The Cosmic Distance Ladder

In this episode of Space Babble, we explore the Kalām Cosmological Argument as presented by Moreland and Kirk, examining how philosophy, cosmology, and theology intersect around the question of whether the universe had a beginning. We break down the argument’s key claims about causality, time, and the origins of space itself, while considering how modern science is often brought into the discussion. Along the way, we ask what this argument can (and cannot) tell us about the ultimate nature of reality. Thomas and Elle are joined by a special guest, Aedyn Kourakos, to ask questions to further the discussion.

Hi Babblers! In today's episode, Elle discusses the background information of her research on black hole accretion physics and ultraluminous X-ray Sources (ULXs). Stay tuned to hear more about her research.

Hello everyone! We apologize for the hiatus - we were busy this summer working and researching in the fields of astrophysics and cosmology. In today's episode, Thomas sheds light on his summer research experience at the University of Chapel Hill, where he worked on dark matter halos in the evolution following the Big Bang.

Hello everyone! In today's episode, we break down ideas of General Relativity, Special Relativity, how our universe is expanding, and a touch on the different outcomes of our universe. This episode is a hodgepodge of topics, but we promise each one is interesting. Keep babbling!

In this episode, we are joined by computational astrophysicist Dr. Chris Fragile to talk about his work, the astronomy world, and current advancements/problems in astrophysics. Dr. Fragile is a computational astrophysicist studying numerical simulations of hydrodynamic, magnetohydrodynamic (MHD), and radiation MHD effects. He develops and utilizes codes to study black hole accretion and the feedback of black holes on their environments through jets (radiation). Dr. Fragile teaches and researches at the College of Charleston in Charleston SC. 

In today's episode, we talk with fellow St. Paul's student, Vicky Zhang. Vicky is a senior at St. Paul's School and is interested in astronomy, which has recently manifested in a strong love of mathematics. Vicky, like Emerson, was in the Applied Science and Engineering Program (ASEP) as SPS and did her externship and capstone researching supernovas. Tune in to today's episode to learn more about Vicky's experience, supernovas, and more!

Hello everyone! Sorry for our silence, but we are happily back with a new episode. In today's episode, our classmates, Jack Rubiralta and Luca Bocresion, ask Thomas and Elle questions while the astronomy-babbling duo endeavors to respond to their burning questions. From what is a black hole to why our universe is expanding, tune in today to hear what Elle, Thomas, Jack, and Luca have to say!

In this episode, we interview Dr. Seth Cohen, a beloved teacher at St. Paul's School. Dr. Cohen discusses his research on galaxy clusters and his discoveries about how galaxies are oriented and where they are located in the universe (it is not random, as he shares!). Dr. Cohen also shares his professional journey and his love for teaching astronomy and physics. We hope you enjoy this episode! Dr. Cohen is one of our favorite teachers and a beacon of light in the St. Paul's community.

This summer, Emerson Bentley ‘25, delved into the fascinating world of astrophysics through an externship at the University of North Georgia’s Physics and Astronomy Department as part of the Advanced Science and Engineering Program (ASEP). Under the mentorship of Dr. Gregory Feiden, Bentley engaged deeply with stellar rotational evolution models, focusing on a specific phenomenon known as the late-stage stalling epoch. She was tasked with her own project, researching and experimenting with stellar rotational evolution models to show how a star's rotation evolves throughout its lifetime. During her four-and-a-half-week internship, Emerson engaged in a myriad of unique experiences, from researching to collaborating with professors across all disciplines of STEM. 

In today's episode, we discussed the cosmic distance ladder. From planets in our solar system to objects millions of lightyears away, the elements of the cosmic distance ladder are vital to discovering their distances. Watch this episode to discover how scientists determine some of the secrets of the universe. Remember we are not experts, however, we endeavor to collect all our research and facts from reliable sources or resident experts.  Our Sources: Introduction to Cosmology Book by Barbara Ryden