Summary
In the podcast episode titled "Space Volcanoes," Natalie Starkey, a geologist and science communicator, discusses the topic of "Fire and Ice" in the solar system with Neil deGrasse Tyson and co-host Matt Kirshen. The discussion covers a range of topics related to volcanoes, including ice volcanoes or cryo volcanoes found on moons in the outer solar system, the challenges of exploring Venus, and the importance of understanding why it is so different from Earth. The conversation also touches on the potential for life on Saturn's moon, Enceladus, and the process of magma rising to the surface before erupting from a volcano.
The hosts talk about the size and formation of volcanoes on different planets, the differences between volcanoes on Earth and Mars, and the impact of volcanic activities on the cooling down of a planet's core. They also discuss how the heat inside a planet is not necessarily related to its surface temperature and how some planets have lost their magnetic fields due to cooling. The episode provides valuable insights into the fascinating world of volcanoes and planetary geology.
Additionally, the conversation revolves around geothermal energy and how Iceland uses the heat from magma chambers to generate electricity, making it one of the greenest countries in the world. However, it is not possible to tap off a volcano to delay an eruption. The episode also touches on the possibility of a planet entirely made up of volcanoes, and Io, one of Jupiter's moons, is the closest example of such a planet.
Overall, the podcast episode provides interesting insights into the workings of planets and space, and the hosts invite the guest to appear on the show again.
