
Tim O’Brien
Professor of Astrophysics at the University of Manchester and Associate Director of the Jodrell Bank Centre, speaking about NASA's Artemis missions and recent gravitational-wave results.
Top 5 podcasts with Tim O’Brien
Ranked by the Snipd community

34 snips
Aug 14, 2025 • 28min
How can we keep our homes cool in a changing climate?
In this insightful discussion, Professor David Coley, an expert in Zero Carbon Design, reveals innovative strategies for designing homes that can better withstand climate change. He critiques current building practices that are ill-equipped for rising temperatures. Meanwhile, Professor Tim O’Brien shares the latest discoveries in space science, including exciting developments regarding ancient comets and the search for life on Venus. Together, they emphasize the pressing need for sustainable solutions to keep our homes cooler amid climate challenges.

15 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 28min
The science behind autism
Laura Andreae, a Professor of Developmental Neuroscience, discusses the complex genetic factors contributing to autism, debunking harmful myths. Tim O'Brien, an Astrophysics Professor, shares insights on NASA's Artemis missions and the importance of lunar exploration. Tim Minshall, an expert in manufacturing, dives into the hidden complexities of global supply chains, emphasizing their vulnerabilities. Conservationist Dave Sexton recounts the inspiring story of 'Kinky,' a sea eagle's resilience after injury, highlighting the importance of wildlife conservation.

7 snips
May 22, 2025 • 30min
What would cuts to Nasa mean for space science?
Tim O'Brien, a Professor of Astrophysics at the University of Manchester, dives into the impacts of proposed budget cuts to NASA. He discusses how a potential 20% reduction could jeopardize critical projects, including the Mars Sample Return mission. The conversation also highlights groundbreaking discoveries of chemical signals from distant exoplanets, signalling progress in the search for alien life. Additionally, O'Brien points to the upcoming close approach of asteroid Apophis, showcasing international collaboration efforts to enhance planetary defense.

7 snips
Nov 28, 2024 • 28min
Spooky Science
Join Tim O’Brien, an astrophysicist and space enthusiast at Jodrell Bank, as he takes us on a cosmic Halloween adventure. Discover what celestial wonders light up the dark night sky and explore the fascinating world of medicinal leeches, reshaping our understanding of these often-misunderstood creatures. Delve into the spooky science behind zombie folklore, parasites, and the shocking problem of pumpkin waste, urging sustainable alternatives for our Halloween festivities. It's a delightful blend of science, myths, and ecological wisdom!

Mar 20, 2025 • 28min
Biotech Risks and Asteroid Anxiety
Tim O'Brien, Professor of Astrophysics at the University of Manchester and Associate Director of the Jodrell Bank Observatory, dives into pressing scientific issues. He discusses the legacy of the Asilomar conference and the urgent need for ethical guidelines in biotech as new risks emerge. Also on the table is asteroid 2024 YR4, with insights on NASA's latest collision predictions and the technology helping us watch the skies. Finally, he touches on the contentious debate surrounding Elon Musk's status in the Royal Society and its implications for science and ethics.


