Best SETI Institute Podcasts (2024)

1
Exploring the Foundations of Reality with CERN Scientist Bernardo Kastrup, Ph.D. in Computer Engineering and Philosophy 1:31:55

3M ago1:31:55

1:31:55

Bernardo has a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering (reconfigurable computing, artificial intelligence) Ph.D. in philosophy (ontology, philosophy of mind) As a scientist, Bernardo has worked for the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) and the Philips Research Laboratories (where the 'Casimir Effect' of Quantum Field Theory was discovered). H…

1
Complete Telescope Systems vs Assembling From Components - Which is Better? 59:09

1y ago59:09

59:09

Is it better to buy a complete amateur astronomy telescope system that includes optical tube, mount, drive, etc or can you get better quality by assembling your own from individual components. Dustin talks advantages and disadvantages to both. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/spacejunk/support…

1
Noam Chomsky speaks out in an exclusive interview on Ukraine and Russia 33:19

1y ago33:19

33:19

Requiem for the American Dream available now! https://amzn.to/3Jyc2Oj Join us for a riveting conversation with renowned linguist and political commentator, Noam Chomsky, as we uncover the shocking truth about ongoing conflict with Ukraine and Russia. In this episode, we delve deep into the complexities of the situation and examine the underlying fa…

1
Backyard Observatories: Tony is Finally Building His, Should You? 1:01:54

1y ago1:01:54

1:01:54

Tony is finally getting to a place where he can start construction on his backyard observatory for his 20 inch reflector. In this episode, we discuss the value of having a permanent place for your telescope and it doesn't have to be fancy! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/spacejunk/support…

1
The Search for Intelligence in the Universe w/ Beth Johnson from SETI Institute 1:01:36

1y ago1:01:36

1:01:36

We have a guest today! Beth Johnson from the SETI Institute kindly agreed to join us to talk about her role at the SETI Institute and what they are doing to help us find signs of intelligence in the universe. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/spacejunk/support

1
How Autoguiders Can Help You Find the Meaning of Life 1:01:23

1+ y ago1:01:23

1:01:23

Tony's been thinking a lot out his life and the meaning it holds. Getting philosophical, Dustin helps Tony realize that autoguiders are the key to understanding. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/spacejunk/support

1
Askar Astrographs // Degree for an Astronomy Job? // Becoming an Expert 1:01:13

1+ y ago1:01:13

1:01:13

Dustin has been using the new line of astrographs from Askar/Sharpstar and tells us a little about them. Astrographs are more ubiquitous now that imaging has become so mainstream. Tony also talks a bit about whether you need a college degree these days to get a good job in astronomy. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show…

1
New iOptron Mounts // The Growing Problem of LED Streetlighting 47:12

1+ y ago47:12

47:12

Dustin's been using some of the new iOptron mounts that have recently come out and he talks about his experiences with them. Tony wonders about the effects of the growing use of LED lighting in cities and towns across the world. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/spacejunk/support…

1
Exclusive Interview - Robert Greene Unlocks Secrets to Success and Influence 55:24

1+ y ago55:24

55:24

48 Laws Of Power available now! https://amzn.to/3JyYqCs Discover the secrets of success and influence with Robert Greene, the bestselling author and speaker known for his unique perspective on human behavior and the dynamics of power. His books, including "The 48 Laws of Power," "The Art of Seduction," and "The 48 Laws of Human Nature," offer pract…

1
Interview with Dr. Joel Fuhrman, How nutrition can destroy your life 28:18

1+ y ago28:18

28:18

Eat to Live available now! https://amzn.to/3YHscZT Dr. Joel Fuhrman: The Nutrition Expert Who Can Transform Your Health and Prevent Chronic Diseases. Founder of the Nutritarian Diet, he advocates the power of nutrient-dense plant-based foods to maintain good health and fight diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Best-selling author of …

1
Revealing interview with Sol Wisenberg on a country divided 30:01

1+ y ago30:01

30:01

Addictive Ideologies available now! https://amzn.to/3l8UFKw Sol Wisenberg is a highly-regarded American lawyer and expert in criminal law and procedure. He is a partner at Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP, where he specializes in criminal defense and white collar criminal defense, representing high-profile clients in criminal cases. Wisenberg…

1
NASA's Artemis Mission: What is Tony's Problem? 1:07:19

1+ y ago1:07:19

1:07:19

We're Podchatting, did you know that? Tony ventures into the realm of saying what's on his mind. Dustin and Tony discuss the Artemis mission and Tony has thoughts. They also talk gear, astrophotography and lots more. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/spacejunk/support

1
A Thrilling Interview with Lawrence Krauss: Unveiling the Secrets of the Universe 37:38

1+ y ago37:38

37:38

A Universe From Nothing available now! https://amzn.to/3ZD3XgQ Lawrence Krauss is a renowned American theoretical physicist and cosmologist who has taught at prestigious universities like Arizona State University, Yale University, and Case Western Reserve University. Krauss founded ASU's Origins Project (now known as ASU Interplanetary Initiative) …

1
Embark on a Quest for Alien Life with SETI Institute's Seth Shostak - Senior Astronomer and Alien Hunter! 32:43

1+ y ago32:43

32:43

Life in the Universe is available now! https://amzn.to/3yvcR3X Seth Shostak is an accomplished astronomer and science communicator who has made significant contributions to the field of search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI). As the Senior Astronomer at the SETI Institute, Shostak has been actively involved in SETI research for more than t…

1
Tech Life - New York Times Columnist Jennifer Jolly 1:47:08

1+ y ago1:47:08

1:47:08

Jennifer Jolly (born February 22, 1971) is an American consumer technology journalist and TV broadcaster. She is a Wired Well columnist for The New York Times, tech-life columnist and host of Tech Now[2] for USA Today, and a digital lifestyle contributor for The Today Show. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/truestori…

1
Understanding Climate Change: A Scientific Perspective on Global Warming - Theoretical Physicist Lawrence Krauss 58:12

1+ y ago58:12

58:12

Lawrence Krauss is an American theoretical physicist, cosmologist, and science communicator who is known for his work on the origins and evolution of the universe. Krauss is the director of the Origins Project at Arizona State University, where he studies the fundamental questions about the nature of the universe and its evolution. Krauss is a lead…

1
Harvard Professor Stands by Claim of Alien Spacecraft in Solar System - Physicist Avi Loeb 46:46

1+ y ago46:46

46:46

Avi Loeb is an Israeli-American theoretical physicist and astronomer who is known for his work on the search for extraterrestrial life and the study of black holes and other exotic celestial objects. Loeb is the Frank B. Baird Jr. Professor of Science at Harvard University and the Chair of the Department of Astronomy, where he conducts research on …

1
Breaking the Cycle: Confronting Narcissistic Traits with Prof. Sam Vaknin 2:01:55

1+ y ago2:01:55

2:01:55

Sam Vaknin is a Israeli writer and public speaker who is known for his work on narcissistic personality disorder and other psychological topics. Vaknin is the author of several books on psychology, including "Malignant Self-love: Narcissism Revisited," "The Pathology of Lies," and "The Psychology of Terrorism." Vaknin is a controversial figure in t…

1
Why haven't aliens contacted Earth? - SETI Senior Astronomer Seth Shostak 33:47

1+ y ago33:47

33:47

Seth Shostak is a renowned astronomer and science communicator who is best known for his work on the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI). As the Senior Astronomer at the SETI Institute, a non-profit research organization based in Mountain View, California, Shostak has been at the forefront of SETI research for over three decades. Throug…

1
AI’s 6 Worst-Case Scenarios - National Security Advisor Natasha E. Bajema 30:33

1+ y ago30:33

30:33

Natasha Bajema joined the Center for the Study of Weapons of Mass Destruction in October 2008. Dr. Bajema currently serves as Director of the Program for Emerging Leaders (PEL). From 2010 to 2013, Dr. Bajema held a long-term detail assignment serving in various capacities in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, Acquisitions, Technology and Logis…

1
Discover the Wonders of the Cosmos with "Flashes of Creation: A Scientist's Journey - Professor of Physics Paul Halpern 27:15

1+ y ago27:15

27:15

Paul Halpern is an American physicist and science writer who is known for his work on the history and philosophy of science, and for his popular books on science and mathematics. Halpern is a professor of physics at the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, where he teaches courses on the history and philosophy of science, and on the physics …

1
Space Junk Podcast is Back 51:49

1+ y ago51:49

51:49

OK so we decided to pick this back up again. Tony and Dustin are back talking astronomy and telescopes and we hope you'll join us! Please send us any input you have and you're always welcome to join our discussion if you're interested. You can also join the Deep Astronomy discord server here: https://discord.gg/K9BuW2U --- Support this podcast: htt…

1
College Student Head Falls Off & Bedridden By Rare Mysterious Condition, Find Out - Jeff Wood 30:33

1+ y ago30:33

30:33

Bio "Hi, I'm Jeff. My story is in many ways typical: I was a healthy, active individual who became ill after an acute viral infection and a fever of 102F. After the acute viral symptoms subsided, I didn’t regain my health. Instead, I became far more ill than I could have imagined. What is not typical in my case: I ultimately figured out, and treate…

1
Understanding Robotic Futurism - Joshua K. Smith 37:35

1+ y ago37:35

37:35

“At last, a much-needed book on a neglected topic. Robotics is playing an increasingly important role in our society, and yet little has been written from an overtly Christian perspective. Robot Theology corrects that oversight in a timely and highly engaging manner.” Josh serves as the Senior Pastor of a Southern Baptist Church in Mississippi. He …

1
Strange Facts About Healthcare - Robert Yoho MD 47:20

1+ y ago47:20

47:20

Healthcare is the top cause of all our overdue debts and personal bankruptcy. Our medical spending per person is double that of other countries’, but fully half the treatments are ineffective or harmful. Immense, predatory industries such as angioplasty and coronary artery bypass surgery victimize us. These procedures cause complications and deaths…

1
The Secret Of Nuclear War That No One Is Talking About - National Security Advisor Dr. Natasha E. Bajema 24:47

2y ago24:47

24:47

Natasha Bajema joined the Center for the Study of Weapons of Mass Destruction in October 2008. Dr. Bajema currently serves as Director of the Program for Emerging Leaders (PEL). From 2010 to 2013, Dr. Bajema held a long-term detail assignment serving in various capacities in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, Acquisitions, Technology and Logis…

1
Remember Parapsychology? It's Still Being Secretly Studied - Dean Radin, MS, PhD Chief Scientist at the Institute of Noetic Science (IONS) 43:36

2y ago43:36

43:36

Dean Radin, MS, PhD, is Chief Scientist at the Institute of Noetic Science (IONS) and Associated Distinguished Professor of Integral and Transpersonal Psychology at the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS). His original career track as a concert violinist shifted into science after earning a BSEE degree in electrical engineering, magna c…

1
The Search for the Perfect Telescope; Camera Resolution Wars - It's like magnification all over again 49:28

2y ago49:28

49:28

This episode was prompted by an email from Matt who wanted to sort out WHY different telescopes are better than others. In this episode, I'll break down all the different telescope types and try to answer the question of why you should want one. Also, Dustin and I discuss camera resolution: why it matters, is more better and more. --- Support this …

1
Pro-Am Astronomy Collaboration; Celestron RASA and Other Wide Field Telescopes 1:03:06

2y ago1:03:06

1:03:06

More than any other aspect of amateur astronomy, using your equipment to get involved in professional astronomy is growing the fastest. In this episode, we explore ways you can use your stuff to do science! Also, Dustin and Tony talk about the advances in short-focal length telescope design and why they are amazing. --- Support this podcast: https:…

1
We have Little Chance of Hearing Other Civilizations; APO's vs Catadioptric Telescopes; Another Black Hole Question 55:04

2y ago55:04

55:04

We've been listening for signals from the galaxy hoping to detect another civilization out there. What are the actual chances we'll hear anything? Let's take a look at this paper and find out: https://arxiv.org/pdf/1007.0850.pdf Dustin and Tony also talk about APO refractors and catadioptric telescope systems. --- Support this podcast: https://podc…

1
How Do We Know There are Other Planets in Our Galaxy?; Picking Your First Object to Image; Tony Gets an Email! 55:23

2y ago55:23

55:23

The study of planets around other stars, exoplanets, is a brand new field, one that closely tracks my career as a software engineer in professional astronomy. I've had the privilege to watch our knowledge about exoplanets explode: in just a few decades, we've gone from not being sure there were other planets around other stars, to knowing how many …

1
Black Holes - A Guided Tour; Telescope Autoguiders - What Good are They?; Update on JWST 52:00

2y ago52:00

52:00

In recent decades, our knowledge of what black holes are, how many and what types, has exploded. Coupled with the brand-new field of gravitational wave astronomy, we are poised to learn even more. Let's take a tour of what black holes are, the different kinds and how many of these enigmatic objects there are in our universe. --- Support this podcas…

1
Is Earth's Magnetic Field Flipping?; Smart Telescopes; Orion The Hunter 49:56

2y ago49:56

49:56

The magnetic field of the Earth is undergoing some changes. Scientists measuring the strength and direction have noticed a weakening of the magnetic field along with movement. Is this something to worry about? Dustin Gibson and Tony also discuss smart telescopes along with computers designed to run imaging equipement. Winter is a great time to see …

1
Terraforming the Moon; Building a Beginner Astrophotography Rig; Amateur Astronomer Discovers Hot Jupiter 52:29

2+ y ago52:29

52:29

Can we terraform the Moon? It's a better idea than terraforming Mars believe it or not. Dustin and Tony discuss putting together an astrophotography rig for beginners and some space news. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/spacejunk/support

1
Narrow Band Filters: What You Need to Know 57:30

2+ y ago57:30

57:30

Imaging with filters can dramatically improve the signal to your camera allowing for much higher quality images. The question of which filter to use on what object can be daunting. Dustin and Tony dive into the topic of filters, specifically narrow band filters to give you insight on what they are, what you can get from using them and what to look …

1
Thoughts on The James Webb Space Telescope 1:10:37

2+ y ago1:10:37

1:10:37

At long last, the launch of the next big NASA flagship telescopes: JWST is ready for launch, sitting atop its rocket and awaiting good weather. This telescope marks the pinnacle of ambition for NASA as it is doing something that has never been done before. Launching a telescope of this size is a first for the human race and promises to bring us ins…

1
All About Astronomy Filters 1:00:47

2+ y ago1:00:47

1:00:47

Using filters in amateur astronomy can be confusing, but once you get through some of the basics, they can really enhance your sessions under the stars - either visually or photographically. In this episode, Tony and Dustin go through filter basics, what they can do for you visually and when imaging, as well as offer advice on which ones to get and…

1
Happiness - Dr. Gillian Mandich 1:01:16

2+ y ago1:01:16

1:01:16

Dr. Mandich is a scientist on a mission to help people live their happiest life. I’m a published researcher; two-time TEDx speaker; the founder of The International Happiness Institute of Health Science Research; and you can often find me in the media on shows such as The Social, Marilyn Denis, Breakfast Television, and The Morning Show. Dr. Mandic…

1
Getting Started in Astronomy Imaging 1:05:35

2+ y ago1:05:35

1:05:35

Taking images through your telescope has never been easier. What used to be complicated, time-consuming and expensive is now accessible to people who've never used a telescope before. Getting started in taking pictures of the night sky is orders of magnitude simpler than it was decades ago when film reigned supreme. Now, with modest equipment buddi…

1
Building a Backyard Observatory: What You Should Know 1:02:17

2+ y ago1:02:17

1:02:17

Building your own observatory is a great way to enhance your enjoyment of getting out under the stars. Whether it's a simple cover for your tripod-mounted telescope, an easy to build roll off roof on a shed, or a beautiful clam-shell dome with all the bells and whistles, having an observatory can increase the amount of time using your equipment whi…

1
Beginner Astronomy: Where to Go and What to Bring 56:04

2+ y ago56:04

56:04

It's good to be back! To get things started again, we are talking about the beginning - the beginning of getting started in the hobby of amateur astronomy. We've also brought some gear to check out. The links are here: https://optcorp.com/products/star-party-essentials-adventure-kit https://optcorp.com/collections/astronomy-accessory-kits/products/…

1
The Big Bang, Space Diseases & Isolation Is There A Connection? Find Out - Physics Prof. Paul Halpern 27:15

2+ y ago27:15

27:15

Paul Halpern is a professor of physics at the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia and the author of sixteen popular science books, including Flashes Of Creation, The Quantum Labyrinth and Einstein’s Dice and Schrödinger’s Cat. He is the recipient of a Guggenheim fellowship and is a fellow of the American Physical Society. He lives near Phila…

1
SETI: Looking for Life across the Universe - Senior SETI Astronomer Seth Shostak 33:47

2+ y ago33:47

33:47

Seth claims to have developed an interest in extraterrestrial life at the tender age of ten, when he first picked up a book about the Solar System. This innocent beginning eventually led to a degree in radio astronomy, and now, as Senior Astronomer, Seth is an enthusiastic participant in the Institute’s SETI observing programs. In addition, Seth is…

1
Memory Detection Through Brainwave Analysis For Beginners And Everyone Else - FMR. Police Officer Michel Funicelli 38:14

2+ y ago38:14

38:14

Former lecturer at Charles Sturt University at the School of Policing Studies. Retired police officer with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police with operational experience in patrol, serious crime, federal investigations (i.e. smuggling and drug enforcement), and organized crime. Academic research in memory detection through brainwave analysis (P300-b…

1
Are Aliens, Simulation theory and Flat Earth believers right? Find out - Prof. Daniel Whiteson 46:46

2+ y ago46:46

46:46

The Unexplained Mystery Into Aliens Uncovered, The Debate Over Flat Earth and The Birth Of Simulation Theory. Dr. Daniel Whiteson is a Professor of Physics and Astronomy at the University of California, Irvine. He is also co-author of the book We Have No Idea: A Guide to the Unknown Universe. Daniel received his B.S. in Physics and Computer Science…

1
The Physics of Climate Change - Lawerence Krauss 58:12

3y ago58:12

58:12

8 Things People Hate About Climate Change, Global Warming Expert Interview and The Hidden Gem Of Physics Evin Weiss speaks with Lawerence Krauss to discuss wide ranging topics including his recent book The Physics of Climate Change. Book is available here Prof. Lawrence M. Krauss is an internationally known theoretical physicist with wide research …

1
First Known Interstellar Object 'Oumuamua' Could Be Alien Listening Device, Harvard Professor Avi Loeb 46:46

3y ago46:46

46:46

The Secret Of Oumuamua, Sins Of Scientific Community and A New Model For Aliens/UAP A Harvard astrophysics professor has suggested the mysterious interstellar object “Oumuamua” could be linked to the dozens of UAVs reported by US military planes over the years. Oumuamua is considered as the first known interstellar visitor to our solar system. Avi …

1
The Little Known Secrets To Poisonous Plants - Dr. Mark "Merriwether" Vorderbruggen 34:28

3y ago34:28

34:28

Strange Facts About Poisonous Plants, Foraging Cheat Sheet and The Basic Of Foraging "Seek excellence for the service of others." -Merriwether Mark “Merriwether” Vorderbruggen, Ph.D. grew up in the wilds of Minnesota where his parents and grandparents utilized the amazing wild foods and medicinal plants found in local woods, fields, and lakes. The …

1
Faster Than Light Phenomena and the Story of APOD w/ Robert Nemiroff 1:08:21

3y ago1:08:21

1:08:21

There are things we can see, supported by mathematics, that appear superluminal. In a new book by Robert Nemiroff, we explore some of these and since the author also happens to be the co-founder of the Astronomy Picture of the Day website, well, we talk about that too! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/spacejunk/supp…

1
JWST Sees More Delays; NASA Going to Venus; Jeff Bezos Tries to Win Billionaire Space Race - Astronomy News from SJP 9:46

3y ago9:46

9:46

It's no surprise, but JWST will be delayed again. Now we're looking at a November (at the earliest) 2021 launch thanks to problems with the Ariane 5 rocket. NASA has selected two missions to go to Venus and Jeff Bezos will get into his own rocket. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/spacejunk/support…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

SETI Institute Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide