How can astronomers figure out what distant stars and planets are made of without ever visiting them? In this episode of Space on Earth, Havilah and Lacey explore the fascinating science of spectroscopy, the study of light, and how it allows scientists to uncover the composition, motion, and even the atmospheres of worlds across the universe.
Jun 27
10 min
In this episode of Space on Earth, Wyatt, Taylor, and Ophelia explore Artemis III, NASA’s first major test of the hardware and procedures that will enable humanity’s return to the Moon. From Orion’s role in Earth orbit to the involvement of Blue Moon and Starship, the team breaks down how this mission is paving the way for the next giant leap in lunar exploration.
Jun 20
31 min
For over a decade, NASA's MAVEN spacecraft orbited Mars, helping scientists uncover how the Red Planet lost its atmosphere and transformed from a potentially habitable world into the cold desert we see today. In this episode of Space on Earth, Wyatt and Pascal explore MAVEN's groundbreaking discoveries, its cultural impact, and the legacy it leaves behind following the recent loss of contact with the spacecraft.
Jun 13
29 min
Join Taylor and Tulsi as they explore how paired stars orbit, interact, and shape our understanding of the cosmos. This episode breaks down the science behind binary systems—from visual pairs to supernovae—and their vital role in modern astronomy.
Jun 6
10 min
This episode explores how space science has shaped modern pop culture through movies, books, and music. From the sci-fantasy worlds of Star Wars to the physics-driven realism of Interstellar, the conversation examines how filmmakers balance scientific accuracy with imagination. The episode also dives into the survival science of The Martian and the hopeful, problem-solving spirit of Project Hail Mary, discussing concepts like time dilation, black holes, orbital mechanics, astrobiology, and the challenges of long-distance space travel. Beyond film, the discussion explores how science fiction books such as Dune, Ender's Game, and stories like Arrival use space to reflect on humanity, communication, and the unknown. The episode concludes by looking at the influence of space on music, especially the work of David Bowie and Space Oddity, exploring how artists have used space as a metaphor for hope, isolation, identity, and imagination.
May 23
28 min
In this episode, hosts Wyatt and Sirena interview science communicator Summer Ash about radio astronomy, the Very Large Array, light pollution, and the growing debate around projects like Reflect Orbital. The conversation explores how astronomers study invisible light, why dark skies matter for science and ecosystems, and how new satellite technologies could reshape humanity’s relationship with the night sky.
May 9
1 hr 5 min
This episode explores the field of astrogeology, explaining how scientists use the principles of Earth’s geology to study planets, moons, asteroids, and other solid bodies across the solar system. The hosts discuss key questions about planetary formation, impact craters, volcanic activity, water evidence, and rock composition, highlighting how these clues reveal the history of other worlds and our own. They also introduce pioneers like Eugene Shoemaker and connect the science to local training sites in the American Southwest, while explaining how tools like spectroscopy allow scientists to study distant planets through light.
Apr 25
18 min
In this episode of Space on Earth, student hosts Wyatt Wade and Lacey Collins explore the long-awaited Artemis II mission, from its delayed launch to its successful journey around the Moon and return to Earth. They highlight the mission’s cultural significance, including its diverse crew and connections to mythology, before breaking down the technical milestones such as launch, orbital maneuvers, trans-lunar injection, and the lunar flyby. Along the way, they discuss real challenges faced during the mission, from hardware issues to in-flight adjustments, as well as powerful human moments experienced by the crew. The episode captures both the scientific achievements and emotional impact of humanity’s return to deep space exploration.
Apr 11
21 min
This episode explores the aurora borealis, or Northern Lights, as both a scientific phenomenon and a source of artistic inspiration. The hosts explain how charged particles from the Sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere, producing colorful light displays that vary by gas type and altitude. They discuss where and when auroras are most visible, including rare sightings farther south during strong solar storms. The conversation also highlights how auroras help scientists study space weather and their potential impacts on satellites, GPS, and power systems. Finally, the episode connects science to creativity, examining how the Northern Lights inspire painting, photography, and music through their motion, color, and energy.
Mar 28
9 min
In this episode, the hosts explore why space is silent and how we can still “hear” the universe. They explain that sound requires a medium like air, which the vacuum of space lacks, and describe how spacecraft such as Voyager 1 and Juno collect electromagnetic waves, plasma vibrations, and magnetic field data. Through sonification, scientists translate these signals into audible frequencies, producing the haunting cosmic tones often released by NASA. The conversation then turns to how these sounds inspire ambient music, film scores, and multimedia art. By transforming raw space data into sound, artists and scientists together create emotional experiences that help audiences feel the scale, mystery, and beauty of the cosmos.
Feb 28
21 min
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