Growing Worlds

Explore the diversity of rocky planets with Dr Oliver Herbort, an Ariel Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Vienna. Hosts Jeni and Lorenzo chat with Oliver about what makes each planet unique, from atmospheric chemistry to the nature of its surface. Oliver reflects on how a lifelong fascination with astronomy led him to study rocky exoplanets, developing models that link atmospheric processes with the composition of planetary surfaces. Prepare to expect the unexpected. From carbon planets to lava worlds, this episode invites you to rethink what a planetary landscape can look like.

In this launch of Growing Worlds, hosts Jeni Millard and Lorenzo Mugnai chat with Dr Camilla Pezzotti about the bond between stars and planets. Listen as Camilla guides us through the intricate journey from the birth of stars from gas clouds to the fully formed celestial bodies, beautifully illustrating how the digital world can be used to unravel their mysteries.  She draws us in with her admiration for stars and enlightens us about her poetic resonance with Mercury, finding comfort in their shared resilience.

Growing Worlds is a podcast where exoplanet science meets human stories, told through conversations with early-career researchers. In this short introduction, hosts Dr Jenifer Millard and Dr Lorenzo Mugnai are joined by assistant producer Carys Townsend to share what each episode has in store. You will hear a wide range of topics related to our understanding of other worlds, alongside the personal journeys of the researchers behind the work. Tune in as Growing Worlds celebrates the human side of science.