds light on the mysteries of extraterrestrial life. He revisits the Drake Equation, exploring the likelihood of alien civilizations and the methods to estimate life in our galaxy. Topics include the fascinating potential for life beneath icy moons like Europa, the impact of synthetic life, and how radiation might actually enhance habitability. The conversation playfully connects science with pop culture, while contemplating humanity's future relationship with the cosmos.

"Chasing New Horizons" features Alan Stern and David Grinspoon, sharing insights on the New Horizons spacecraft mission to Pluto. They discuss the challenges of obtaining funding, naming the planet, and the incredible excitement surrounding the Pluto flyby. The podcast also dives into Pluto's fascinating features and the development of software for spacecraft hibernation.