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Fascinated by the universe? Why not take a leap into the cosmic mysteries with the best podcasts about space? We've hand-picked a comprehensive podcast playlist with 19 top-rated shows on astronomy, cosmology, and more. From the discussion of black holes in StarTalk Radio to conspiracy theories about alien life in The Cosmic Shed, there's a program for every space enthusiast!
For more insights on space exploration and planetary science, visit the Headway app with short summaries of the bestselling astronomy books by Brian Greene and Stephen Hawking, among others. So, buckle up, hold on tight to your space telescopes, and prepare for a thrilling, gravity-defying self-learning journey!
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Quick list: Top five space podcasts
StarTalk Radio – A mix of astronomy, science fiction, and celebrity interviews, perfect for curious minds.
The Infinite Monkey Cage – Cosmic concepts meet comedy to make astronomy entertaining and accessible.
Planetary Radio – Weekly updates on NASA missions, exoplanets, and the search for life beyond Earth.
Spacepod – Interviews with space scientists worldwide on the latest discoveries and cutting-edge research.
Astronomy Cast – Complex space science in clear, engaging conversations, plus tips for night sky observing.
Read on for the full list of the best podcasts about space!
19 best podcasts about space and astronomy to listen to next
1. StarTalk Radio
Best for: Casual listeners who prefer entertainment combined with educational content.
Join astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson on StarTalk Radio as he explores the wonders of the universe with celebrity guests and fellow scientists.
From the science behind science fiction to the mysteries of black holes, this podcast blends education with humor to create a captivating listening experience.
The show also features a podcast episode called "Cosmic Queries," where Tyson and his guests answer listener questions about the universe.
Whether you're a casual space enthusiast or a diehard science buff, StarTalk Radio is perfect for anyone who wants to learn about the cosmos while being entertained along the way.
2. The Infinite Monkey Cage
Best for: Listeners who want to laugh while learning.
Hosted by physicist Brian Cox and comedian Robin Ince, The Infinite Monkey Cage is both informative and hilarious, making it one of the best science podcasts.
With a focus on astronomy and cosmology, what sets this podcast apart is its ability to take complex scientific concepts and make them accessible and entertaining for a wider audience.
You'll laugh and learn as you journey through the universe with Cox, Ince, and their guests. Whether you're a science enthusiast or a casual listener, this astronomy podcast will entertain and educate you.
3. Planetary Radio
Best for: Listeners who enjoy expert interviews and analysis.
Host Sarah Al-Ahmed takes you on a weekly deep space adventure with the Planetary Radio Spotify podcast, exploring the latest news and discoveries in space science.
With expert interviews and discussions on everything from the search for extraterrestrial life to the newest space missions, this podcast is perfect for anyone curious about outer space.
Planetary Radio is a must-listen for anyone who wants to stay informed on the latest developments in space science.
You'll be inspired by the groundbreaking work being done by scientists in the space industry and gain a deeper understanding of the mysteries of the universe.
4. Spacepod
Best for: Those interested in cutting-edge space science discoveries.
Dr. Carrie Nugent's Spacepod features weekly podcast interviews with experts in space science, covering a wide range of topics from planetary science to astrophysics.
Focusing on the latest developments and discoveries in the field, this space exploration podcast offers fascinating insights into the cutting-edge research being done by scientists around the world.
With Nugent's expertise and engaging interviewing style, Spacepod is a must-listen for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of the wonders of the universe and the groundbreaking research being done to understand it.
5. Astronomy Cast
Best for: Amateur astronomers and stargazers.
With topics ranging from planetary science to cosmology, this engaging show will quench your thirst for space knowledge.
Hosts Dr. Pamela Gay and Fraser Cain are skilled at explaining complex concepts in a digestible way, making this space podcast perfect for both casual space enthusiasts and diehard astronomy fans.
The podcast also features a regular segment called "What's Up?" where they give listeners tips on observing the night sky. With informative discussions, entertaining banter, and practical tips for stargazing, this podcast is a must-listen for anyone who loves the night sky.
6. The Orbital Mechanics
Best for: Engineering enthusiasts and technical professionals.
Hosts Ben, David, and Dennis take a lighthearted approach to discussing the engineering behind space travel on The Orbital Mechanics. With a wealth of experience in the space industry, the hosts give listeners an inside look at the engineering behind spaceflight.
With witty banter and insightful analysis, this podcast explores the intricacies of spacecraft, satellites, space stations, and space missions.
You'll learn about the technical challenges involved in space travel and gain a newfound appreciation for the innovative engineering solutions being developed.
7. Are We There Yet?
Best for: Those interested in the business side of space exploration.
Space reporter Brendan Byrne takes listeners on a journey through the world of space exploration in his podcast Are We There Yet?
You'll gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the space industry and be inspired by the possibilities that lie ahead.
This podcast covers various topics, from the latest NASA missions and NASA astronauts to the growing commercial space industry.
Byrne often interviews scientists and engineers at the forefront of space technology, giving listeners an inside look at the innovation and dedication that goes into exploring the cosmos.
8. The Space Above Us
Best for: Space history enthusiasts and storytelling lovers.
Hosted by JP Burke, The Space Above Us covers the early days of space exploration and the latest developments in commercial spaceflight. With detailed and engaging storytelling, you'll feel like you're right there with the pioneers of spaceflight.
What sets this space news podcast apart is its ability to bring the history of space exploration to life. Burke's passion for the subject is infectious, and his storytelling is both informative and entertaining.
Focusing on the people behind the missions, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the challenges and triumphs of human spaceflight.
9. Space Podcast
Best for: Those seeking diverse global viewpoints on space topics.
Space by BBC World Service is a collection of radio documentary programs broadcast, featuring stories, opinions, and debates from the final frontier.
What sets this podcast apart is the BBC's renowned documentary storytelling expertise and global perspective, bringing together international voices and comprehensive coverage that spans continents.
Unlike other space podcasts that focus primarily on American missions, the BBC's Space podcast delivers world-class journalism with diverse viewpoints from across the globe.
10. The Cosmic Shed
Best for: Science fiction fans wanting fact-checking of movies and TV.
The Cosmic Shed is a science and science-fiction podcast that explores the intersection between entertainment and scientific discovery.
Hosted by a group of enthusiastic scientists, this podcast discusses the accuracy of popular space-themed movies and TV shows, explores the latest space news, and delves into intriguing topics like time travel and the possibility of alien life.
The Cosmic Shed is perfect for anyone who loves science and pop culture and wants to explore the connections between the two.
11. Exocast
Best for: Those interested in the search for life beyond Earth.
Exoplanet enthusiasts will love Exocast, a podcast that covers everything related to these distant worlds.
Hosted by astronomers Andrew Rushby, Hugh Osborn, and Hannah Wakeford, this podcast covers a wide range of topics related to exoplanet science, including the latest discoveries and the technology used to find exoplanets.
With engaging interviews and thought-provoking commentary, Exocast is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the search for life beyond our solar system.
12. ESA Explores podcast
Best for: Listeners interested in international space collaboration.
ESA Explores is the official podcast of the European Space Agency, taking listeners on a journey across Europe and into the cosmos to build a future beyond Earth.
The show provides insights into European space achievements, from historic missions like the Soviet Interkosmos program with the first Europeans in orbit to ESA's contributions to the Space Shuttle program and current projects like the Columbus laboratory.
13. The Interplanetary Podcast
Best for: Those who enjoy fact-checking science fiction.
The Interplanetary Podcast is a lively and informative show that covers space news, missions, and technology.
Hosted by space enthusiast Matthew Russell, the podcast provides in-depth coverage of the latest developments in space exploration, including interviews with experts in the field and discussions on emerging space technologies.
The host's witty banter makes even the most complex topics enjoyable for a broad audience. The show also features a segment called "Space Fact or Space Fiction," where he debates the accuracy of science fiction movies and books.
14. Moonstruck
Best for: Lunar exploration and Apollo program enthusiasts.
Moonstruck is a show dedicated to exploring the mysteries and wonders of Earth's nearest neighbor, the Moon. Hosted by Thomas Gonzalez Roberts, the show features interviews with experts in lunar science, history, and exploration.
Engaging in discussions on topics ranging from the Apollo program to the latest lunar missions will help you better appreciate the Moon's importance in human history and future exploration.
The Moonstruck podcast is perfect for anyone who loves the Moon and wants to learn more about our fascinating celestial neighbor.
15. Gravity Assist
Best for: Those seeking authoritative information from space science leaders.
Gravity Assist is a podcast by NASA's Chief Scientist, Dr. Jim Green. New episodes feature Dr. Green in conversation with a leading expert in space science and exploration, covering topics ranging from the formation of our solar system to the search for life beyond Earth.
Dr. Green is a renowned planetary scientist with decades of experience at NASA, and his guests include some of the most respected names in space science.
Together, they provide an insider's view of the latest developments in the field and insights into the challenges and opportunities of space exploration.
16. The Space Shot
Best for: Busy people wanting quick daily space news updates.
The Space Shot is a daily podcast hosted by John Mulnix that provides listeners with a quick, informative update on the latest news and developments in space exploration.
Each episode is under five minutes long, making it the perfect podcast for people on the go who want to stay up-to-date on the latest space news.
Mulnix does a great job of distilling complex topics into easily understandable sound bites, providing listeners with daily space knowledge.
The Space Shot covers everything from the latest SpaceX launch in Texas to the search for life beyond our solar system.
17. Cosmic Controversy
Best for: Audience curious about unsolved mysteries in space science.
Tackling some of the biggest debates and controversies in space exploration and astronomy, Cosmic Controversy is one of the best astrophysics podcasts to listen to.
Hosted by science journalist Bruce Dorminey, this podcast covers topics like the existence of dark matter, the possibility of life on other planets, and the debate over the nature of the universe.
Dorminey is an engaging and knowledgeable host who is fearless in taking on complex and controversial issues that other shows about space might shy away from.
18. Space Junk
Best for: Those who enjoy quirky, unusual space topics.
Space Junk explores the weird, wild, and wonderful world of space exploration and astronomy. Hosted by aerospace engineer and author Annie Handmer, this podcast covers a wide range of topics, from the history of space exploration to the latest scientific discoveries.
Handmer's enthusiasm for the subject is infectious, and her engaging discussions and interviews will leave you wanting more. This astronomy podcast is perfect for anyone who wants to explore the wonders of the curious universe with a sense of humor and adventure.
19. Houston We Have a Podcast
Best for: Listeners interested in behind-the-scenes space program details.
Houston We Have a Podcast is the official podcast of NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, hosted by Gary Jordan.
From Earth orbit to the Moon and Mars, it explores the world of human spaceflight with NASA each week, featuring in-depth conversations with the astronauts, scientists, and engineers who make it possible.
What sets this podcast apart is its unique position as NASA's official voice, providing unparalleled access to active astronauts, mission controllers, and engineers working on current missions.
Unlike independent space podcasts, it offers real-time mission coverage and behind-the-scenes perspectives directly from the source.
It delivers authentic insider insights into human spaceflight operations that no other podcast can match.
Explore the universe with Headway
Whether you're a space enthusiast, a science student, or just a curious mind, there has never been a better time to explore the wonders of the cosmos.
With the help of these best podcasts about space, you can jump into the mysteries of the universe and gain a deeper understanding of the science and technology that drives space exploration forward.
And if you're interested in expanding your mind but need help figuring out where to start, the Headway app offers a fantastic way to get started. With its curated selection of audio book summaries, including many new space-related titles, it offers personalized recommendations based on your interests. You can listen to bite-sized summaries of books like:
'Until the End of Time' by Brian Greene;
'A Brief History of Time' by Stephen Hawking.
Whether you're a space novice or an expert, Headway is an excellent tool to help you grow your knowledge base. Download the Headway app today and start your self-improvement journey!
Frequently asked questions about space podcast
What is a space podcast?
A space podcast is a type of podcast that focuses on exploring astronomy (the study of planets, stars, and galaxies). Typically, space podcasts are hosted by experts or science journalists who can provide informative and engaging discussions for their listeners.
Who listens to astronomy podcasts?
Space podcasts have a broad audience that includes people of all ages and backgrounds interested in exploring new ideas and learning more about the mysteries of the universe. Some listeners may be science students or entrepreneurs looking to stay up-to-date on the latest research. In contrast, others may be casual enthusiasts simply curious about the world around them.
Is studying with a podcast good?
Studying with a podcast can be a great way to learn new information and reinforce concepts. Podcasts offer a unique format that allows for absorbing information through audio, making them an effective tool for auditory learners. Alternatively, apps like Headway provide valuable insights and perspectives from well-respected non-fiction books that can help deepen one's understanding of a subject.
What are the controversial topics about space exploration?
Controversial topics in space exploration include the ethics of space mining, the risks of contaminating other planets with Earth microbes, the cost of human-crewed missions versus robotic probes, and the debate over privatizing space travel. Other disputes center on militarization, space junk, and international laws governing ownership beyond Earth.
What is the podcast about space to sleep better?
Several space podcasts help listeners fall asleep by blending astronomy with calm narration. One popular choice is Sleepy Space and similar shows that use soothing voices, slow pacing, and cosmic storytelling.
These podcasts turn complex astronomy into gentle audio, making them ideal for relaxation, stress relief, and bedtime listening.
What is the Space for Life podcast?
The Space for Life podcast is produced by Montréal’s Space for Life museum complex. It explores astronomy, natural sciences, and humanity’s relationship with the cosmos.
Episodes feature scientists and educators discussing space discoveries, ecological connections, and cultural perspectives, making the podcast both educational and accessible for curious listeners of all ages.
