Site • RSS • Apple PodcastsDescription (podcaster-provided):
The Urban Astronomer podcast is the audio version of the popular Urban Astronomer website, which has been sharing news and information about space science and astronomy since the year 2009. The website has undergone several facelifts, and changes in editorial style and focus over the years, but it's always stayed true to its principles of honest science presented simply, without oversimplifying.Themes and summary (AI-generated based on podcaster-provided show and episode descriptions):
➤ Astronomy news • Science explainers • Interviews with astronomers • Space exploration • Cultural astronomy • Astrophotography • Orbital mechanics • Meteorology in astronomy • Leap years • Geocentric and heliocentric modelsThe Urban Astronomer Podcast offers an engaging blend of space science and astronomy discussions, with a strong focus on accessible and honest scientific communication. This podcast, the audio counterpart of the long-established Urban Astronomer website, aims to demystify complex astronomical concepts for listeners without oversimplifying the science. The content is diverse, with episodes featuring interviews and segments dubbed "Science Explainy Bits" that address fundamental and intriguing questions related to astronomy.
The podcast explores a variety of topics such as planetary formation, celestial mechanics, and astronomical phenomena. It is known for tackling basic, yet often misunderstood questions like why planets are round, the mechanics behind orbits, and the science of leap years. Furthermore, the podcast delves into more philosophical aspects of science, such as the roles of rhetoric and persuasion in scientific discourse.
Interviews are a staple of the show, featuring conversations with professionals connected to the field of astronomy. Guests include researchers working on major telescope projects, cultural astronomers, and astrophysicists, offering listeners insights into both the scientific and personal journeys of these experts. The discussions often highlight developments in astronomical research, particularly within the South African context.
Additionally, the podcast occasionally includes news segments and coverage of astronomical events, capturing recent developments and the societal impact of space science. The show's content also extends to lectures recorded at various astronomy events, providing listeners with access to expert presentations on topics like space weather and astrophotography.
Overall, the Urban Astronomer Podcast is a resource for both the scientifically curious and those with a deeper interest in astronomy, combining educational content with thoughtful conversations in the field.