The Nature of Nantucket

On this episode of The Nature of Nantucket, host Joanna Roche of the Maria Mitchell Association chats with country music artist Ben Allen of the Ben Allen Band, who will headline this year's Stargazer Gala—MMA's largest fundraising event—on Thursday, July 24, at 6PM at Tom Nevers Field. With a “Night at the MM Ranch” theme, the evening features music, dancing, games, mechanical bull rides, food from Island Kitchen, and more, all under the stars in support of science education and research on Nantucket. Joanna and Ben discuss the excitement of bringing live music to the island and the impact the gala has on the community. Tickets and event details are available now at mariamitchell.org/the-stargazer-gala.

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about why it is Summer even though the Earth is at its furthest point from the Sun.

In this episode of the Maria Mitchell Association podcast The Nature of Nantucket, host Joanna Roche sits down with beloved Nantucket personality and author Denice Kronau for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation. Denice shares the story behind her 2014 debut book The World is Decorated with Stars, and gives us a sneak peek into her soon-to-be-released follow-up, The Stars That Guide Us, available July 22nd at the Egan Maritime Museum and all major online booksellers. Joanna also invites Denice to tell her Nantucket origin story—from her childhood in upstate New York, to a transformative chapter in Germany, and finally, to the island she now calls home. To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/.

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about black holes and how they form.

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about the release of the first amazing images of nebulae and galaxies taken by the new Rubin telescope.

In this episode of the Maria Mitchell Association podcast Nature of Nantucket, host Joanna Roche is joined by Christina Norman, Aquarium Manager at MMA, for a fascinating conversation about one of the ocean's oldest and most unique creatures — the horseshoe crab. Christina shares why these living fossils are so special, how they play a vital role in both marine ecosystems and modern medicine, and why late spring and early summer mark peak horseshoe crab season in Massachusetts. Learn how MMA monitors and protects these ancient animals, and how you can help too. Whether you're a marine life enthusiast or just curious about the critters along our shores, this is an episode you won't want to miss! To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/.

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about the Summer Triangle, three bright stars in the summer night sky.

On this episode of the Maria Mitchell Association's radio podcast, host Joanna Roche sits down with Mike Dobbert of The Dobbert Companies. Mike shares the personal journey that brought him to Nantucket and the inspiration behind his work in sustainable innovation. Together, they explore the evolution of green energy on the island, reflect on major advancements in the field, and discuss what lies ahead for renewable energy both locally and beyond. It's a thoughtful and forward-looking conversation about sustainability, community, and the future of clean energy. To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/.

On this episode, Joanna Roche of the Maria Mitchell Association speaks with Darren Humphreys, founder of Travel Sommelier, about the art of crafting personalized luxury travel experiences and their shared commitment to sustainability and education. They discuss Darren's journey from Wall Street to curating immersive global adventures focused on wine, wildlife, wellness, and conservation. The conversation also highlights a new partnership between Travel Sommelier and the Maria Mitchell Association, designed to inspire deeper connections to science, nature, and culture through thoughtfully designed travel experiences. To learn more about Travel Sommelier visit https://www.travelsommelier.com/. To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/.

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about the discovery of a new dwarf planet which orbits beyond Pluto far from the Sun.

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about the discovery of the most distant galaxy from the Earth. It was just discovered by the James Webb Space Telescope.

This week on the podcast, host Joanna Roche is joined by Maureen Koetz, President of Planet A Strategies which is a firm dedicated to advancing sustainable enterprise management to continue their conversation in part three of this series. Maureen explains how the windmills operate and discusses the technical process how wind energy works and its effects here on Nantucket. Learn more at planetastrategies.com. To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/.

This week on the podcast, host Joanna Roche sits down with Ginger Andrews, the Field Ornithologist for the Maria Mitchell Association, for an insightful conversation about the new and most important news on Nantucket's birdlife. Ginger talks about their recent "Bird-a-thon" that took place here on island and goes into detail on what they do during it and what they hope to accomplish. She also goes over what we can expect here during the spring when it comes to birds on Nantucket.For more details about the Maria Mitchell Association, visit mariamitchell.org.

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about Asteroids that orbit the Sun near the Earth and sometimes hit us.

This week on the podcast, host Joanna Roche welcomes Richard Sotell, a seasoned expert with over 50 years in the financial services industry, specializing in retirement and financial planning. In part two of this two-part series, Joanna and Rich continue their dive into the "Science of Money," tracing the evolution of tariffs and taxation from 1789 to today. Together, they break down what these financial tools are, how they work, and their impact on everyday life. To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/.

This week on the podcast, host Joanna Roche is joined by Maureen Koetz, President of Planet A Strategies which is a firm dedicated to advancing sustainable enterprise management to continue their previous talk (part one). Maureen shares insights into the mission behind Planet A, how they're helping organizations innovate for a greener future, and the impact of sustainability on business strategy. Learn more at planetastrategies.com. To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/.

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about The Extremely Large Telescope which is being built on a mountain in Chile. It is the biggest telescope ever.

This week on the podcast, host Joanna Roche welcomes Richard Sotell, a seasoned expert with over 50 years in the financial services industry, specializing in retirement and financial planning. In part one of this two-part series, Joanna and Rich dive into the "Science of Money," tracing the evolution of tariffs and taxation from 1789 to today. Together, they break down what these financial tools are, how they work, and their impact on everyday life. To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/.

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about New Horizons, the spacecraft that flew by Pluto in 2016, and is now venturing into interstellar space.

This week on the podcast, host Joanna Roche is joined by Maureen Koetz, President of Planet A Strategies which is a firm dedicated to advancing sustainable enterprise management. Maureen shares insights into the mission behind Planet A, how they're helping organizations innovate for a greener future, and the impact of sustainability on business strategy. She also reflects on her distinguished career, including her work in the U.S. Senate and managing the U.S. Air Force's energy and environmental portfolio. It's a conversation packed with expertise, inspiration, and forward-thinking solutions. Learn more at planetastrategies.com. To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/. 

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about Enceladus, one of Saturn's moons that has geysers shooting water into space.

This week on the podcast, host Joanna Roche sits down with Jascin Finger, Deputy Director of the Maria Mitchell Association and Curator of the Mitchell House archives and special collections. Together, they explore Jascin's role at the MMA, recent developments on Vestal Street, and the ongoing renovations that are shaping the future of this historic institution. They also dive into the rich history of the MMA Observatory, which has been a cornerstone of Nantucket's scientific community since 1902 and much more. To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/. 

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about the possibility of life on planets outside our Solar System.

This week on the podcast, host Joanna Roche sits down with Nikoline Bohr — artist, treasure hunter, and program assistant at the Maria Mitchell Association. Nikoline shares the story of her journey to Nantucket, her educational background, and how her creative spirit and curiosity fuel both her art and her love of uncovering hidden gems. She also gives us a look behind the scenes at her work with the MMA and what inspires her on and off the island. To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/. 

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about how the date of Easter is set because of the Moon.

This week on the podcast, host Joanna Roche welcomes Anya Freeman, founder and CEO of Kind Designs, a groundbreaking company using 3D printing to create living seawalls. Anya shares the inspiring journey that led her to this innovative work, from discovering her passion for environmental solutions to launching a mission-driven company. She dives into the exciting projects Kind Designs is currently developing and gives a sneak peek at what's on the horizon. It's a conversation about creativity, climate resilience, and how tech can help heal the planet.Join the MMA and Anya Freeman for another "Science Speaker Series" taking place Wednesday April 16th at 7pm. Register online at https://www.mariamitchell.org/. 

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about the discovery of 128 new moons around Saturn.

This week on the podcast, host Joanna Roche sits down with Jascin Finger, Deputy Director of the Maria Mitchell Association and Curator of the Mitchell House archives and special collections. Together, they explore Jascin's role at the MMA, recent developments on Vestal Street, and the ongoing renovations that are shaping the future of this historic institution. They also dive into the rich history of the MMA Observatory, which has been a cornerstone of Nantucket's scientific community since 1902 and much more. To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/. 

The Star Report with Geoff Clayton of the Maria Mitchell Association – The First Day of Spring. Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about the astronomical meaning of Spring.

This week on the podcast, host Joanna Roche welcomes two water experts with deep roots in Nantucket's environmental landscape: Charles Johnson, Storm Water Manager for the Town of Nantucket, and RJ Turcotte, “Water Keeper” for the Nantucket Land and Water Council and newly appointed “Nantucket Liaison” for State Representative Thomas Moakley.In this insightful episode, Charles and RJ share their unique journeys to Nantucket, from their initial connections with the island to how they found their passion for water management and conservation. Dive into their personal stories and discover how their roles are shaping the future of Nantucket's water resources and the ongoing efforts to protect the island's pristine environment. To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/. 

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about what happens when there is a total eclipse of the Moon.

This week, host Joanna Roche sits down with Kimbery Schulam, the Stranding Coordinator for Marine Mammal Alliance Nantucket. Kimberly takes us on her journey to Nantucket, sharing her passion for marine mammals and the unique path that led her to her current role. She discusses her work with the Marine Mammal Alliance, offering insights into the organization's efforts to protect and care for stranded marine animals. Tune in to hear how Kimberly and her dedicated team make a difference in the lives of these incredible creatures. If you spot an injured seal or marine mammal, please call 833-667-6626. To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/. 

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about how Abraham Lincoln used a knowledge of the heavens to win a case in court.

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about water on Mars and whether life might have formed there billions of years ago. 

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about Galileo and his many scientific discoveries.

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about asteroids and what they are made of.

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about how the Earth needs to prepare to avoid a collision with an asteroid.

This week host Joanna Roche talks with Zoe Barry.  From Wall Street to being a racecar driver to being the founder and CEO of Zingeroo, Zoe has done it all! She chats with Joanna and tells her about what brought her to Nantucket, her exciting background and making an impact in more traditionally male-dominated industries.To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/. 

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about how the planets seem to be lined up across the sky this month.

This week on the podcast, host Joanna Roche sits down with Ginger Andrews, the Field Ornithologist for the Maria Mitchell Association, for an insightful conversation about the new and most important news on Nantucket's birdlife. Ginger talks about many subjects throughout the show including Avian Flu on Nantucket, safety precautions we can all take, Bald Eagles on island, Purple Sandpipers and more!For more details about the Maria Mitchell Association, visit mariamitchell.org.

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about the new Rubin Observatory named after the astronomer, Vera Rubin, who discovered dark matter.

This week on the show, host Joanna Roche sits down with John Barentine, Principal Consultant and Expert at Dark Sky Consulting, for an engaging conversation about his journey into the world of astronomy and his transition to becoming a dark sky consultant. John shares fascinating insights into his work, including the importance of measuring light pollution with a sky quality meter and the urgent need for solutions to protect our night skies. Tune in to learn more about the impact of light pollution and how Dark Sky Consulting is leading the charge in preserving our celestial wonders. For more information, visit https://www.darkskyconsulting.com/.To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/.

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about Mars which is bright in our sky right now.

This week on the show, host Joanna Roche chats with Emily Molden the Executive Director at Nantucket Land and Water Council. In this insightful interview, Emily discusses her role at the helm of the organization, which is dedicated to preserving Nantucket's unique environmental resources. She highlights the challenges and successes the council faces in protecting the island's land, water, and wildlife, and provides valuable insights into the importance of sustainable practices and community involvement in conservation efforts. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about environmental stewardship and the future of Nantucket's natural heritage.To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/.

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about why we celebrate the New Year on January 1st.

This week on the show, host Joanna Roche chats with Dr. Rich Blundell from the Maria Mitchell Association. As the MMA's visiting scientist for the past few years, Dr. Blundell dives into the "Healthy Harbor Project"—featuring their newly installed, custom-designed buoy that's been actively monitoring Nantucket Harbor since August. They'll explore the latest data collected and share insights into how this technology is helping us better understand and protect our vital harbor ecosystem, along with the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/.

 This week, host Joanna Roche sits down with Deblois Milledge, a talented singer and songwriter currently serving as the Artist in Residence at the Maria Mitchell Association on Nantucket. Deblois is working on a collection of original songs inspired by the life and legacy of Maria Mitchell. In addition to her musical pursuits, Deblois shares her experiences as a registered nurse (RN) and a Death Doula, explaining how these roles enrich her music. Check out Deblois' music online via streaming services.To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/. 

This week, host Joanna Roche sits down with Jennifer Walsh, a renowned wellness expert with a deep focus on the powerful connection between humans and nature. Jennifer shares her insights into how immersing ourselves in natural environments can profoundly impact our mental well-being. In the conversation, she explores the numerous benefits of spending time in nature, from reducing stress to enhancing brain function, and discusses how these simple yet effective practices can help alleviate the pressures of our busy lives. To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/. 

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about the significance of the winter solstice.

Geoff Clayton is the Interim Director of Astronomy at the Maria Mitchell Association. This week Geoff talks about the Voyager spacecraft which are still sending back data 47 years after launch. 

This week host Joanna Roche talks with Zoe Barry.  From Wall Street to being a racecar driver to being the founder and CEO of Zingeroo, Zoe has done it all! She chats with Joanna and tells her about what brought her to Nantucket, her exciting background and making an impact in more traditionally male-dominated industries.To learn more about the Maria Mitchell Association visit https://www.mariamitchell.org/.