SpaceTime: Your Guide to Space & Astronomy

Stuart Gary
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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.

  1. Galactic Influences and Supermoons: Exploring Earth's Crust and Taikonaut Trials

    20 HR AGO

    Galactic Influences and Supermoons: Exploring Earth's Crust and Taikonaut Trials

    (00:00:00) Galactic Influences and Supermoons: Exploring Earth's Crust and Taikonaut Trials (00:00:42) Earth's geology written in the stars (00:10:30) Taikonauts stranded in space following space junk impact (00:12:38) Biggest Supermoon of the year (00:14:59) The Science Report (00:17:20) Skeptics guide to jogging big foots In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into fascinating intersections of geology and astronomy that could reshape our understanding of Earth's history and the cosmos. Earth's Geology Written in the Stars A groundbreaking study reveals a compelling connection between the structure of our Milky Way galaxy and the evolution of Earth's crust. Researchers from Curtin University have found that meteorite impacts, influenced by the solar system's journey through the galaxy, have played a significant role in shaping our planet's geology. The episode explores how ancient zircon crystals are providing a unique archive of Earth's interactions with the galaxy, suggesting that astrophysical processes may have directly influenced the continents beneath our feet and the conditions that made life possible. Taikonaut Stranded in Space In a dramatic turn of events, three Chinese taikonauts are stranded in orbit after their Shenzhou 20 spacecraft was struck by suspected space junk just hours before their scheduled return to Earth. This segment discusses the implications of the impact, the ongoing assessments by mission managers, and the potential need for a replacement capsule to ensure the crew's safe return. The episode also reflects on past incidents involving space debris and the measures taken to protect the Tiangong Space Station. The Biggest Supermoon of the Year Skywatchers around the globe were treated to the biggest supermoon of the year, appearing 7% larger and 30% brighter than a typical full moon. This segment explains the science behind the phenomenon, including the moon's elliptical orbit and its impact on tides. We also discuss how the term "supermoon" became popularised and the frequency of such lunar events, with several more supermoons on the horizon. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Physical Review https://journals.aps.org/pr/ Nature https://www.nature.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support. Earth's Geology Written in the Stars Taikonaut Stranded in Space The Biggest Supermoon of the Year Earth's Geology Written in the StarsTaikonaut Stranded in SpaceThe Biggest Supermoon of the Year

    21 min
  2. Phosphine Mysteries and Lunar Returns: Unveiling Secrets of Wolf 1130C and the Moon

    3 DAYS AGO

    Phosphine Mysteries and Lunar Returns: Unveiling Secrets of Wolf 1130C and the Moon

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore remarkable discoveries and hypotheses that could redefine our understanding of planetary atmospheres and our journey back to the Moon. Phosphine Discovery in Brian Dwarf Wolf 1130C For the first time, astronomers have detected phosphine in the atmosphere of the brown dwarf Wolf 1130C, raising intriguing questions about its presence and the chemistry of such celestial bodies. This discovery, reported in the journal Science, highlights the significance of phosphorus as a potential biosignature for life and challenges previous theories regarding the abundance of phosphine in other brown dwarfs and gas giants. The episode delves into the implications of this finding and what it means for our understanding of phosphorus chemistry in the universe. A New Hypothesis for Planetary Water Formation A groundbreaking hypothesis suggests that some planets may produce water during their formation through reactions between rocks and hydrogen under extreme pressure. This new perspective, discussed in the journal Nature, could explain the presence of liquid water on exoplanets located close to their host stars, challenging traditional views of water's origins. The episode examines the laboratory experiments that led to this hypothesis and its potential impact on our understanding of planetary habitability. Preparing for Humanity's Return to the Moon As NASA gears up for the Artemis 2 mission, which aims to send humans around the Moon, we discuss the significance of returning to the lunar south pole. This area is believed to contain more water than any other region on the Moon, making it a crucial target for future exploration. The episode highlights the advancements in technology and international collaboration that will pave the way for a sustained human presence on the Moon, furthering our exploration of the solar system. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Science https://www.sciencemag.org/ Nature https://www.nature.com/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support. Phosphine Discovery in Brian Dwarf Wolf 1130C A New Hypothesis for Planetary Water Formation Preparing for Humanity's Return to the Moon

    23 min
  3. Stellar Giants and Cosmic Mysteries: The Most Massive Black Hole Merger Yet

    6 DAYS AGO

    Stellar Giants and Cosmic Mysteries: The Most Massive Black Hole Merger Yet

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we dive into groundbreaking astronomical discoveries that challenge our understanding of the universe. The Most Massive Stellar Black Hole Merger Ever Observed Astronomers have detected the most massive stellar black hole merger to date, cataloged as GW23 1123, which resulted in a black hole with a staggering mass of 225 times that of our Sun. This episode discusses the implications of this merger, observed by the LIGO Virgo Collaboration, and how it pushes the boundaries of current theories on black hole formation. The rapid spinning of the resulting black hole raises intriguing questions about the processes that lead to such massive objects in the cosmos. Unraveling the Mystery of Dark Matter Can radio telescopes and NASA's IMAP mission provide answers to the enigma of dark matter? New research suggests that during the cosmic dark ages, dark matter clumped together, pulling in hydrogen gas that emitted powerful radio waves. This segment explores how these signals could potentially illuminate the properties of dark matter, which remains one of the biggest mysteries in astrophysics. Navigating the Heliosphere with IMAP NASA's Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP) is on a mission to study the heliosphere, the protective bubble created by the solar wind. As it travels towards its operational position, IMAP will provide unprecedented insights into the interactions between the solar wind and interstellar space, enhancing our understanding of space weather and its effects on our planet and future space exploration. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Nature Astronomy https://www.nature.com/natureastronomy/ Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences https://www.pnas.org/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support. The Most Massive Stellar Black Hole Merger Ever Observed Unraveling the Mystery of Dark Matter Navigating the Heliosphere with IMAP

    30 min
  4. Interstellar Comet 3I Atlas and Hidden Ice: Unraveling Mysteries of Water and Galaxies

    4 NOV

    Interstellar Comet 3I Atlas and Hidden Ice: Unraveling Mysteries of Water and Galaxies

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore a trio of intriguing astronomical phenomena that are reshaping our understanding of the cosmos. Interstellar Comet 3I Atlas: A Close Encounter Interstellar comet 3I Atlas has reached its perihelion, passing closest to the Sun without any signs of alien life forms, despite wild media speculation. This episode discusses how the comet maintained its expected trajectory and velocity, while also revealing groundbreaking findings from NASA's Swift Space Telescope, which detected ultraviolet signatures of water from the comet, providing new insights into the chemistry of interstellar objects and their potential to harbour the building blocks of life. A Colossal Gas Bridge Between Dwarf Galaxies Astronomers have discovered a massive bridge of neutral hydrogen gas linking two dwarf galaxies, NGC 4532 and DDO 137, located approximately 53 million light years away. This remarkable structure spans an astonishing 185,000 light years and is accompanied by a vast tail of gas extending 1 million light years. The findings shed light on how galaxies interact and evolve, particularly in dense environments like the Virgo Cluster, and offer crucial insights into the dynamics of galactic gas and star formation. Volcanic Eruptions and Hidden Ice on Mars A new study suggests that explosive volcanic eruptions on ancient Mars may have transported water ice to the equatorial regions of the Red Planet. Using computer modelling, researchers propose that water vapour released during these eruptions could have frozen in the Martian atmosphere, leading to the accumulation of significant ice deposits. This discovery could have profound implications for future human exploration of Mars, as it raises questions about the availability of water resources in unexpected locations. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Astrophysical Journal Letters https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/2041-8205 Nature Communications https://www.nature.com/naturecommunications/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support. Interstellar Comet 3I Atlas: A Close Encounter A Colossal Gas Bridge Between Dwarf Galaxies Volcanic Eruptions and Hidden Ice on Mars

    25 min
  5. Martian Ice and Cosmic Shadows: Unveiling Life and Dark Matter Mysteries

    31 OCT

    Martian Ice and Cosmic Shadows: Unveiling Life and Dark Matter Mysteries

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into groundbreaking discoveries that could reshape our understanding of life on Mars and the cosmos beyond. Martian Ice: A Potential Reservoir for Life A recent study suggests that Martian ice may be the most promising location to search for signs of ancient microbial life. Researchers found that biomolecules from dormant microbes degrade significantly slower in pure water ice compared to Martian soil mixtures. This discovery, published in the journal Astrobiology, raises hopes that future missions to Mars could uncover preserved organic materials in its icy regions, potentially revealing the planet's biological history. A Mysterious Dark Object in the Universe Astronomers have identified the lowest mass dark object ever detected, with a mass about a million times that of our Sun. This enigmatic object, reported in Nature Astronomy, may offer insights into the nature of dark matter, which constitutes a significant portion of the universe's mass. The object was detected through gravitational lensing, and its small size challenges existing theories about dark matter's composition and distribution. NASA's Call for Lunar Mission Bids NASA is seeking new bids for its Artemis Moon program, aiming to foster competition among American companies to return humans to the lunar surface. With ongoing delays from SpaceX, NASA Administrator Sean Duffy emphasizes the urgency of the mission as the U.S. races against China to achieve lunar exploration milestones. The upcoming Artemis missions promise to be pivotal in establishing a sustainable human presence on the Moon. November Skywatch with Jonathan Nally www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Astrobiology Journal https://www.liebertpub.com/journals/astrobiology/1 Nature Astronomy https://www.nature.com/natureastronomy/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support. Martian Ice: A Potential Reservoir for Life A Mysterious Dark Object in the Universe NASA's Call for Lunar Mission Bids

    32 min
  6. Lunar Relics and Interstellar Insights: Discoveries from the Moon and Comet 3I ATLAS

    29 OCT

    Lunar Relics and Interstellar Insights: Discoveries from the Moon and Comet 3I ATLAS

    (00:00:00) Lunar Relics and Interstellar Insights: Discoveries from the Moon and Comet 3I ATLAS (00:00:46) Relics of the outer solar system discovered on the Moon (00:03:30) Insights from interstellar comet 3I ATLAS (00:07:31) SpaceX's Starship Mega rocket test flight (00:23:54) The Science report (00:31:46) Episode Wrap In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore remarkable discoveries that provide new insights into our solar system and beyond. Relics of the Outer Solar System Found on the Moon A groundbreaking study reveals that meteorites found on the Moon originated from the outer solar system. Researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences have identified olivine-bearing clasts from lunar regolith collected by the Chang'e 6 mission. These relics, believed to be carbonaceous chondrites, offer critical information about the formation and evolution of planets. The findings suggest that the Moon serves as a pristine archive for meteorites, with implications for understanding the origins of lunar water and organic materials. Interstellar Comet 3I ATLAS: Insights into Alien Solar Systems The interstellar comet 3I ATLAS is revealing fascinating details about the composition of other solar systems. New observations indicate that 3I ATLAS has been active longer than expected, releasing various molecules as it travels through our solar system. This segment discusses how the comet's behavior challenges existing assumptions about comet activity and provides clues about the materials present in distant star systems. SpaceX's Starship Mega Rocket Test Flight SpaceX has successfully completed its 11th test flight of the Starship Mega rocket, demonstrating significant advancements in its design and capabilities. The mission involved various maneuvers, including hot staging and payload deployment, as well as tests of the spacecraft's reentry and landing procedures. This episode highlights the importance of these tests for future missions to the Moon and Mars, as SpaceX continues to refine the Starship for interplanetary travel. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences https://www.pnas.org/ Astrophysical Journal Letters https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/2041-8205 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support. Relics of the Outer Solar System Found on the Moon Interstellar Comet 3I ATLAS: Insights into Alien Solar Systems SpaceX's Starship Mega Rocket Test Flight

    33 min
  7. Near Miss and Cosmic Spectacles: Asteroids, Comets, and Space Junk in Earth's Orbit

    28 OCT

    Near Miss and Cosmic Spectacles: Asteroids, Comets, and Space Junk in Earth's Orbit

    (00:00:00) Near Miss and Cosmic Spectacles: Asteroids, Comets, and Space Junk in Earth's Orbit (00:00:46) Planet Earth experiences as asteroid near miss (00:02:58) Two green comets lighting up the night skies (00:07:31) Chinese space junk smashes into Western Australia (00:09:09) The Science Report (00:12:07) Skeptics guide to the magic healing Biomet (00:15:15) Show Wrap-up In this episode of SpaceTime, we dive into a series of astonishing astronomical events that recently unfolded, including a near-miss asteroid and mesmerizing comets lighting up our night skies. Asteroid 2025 TF: A Close Encounter An undetected asteroid, now designated 2025 TF, made a startling pass just 428 kilometers above Earth, equivalent to the altitude of the International Space Station. Detected by astronomers from Kitt Peak National Observatory six hours post-approach, this 3-meter space rock serves as a reminder of the many near misses that may go unnoticed. This episode discusses the implications of such encounters and the ongoing efforts to enhance planetary defense against potential threats. Green Comets Illuminate the Night Sky Skywatchers have been treated to the rare sight of two vibrant green comets, C 2025 R2 Swann and C 2025 A6 Lemon, both originating from the Oort Cloud. As they approach the sun, these comets are heating up and releasing gases, creating their characteristic tails. This segment explores their trajectories, visibility, and the exciting opportunity they present for amateur astronomers, particularly as they coincide with the annual Orionid meteor shower. Chinese Space Junk Crash in Australia In a dramatic turn of events, debris from the Chinese Jielong 3 rocket has been discovered smoldering in Western Australia's outback. This segment details the recovery of the wreckage and the ongoing investigation by the Australian Space Agency. The incident raises concerns over space debris management, especially in light of previous accidents involving Chinese spacecraft. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Astronomy and Astrophysics https://www.aanda.org/ Geophysical Research Letters https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/19448007 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support. Asteroid 2025 TF: A Close Encounter Green Comets Illuminate the Night Sky Chinese Space Junk Crash in Australia

    16 min
  8. Dust Devils and Tectonic Tales: Unraveling Mars and Earth's Deep History

    17 OCT

    Dust Devils and Tectonic Tales: Unraveling Mars and Earth's Deep History

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover the latest findings in Martian meteorology, delve into Earth's ancient tectonic activity, and prepare for humanity's return to the Moon. Raging Winds on Mars: Unveiling Martian Weather Patterns A groundbreaking study published in the journal Science Advances reveals that wind speeds on Mars can reach up to 160 km/h, significantly higher than earlier estimates. Lead author Valentin U.H. Meckel from the University of Bern discusses how these powerful winds, along with dust devils, play a crucial role in shaping Mars' climate and dust distribution. This episode explores how the observations from the European Space Agency’s Mars Express and ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter have provided unprecedented insights into Martian atmospheric dynamics, which are essential for planning future manned missions to the Red Planet. Unlocking Earth's Deep Past: New Insights into Subduction In a surprising twist to our understanding of early Earth, a new study published in Nature Communications suggests that subduction and continental crust formation occurred much earlier than previously believed. Researchers utilized advanced geochemical analysis of ancient olivine crystals to challenge the notion of a stagnant lid tectonic regime during the Hadean eon. This episode discusses the implications of these findings on our understanding of Earth's geological history and the processes that shaped our planet's surface. NASA's Artemis II: Preparing for Lunar Exploration NASA is set to send astronauts back to the Moon with the Artemis II mission, slated for launch in early 2026. This episode provides an overview of the mission's objectives, including a ten-day crewed flyby of the Moon, which will test the Orion spacecraft and gather crucial scientific data. As the crew prepares to explore the lunar far side, we discuss the significance of this mission for future lunar habitation and potential manned missions to Mars. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Science Advances https://www.science.org/journal/sciadv Nature Communications https://www.nature.com/ncomms/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support. Raging Winds on Mars: Unveiling Martian Weather Patterns Unlocking Earth's Deep Past: New Insights into Subduction NASA's Artemis II: Preparing for Lunar Exploration (00:00) Wind speeds on Mars and their implications (12:45) New findings on early Earth's tectonic activity (21:15) NASA's Artemis II mission overview (30:00) Science report: Octopus handedness and air pollution effects on sleep apnea

    24 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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