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Artwork for Strange New Worlds: A Science & Star Trek Podcast

Strange New Worlds: A Science & Star Trek Podcast

Michael L. Wong
Star Trek
Data
Astrobiology
Star Trek Discovery
Caltech
Origin Of Life
Star Trek Picard
Planetary Science
Sequencer
Borg Queen
Klingon Civil War
Leadership
Sports Psychology
Lore
Boldly Go! the Musical
Mars
The Possibility Of Life
Abiogenesis Zone
Hydropower
Empathy

Hosted by planetary scientist and astrobiologist Dr. Michael L. Wong, Strange New Worlds examines science, technology, and culture through the lens of Star Trek!

PublishesWeeklyEpisodes241Founded9 years ago
Number of ListenersCategory
Science

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Artwork for Strange New Worlds: A Science & Star Trek Podcast

Latest Episodes

Guest: Dr. Bob Hazen Mike is joined by his Carnegie Science colleague Dr. Bob Hazen. Together, they have written a new popular science book titled "Time's Second Arrow: Evolution, Order, and a New Law of Nature," which launches on February 10, 2026. ... more

YouTube

Guest: Dr. Caleb Scharf Becoming a spacefaring civilization is a major transition in the story of life on Earth. Senior scientist for astrobiology at NASA Ames Dr. Caleb Scharf beams aboard to discuss the themes in his latest book, "The Giant Leap: W... more

YouTube

Guest: Dr. Kristina Ĺ ekrst Philosopher, linguist, and AI researcher Kristina Ĺ ekrst beams aboard to discuss the TNG episode "Darmok," where Picard and crew encounter the Tamarians, a species who only speak in metaphor. Why do we use metaphors? How wo... more

YouTube

Guest: Dr. Anirudh Prabhu Mike brings aboard Dr. Anirudh Prabhu to discuss an exciting new study of theirs that uses machine learning trained on organic chemical data to detect the "whispers" of life—including photosynthetic life—in ancient rocks. Th... more

YouTube

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Recent Guests

Dr. Caleb Scharf
Senior Scientist for Astrobiology at NASA Ames and author
NASA Ames
Episode: Episode 194: The Giant Leap
Dr. Kristina Ĺ ekrst
Linguist and philosopher with a focus on cognitive linguistics, metaphors, and consciousness
European Institute of Astrobiology
Episode: Episode 193: The Linguistics of "Darmok"
Anirudh Prabhu
Research scientist at Carnegie Sciences Earth and Planets Laboratory in Washington, DC
Carnegie Science
Episode: Episode 192: Whispers of Life in Ancient Rocks
Michael L. Wong
Astrobiologist and author
Carnegie Institution for Science
Episode: Episode 191: Mike on Sean Carroll's Mindscape
Bob Picardo
Legendary Star Trek actor who portrayed the emergency medical hologram on Voyager
The Planetary Society
Episode: Episode 189: Bob Picardo Wants to Save NASA Science
Dr. Una McCormack
Author and associate fellow at Homerton College, Cambridge University
Cambridge University
Episode: Episode 184: Hope in the Face of Grief
Thomas White
A propulsion engineer from Oakland, California.
Episode: Episode 182: A Rocket Scientist Goes to Washington
Shi En Kim
Science journalist and climate reporter for High Country News
High Country News
Episode: Episode 181: Fungi Everywhere
Lisa Kaltenegger
Director of the Carl Sagan Institute at Cornell University, astronomer, and astrobiologist
Cornell University
Episode: Episode 180: Preparing for Alien Earths

Host

Dr. Michael L. Wong
Host and planetary scientist specializing in astrobiology and science communication, often exploring the intersection of science and Star Trek.

Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars from 60 ratings
  • Strange AND Amazing!

    I absolutely love this show. It filled a great little niche in the Star Trek podcasting world and never fails to bring interesting science and topics to the fold. Dr. Mike Wong has such a fun energy and always comes through with some amazing guests. There’s always fun to be had on Strange New Worlds! 🖖🏻

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Joe Praska
    United States4 months ago
  • I love the enthusiasm, mixed with intelligence, empathy and science!!

    Podcast Addict
    5
    odin16
    a year ago
  • Exactly what I’ve been looking for!

    I love this! Thank you so much, look forward to listening to it all!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Natapie92
    United Kingdom2 years ago
  • All Science, All Fun!

    Do you like Star Trek? Do you like science? If yes to both, just stop reading this and start listening!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    rttrrttr
    United States4 years ago
  • Love this podcast and its positive vibes

    What a wonderful way to engage so many talented people. The podcast is inclusive of all topics Star Trek, and individuals of different backgrounds, scientists and non-scientists alike. Listening to it conjures up images of a fertile garden (Star Trek) with thriving plants (host and invited guests) sharing their beautiful colors (thoughts) and reciprocating one another with their delicious fruits (stories). Look forward to many more episodes. đź––

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    ST-1of5
    United States4 years ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

The host's engaging style and the diverse lineup of experts contribute to a rich learning experience.
Reviews often note the enthusiastic approach of the host, which keeps the content lively and accessible.
Listeners praise the unique integration of science and Star Trek, finding it both informative and entertaining.
Many appreciate the positive atmosphere and insightful discussions that bridge complex scientific concepts with popular culture.
The podcast appeals to those who have a passion for both science and science fiction, making it a favorite among fans of the genre.

Chart Rankings

How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.

Apple Podcasts
#221
Sweden/Science

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Episode 193: The Linguistics of "Darmok"
Q: Do you think the universal translator from Star Trek is actually possible?
No, a perfect translator is impossible due to linguistic nuances and cultural context that can't be captured computationally.
Episode 193: The Linguistics of "Darmok"
Q: Kristina, how does lying in Temerian differ from lying in English?
Lying in Temerian involves using incorrect metaphors or misleading statements about truths, similar to the complexities in some evidential languages that require sources for truth.
Episode 194: The Giant Leap
Q: Caleb, do you see the future of space exploration as a co-equal partnership between AI and humans?
Both are true; there will be scenarios needing full autonomy with AI and others where humans need to be engaged in the process.
Episode 194: The Giant Leap
Q: Was your move to NASA at all related to you writing a book about humanity's journey into outer space?
Not really, as I had started the preparations for the book quite a long time before I had an opportunity to move to NASA.
Episode 190: Relating to Nature in Space and on Earth
Q: What can ordinary folks do to reconnect with the natural world?
Kaufman suggests spending time in parks, observing nature, and utilizing technology to bring nature's elements closer in urban settings.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

Listeners per Episode
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Frequently Asked Questions About This Podcast

What is This Podcast about and what kind of topics does it cover?

This podcast examines the intersection of science, technology, and culture through the beloved lens of a classic sci-fi universe. It covers a variety of topics including astrobiology, climate change, sustainable space exploration, and the cultural impact of science fiction, particularly as it relates to Star Trek lore. Engaging discussions with experts and noteworthy guests provide insightful perspectives on both contemporary scientific issues and timeless philosophical questions inspired by the Star Trek franchise. The unique blend of accessible science communication and fandom creates an engaging space for listeners who appreciate the nuances of both fields.

With an emphasis on real scientific advancements and their connections to the i... more

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How many episodes of this podcast are there?

this podcast launched 9 years ago and published 241 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

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What guests have appeared on this podcast?

Recent guests on this podcast include:

1. Dr. Caleb Scharf
2. Dr. Kristina Ĺ ekrst
3. Anirudh Prabhu
4. Michael L. Wong
5. Bob Picardo
6. Dr. Una McCormack
7. Thomas White
8. Shi En Kim

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