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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. Rogue Worlds and Solar Power

    2 HR AGO

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

    2 DAYS AGO

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

    3 DAYS AGO

    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
  4. 4 DAYS AGO • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    Asteroids on the Edge - Earth’s Close Calls and New Discoveries in Our Solar System: S28E102, 103 & 104

    SpaceTime S28E102 S28E103 S28E104 w/c August 25th, 2025 Space, Astronomy and Science Podcast. SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 102 *Earth dodges two asteroid near misses within days of each other Planet Earth has just dodged two asteroid near misses within days of each other, both swooping past the Earth lower than the orbits of many satellites. *A new moon discovered orbiting Uranus Astronomers have discovered another moon orbiting the ice giant planet Uranus. *Dancing dwarf galaxies predict our Milky Way's future A new study is trying to determine the fate of our Milky Way galaxy as it merges with our big galactic neighbour M31 Andromeda. *The Science Report The first almost one hundred percent effective prevention drug for HIV AIDS. Discovery of a new species of Australopithecus – the earliest known member of the human family. A new study has shown that some seabirds prefer to defecate in the air. Skeptics guide to the Buga UFO SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 103 *An invisible monster hiding in the darkness of space Astronomers have uncovered an invisible monster hiding in the darkness of space. Like a scene out of a sci-fi horror movie, the behemoth was discovered lurking 600 million light-years away in the inky black depths between stars. *A meteor slams into a house in Georgia Scientists have had the amazing opportunity to examine a pristine meteorite fragment that crashed into a house in Atlanta earlier this year. *The likely origins of the asteroids Bennu and Ryugu Astronomers have identified the near Earth asteroids Bennu and Ryugu may be part of the Polana family group of asteroids. *The Science Report A new study claims using a fan in very hot temperatures won't keep you cool and could strain your heart. Scientists can now tell what you’ll buy simply by scanning your friend’s brain. Warnings that AIs don’t work when it’s down to pure reasoning. Alex on Tech: should NBN users switch to Starlink SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 104 *Claims that giant free-floating planets could form their own planetary systems A new study has found that giant free floating rouge planets have the potential to form their own miniature planetary systems without the need for a host star. *Europe’s Space Rider spacecraft completes another key test The European Space Agency’s reusable Space Rider has just completed the latest phase of its development campaign with a successful qualification test of the vehicle’s nose cone, the largest single component of the spacecraft’s thermal protection system. *Using space based solar panels to power the Earth It may sound futuristic, but scientists believe that space-based solar panels could eventually allow humans to harvest energy from the Sun almost every moment of the day. *The Science Report Diets rich in omega-3 may help ward off short sightedness in kids. Warnings that fans actually make things worse in hot dry weather.. Study shows that dogs are more likely to react to on-screen animals on TV than to humans. Skeptics guide to yet another British haunted hotel claim https://spacetimewithstuartgary.com https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/ This week’s guests include: Dr Sarah Sweet from the University of Queensland Dr Scott Harris from the University of Georgia ESA Director of Space Transportation Daniel Neuenschwander And our regular guests: Alex Zaharov-Reutt from techadvice.life Tim Mendham from Australian Skeptics 🌏 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! ✌

    58 min
  5. The Comet That Cooled the Earth - Unpacking the Younger Dryas Mystery

    22 AUG

    The Comet That Cooled the Earth - Unpacking the Younger Dryas Mystery

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into intriguing new research that challenges our understanding of Earth's climatic history, the discovery of a rare astronomical phenomenon, and China's advancements in lunar exploration. Did a Comet Trigger the Younger Dryas Cool Off? A groundbreaking study has emerged suggesting that a massive comet may have instigated Earth's Younger Dryas cool off event, traditionally attributed to glacial meltwater. Analysis of ocean sediments published in the journal PLOS One reveals geochemical clues that support the hypothesis of Earth encountering a disintegrating comet around 12,800 years ago. This event could have led to rapid cooling, with temperatures plummeting by approximately 10 degrees Celsius within a year. The findings indicate a potential link between comet dust and significant climate shifts, inviting further investigation into this captivating theory. Discovery of a Rare White Dwarf Merger Remnant Astronomers have identified an ultra-massive white dwarf star resulting from the merger of two stars, rather than the evolution of a single star. This discovery, made possible by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, suggests that such white dwarf mergers may be more common than previously thought. The object, catalogued as WD0525 526, is located 126 light years away and is about 20% more massive than our Sun. Hubble's ultraviolet observations revealed carbon in its atmosphere, a sign of its violent origin, challenging previous assumptions about white dwarf formation. China Tests Its New Manned Lunar Lander In a significant milestone for lunar exploration, China has successfully conducted a test flight of its new manned lunar landing craft, named Lanyu. This test, which included a controlled landing and takeoff, marks a crucial step in China's ambitions to send taikonauts to the Moon by 2030. The Lanyu is designed to carry astronauts from lunar orbit to the surface and back, with plans for a permanent lunar base in collaboration with Russia in the early 2030s. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References PLOS One https://journals.plos.org/plosone/ Nature Astronomy https://www.nature.com/natureastronomy/ NASA Hubble Space Telescope https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/hubble/main/index.html Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

    20 min
  6. Comet 3I Atlas - The Interstellar Voyager Unveiled

    20 AUG

    Comet 3I Atlas - The Interstellar Voyager Unveiled

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore the latest revelations from the cosmos, featuring the intriguing interstellar comet 3I Atlas, a groundbreaking theory about our place in the universe, and the safe return of SpaceX Crew 10. The Enigmatic Comet 3I Atlas Astronomers utilizing NASA's Hubble Space Telescope have captured the sharpest images yet of the interstellar comet 3I Atlas, revealing a solid icy nucleus estimated to measure between 320 meters and 5.6 kilometers in diameter. This comet, traveling at a staggering 209,000 kilometers per hour, is believed to have been journeying through interstellar space for approximately 7 billion years. Observations from multiple telescopes are enhancing our understanding of this ancient visitor, including its size, chemical makeup, and physical properties. With a dust plume and tail reminiscent of solar system comets, 3I Atlas offers a unique glimpse into the history of our galaxy as it approaches the sun. Earth's Position in a Cosmic Void A new hypothesis suggests that Earth and the Milky Way may reside in a vast cosmic void rather than along a filament of the universe's cosmic web. This idea could help resolve the Hubble tension, a discrepancy in the rate of the universe's expansion. The study, presented at the Royal Astronomical Society's National Astronomy Conference, posits that our galaxy might be near the center of a local void, influencing the observed expansion rate of the universe. This intriguing concept challenges existing cosmological models and could reshape our understanding of cosmic structure. Safe Return of SpaceX Crew 10 After five months aboard the International Space Station, SpaceX Crew 10 has safely returned to Earth. Their Dragon capsule splashed down in the North Pacific Ocean, marking the end of a mission that contributed to over 200 scientific experiments, ranging from plant growth studies to the effects of microgravity on human physiology. The crew's successful return paves the way for their replacements, Crew 11, to continue vital research in low Earth orbit. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Astrophysical Journal Letters https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/2041-8205 Royal Astronomical Society https://ras.ac.uk/ NASA's Hubble Space Telescope https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/hubble/main/index.html Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

    23 min
  7. The Cosmic Horseshoe - Unraveling the Universe's Biggest Black Hole

    18 AUG

    The Cosmic Horseshoe - Unraveling the Universe's Biggest Black Hole

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover the latest astronomical marvels and pressing concerns in space science. The Cosmic Horseshoe: A Supermassive Discovery Astronomers have potentially identified the most massive supermassive black hole ever discovered, dubbed the Cosmic Horseshoe, which is estimated to be around 36 billion times the mass of our Sun. Located approximately 5 billion light years away, this colossal black hole distorts space-time and creates a stunning Einstein ring effect by gravitationally lensing light from distant galaxies. The measurement of its mass combines gravitational lensing and stellar kinematics, providing a rare glimpse into the formation and evolution of galaxies and their central black holes. Possible New Planet in the Alpha Centauri System Exciting news emerges from the Alpha Centauri star system, where astronomers may have discovered a new planet orbiting Alpha Centauri A, the closest star system to our own at just 4.25 light years away. Using data from NASA's Webb Space Telescope, researchers suggest this Saturn-sized gas giant could be located in the habitable zone of a sun-like star. While the planet's gaseous nature may not support life, its proximity offers a unique opportunity to study planetary systems beyond our own, challenging existing theories on planet formation in binary star systems. The Satellite Proliferation Dilemma As the number of satellites in Earth orbit continues to rise, astronomers are sounding alarms over the interference these satellites cause to vital scientific research. A study has highlighted the impact of Starlink's megaconstellation on radio astronomy, with significant radio emissions masking faint signals from the universe. This growing concern emphasizes the need for regulatory measures to mitigate interference and protect the integrity of astronomical observations. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society https://academic.oup.com/mnras Astrophysical Journal Letters https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/2041-8205 Astronomy and Astrophysics Journal https://www.aanda.org/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

    25 min
  8. Cosmic Giants and the Quest for New Worlds: S28E99, 100 & 101

    17 AUG • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    Cosmic Giants and the Quest for New Worlds: S28E99, 100 & 101

    SpaceTime S28E99 S28E100 S28E101 w/c August 18th, 2025 Space, Astronomy and Science Podcast. SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 99 *Most massive black hole ever discovered Astronomers have discovered what is potentially the biggest supermassive black hole ever seen. *Another planet may have been discovered at Alpha Centauri Astronomers may have discovered another planet in the Alpha Centauri triple star system. *Growing concern about the proliferation of satellites in Earth orbit Astronomers have again raised concerns about the interference broadband internet satellites are causing to vital scientific research. *The Science Report Early-stage trials have shown positive results from a vaccine designed to recognise and kill cancer cells. Parents were more likely than non-parents to cheat on their partners during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Australian Navy to purchase 11 upgraded Mogami-class FFM guided missile frigates. Skeptics guide to the pseudoscience of traditional Chinese medicine. SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 100 *New details about our latest interstellar visitor Astronomers using NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope have taken the sharpest observations yet of our latest interstellar visitor – the comet 3i Atlas. *Is Earth and the Milky Way galaxy in a cosmic void A new hypothesis has revived the idea that the Earth and our entire Milky Way galaxy may reside not along one of the filaments of the cosmic web – but rather inside one of the giant voids – and that’s making the universe expand faster here than in neighbouring regions of the cosmos. *Space Station crew return safely to Earth Four SpaceX Crew 10 astronauts have returned safely to Earth after spending five months aboard the International Space Station. *The Science Report A new study suggests a Mediterranean-style diet may help slow down cognitive decline. Scientists have discovered fossil evidence of a new species of ancient whale on Victoria's Surf Coast. The new brain computer interface that can read your mind with a 74 percent accuracy. Alex on Tech countdown to the new Google Pixel 10. SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 101 *Did a comet trigger Earth’s Younger Dryas cool-off A new study has raised serious questions as to whether a massive comet may have triggered planet Earth’s Younger Dryas cool-off event. *Discovery of a rare White Dwarf merger remnant Astronomers have discovered a cosmic rarity: an ultra-massive white dwarf star resulting from a white dwarf merging with another star, rather than through the evolution of a single star. *China tests its new manned lunar lander China has successfully carried out the first test of its future manned lunar landing craft. *The Science Report Argentina's Perito Moreno Glacier now retreating much faster than previously thought. Neanderthals living in two nearby caves found to have butchered the same prey in different ways. The tiny solar-powered floating devices that could support instruments high up in the atmosphere. Skeptics guide to the last Pope. https://spacetimewithstuartgary.com https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/ This week’s guests include: Dylan Grigg from the Curtin University node of the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research. And our regular guests: Alex Zaharov-Reutt from techadvice.life Tim Mendham from Australian Skeptics 🌏 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 3m

Hosts & Guests

4.8
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

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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