A stellar collection of the 10 best astronomy and space exploration podcasts (2024 edition)
Space exploration has always fascinated people and captured their imagination. From the time humans first looked up at the stars to the present day, we have been driven to understand the mysteries of the universe beyond our planet.
In recent decades, space exploration has made significant strides, with multiple nations launching probes and missions to study our universe. The discoveries made have expanded our understanding of the cosmos and provided new insights into the origins of the universe and our place within it.
Astronomy and space exploration podcasts have become increasingly popular as a way for people to learn about the latest developments and research in the field, as well as the technology and tools used to explore beyond our planet. These podcasts offer a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the universe and the cutting-edge science and engineering that makes it all possible.
Whether you're a space enthusiast, an astronomy student, or just someone looking to learn more about the universe beyond our planet, there's a podcast out there for you. Read on to discover some of the most informative and entertaining podcasts (listed in no particular order).
Also check out our other curated podcast lists.
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StarTalk Radio |
| StarTalk Radio is a podcast hosted by the popular astrophysicist and captivating orator, Neil deGrasse Tyson. The show tackles the fascinating and often mind-bending world of cosmic inquiries. With a unique blend of humor, pop culture references, and space-related science, deGrasse Tyson delivers a compelling and informative podcast that's engaging for listeners. His distinct personality and style bring flair to complex scientific concepts, making the show both enjoyable and educational. | |
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Planetary Radio |
| A weekly podcast that covers the latest news and discoveries related to space exploration and astronomy. The podcast is produced by The Planetary Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing space exploration and promoting the search for extraterrestrial life. The podcast features interviews with scientists, engineers, and other experts in the field of space exploration, as well as discussions of recent space missions, astronomy news, and the latest discoveries in the field. The podcast also includes segments that explore the history of space exploration, the science behind various space missions, and the challenges facing the exploration of our solar system and beyond. | |
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Astronomy Cast |
| A popular and long-running educational podcast about astronomy and space science, co-hosted by Dr. Pamela Gay, an astronomer and professor at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, and Fraser Cain, a publisher and space enthusiast. Each episode covers a specific topic in astronomy, ranging from the basics of the solar system to more complex topics such as black holes, gravitational waves, and exoplanets. The hosts explain the science in a way that is accessible to a general audience, using analogies and metaphors to help explain complex concepts. Astronomy Cast has been praised for its engaging and informative approach to science education and has won several awards for science communication. | |
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The Space Show |
| This podcast focuses on all aspects of space development, exploration, commerce, and science. The show is hosted by Dr. David Livingston, a space industry consultant and expert, and has been on the air since 2001. Topics include a wide range of topics related to space exploration and development, including space policy, commercial space ventures, space law, space tourism, and space science research. The show often features interviews with experts in the field of space exploration and development, including scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and policy makers. One of the unique features of The Space Show is that it allows listeners to call in and participate in live discussions and ask questions of the guests. | |
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The Daily Space |
| The Daily Space is a great way to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in space science and astronomy, in a quick and digestible format. This short-form podcast provides a daily roundup of the latest news and developments in space science and astronomy. It is produced by CosmoQuest, a citizen science project run by the Planetary Science Institute, and is hosted by several scientists and science communicators from the project. Each episode is typically around 10 minutes long and covers several stories related to space science and astronomy. The stories can range from breaking news about the latest discoveries in the solar system, to updates on ongoing space missions, to analysis of recent research in the field. | |
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Space Time |
| This science and astronomy podcast, hosted by veteran broadcaster Stuart Gary, explores the latest discoveries and breakthroughs in the fields of astrophysics, cosmology, and space exploration. Each episode features in-depth discussions and interviews with leading experts and researchers, as well as analysis of current events and developments in space science. Topics covered range from black holes and gravitational waves to exoplanets and the search for extraterrestrial life. The podcast aims to provide a fascinating and accessible look at the wonders of the universe and the cutting-edge science that is helping us understand it. | |
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365 Days of Astronomy |
| A daily podcast featuring a different topic each day, ranging from the latest discoveries and breakthroughs in space exploration to the history and mythology of the stars and planets. Each episode is presented by a different expert in the field, including professional astronomers, educators, and space enthusiasts from around the world. The podcast aims to make the science and beauty of the universe accessible to everyone, and provides a daily dose of inspiration and wonder for anyone interested in astronomy and space science. | |
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Space Junk |
| The Space Junk explores the history and science of space exploration, with a particular focus on the stories behind the people and events that have shaped our understanding of the universe. The podcast covers a wide range of topics, from the early days of rocketry and the space race, to the latest developments in space science and exploration. It features interviews with scientists, astronauts, engineers, and other experts in the field, as well as discussions of popular science fiction and its impact on public perceptions of space exploration. | |
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The Cosmic Savannah |
| Hosts Dr Jacinta Delhaize from the University of Cape Town and Dr Daniel Cunnama from the South African Astronomical Observatory, explore the latest news and developments in astronomy and space science, with a particular focus on research conducted in Africa. The show features discussions and interviews with leading scientists and researchers in the field, covering topics such as exoplanets, gravitational waves, and the search for life beyond Earth. The podcast also highlights the unique challenges and opportunities faced by African astronomers, and showcases the groundbreaking work being done by scientists across the continent. | |
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Orbital Mechanics |
| Exploring the latest news and developments in space exploration, with a particular focus on the technical aspects of spaceflight. The podcast covers a wide range of topics, from the latest space missions and discoveries to the engineering and design challenges faced by space agencies and private companies. It features discussions and interviews with experts in the field, including scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs, as well as in-depth analysis of current events and developments in the space industry. | |
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The Space Above Us |
| The podcast that explores the history of the United States human spaceflight program. It takes a chronological approach to the subject, starting with the early Mercury and Gemini missions, and covering the entire history of the Apollo program, the Space Shuttle program, and the International Space Station. Each episode focuses on a specific mission or event, and includes in-depth research and analysis of the technical, historical, and cultural aspects of the program. The podcast also features interviews with astronauts, engineers, and other experts in the field, providing a unique perspective on the history and future of human spaceflight. The Space Above Us aims to educate and entertain listeners about the rich history of the United States space program, and to inspire a new generation of space enthusiasts. |