#396: Cosmic Riddles & Martian Quakes: Unpacking the Universe's Expansion & Insight's Seismic Secrets

Prepare to dive into the cosmic unknown with this captivating episode of Space Nuts, where your hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson tackle the enigmatic questions that baffle even the most seasoned space enthusiasts.
First up, Nate challenges us with a classic conundrum: If the universe is expanding, what is it expanding into? Fred sheds light on this perplexing query with a blend of cosmological insights and geometrical possibilities, leaving us to ponder the very fabric of reality and the potential of unseen dimensions.
Next, Lee from Sweden seeks to understand the inner workings of Mars through the eyes of the InSight mission. How can a single point of reference on the Red Planet reveal so much about its interior and the impact of distant meteorites? The answer lies in the ingenious science of seismic waves, which our hosts promise to explore further—homework for the curious minds!
Finally, Wayne, a longtime supporter, wonders about the gravitational waves generated by supernovae and whether LIGO can detect them. Fred navigates through the explosive symmetries of supernovae and the peculiarities of neutron star mountains, offering a glimpse into the cosmic ripples that traverse our universe.
Packed with humor, profound insights, and the occasional canine interruption, this episode of Space Nuts is not just a journey through space but a testament to the boundless curiosity that drives us all. So, sit back, subscribe, and let Andrew and Fred guide you through the stars. And don't forget, your questions are the fuel for our cosmic explorations—keep them coming!
For more interstellar adventures and the answers to your most intriguing space questions, subscribe to Space Nuts on your favorite podcast platform. Until our next galactic gathering, keep reaching for the stars!
📋 Episode Chapters
(00:00) This is Space Nuts. Coming up, we're talking about the expansion of space
(00:39) If space is expanding, what is it expanding into
(07:35) Lee Stevenson has sent us a question about Mars exploration
(08:21) Lee: How do you detect seismic signals on Mars from thousands of kilometres away
(12:36) What kind of gravitational wave is generated by a supernova
(19:17) Professor Fred Watson, astronomer at large, getting over his tick bite



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