Planetary Orbits, Cosmic Expansion & The Nature of Nothing | Space Nuts Q&A

Planetary Orbits, Cosmic Expansion & The Nature of Nothing | Space Nuts Q&A

From Space Nuts: Astronomy Insights & Cosmic Discoveries by Professor Fred Watson and Andrew Dunkley

April 19, 2026 · 28 min · Episode 618

About this episode

In this episode, hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson answer listener questions about planetary orbits, cosmic expansion, and the philosophical implications of nothingness before the Big Bang.

Planetary Orbits, Cosmic Expansion, and the Nature of Nothingness In this thought-provoking Q&A episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson tackle a diverse array of listener questions that delve into the intricacies of our universe. From the stability of planetary orbits to the enigmatic concept of nothingness before the Big Bang, this episode promises to enlighten and intrigue. Episode Highlights: - Planetary Orbits vs. Energy: Justin from Melbourne asks how planets maintain stable orbits around the sun without spiraling inwards. Andrew and Fred explore the negligible forces at play in interplanetary space, discussing the stability of planetary dynamics and the historical migrations of planets within the solar system. - Expansion of Earth: Larry questions whether the Earth is expanding along with the universe. The hosts clarify that while space itself is expanding, the forces that hold the Earth together, such as gravity, prevent any significant changes at a local scale. - The Concept of Nothingness: Mike from the UK raises a philosophical query about what existed before the Big Bang. Andrew and Fred discuss the implications of time and existence…

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