Daniel and Kelly’s Extraordinary Universe cover image

Daniel and Kelly’s Extraordinary Universe

Latest episodes

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Jul 3, 2025 • 49min

Listener Questions #13

Dive into the bizarre world of warty comb jellies, where unique traits spark humorous discussions. Explore the mysterious concept of white holes, contrasting them with black holes, and ponder their cosmic implications. Navigate the seas alongside humpback whales as the hosts unravel their fascinating migration and navigation methods. Lighthearted banter connects marine oddities with broader themes of curiosity and exploration, inviting listeners to discover the extraordinary wonders of nature and the universe.
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10 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 45min

How do we know what elements the Universe is made of?

Discover the whimsical journey of how we learned about the universe's elements, featuring naked Greeks and crafty Scots. Delve into the intriguing contributions of overlooked women in science alongside humorous debates on extraterrestrial life. Learn about groundbreaking techniques like spectroscopy that unveiled the mysteries of the sun and stars. Reflect on historical figures who shaped our understanding of Earth’s composition, and celebrate the pioneering spirit of female astronomers who overcame challenges in a male-dominated field.
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8 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 43min

Why are stars different colors?

Discover why stars twinkle in a rainbow of colors, with insights into their temperatures and compositions. Enjoy engaging anecdotes about memorable night sky experiences, like witnessing a comet impact on Jupiter. Learn how star colors reveal their ages and implications for potential life on nearby planets. The hosts explore the science behind these dazzling hues, connecting temperature variations to the broader universe. Join a delightful debate on personal star color preferences, making astronomy both fun and accessible.
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13 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 52min

Did Colossal bring back the dire wolf?

The conversation dives into the concept of de-extinction, contemplating the resurrection of species like the dire wolf. It raises intriguing ethical questions and the scientific hurdles of reviving extinct animals using advanced genetic techniques. Colossal's ambitious project to reconstruct the dire wolf genome is explored, along with concerns about ecological impacts. The hosts humorously tackle the challenges of genetic manipulation and emphasize the need for thoughtful consideration in conservation efforts. Prepare for a blend of science, ethics, and lively debate!
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15 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 51min

Listener Questions #12

Curious listeners submit questions about neutrons, bananas, and Jupiter. The hosts unravel the mysteries of neutron decay and their role in atomic structure, while playfully connecting these concepts to everyone's favorite fruit. Discover the intriguing history and clonal cultivation of bananas, along with challenges they face in the industry. Then, dive into the fascinating world of Jupiter, exploring its gas giant classification and metallic hydrogen. This lively discussion blends science with humor, sparking curiosity and inspiring questions!
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17 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 47min

What is the quantum internet?

Discover the mind-bending realm of the quantum internet and its extraordinary potential to transform communication. The hosts humorously critique the hype surrounding the idea, blending science with wit. Dive into quirky comparisons, like 'Schrodinger's tapeworm,' while uncovering strange intersections between quantum physics and parasitology. Marvel at the wonders of quantum teleportation and its implications for digital privacy, as they tackle serious issues through a lighthearted lens. Prepare for a fun exploration of profound scientific concepts!
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7 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 51min

Can humans survive interstellar travel?

Delve into the potential of human interstellar travel, exploring the intricate challenges of long-duration space missions. Discover how cosmic radiation and the lack of artificial gravity could impact health, alongside amusing anecdotes about the realities of space confinement. Consider the need for self-sufficiency and the complex dynamics of human behavior in these extraordinary conditions. Plus, ponder innovative solutions like hibernation and the ethical dilemmas surrounding cryogenic preservation, all while navigating the engaging implications of such an adventurous future.
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9 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 57min

Is it possible to travel to other stars?

The hosts dive deep into the tantalizing possibilities of traveling beyond our solar system. They discuss the incredible challenges of interstellar travel, from rocket propulsion to the effects of time dilation on astronauts. Engaging with their audience, they explore technological innovations like antimatter and solar sails while touching on the allure of the cosmos and personal journeys. The conversation balances excitement with a realistic outlook on the hurdles we face, with a hint of humor about leaving Earth's comforts behind.
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12 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 56min

When will space be cheap? (featuring Zach Weinersmith)

Join Zach Weinersmith, the brilliant mind behind Saturday Morning Breakfast Cereal and co-author of 'Soonish', as he dives into the fascinating world of space economics. He explores the soaring costs of space travel and the emergence of reusable rockets, revealing how they may revolutionize the industry. The conversation covers the humorous side of space tourism and the dream of a sustainable space economy, all while addressing the complex challenges of extracting resources beyond Earth. Prepare for a blend of wit and insight!
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18 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 55min

The Martian Revolution (featuring Mike Duncan)

Mike Duncan, a renowned history podcaster and bestselling author, joins the conversation to explore the captivating intersection of economics, politics, and revolution on Mars. He discusses how historical context enriches science fiction storytelling, particularly around a future Martian revolution. The debate shifts to the practicality of colonizing Mars, questioning motivations and the feasibility of a resource like phosphide for clean energy. Additionally, Duncan critiques visions of Mars governance and sharing insights on his upcoming writing projects, weaving together themes of survival, independence, and societal dynamics.

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