NASA's Curious Universe

Lynnae Quick-Henderson, a planetary scientist at NASA, discusses the exciting Europa Clipper mission, which aims to uncover the secrets of Jupiter's ocean moon, Europa. She highlights the moon's potential to support life, under its icy surface. The conversation also features Ada Limón, the U.S. Poet Laureate, who shares how she drew inspiration from the mission for her poem 'In Praise of Mystery.' Together, they explore the intersection of science and art, encouraging listeners to reflect on our cosmic connections.

In this riveting conversation, science communicator Latif Nasser explores the fascinating world of asteroids. He discusses NASA's planetary defense strategies, detailing how scientists track and manage near-Earth objects to protect our planet. The talk dives into the quirky case of a peculiar asteroid named Zuzwe, revealing the cultural significance of naming celestial bodies. Latif also highlights the emotional journey of the NEOWISE mission and reminds us of the beauty and chaos that the universe holds.

Experience the anticipation and diversity of eclipse watchers across the US, follow scientists as they prepare to study the sun's corona during an eclipse, listen to a comet hunter's tale, and witness the excitement in small towns like Paris, Arkansas. Join eclipse chasers in Carbondale for a festive atmosphere leading up to the celestial event, and feel the intense wonder and beauty of a total solar eclipse.

Nour Raouafi, project scientist for Parker Solar Probe, dives into the mysteries of the Sun's corona and the challenges of building a spacecraft to withstand extreme temperatures. The podcast explores the innovative solutions for heat protection, the legacy of physicist Eugene Parker, and the encounter with a massive Coronal Mass Ejection near the Sun.

Delve into NASA's Moon to Mars Space Weather Analysis Office and their crucial role in monitoring space weather activities. Explore the 1859 geomagnetic storm that disrupted electrical systems. Discover the intricate relationship between the sun and Earth through phenomena like solar flares and coronal mass ejections. Learn about the daily operations and friendly competitions within the office dedicated to tracking space weather. Uncover fascinating space stories and Apollo 12's intense liftoff moment. Explore the significance of predicting solar flares for space weather research and the challenges in accurate forecasting.

Discover essential safety tips and alternative viewing methods for the upcoming total solar eclipse. Engage with NASA's citizen science projects like SunSketcher and Eclipse Soundscapes. Learn how to create a pinhole projector for safe observation and explore future total solar eclipses and viewing recommendations.

NASA Sun scientist Liz Macdonald and volunteer Hanjie Tan discuss how ordinary people can contribute to NASA's research on the Sun, aurora, and more through citizen science projects. They talk about studying the Sun's atmosphere, discovering new colors in the aurora, and hunting for comets. Listeners are encouraged to get involved in NASA science and experience our nearest star firsthand.

Join NASA sun scientists Kelly Korreck and Fred Espenak as they discuss the surreal experience of witnessing a total solar eclipse, the scientific opportunities they offer, and the anticipation surrounding the upcoming 2024 eclipse. Explore the historical significance of solar eclipses, the motivations of eclipse chasers, and the transformative impact of observing this celestial phenomenon firsthand.

Explore the birth and influence of the Sun, including its formation and impact on Earth. Dive into the world of space soundscapes with a sound design expert and imagine what Mercury, Venus, and the Sun might sound like. Learn about NASA's Helio Physics work and the Parker Solar Probe mission to unlock the mysteries of our closest star.

Delve into the mysteries of the Sun with NASA scientists, exploring upcoming celestial events, innovative spacecraft technology, and the daring mission of the Parker Solar Probe into the Sun's fiery realm.