#439: JWST and the Old, Cold Exoplanet

This episode is brought to you by Incogni. When you want your data to remain private online, Incogni is your go-to service. Get our special offer by visiting www.incogni.com/spacenutsIn this episode of Space Nuts, Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson discuss various topics in astronomy and space science. They talk about the James Webb Space Telescope capturing a direct photo of an exoplanet that is possibly the oldest and coldest one discovered so far. They also discuss the Perseverance Rover's discovery of leopard spots on rocks on Mars, which could potentially indicate signs of past microbial life. Additionally, they mention the shrinking of Jupiter's Great Red Spot and the challenges of bringing back rocks from Mars for further analysis. In this conversation, Fred and Andrew discuss the life and work of Tycho Brahe, a renowned astronomer from the 16th century. They explore his upbringing, his discovery of astronomy, and his contributions to the field. They also touch on his interest in alchemy and the fate of his castle. The conversation then shifts to the Europa Clipper mission, which aims to study Jupiter's moon Europa and search for signs of life. They discuss the mission's objectives and the instruments it will use. Finally, they address the question of why proto-planets do not become stars themselves and the gradual loss of Mars' primordial atmosphere.For more Space Nuts visit our website at www.spacenuts.iowww.bitesz.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts--2631155/support.