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SpaceTime: Your Guide to Space & Astronomy

Stuart Gary

Join host Stuart Gary for weekly explorations into Astronomy, Space, and Science News, featuring insights from 19 years on Australian Public Radio and industry experts. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

  1. Martian Mysteries: Unearthing Asteroid Remnants

    8 HR AGO

    Martian Mysteries: Unearthing Asteroid Remnants

    Sponsor Details: This episode of SpaceTime is brought to you with the support of Insta360. Capture your adventures with their latest game-changer, the GOUltra. For a special SpaceTime listener offer, visit store.insta360.com and use the promo code SPACETIME at checkout. Help support SpaceTime and get a great deal. Win/win! In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover groundbreaking discoveries in planetary science and solar physics, including the remnants of ancient asteroids on Mars, the recovery of the Mother's Day meteorite, and new insights into solar energetic particles. Asteroid Remnants Found in Martian Mantle A new study reveals that fragments from ancient asteroids, which significantly impacted Mars around 4.5 billion years ago, are now trapped within the planet's mantle. Data from NASA's Mars Insight lander has provided unprecedented insights into the Martian interior, showing that these remnants, some up to four kilometres wide, offer a unique glimpse into Mars' geological history. The findings suggest a sluggish evolution of the Martian mantle, contrasting sharply with Earth's dynamic tectonic processes. Mother's Day Meteorite Discovery In an exciting expedition, scientists from Curtin University have successfully recovered a meteorite that lit up the skies over Western Australia on Mother's Day. Using the Desert Fireball Network, researchers pinpointed the meteor's landing site and undertook a challenging journey to retrieve samples. Preliminary analysis indicates that the meteorite is an ordinary chondrite, providing valuable insights into its origins and the solar system's history. Tracing Super Fast Electrons from the Sun Astronomers have identified two distinct origins for energetic particles emitted by the Sun, thanks to observations from the European Space Agency's Solar Orbiter mission. The research highlights the difference between solar energetic electrons linked to solar flares and those associated with coronal mass ejections. Understanding these two types of solar energetic particles is crucial for predicting space weather and protecting satellites and astronauts from radiation hazards. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References NASA https://www.nasa.gov/ Curtin University https://www.curtin.edu.au/ European Space Agency https://www.esa.int/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

    23 min
  2. Cosmic Revelations: The Brightest Fast Radio Burst and New Horizons' Hibernation Journey

    3 DAYS AGO

    Cosmic Revelations: The Brightest Fast Radio Burst and New Horizons' Hibernation Journey

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover some of the most exciting discoveries and developments in the universe, including the detection of the brightest fast radio burst ever observed, the New Horizons spacecraft's record-setting hibernation, and an innovative method for generating oxygen in space. Brightest Fast Radio Burst Detected Astronomers have identified what is being hailed as the brightest fast radio burst (FRB) ever recorded. Catalogued as FRB 2025 0316A, this extraordinary flash of energy was detected 130 million light years away in the spiral galaxy NGC 4141. The burst's unprecedented brightness and proximity provide scientists with a unique opportunity to study its origins and the environment surrounding it, potentially shedding light on the enigmatic sources of these fleeting cosmic phenomena. New Horizons Enters Record Hibernation NASA's New Horizons spacecraft has officially begun a record-setting hibernation period as it journeys through the Kuiper Belt, now over 9.2 billion kilometres from Earth. This hibernation will last until June 2026, surpassing its previous record of 273 days. Despite being in hibernation, the spacecraft will continue to collect valuable data on charged particles and dust in the outer heliosphere, which will be transmitted back to Earth upon reactivation. Revolutionary Oxygen Generation in Space In a significant advancement for future space missions, scientists have developed a new method for generating oxygen in space using neodymium magnets to enhance the electrolysis process. This innovative approach simplifies the extraction of oxygen bubbles from water, potentially replacing complex systems currently used in microgravity environments. By leveraging magnetic forces, this technique could improve the efficiency and reliability of oxygen production for astronauts. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Astrophysical Journal Letters https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/2041-8205 NASA https://www.nasa.gov/ Nature Chemistry https://www.nature.com/nchem/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support. Brightest Fast Radio Burst Detected New Horizons Enters Record Hibernation Revolutionary Oxygen Generation in Space

    36 min
  3. Lunar Innovations: Creating Water and Fuel from Moon Dust and Psyche's Progress

    5 DAYS AGO

    Lunar Innovations: Creating Water and Fuel from Moon Dust and Psyche's Progress

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore the latest developments in space exploration, including the European Space Agency's Juice mission, NASA's Psyche spacecraft, and groundbreaking advancements in lunar resource utilization. Juice Mission Back on Track The European Space Agency's Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer, Juice, is set for a critical flyby of Venus after overcoming a communications anomaly that temporarily severed contact with Earth. Engineers successfully restored communication with the spacecraft, which is now on its way to study Jupiter's Galilean moons—Ganymede, Callisto, and Europa—believed to harbor subsurface oceans that may support extraterrestrial life. The flyby will assist Juice in gaining the necessary speed for its journey to Jupiter, scheduled for arrival in 2031. Psyche Spacecraft Calibration NASA's Psyche spacecraft, launched in 2023, has successfully calibrated its onboard cameras as it journeys toward the metal-rich asteroid of the same name. The spacecraft aims to unlock the secrets of planetary cores and will utilize its cameras to capture images of Psyche's surface when it arrives in 2029. The calibration process includes imaging Earth and Mars to ensure the instruments perform optimally for their scientific objectives. Creating Resources from Moon Dust In a significant breakthrough, scientists have developed a method to produce water, oxygen, and methane fuel using lunar regolith, sunlight, and carbon dioxide from astronauts' breath. This innovation could drastically reduce the cost of transporting supplies from Earth to the Moon, paving the way for sustainable lunar bases and expanded space exploration capabilities. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References European Space Agency https://www.esa.int/ NASA https://www.nasa.gov/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support. Juice Mission Back on TrackPsyche Spacecraft CalibrationCreating Resources from Moon Dust

    23 min
  4. Stellar Success: SpaceX's Starship Soars and Mars' Mysteries Uncovered

    1 SEPT

    Stellar Success: SpaceX's Starship Soars and Mars' Mysteries Uncovered

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into thrilling advancements in space exploration, including a remarkable test flight of SpaceX's Starship, groundbreaking insights into Mars, and a classified mission from the United States Space Force. Starship's Spectacular Test Flight After overcoming numerous challenges, SpaceX's Starship has successfully completed its 10th test flight, launching from Texas and splashing down in the Indian Ocean. This flight demonstrated the rocket's capabilities, including a controlled splashdown of the Super Heavy booster and the successful deployment of Starlink satellite simulators. The mission provided critical data on the vehicle's performance during reentry, including stress testing its heat shield. New Insights into Mars The European Space Agency's Mars Express Orbiter has provided new observations of the Acheron Foci region, revealing the geological forces that have shaped the Red Planet. These findings highlight the impact of ancient geological upheaval and climatic shifts on Mars' landscape, offering clues about its past and the dynamic processes that continue to influence its environment today. Space Force's Secret Shuttle Mission The United States Space Force has launched its 8th X37B space shuttle mission, utilizing a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. This classified mission aims to test next-generation technologies, including advanced laser communication systems and quantum sensors. The versatile X37B continues to serve as a platform for various operational demonstrations and experiments in space. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References European Space Agency https://www.esa.int/ NASA https://www.nasa.gov/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

    34 min
  5. Starship Triumph: Mars Under Pressure and Secrets of the X37B Mission | S28E105, 106 & 107

    31 AUG • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    Starship Triumph: Mars Under Pressure and Secrets of the X37B Mission | S28E105, 106 & 107

    SpaceTime S28E105 S28E106 S28E107 w/c September 1st, 2025 Space, Astronomy and Science Podcast. SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 105 *Starship’s spectacular success After a number of setbacks, the world’s biggest and most powerful rocket SpaceX’s Starship has undertaken a successful test flight launching under stunning blue skies on the Texas gulf coast and splashing down just as planned in the Indian Ocean off the Western Australian Coast just over an hour later. *A new look at the titanic forces that shaped the red planet Mars The European Space Agency’s Mars Express orbiter has revisited a spectacular rift valley system on the red planet showing how the planet was shaped by ancient geological upheaval and later sculpted by ice-rich flows. *Military Space Shuttle launched on new secret mission The United States Space Force has launched its eighth X37B military space shuttle mission on another classified flight. *The Science Report Teens who vape more likely to go on to pick up smoking, marijuana use and drinking. Palaeontologists have uncovered one of the most complete ichthyosaur fossils ever found. Surgeons transplant a genetically modified pig lung into a human for the first time. Skeptics guide to American belief in fortune telling SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 106 *Europe’s Juice Mission back on track for its flyby of Venus The European Space Agency's Juice Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer spacecraft is on track for its gravity-assist flyby at Venus following the successful resolution of a spacecraft communication anomaly that temporarily severed contact with Earth. *NASA's Psyche spacecraft calibrates it’s on board cameras NASA’S Psyche spacecraft has successfully calibrated its on board cameras as it continues on its journey to the metal-rich asteroid which shares its name. *Using moon dust to create water, oxygen, and fuel Scientists have found a way to create water, oxygen, and methane fuel – using moon dust, astronaut's breath, and sunlight. *The Science Report Rising levels of plastic waste are breaking down in every part of Earth’s land, sea and air environment. A new study warns that years of repeated exposure to heatwaves could accelerate ageing. Study finds people who own robots treat them like members of the family. Alex on Tech: the waiting is over with the new Pixel 10 now out. SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 107 *Brightest fast radio burst ever seen Astronomers have detected the brightest Fast Radio Bust of all time. *New Horizons begins a record hibernation period in the Kuiper Belt NASA’s New Horizons spacecraft has commenced a record setting hibernation period as it continues its journey through the vast darkness of the Kuiper Belt. *A new way to generate oxygen in space A new study has shown that off the shelf Neodymium magnets could help boost the production of oxygen in space to help support human space exploration. *September Skywatch The September equinox, and the constellations Capricorn, Pegasus, and Cygnus are among the highlights of the September night skies on SkyWatch. https://spacetimewithstuartgary.com https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/ This week’s guests include: Psyche Imager Instrument Lead Jim Bell from Arizona State University Psyche Principal Investigator Lindy Elkins Tanton from Arizona State University Psyche Science Data Centre Manager Ernest Cisneros from Arizona State University And our regular guests: Alex Zaharov-Reutt from techadvice.life Tim Mendham from Australian Skeptics And Science writer Jonathan Nally 🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn . The discount and bonuses are incredible! And it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌

    1h 29m
  6. Rogue Worlds and Solar Power

    29 AUG

    Rogue Worlds and Solar Power

    This episode is brought to you by the support of Insta360 - the leaders and innovators in portable 360 Photography. And they have just released the all new UltraGo...the take anywhere camera. Get all the details by visiting store.insta360.com and use the promo code SPACETIME at checkout for our special listener offer.  In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore groundbreaking discoveries and developments in the realm of astrophysics and space exploration.Rogue Planets and Their Potential A fascinating new study reveals that giant free-floating planets, known as rogue planets, may have the ability to form their own miniature planetary systems independently of a host star. Observations from the Webb Space Telescope have identified young rogue planets with masses between 5 to 10 times that of Jupiter. These dim objects, which emit primarily in the infrared spectrum, are believed to hold secrets about the formation of planetary systems. The findings indicate that disks of warm dust surrounding these planets could provide the necessary materials for planet formation, suggesting that such systems could exist even in the absence of stars.Europe's Space Rider Progresses The European Space Agency's reusable Space Rider spacecraft has successfully completed a crucial test of its nose cone, marking another milestone in its development. This innovative spacecraft will allow ESA to conduct orbital missions and return scientific payloads to Earth. Designed to operate as an unmanned laboratory in low Earth orbit, Space Rider will support a variety of experiments and technology demonstrations, paving the way for Europe to enhance its capabilities in space exploration.Harvesting Solar Power from Space Could space-based solar panels be the solution to our energy needs? Scientists are investigating two promising projects aimed at capturing solar energy in orbit. The Innovative Heliostat Swarm aims to create a network of mirrors that direct sunlight to a central receiver, converting it into electricity for transmission back to Earth. Meanwhile, the Mature Planar Array is closer to deployment but will only capture solar energy about 60% of the time. Despite current challenges in cost-effectiveness, these projects could lead to breakthroughs in sustainable energy.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Astrophysical Journal https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/2041-8205 European Space Agency https://www.esa.int/ Journal of Solar Energy https://www.journals.elsevier.com/solar-energy Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

    19 min
  7. Cosmic Horror: The Discovery of a Wandering Black Hole and a Meteorite's Journey

    27 AUG

    Cosmic Horror: The Discovery of a Wandering Black Hole and a Meteorite's Journey

    This episode of SpaceTime is brought to you by Insta360's newest camera, the GoUltra. To get more details on this go anywhere camera, visit store.insta360.com and for our special offer use the code SPACETIME at checkout. In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover the mysteries lurking in the cosmos, from a rogue supermassive black hole to a meteorite crash in Georgia, and the origins of asteroids Bennu and Ryugu. An Invisible Monster in the Cosmos Astronomers have made a chilling discovery of a supermassive black hole, 600 million light years away, that has been lurking in the darkness of space. Using NASA's Hubble and Chandra space telescopes, along with a Very Large Array radio telescope, researchers identified this rogue black hole that consumes stars and planets that venture too close. The black hole was revealed through a tidal disruption event, where a star was torn apart and swallowed, offering a glimpse into the physics of these cosmic behemoths. Meteorite Slams into Georgia Home In an extraordinary event, a meteorite crashed through a house in Atlanta, Georgia, on June 26, narrowly missing the homeowner. Witnessed by hundreds, the fireball streaked across the sky before fragments penetrated the roof and ceiling. Planetary geologist Scott Harris retrieved samples for analysis, revealing the meteorite's origins in the asteroid belt, dating back 4.56 billion years, and potentially linked to the breakup of a larger asteroid. Origins of Asteroids Bennu and Ryugu Recent research suggests that both Bennu and Ryugu may share a common ancestry, originating from the same collisional family of asteroids known as Polana. Spectral data comparisons indicate similarities between these asteroids, supporting the hypothesis that they were formed from the remnants of a larger body that fragmented early in the solar system's history. This discovery opens new avenues for understanding the evolution of these near-Earth asteroids. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Astrophysical Journal Letters https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/2041-8205 Planetary Science Journal https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/planetary-science-journal Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

    21 min
  8. Cosmic Encounters: Asteroids, Moons, and the Milky Way's Future Unveiled

    25 AUG

    Cosmic Encounters: Asteroids, Moons, and the Milky Way's Future Unveiled

    This episode of SpaceTime is brought to you with the support of Insta360. Capture your adventures with their latest game-changer, the GoUltra. For a special offer, visit store.insta360.com and use the promo code SPACETIME at checkout. In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore thrilling recent discoveries and events in the cosmos, including close encounters with asteroids, a newly discovered moon around Uranus, and the cosmic dance of dwarf galaxies. Earth Dodges Two Asteroid Near Misses Planet Earth has narrowly avoided two asteroid near misses within days of each other. The first, asteroid 2025 PF2, zipped past at an altitude of just 22,000 kilometers, while the second, 2025 PU1, came even closer at 29,000 kilometers. Both asteroids, small yet significant, highlight the ongoing risks posed by near-Earth objects, with 2025 PU1 being particularly alarming as it was only detected hours after its closest approach. A New Moon for Uranus Astronomers have identified a new moon orbiting Uranus, bringing the total number of known satellites to 26. Detected using NASA's Webb Space Telescope, this moon, estimated to be about 10 kilometers in diameter, eluded previous observations, including those from the Voyager 2 mission. Its discovery adds to the complexity of Uranus's moon system and raises questions about the chaotic history of its rings and satellites. Dancing Dwarf Galaxies and the Milky Way's Fate A new study suggests that the fate of our Milky Way galaxy is intricately tied to the gravitational interactions with smaller dwarf galaxies as it approaches a merger with the Andromeda galaxy. By studying similar galactic systems, researchers aim to predict how these cosmic dances will influence the evolution of our galaxy over the next few billion years, providing insights into dark matter and cosmic structure. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society https://academic.oup.com/mnras NASA's Webb Space Telescope https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/webb/main/index.html Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

    28 min

Hosts & Guests

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Join host Stuart Gary for weekly explorations into Astronomy, Space, and Science News, featuring insights from 19 years on Australian Public Radio and industry experts. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

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