#422: Dim Lights & Dark Matter: Cosmic Questions Answered

Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson for another enlightening episode of Space Nuts Q&A. This week, we tackle a variety of listener questions that delve into the fascinating intricacies of space science and astronomy.
First, we revisit a question from Alan about the detectability of light at one candle power of an LED in space. Fred breaks down the calculations and assumptions, providing insights into how far such a light source would be visible, even with the Hubble Telescope.
Next, Nate from Queensland asks about bolometric luminosity and its implications for predicting changes in stars, such as supernovae. Fred explains the concept of bolometric measurements, the use of bolometers, and whether there's a standard way to predict changes in a star's luminosity.
David from Melbourne brings up Hawking radiation and its potential connection to dark matter and dark energy. Fred clarifies the nature of Hawking radiation and discusses recent research linking black holes to dark energy, albeit without involving Hawking radiation.
Martin from Maryland poses a question about the hazards of near-light-speed travel for spacecraft and their biospheres. Fred explores the potential dangers, including nuclear interactions and radiation, that could arise from such high-speed travel.
Finally, Ryan from Delaware inquires about the feasibility of refuelling or repairing the James Webb Space Telescope. Fred explains the challenges due to its location at the L2 point and the economic considerations that make such missions unlikely.
Tune in to this episode of Space Nuts for these intriguing discussions and more. Your questions drive the conversation, so keep them coming!
00:00:00 Professor Fred Watson answers questions on this episode of Space Nuts
00:01:54 How far away could you see one candle power led with the Hubble telescope
00:06:00 Nate from Queensland asks some questions about volumetric luminosity
00:07:20 Bolometric brightness is the brightness of something measured over its whole spectrum
00:13:50 Is hawking radiation anything to do with dark matter or dark energy
00:15:54 What are the major hazards to spacecraft as they approach relativistic speeds
00:21:10 Ryan from Delaware has a question about the James Webb space telescope
00:27:58 Andrew: Thanks to everybody who contributed this week to Space Nuts q and a
00:29:15 This podcast is available on iTunes, Spotify and iHeartRadio
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