Kielder Observatory Podcast

In this episode of the Kielder Observatory Podcast, join Ian Brannan and Director of Astronomy Dan Pye as they unveil the new experience at Twice Brewed Inn, located right on Hadrian's Wall. They discuss the significance of summer openings for stargazing, share exciting astronomical events happening this month, and explore the beauty of noctilucent clouds. Special guest Robson Green joins the conversation, sharing his passion for astronomy and the importance of reconnecting with the night sky. Don't miss this enlightening journey into the cosmos!
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In this episode, we dive deep into the "invisible scaffolding" of the cosmos with Professor Richard Massey. Richard and his team at Durham University recently made headlines by releasing the highest-resolution map of dark matter ever created, using 255 hours of data from the James Webb Space Telescope.
We explore how dark matter acts as the architect of our universe, why it’s more like a "ghost" than a "particle," and how we can "see" something that refuses to reflect, emit, or block light. Whether you're a physics buff or just someone who looks at the stars and wonders why they haven't flown away yet, this conversation will change the way you look at the "empty" space around you.
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In this episode, we venture beyond the dark skies of Northumberland to the launchpads of Florida. We dive deep into the Artemis II mission, NASA’s historic first crewed flight to the Moon in over half a century. We discuss the the crew’s journey, and why this mission is a pivotal stepping stone for the lunar south pole landings. Since recording the conversation the mission launch has been delayed until the first week of March following issues found during the "wet testing" over the weekend.
Plus, we look at the transition from winter to spring in our night sky, highlighting the "Planetary Parade" and the best time to see Orion before he departs for the season.
Book your tickets for our February events at kielderobservatory.org.
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In this episode Ian Brannan and Director of Astronomy Dan Pye chat under the virtual night sky of our planetarium, which you will find at our brand new extra location in Northumberland!

In addition to the observatory you know and love we are now running events at Twice Brewed Inn near Hadrians Wall. It's the same great experience, the same great night sky, but if you fancy a few more home comforts then this one could be for you.

Take a listen to hear what you can enjoy at our new location, which has the added benefit of, well, a pub, with rooms where you can also stay over if you with too!

We also take a look at a few big things happening in the wider Space world, and ahead to what the skies of December may bring us to look at!

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In this episode, Ian Brannan and Director of Astronomy Dan Pye explore the fascinating world of solar flares and their impact on Earth's auroras.
Dan shares insights on the recent X5.1 solar flare and its significance, as well as its ability to trigger stunning auroras across the globe.
We also discuss the interstellar comet 31P/ATLAS, its unique characteristics, and the potential for alien life in the clouds of exoplanets.
Plus a look ahead to what to expect in the night sky for November!


Chapters:

(00:00) The aurora has been back with a vengeance thanks to a solar flare
(01:26) Solar flares are the biggest thing that drive aurora here on Earth
(10:25) People worry about Earth's magnetic fields drifting and polar reversal
(16:33) Keep an eye out for the aurora. It is going on at the moment
(18:31) We have an interstellar comet that could predate our solar system
(25:13) Do we know where this comet came from or where it might have been
(29:42) Scientists have been able to see the very early stages of a supernova
(32:37) Dense cloud coverage is something astronomers are looking out for on distant exoplanets
(39:50) Jupiter and Saturn are always around this time of year
(42:40) There's plenty of sessions and events going on at Keeldra Observatory
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