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SpaceTime: Your Guide to Space & Astronomy

Stuart Gary
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  • ASTRONOMY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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. The Universe's Countdown: New Insights into Cosmic Fate and Fungal Origins

    53 MIN AGO

    The Universe's Countdown: New Insights into Cosmic Fate and Fungal Origins

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore the future of our universe, the latest advancements in mapping our Milky Way, and the pivotal role fungi played in the evolution of life on land. The Universe's Fate: A Big Crunch in 20 Billion Years A groundbreaking study published in the Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics reveals that the universe is approaching the midpoint of its 33 billion-year lifespan and may end in approximately 20 billion years. Lead author Henry Tighe from Cornell University presents new data suggesting that the universe's cosmological constant may be negative, leading to a contraction and eventual collapse—a phenomenon referred to as the "big crunch." This research, based on observations from the Dark Energy Survey and the dark energy spectroscopic instrument DESI, challenges long-held beliefs about the universe's eternal expansion and opens new avenues for understanding cosmic evolution. Mapping the Milky Way: Gaia's 3D View The European Space Agency's Gaia Space Telescope has unveiled the most precise three-dimensional map of star-forming regions within our Milky Way galaxy. By analysing data from 44 million stars, Gaia has provided insights into the obscured molecular clouds where new stars are born. This innovative mapping technique allows astronomers to understand the distribution of ionised gas and the dynamics of star formation, offering a fresh perspective on our galaxy's structure and the processes that shape it. Fungi: The Pioneers of Terrestrial Life A recent study published in Nature Ecology and Evolution has identified that fungi played a crucial role in preparing Earth for life on land between 900 million and 1.4 billion years ago—much earlier than previously thought. Researchers from the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology utilised a novel gene swap method to trace the evolution of fungi, suggesting that these organisms were instrumental in creating the first ecosystems and nutrient recycling processes that facilitated the emergence of terrestrial life. This discovery reframes our understanding of the timeline for life on Earth and highlights the importance of fungi in shaping our planet's biosphere. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics https://www.cosmos.esa.int/web/gaia Nature Ecology and Evolution https://www.nature.com/newe Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support. The Universe's Fate: A Big Crunch in 20 Billion Years Mapping the Milky Way: Gaia's 3D View Fungi: The Pioneers of Terrestrial Life

    26 min
  2. Ceres: The Dwarf Planet That Might Have Hosted Life?

    3 DAYS AGO

    Ceres: The Dwarf Planet That Might Have Hosted Life?

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into the intriguing potential for life on the dwarf planet Ceres, explore NASA's latest mission to study the heliosphere, and celebrate the achievements of the University of Melbourne's Spirit Nanosat. Ceres: A Potentially Habitable World? Recent research published in Science Advances suggests that Ceres, currently a frigid and frozen world, may have once harboured conditions suitable for life. By modelling the planet's thermal and chemical history, scientists propose that Ceres could have sustained a long-lasting energy source, allowing for microbial metabolism. While there's no direct evidence of life, the findings indicate that Ceres had the necessary ingredients—water, carbon, and chemical energy—that could have supported single-celled organisms in its ancient past. Nasa's New Heliospheric Mission NASA has launched the Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP) to investigate the heliosphere, the magnetic bubble surrounding our solar system. This mission aims to enhance our understanding of solar wind and its interactions with interstellar particles, which are crucial for assessing space weather impacts on Earth. IMAP will operate alongside the Carruthers Geocorona Observatory and NOAA's Swifo L1 spacecraft, contributing to a comprehensive study of our solar environment. Spirit Nanosat's Milestone Achievement The University of Melbourne's Spirit nanosatellite has successfully completed its initial mission phase, deploying its thermal management system and taking a selfie in space. Launched in December 2023, Spirit is equipped with a miniaturised gamma-ray detector to search for gamma-ray bursts, marking a significant advancement in small satellite technology and scientific exploration. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Science Advances https://www.science.org/journal/sciadv NASA IMAP Mission https://www.nasa.gov/imap University of Melbourne Spirit Nanosatellite https://www.unimelb.edu.au/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support. Ceres: A Potentially Habitable World? NASA's New Heliospheric Mission Spirit Nanosat's Milestone Achievement (00:00) New study claims the dwarf planet Ceres could once have been habitable enough for life (05:14) The Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe will study the heliosphere (15:58) New study finds tropical fish are colonising new habitats because of ocean warming (18:07) Khloe Kardashian reportedly claims she's seen UFOs and experienced paranormal activity

    21 min
  3. Mercury's Shrinking Secrets: Insights into the Solar System's Smallest Planet

    4 DAYS AGO

    Mercury's Shrinking Secrets: Insights into the Solar System's Smallest Planet

    (00:00:00) Mercury's Shrinking Secrets: Insights into the Solar System's Smallest Planet (00:00:43) Mercury's Ongoing Shrinkage (00:03:11) NASA's Carruthers Geocorona Observatory (00:11:52) Insights from Martian Meteorite NWA 16254 (00:14:23) Tech News In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore the intriguing dynamics of Mercury's shrinking size, embark on a mission to unveil Earth's elusive exosphere, and uncover the secrets of ancient volcanic activity on Mars. Mercury's Ongoing Shrinkage Recent research published in AGU Advances reveals that Mercury continues to shrink as it cools, a process that has been ongoing since its formation 4.6 billion years ago. Scientists have estimated that the planet's radius has contracted by between 2.7 to 5.6 kilometres due to cooling-induced faulting. This study employs new methods to provide a more accurate understanding of Mercury's long-term thermal history, which could also be applied to other planetary bodies, including Mars. NASA's Carruthers Geocorona Observatory NASA has launched the Carruthers Geocorona Observatory to study Earth's invisible halo, the exosphere. This mission aims to capture the first continuous observations of the Geocorona, revealing the dynamics of hydrogen atoms escaping into space. Understanding the exosphere's response to solar activity is crucial for predicting space weather events that could affect astronauts on missions to the Moon and beyond. The observatory will provide insights into how Earth retains water and may even aid in the search for exoplanets with similar atmospheric conditions. Insights from Martian Meteorite NWA 16254 A meteorite discovered in the Zaharov Desert is shedding light on Mars's ancient volcanic systems. The rock, classified as NWA 16254, offers unprecedented insights into the planet's magmatic processes, indicating a two-stage crystallisation process that occurred under varying pressure conditions. This discovery could help scientists understand Mars's thermal history and its volcanic evolution over billions of years, raising questions about the planet's past and its potential for hosting life. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References AGU Advances https://agu.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/23337380 NASA Geocorona Observatory https://www.nasa.gov/ Planetary Science Journal https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/2632-3338 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support. Mercury's Ongoing Shrinkage NASA's Carruthers Geocorona Observatory Insights from Martian Meteorite NWA 16254

    23 min
  4. Stardust from Beyond: Unveiling the Secrets of Asteroid Bennu and Saturn's Mysteries

    4 DAYS AGO

    Stardust from Beyond: Unveiling the Secrets of Asteroid Bennu and Saturn's Mysteries

    (00:00:00) Stardust from Beyond: Unveiling the Secrets of Asteroid Bennu and Saturn's Mysteries (00:00:47) Scientists have discovered minerals older than our solar system embedded in asteroid Bennu (00:10:22) Scientists using NASA's Webb telescope have uncovered mysterious features in Saturn's atmosphere (00:14:58) NASA's Parker Solar Probe completes 25th close approach to the sun (00:17:27) The Science Report In this episode of Space Time, we uncover groundbreaking discoveries that challenge our understanding of the cosmos. Join Stuart Gary as he discusses the astonishing findings from the asteroid Bennu, revealing minerals older than our solar system itself. Delve into the unexpected features observed in Saturn's atmosphere and learn about the Parker Solar Probe's close flyby of the Sun. This episode is packed with insights that could reshape our knowledge of planetary formation and cosmic history. Chapters: (00:00) This is space time series 28 episode 117 for broadcast on 29 September 2025 (00:47) Scientists have discovered minerals older than our solar system embedded in asteroid Bennu (10:13) Scientists using NASA's Webb telescope have uncovered mysterious features in Saturn's atmosphere (14:59) NASA's Parker Solar Probe completes 25th close approach to the sun (17:41) A widely reported study on apple cider vinegar and weight loss has been retracted Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

    24 min
  5. Red Dots and Black Hole Stars: Unraveling Cosmic Secrets

    26 SEPT

    Red Dots and Black Hole Stars: Unraveling Cosmic Secrets

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we dive into the cosmos to uncover the secrets of the early universe, explore the potential for black hole atmospheres, and examine the intriguing history of habitability on Mars, alongside the launch of a new deep space antenna by the European Space Agency. Mysterious Red Dots in the Early Universe Astronomers have identified a population of enigmatic red dots in the early universe, potentially representing exotic stellar atmospheres around ancient black holes. These findings, published in Astronomy and Astrophysics, could bridge the gap in understanding the rapid growth of supermassive black holes. The Webb Space Telescope's observations suggest these objects might be a new class of celestial body, challenging existing models of galaxy formation and offering insights into the origins of galaxies. Multiple Episodes of Habitability on Mars NASA's Perseverance rover has provided compelling evidence that Mars's Jezero Crater experienced multiple episodes of liquid water flooding, each capable of supporting life. By analysing geochemical data, scientists have identified various minerals that reveal a dynamic history of volcanic activity and water interactions, suggesting a complex aqueous past that could have fostered life on the Red Planet. European Space Agency's New Deep Space Dish The European Space Agency is set to inaugurate its latest Australian deep space antenna at the Norcia tracking station in Western Australia. This 35-metre parabolic dish will enhance ESA's deep space communications capabilities, supporting missions and ensuring robust data transmission from spacecraft exploring our solar system. The new facility complements ESA's existing network of antennas worldwide, reinforcing their commitment to deep space exploration. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Astronomy and Astrophysics https://www.aanda.org/ Journal of Geophysical Research Planets https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/21699356 European Space Agency https://www.esa.int/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support. Mysterious Red Dots in the Early Universe Multiple Episodes of Habitability on Mars European Space Agency's New Deep Space Dish

    27 min
  6. New Models of Cosmic Evolution: Rethinking Dark Energy and the Universe's Fate

    25 SEPT · BONUS • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    New Models of Cosmic Evolution: Rethinking Dark Energy and the Universe's Fate

    Full Unedited Interview: In this Bonus episode of SpaceTime, we delve into a revolutionary mathematical model that could reshape our understanding of the universe's evolution over the past 13.8 billion years. New Mathematical Model of the Universe Researchers have introduced a new model based on data from the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI), aiming to simplify the complexities of cosmic evolution. Lead author Leonardo Gianni from the University of Queensland explains how this model addresses the large-scale structure of the universe, likening it to a cosmic web of galaxies and voids. The study explores the role of dark energy, originally proposed by Einstein, and its implications for cosmic expansion. Gianni's work challenges conventional views, suggesting that the universe's expansion may be influenced more by the varied structures within it rather than a uniform dark energy. Understanding Cosmic Structures Gianni's model provides a framework to quantify the interactions of voids and collapsing regions, offering insight into phenomena like Hubble tension—the disparity in measurements of the universe's expansion rate. By analysing the minimum sizes of these cosmic structures, the research reveals how they can impact cosmological measurements without invoking new physics. The findings highlight the importance of accurately interpreting the universe's complexity and its implications for understanding dark matter and dark energy. The Future of Cosmic Exploration As we continue to explore the universe, questions about its ultimate fate remain. Will it expand forever, slow down, or collapse again? Gianni discusses the evidence suggesting a potential "big freeze" scenario, where the universe keeps expanding, albeit at a decreasing rate. This episode invites listeners to ponder the intricate relationship between our cosmic environment and the fundamental laws of physics, emphasising the ongoing journey of discovery in the field of cosmology. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Physical Review Letters https://journals.aps.org/prl/ Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument https://www.darkenergyspectroscopicinstrument.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support. New Mathematical Model of the Universe Understanding Cosmic Structures The Future of Cosmic Exploration

    22 min
  7. Exoplanets Galore: Celebrating 6,000 Discoveries and Exploring Venus

    24 SEPT

    Exoplanets Galore: Celebrating 6,000 Discoveries and Exploring Venus

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we celebrate a major milestone in exoplanet discoveries, unravel the enigmatic surface of Venus, and delve into the intriguing tale of interstellar comet 3I ATLAS. Exoplanet Count Surpasses 6,000 Astronomers have reached an impressive milestone, confirming their 6,000th exoplanet, a testament to the rapid pace of discoveries since the first detection of an exoplanet in 1995. This milestone not only highlights the evolving understanding of our galaxy but also raises questions about the myriad of planetary types discovered, from rocky planets to gas giants. While the hunt for Earth-like planets continues, the methods employed to discover these distant worlds remain a challenge, with fewer than 100 exoplanets directly imaged to date. The future holds promise with upcoming missions, including NASA's Nancy Chris Roman Space Telescope, which aims to further uncover the secrets of our cosmic neighbourhood. Decoding Venus's Mysterious Surface Scientists are making strides in understanding the peculiar features of Venus, particularly the crown-like structures known as coronae. A new study suggests these features may be the result of magma plumes attempting to break through the planet's crust. By mapping the paths of these magmatic bursts, researchers are shedding light on Venus's geological history and its stark contrast to Earth, despite their similarities in size and formation. The findings could help explain why Venus has become a hellish environment, devoid of life, while Earth thrives. Interstellar Comet 3I ATLAS Astronomers have captured stunning new images of interstellar comet 3I ATLAS, revealing a prominent tail and glowing coma as it journeys through the inner solar system. These observations provide valuable insights into the comet's composition and behaviour, suggesting that it shares similarities with comets originating from our own solar system. As 3I ATLAS approaches the Sun, its increasing activity offers a unique opportunity for scientists to study material that formed around distant stars. The comet is expected to re-emerge in November, promising further observations and discoveries. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References NASA Exoplanet Science Institute https://exoplanets.nasa.gov/ Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences https://www.pnas.org/ Gemini Observatory https://www.gemini.edu/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support. Exoplanet Count Surpasses 6,000 Decoding Venus's Mysterious Surface Interstellar Comet 3I ATLAS

    23 min
  8. Cosmic Webs and Dark Energy: A New Model for the Universe

    22 SEPT

    Cosmic Webs and Dark Energy: A New Model for the Universe

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we tackle the mysteries of the cosmos with a new mathematical model of the universe and ponder the age-old question: are we alone in the universe? New Model of the Universe Scientists have unveiled a groundbreaking mathematical model aimed at simplifying our understanding of the universe's evolution over the past 13.8 billion years. This innovative research, based on data from the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI), offers fresh insights into the cosmic web's structure, revealing how dark energy influences cosmic expansion. Lead author Leonardo Gianni from the University of Queensland discusses how this model challenges existing paradigms and provides a clearer picture of the universe's complex behaviour, including the impact of voids and collapsing regions of matter. Are We Alone? A new study presented at the European Planetary Science Congress raises intriguing questions about the existence of intelligent alien civilizations. Researchers estimate that the nearest technological society in our galaxy could be over 33,000 light years away, with conditions on their home planets potentially mirroring those of Earth. The study highlights the challenges of sustaining advanced life and the long timelines required for such civilizations to coexist with humanity. Partial Solar Eclipse Today, a partial solar eclipse graced the skies over New Zealand, the South Pacific, and parts of Australia and Antarctica. As the Moon passed between the Earth and the Sun, observers witnessed a stunning celestial display with up to 70% of the Sun's face obscured. This remarkable event serves as a reminder of the intricate dance of celestial bodies that shape our night sky. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Physical Review Letters https://journals.aps.org/prl/ European Planetary Science Congress https://www.epsc2025.eu/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support. New Model of the Universe Are We Alone? Partial Solar Eclipse New Model of the UniverseAre We Alone?Partial Solar Eclipse

    35 min
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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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