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Lowell Observatory

Star Stuff

A Astronomy , Science and Physics podcast

#28 in Astronomy · 🇦🇪 #37 in Astronomy · 🇦🇺
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About the show

Star Stuff is a top astronomy podcast by Lowell Observatory. Learn about the wildest parts of our universe, from black holes to mad scientists, through the eyes of our hosts!

Newest episodes

Appreciating the Magic with Steve Smith

40 min

Steve Smith has flown four Space Shuttle missions and logged seven spacewalks, including five to repair the Hubble Space Telescope and two to help build the International Space Station. Beyond the launchpad, his career has taken him from diplomacy to the tech industry to the keynote stage. In this episode of Star Stuff, Steve sits down with historian Kevin Schindler and Lowell astronomer Dr. Kyler Kuehne, Director of Science and Technology, to look back on his time in orbit, talk about what it felt like to return to Earth, and consider where humankind’s relationship with space goes next.

Saving the World with Dr. Ed Lu

37 min

Astronaut Dr. Ed Lu has flown the space shuttle, lived on the International Space Station, and helped build Google Maps. Now, he and his team at B612’s Asteroid Institute are working to create a map of the solar system. In this episode of Star Stuff, Ed joins Lowell astronomer Dr. Nick Moskovitz and historian Kevin Schindler to discuss how a small engineering team is developing tools to turn vast amounts of data from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory into precise asteroid orbits. They also explore B612’s journey from its early beginnings in 2000 to its current work supporting advances in asteroid discovery and solar system exploration.

Crew Members of Spaceship Earth with Nicole Stott

40 min

Astronaut Nicole Stott has spent 104 days in space, orbited Earth over 1,600 times, and even painted with watercolors aboard the International Space Station. In this episode of Star Stuff, Stott reflects on why she believes we’re all crew members of Spaceship Earth, how art became part of her work in orbit, and what she’s watching for as NASA’s Artemis missions push us back toward the Moon.

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All episodes

Appreciating the Magic with Steve Smith

40 min

Steve Smith has flown four Space Shuttle missions and logged seven spacewalks, including five to repair the Hubble Space Telescope and two to help build the International Space Station. Beyond the launchpad, his career has taken him from diplomacy to the tech industry to the keynote stage. In this episode of Star Stuff, Steve sits down with historian Kevin Schindler and Lowell astronomer Dr. Kyler Kuehne, Director of Science and Technology, to look back on his time in orbit, talk about what it felt like to return to Earth, and consider where humankind’s relationship with space goes next.

Saving the World with Dr. Ed Lu

37 min

Astronaut Dr. Ed Lu has flown the space shuttle, lived on the International Space Station, and helped build Google Maps. Now, he and his team at B612’s Asteroid Institute are working to create a map of the solar system. In this episode of Star Stuff, Ed joins Lowell astronomer Dr. Nick Moskovitz and historian Kevin Schindler to discuss how a small engineering team is developing tools to turn vast amounts of data from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory into precise asteroid orbits. They also explore B612’s journey from its early beginnings in 2000 to its current work supporting advances in asteroid discovery and solar system exploration.

Crew Members of Spaceship Earth with Nicole Stott

40 min

Astronaut Nicole Stott has spent 104 days in space, orbited Earth over 1,600 times, and even painted with watercolors aboard the International Space Station. In this episode of Star Stuff, Stott reflects on why she believes we’re all crew members of Spaceship Earth, how art became part of her work in orbit, and what she’s watching for as NASA’s Artemis missions push us back toward the Moon.

Planetary Defense with Rusty Schweickart

35 min

In this episode of Star Stuff, retired NASA astronaut and B612 Foundation co-founder Rusty Schweickart joins Lowell Mission Scientist Dr. Melodie Kao and Lowell Historian Kevin Schindler to explore a question with no borders: how do you unite a divided world against a threat that could strike anyone, anywhere?

Bridging Stars and Storytelling with Nanibah Chacon

36 min

In this episode of Star Stuff, Lowell Observatory historian Kevin Schindler sits down with renowned Diné (Navajo) and Chicana artist Nanibah Chacon. Following the unveiling of her breathtaking new mural at the observatory, Nanibah discusses the profound intersection of Indigenous culture, science, and public art. The post Bridging Stars and Storytelling with Nanibah Chacon appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

It is Something Worth Doing: Art and Astronomy with Gerald Dawavendewa

41 min

In this episode of Star Stuff, host Kevin Schindler sits down with renowned Hopi/Cherokee artist Gerald Dawavendewa to celebrate the unveiling of the monumental 30-foot Indigenous Cosmology mural at Lowell Observatory’s Astronomy Discovery Center. The post It is Something Worth Doing: Art and Astronomy with Gerald Dawavendewa appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Are We Safe From Asteroids? | We Talk To Astronaut Rusty Schweickart

39 min

Are We Safe From Asteroids? | We Talk To Astronaut Rusty Schweickart When Rusty Schweickart looked back at Earth from orbit on Apollo 9, he saw something fragile and worth defending. In this episode of Star Stuff, we sit down with the astronaut and co-founder of the B612 Foundation to talk about one of biggest threats to life on Earth: asteroid impacts. The post Are We Safe From Asteroids? | We Talk To Astronaut Rusty Schweickart appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

The Most Human: Adam Nimoy on Legacy, Love, and Spock

27 min

The Most Human: Adam Nimoy on Legacy, Love, and Spock Star Stuff Podcast In this intimate conversation, Cody Half-Moon sits down with filmmaker and author Adam Nimoy to explore the profound personal and cultural legacy of his father, Leonard Nimoy. From behind-the-scenes Star Trek stories and reflections on growing up in the shadow of Spock, to candid discussions of addiction, recovery, and reconciliation, Adam opens up about writing his memoir The Most Human, navigating fame, and finding healing through storytelling. The episode also dives into the enduring impact of Spock on identity and fandom, the emotional weight of legacy, and the wisdom Adam offers to anyone trying to repair a fractured relationship. The post The Most Human: Adam Nimoy on Legacy, Love, and Spock appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Does Venus Have A Moon? | We Talk To Zoozve Discoverer Brian Skiff

30 min

In this episode of Star Stuff, Cody Half-Moon sits down with Lowell astronomer Brian Skiff as he recounts his discovery of Venusian moon Zoozve, and how a determined dad’s twitter thread helped him do it. The post Does Venus Have A Moon? | We Talk To Zoozve Discoverer Brian Skiff appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

LIVE from Grand Canyon: Turning the Park Dark

55 min

In this special episode of Star Stuff recorded live from Grand Canyon National Park, we’re joined by former Astronomer in Residence and Lowell Observatory Public Information Officer Kevin Schindler, Grand Canyon Conservancy Residency Manager Clover Morell, and Dark Sky Ranger Rader Lane. Blast off into exciting topics, including the Astronomer in Residence and alumni programs, the magic of dark skies at Grand Canyon, and Grand Canyon National Park’s achievement of reaching 90% dark sky compliance with new dark sky-friendly lighting fixtures throughout the park. We also recap Star Party 2024 and so much more! The post LIVE from Grand Canyon: Turning the Park Dark appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Makers, Menders, and Writers | We Talk to Diana Gabaldon

43 min

Makers, Menders, and Writers | We Talk to Diana Gabaldon 2Ep25 Lowell Historian Kevin Schindler sits down with the one and only Diana Gabaldon, author of the wildly popular Outlander book series. They discuss Diana’s familial connection to the observatory, her creative process, and how Lowell Telescope Dome Engineer Stanley Sykes dealt with wild turkeys. The post Makers, Menders, and Writers | We Talk to Diana Gabaldon appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

How Common is Life on Other Planets?

33 min

Wow, over 70,000 listens to Star Stuff! This podcast is still in the top 20 of astronomy podcasts and climbing. Thank you all for your support as we wrap up Season 2. If you would like to see more episodes next year for Season 3, we will be doing special segments only. Let us know what you want to learn about! In this Season 2 finale episode of Star Stuff, Cody Half-Moon sits down with Lowell astronomer Dr. Joe Llama, who specializes in the study of exoplanets. They discuss the distant worlds that lie in the Habitable Zone, the possibility that we are not alone in the universe, and more.

CSI: Mechanical Forensics

33 min

In this Cosmic Scope Interview (CSI), Lowell’s Technical Facilities Manager Jeff Gehring takes host Cody Half-Moon through the challenges of restoring the historic 24″ Clark Telescope to its former glory while staying true to the designs of the era it was built in. The post CSI: Mechanical Forensics appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Reconciling Religion and Astronomy

36 min

An atheist, a catholic, and an agnostic walk into a podcast recording room… and have an incredible conversation about how science and astronomy inform religious perspectives! Inspired by Dr. Kyler Kuehn, a Lowell astronomer and scientific consultant for the Clergy Letter Project, and featuring Lowell Astronomer Dr. Michael West, this episode explores the compatibility between religion and science. Discover how curiosity and open-mindedness enhance discussions and perspectives in this friendly debate amongst friends. The post Reconciling Religion and Astronomy appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

A Moving Portrait

31 min

In this episode of Star Stuff, Lowell Historian Kevin Schindler and astronomer Gerard van Belle sit down for a chat with German artist Ulrike Arnold, the subject of the feature-length documentary Dialogue Earth. They discuss Ulrike’s artistic process, the intersection of science and art, the importance of protecting our Earth, and more. The post A Moving Portrait appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

How the Earth Formed

34 min

In this episode of Star Stuff, join Cody Half-Moon and geologist John Compton as they discuss the mind-blowing process of our planet's formation over 4.6 billion years ago.

Bringing Astronomy to the People

33 min

In this episode of Star Stuff, Kevin Schindler is joined by special guest Eric Edelman, the director of the Jim and Linda Lee Planetarium in Prescott, AZ. Kevin and Eric discuss Lowell’s new partnership with Embry-Riddle Aeronautics Academy, what it takes to bring the dream of a planetarium to life, and the importance of making astronomy education accessible to everyone. The post Bringing Astronomy to the People appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Life Beyond Our Solar System

52 min

In this episode of Star Stuff, we talk about aliens. Again. Join Cody Half-Moon and returning guest Dean Regas as they discuss upcoming solar eclipses, the possibility of life beyond our solar system, and Dean’s new book “1000 Facts About Space.” The post Life Beyond Our Solar System appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

The Life and Times of Percival Lowell

32 min

The man, the myth, the founder. In this episode of Star Stuff, we talk about how Percival Lowell made history by founding Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona and how he was one of the first popularized alien hunters in astronomy. The post The Life and Times of Percival Lowell appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Choosing Between Sciences and Humanities: We Talk to Journalist Melissa Sevigny

36 min

In this episode of Star Stuff, we sit down with journalist Melissa Sevigny to talk about her career, choosing between different paths, and her newest book, “Brave the Wild River.” Learn more about Melissa at melissasevigny.com. The post Choosing Between Sciences and Humanities: We Talk to Journalist Melissa Sevigny appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Making an Impact

31 min

Learn about a 50,000-year-old Meteor Crater from the man who runs the crater business here in Flagstaff, Arizona. In this episode of Star Stuff, we sit down with Matthew Kent, President and CEO of Meteor Crater Enterprises, to talk about all of the exciting things going on surrounding Meteor Crater and Planet Science, as well as the importance of keeping people connected to science. The post Making an Impact appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Making Science Accessible

33 min

In this episode of Star Stuff, we talk to University of Denver professor and astronomer, Dr. Jennifer Hoffman, about making science more accessible. To learn more about DU SciTech Summer Camp, visit science.du.edu/du-sci-tech. The post Making Science Accessible appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Theories of the Universe Part 2

42 min

Multiverse? Simulation? In this episode of Star Stuff, we discuss even more of the most mind-blowing theories of how our universe works. The post Theories of the Universe Part 2 appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Theories of the Universe Part 1

38 min

String Theory? Braneworld? In this episode of Star Stuff, we discuss some of the most mind-blowing theories of how our universe works. Stay tuned for Part 2! The post Theories of the Universe Part 1 appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

What Astronomers Do In The Dark

51 min

In this episode of Star Stuff, astronomers Dr. Gerard van Belle and Dr. David Ciardi take us on a behind-the-scenes journey through a night of observing, from the movies they watch to pass the time to terrifying close calls. The post What Astronomers Do In The Dark appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Apollo Astronauts At The Grand Canyon? We Talk To Dark Sky Ranger Rader Lane

50 min

Filmed at the Grand Canyon! This episode features audience favorite Dark Sky Ranger Rader Lane to discuss the Astronomer in Residence program at the Grand Canyon with the Astronomer in Residence for May 2023… our very own Kevin Schindler! Learn about what research Kevin is doing from the Grand Canyon about the Apollo astronauts and the training they did in the canyon ahead of their Lunar Landing. The post Apollo Astronauts At The Grand Canyon? We Talk To Dark Sky Ranger Rader Lane appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

What Is Life Really Like In Space? – We Talk To Astronaut Nicole Stott

31 min

Ever wondered what it’s like to live in space? Star Stuff sits down with Astronaut Nicole Stott to ask the important questions, from how living in space affected her art, how she helped so many through her adventures, and also what it’s like to pee in space. Find it all in this episode, and buy her book at nicolestott.com. The post What Is Life Really Like In Space? – We Talk To Astronaut Nicole Stott appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Capturing The Cosmos: We Talk About Astrophotography

38 min

In this episode of Star Stuff, we sit down with Lowell educator, Gavin Moriarty, to talk about the basics of astrophotography and how you can get started in the craft. The post Capturing The Cosmos: We Talk About Astrophotography appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

What Is Life?

41 min

What is life? In this episode of Star Stuff, our hosts discuss what it means to be alive on Earth and beyond. The post What Is Life? appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Let’s Take A (Conversational) Look at the Sun – We Talk to Dr. Jeff Hall

1 hr 3 min

The Star Stuff crew sits down with solar astronomer and Lowell Observatory Executive Director, Dr. Jeff Hall, to talk about a seriously hot topic: the Sun! Jeff tells us about the Sun’s life cycle and what it can teach us about other stars. The post Let’s Take A (Conversational) Look at the Sun – We Talk to Dr. Jeff Hall appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Exploring the Drake Equation: We Talk About Aliens

38 min

Are we running through the six with our woes…. alone? The Drake Equation says no. On this episode of Star Stuff, our fearless hosts delve into a probabilistic argument created by Dr. Frank Drake in 1961, used to estimate the number of active, communicative extraterrestrial civilizations in the Milky Way Galaxy. The post Exploring the Drake Equation: We Talk About Aliens appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

The Math of the Universe & Elements of Awe with Astronomer Dr. Daniel Fleisch

52 min

Star Stuff sits down for a chat with astronomer Dr. Daniel Fleisch, who served as Astronomer in Residence at Grand Canyon National Park in December 2022. They discuss his time at one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, as well as the math of the universe and the awe it inspires. The post The Math of the Universe & Elements of Awe with Astronomer Dr. Daniel Fleisch appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

From The Farm To The Stars: We Talk About Clyde Tombaugh

42 min

A telescope made out of farming equipment? Discovering Pluto? In this episode of Star Stuff, Hailey sits down with Lowell historian Kevin Schindler to talk about the man who discovered Pluto, Clyde Tombaugh. The post From The Farm To The Stars: We Talk About Clyde Tombaugh appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Beyond The Event Horizon: We Talk About Black Holes

40 min

Wormholes? Time travel? Alternate universes? In this episode of Star Stuff, we talk about black holes, the different types of black holes, and the bizarre implications of their existence. The post Beyond The Event Horizon: We Talk About Black Holes appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Seeing The Unseen: We Talk About Spectroscopy

48 min

Welcome to Star Stuff Season 2, now also in video format on YouTube! How do scientists study light? In this episode, we talk about the various types of spectroscopy and how they’re used in different fields, from astronomy to art history. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fBbR7HSFFLM The post Seeing The Unseen: We Talk About Spectroscopy appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Season 1 Finale: What We Learned On Season 1

58 min

That’s a wrap on Star Stuff Season 1! In this episode, we reminisce with Star Stuff crew members, Madi Mooney, Nate Nise, and John Compton, about their favorite episodes from the past year and what they learned while working on the show. Get ready for Season 2, premiering in January 2023 in all new video format on YouTube! But don’t worry, we’ll still be on all your favorite streaming platforms. Thanks for listening, and we’ll see you next year! The post Season 1 Finale: What We Learned On Season 1 appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Learning Science Through Historic Literature

46 min

You’ve heard the Greek myths about how the constellations formed, but what about the stories of other cultures? In this episode of Star Stuff, we sit down with cultural astronomer Dr. Danielle Adams to discuss the lesser-known stories of the Arabian night sky. The post Learning Science Through Historic Literature appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

How Realistic Were These Popular Sci-Fi Movies? A Scientist’s Review

59 min

Listen in as Lowell Observatory Educators Hailey Osborn and Matt Lydy discuss some of the most popular sci-fi movies, from 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) to Passengers (2016). Learn their hot scientific takes on these films, and what the plot may have actually been like if the storylines were real. The post How Realistic Were These Popular Sci-Fi Movies? A Scientist’s Review appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Fostering Education Resources in Communities

51 min

In this episode of Star Stuff, Hailey chats with Lowell Early Education Supervisor, Kelly Ferguson, and CEO of Flagstaff local business Quality Connections, Armando Bernasconi. Kelly talks about how Lowell’s education programs help kids get into STEM and Armando talks about how Evergreen Academy Preschool helps kids become successful learners and members of our community. The post Fostering Education Resources in Communities appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Tales from the Drinking Horn: We Talk Norse Mythology with the Meadcast

44 min

Grab a horn-full of your favorite beverage and get ready for a crossover of mythic proportions! In this episode of Star Stuff, Hailey and John discuss Norse mythology with Nick Irvine and Evan Anderson of the Drinking Horn Meadcast. The post Tales from the Drinking Horn: We Talk Norse Mythology with the Meadcast appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Arecibo Observatory: A Message To The Unknown

51 min

In this episode of Star Stuff, we chat with Bradly Rivera, the Elementary School Division Head and STEM Program Lead at Arecibo Observatory’s STAR Academy. Learn all about the incredible Arecibo Message sent by Arecibo Observatory in 1974, what the message entailed, and what they were hoping to accomplish. They also talk about the STAR Academy program, what it entails, and how it’s helping students prepare to pursue careers in STEM. The post Arecibo Observatory: A Message To The Unknown appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

The Modern Hunt for Aliens: What Is Astrobiology?

50 min

In this episode of Star Stuff, Hailey chats with astrobiologist Dr. Bonnie Baxter and Lowell Public Program Educator Juan Ruiz about astrobiology. How did they get into the field? What might life look like on other planets? What do Mars and the Great Salt Lake have in common? The post The Modern Hunt for Aliens: What Is Astrobiology? appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

‘Oumuamua: The Extrasolar Asteroid… Or Alien Craft

59 min

In this Episode of Star Stuff, Cody and Hailey chat with astrophysicist and returning guest Dr. Martin Elvis about ‘Oumuamua, an interstellar object with unknown origins. Is it a space rock? Or something beyond our wildest imaginations? The post ‘Oumuamua: The Extrasolar Asteroid… Or Alien Craft appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

We Got Astronomers to Review ‘The Thing’

58 min

In this episode of Star Stuff, Cody and Hailey hear from astronomers Dr. Kyler Kuehn and Dr. Teddy Kareta as they give their scientific perspectives on the classic horror/sci-fi film The Thing (1982)! The post We Got Astronomers to Review ‘The Thing’ appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Searching for New Worlds with Jake Clark

1 hr 10 min

On this episode of Star Stuff, Hailey and Madi sit down with 2020 Fullbright Future Scholar, astronomy PhD candidate, and freelance science communicator Jake Clark to discuss distant worlds, teenage alien joyrides, and much more. The post Searching for New Worlds with Jake Clark appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Debating Space Conspiracy Theories

46 min

Is NASA real? Is the Earth flat? In this episode of Star Stuff, Cody and Hailey chat with John Compton about space-related conspiracy theories and how they don’t hold up to the science. The post Debating Space Conspiracy Theories appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

How Would You Remember The Stars? | We Talk to Rader Lane, Dark Sky Ranger at Grand Canyon National Park

55 min

Star Stuff meets again with fan-favorite Dark Sky Ranger Rader Lane of the Grand Canyon National Park to talk about how Rader combines dark skies and creative inspirations to produce award-winning art through a series of interactive and immersive videos. The post How Would You Remember The Stars? | We Talk to Rader Lane, Dark Sky Ranger at Grand Canyon National Park appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

When Black Holes Collide

49 min

Learn about colliding black holes with CASA postdoctoral research associate Dr. Scott Barrows and Lowell Observatory astronomer Dr. Jennifer Hanley. The post When Black Holes Collide appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

Throwing DARTs: Exploring NASA’s Planetary Defense Mission

46 min

In this episode of Star Stuff, Cody, Hailey, Lowell Astronomer Dr. Nick Moskovitz, and DART Team Lead Dr. Cristina Thomas will discuss the ins and outs of NASA’s Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) mission. The post Throwing DARTs: Exploring NASA’s Planetary Defense Mission appeared first on Lowell Observatory.

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