Exploring Planet Chocolates and Moon Diversity: A Solar System Taste Test by a Scientist
Join Dr. Phil Sutton, planetary scientist and Senior Lecturer in Astrophysics, on a unique journey where space meets flavour in two deliciously creative science videos. Ever wondered what the solar system might taste like? In this post, I blend astrophysics with artisanal chocolate to explore planets and moons through both science and flavour. With two videos, we’ll compare handcrafted chocolates to celestial bodies — from fiery planets to icy moons — using taste, texture, and a whole lot of planetary insight.
Planet-Themed Chocolates vs. the Real Solar System
I discovered a stunning set of chocolates modeled after the planets — from Mercury to Neptune (and yes, even the Sun!). In this tasty experiment, I compare each chocolate planet to its real celestial counterpart. How accurate are the colors & textures? Which ones pass the space test, and which are just sweet imposters?
👉 Check out the chocolates
Moons and Bonbons – A Cosmic Chocolate Pairing
In this second video, I take things deeper — literally — by pairing nine artisanal chocolates with nine of the solar system’s most fascinating moons. Each chocolate represents the unique characteristics of moons like Europa, Titan, and Enceladus, using flavour and texture to mirror their geology, heat, and icy shells.
👉 See the bonbons
From the swirling storms of Jupiter to the icy geysers of Enceladus, space is full of surprises — and so is chocolate. I hope these videos gave you a new way to experience the solar system, one bite at a time. Let me know your favourite flavour–moon combo, and stay tuned for more science you can taste!
Astronomy or Astrophysics? A Guide to Help You Decide What to Study
Astronomy and astrophysics are closely related fields that often overlap, but they have distinct focuses and approaches. Here’s a breakdown of the differences between the two:
Astronomy
Astronomy is the broader science that involves the study of celestial objects and phenomena beyond Earth’s atmosphere. It includes the observation and analysis of stars, planets, comets, galaxies, and other celestial bodies. Primarily observational, using telescopes and other instruments to gather data about the universe. Includes planetary astronomy, stellar astronomy, galactic astronomy, and observational cosmology.
Astrophysics
Astrophysics is a branch of astronomy that applies the principles of physics and chemistry to understand how celestial objects and phenomena work. Focuses on celestial bodies’ underlying physical processes and properties, such as their formation, evolution, and behavior. Combines observational data with theoretical models and simulations to explain the physical mechanisms at play. Includes cosmology (the study of the universe’s origin and evolution), stellar dynamics, planetary science, and high-energy astrophysics.
Key Differences
Astronomy is often more observational, cataloging and describing what is seen in the sky. Astrophysics seeks to explain these observations through physical theories. Astronomers might spend more time on practical aspects like telescope design, data collection, and image processing. Astrophysicists might spend more time on theoretical work and modeling.
In summary, while astronomy and astrophysics are intertwined, astronomy is more focused on the observation and cataloging of celestial objects, whereas astrophysics is dedicated to understanding the physical processes that govern these objects and phenomena.
Exoplanet Detection: Transit Variations
If you’ve ever heard about a new exoplanet being discovered, it was most likely found using the transit method. Astronomers continuously monitor the brightness of a star over time using telescopes equipped with sensitive photometers to detect any small changes in the star’s light. When an exoplanet passes, or “transits,” in front of its host star from our viewpoint, it causes a slight but measurable dimming of the star’s light. This dip in brightness occurs because the planet blocks a portion of the starlight.
Quite straightforward, right? However, did you know that the transits often show variations from transit to transit, i.e. they aren’t always the same length, depth (how much light is blocked out), time or even symmetric. Below are a range of videos that explain how additional unseen exoplanets, exomoons, orbital parameters and even how the changing relative orientation of exoplanets orbit can alter the transit.
Exploring Super and Micro Moons: Are Any Left in 2024?
A super full moon, also known as a supermoon, occurs when a full moon coincides with the moon’s closest approach to Earth in its orbit, called perigee. This close proximity makes the moon appear larger and brighter in the sky than usual. Supermoons can appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a regular full moon, though the difference may not always be easily discernible to the naked eye. Supermoons are relatively rare events and can create spectacular views for skywatchers.
The remaining super full moons of 2024 will be on 18th September and 17th October.
A micro new moon occurs when the new moon coincides with the moon’s farthest point from Earth in its orbit, called apogee. During a micro new moon, the moon appears slightly smaller in the sky than usual because it is farther away from Earth. Unlike supermoons, which appear larger and brighter, micro new moons may not be as noticeable to the naked eye due to their reduced size and brightness. These events are also relatively rare and can offer interesting astronomical observations for enthusiasts.
The remaining micro new moon of 2024 will be on 2nd October, which coincides with an annular (ring of fire) eclipse.
Lincoln Astrophysics Team 