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SpaceTime with Stuart Gary

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-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support.

  1. Bennu's Bounty: Uncovering Sugars, Space Gum, and Stardust in Asteroid Samples

    17 HR AGO

    Bennu's Bounty: Uncovering Sugars, Space Gum, and Stardust in Asteroid Samples

    SpaceTime with Stuart Gary - Series 28 Episode 145 In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore groundbreaking discoveries that deepen our understanding of the origins of life and the dynamics of our galaxy. Sugars and Stardust: Insights from Asteroid Bennu NASA's Osiris Rex mission has returned samples from the asteroid Bennu, revealing the presence of biologically essential sugars, including ribose and glucose, along with a unique gum-like substance never before seen in astromaterials. These findings, published in Nature Geoscience and Nature Astronomy, suggest that the building blocks for life were widespread throughout the early solar system. The discovery of ribose supports the RNA world hypothesis, indicating that RNA might have been the first genetic material. Additionally, the presence of glucose hints at the early energy sources available for life on Earth. Stars Defying the Black Hole Astronomers have observed numerous stars in stable orbits around Sagittarius A, the supermassive black hole at the center of our galaxy. This discovery, reported in Astronomy and Astrophysics, challenges previous assumptions that these objects were merely clouds of dust on a collision course with destruction. Instead, the new data from the ERIS Enhanced Resolution Imager and Spectrograph reveals a dynamic and stable environment around the black hole, providing a unique laboratory for studying interactions between black holes and stars. Martian Mystery Solved? A new radar technique employed by NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter has cast doubt on the existence of a suspected underground lake beneath the Martian South Pole ice cap. Initial signals that suggested the presence of liquid water have been reinterpreted as possibly being layers of rock and dust. This innovative approach opens new avenues for investigating subsurface resources on Mars, which could have significant implications for future exploration. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Nature Geoscience Nature Astronomy Astronomy and Astrophysics Geophysical Research Letters Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

    33 min
  2. Galactic Tug-of-War: The Small Magellanic Cloud's Struggle Against Gravitational Forces

    1 DAY AGO

    Galactic Tug-of-War: The Small Magellanic Cloud's Struggle Against Gravitational Forces

    (00:00:00) Galactic Tug-of-War: The Small Magellanic Cloud's Struggle Against Gravitational Forces (00:00:46) One of our nearest neighbouring galaxies being torn apart (00:08:00) A giant spider on the Jovian Ice Moon Europa (00:12:23) Mars could have been habitable for long periods (00:14:14) The Science Report (00:17:23) Skeptics guide to why some people are born suckers (00:20:24) Episode Wrap In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into fascinating cosmic phenomena and groundbreaking discoveries that could reshape our understanding of the universe. The Small Magellanic Cloud: A Galaxy Under Duress Astronomers have uncovered that the Small Magellanic Cloud, a nearby dwarf galaxy, is being torn apart by gravitational forces from its neighbor, the Large Magellanic Cloud. This revelation, published in the Astrophysical Journal Letters, highlights the complex movements of Cepheid variable stars within the galaxy, indicating that it is being stretched in multiple directions. By utilizing data from the European Space Agency's Gaia satellite, researchers have gained unprecedented insights into the interactions between these two galaxies, prompting a reevaluation of their structural dynamics and gravitational relationships with the Milky Way. Europa's Spider: Signs of Subsurface Water? A striking spider-like feature on Jupiter's moon Europa has scientists buzzing with excitement. Researchers suggest this formation, found near the Menanan impact crater, may be evidence of subsurface water seeping through the moon's icy crust following an asteroid impact. The findings, reported in the Planetary Science Journal, could have significant implications for the moon's habitability and the presence of life. By drawing parallels with similar features on Mars, scientists are eager to explore Europa's subsurface properties further, especially with the upcoming Europa Clipper mission set to launch in April 2030. Mars: A Longer Habitable History? New research indicates that Mars may have been habitable for a much longer duration than previously believed. A study published in the Journal of Geophysical Research Planets reveals that ancient underground water may have flowed beneath the Martian sand dunes, creating conditions conducive to life long after its surface water disappeared. This discovery not only enhances our understanding of Mars' geological history but also highlights the potential of subsurface environments as targets for future exploration in the search for past life. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Astrophysical Journal Letters Planetary Science Journal Journal of Geophysical Research Planets Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

    22 min
  3. Galactic Tug-of-War: The Small Magellanic Cloud's Struggle for Survival and Europa's Spider Mystery| S28E144, 145 & 146

    3 DAYS AGO • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    Galactic Tug-of-War: The Small Magellanic Cloud's Struggle for Survival and Europa's Spider Mystery| S28E144, 145 & 146

    SpaceTime S28E144 S28E145 S28E146 w/c December 8, 2025 Space, Astronomy and Science Podcast. SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 144 *One of our nearest neighbouring galaxies being torn apart Astronomers have discovered that the Small Magellanic Cloud is being pulled apart by massive gravitational forces. *A giant spider on the Jovian Ice Moon Europa A new study claims a unique, spider-like feature on the Jovian ice moon Europa may be sub surface water seeping through the crust following an asteroid impact. *Mars could have been habitable for long periods A new study suggests Mars may have been habitable for far longer than believed based on evidence of ancient underground water flows. *The Science Report Another stem cell patient now appears to have been cured of AIDS. Palaeontologists discover a world record number fossilised dinosaur footprints in Bolivia. Looking at the origins of the domestic house cat. Skeptics guide to why some people are born suckers. SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 145 *Sugars, gum and stardust found in the asteroid Bennu Regolith collected by NASA’s OSIRIS-REx spacecraft during its sample return mission to the asteroid Bennu have revealed sugars essential for biology, a gum-like substance not seen before in astro-materials, and an unexpectedly high abundance of dust produced by supernova explosions. *Stars defy a monster black hole at the galactic centre Astronomers have detected what appear to be numerous stars in stable orbits around Sagittarius A* -- the supermassive black hole at the centre of the Milky Way Galaxy. *The new technique that solved a Martian mystery A new study suggests an underground lake at the Martian south pole ice cap is just a layer of rock and dust. *The Science Report A new study warns that the risk of Dementia increases with any level of alcohol consumption. Palaeontologists have confirmed that anacondas have been giant for over 12 million years. Study confirms that AI bots can influence elections. Alex on Tech: Age verification scams are now rife. SpaceTime 20251212 Series 28 Episode 146 *The mystery of the ice giant’s radiation belts Scientists believe they may finally have resolved a 39-year-old mystery about the radiation belts around the planet Uranus. *Mapping Martian river systems for first time A new study has begun the task of mapping ancient river systems across the red planet Mars. *2026 Australasian Sky Guide The 2026 Australasian Sky Guide released providing sky watchers with a monthly tour of the night skies. *The Science Report Could volcanic activity have contributed to the spread of the black death. A new study claims people who want kids are more likely to find older faces attractive. Claims the traditional Korean fermented food kimchi enhances the function of human immune cells. Skeptics guide to TikTok’s so called medical experts. https://spacetimewithstuartgary.com https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/ This week’s guests include: Remy Indebetouw from the University of Virginia and the National Radio Astronomy Observatory. OSIRIS-REx Co-Investigator Daniel Glavin from NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Centre. Dr Nick Lomb Consultant Curator of astronomy at the Powerhouse Museum's Sydney Observatory. 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 discounts and bonuses are incredible! And it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌

    1h 12m
  4. Lightning Strikes Mars: The First Detection of Electrical Discharges and NASA's New Look at Comet 3I Atlas

    5 DAYS AGO

    Lightning Strikes Mars: The First Detection of Electrical Discharges and NASA's New Look at Comet 3I Atlas

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore groundbreaking discoveries and intriguing phenomena from Mars to the depths of space. Lightning Strikes on Mars: A Historic Discovery NASA's Perseverance Rover has made a remarkable find by detecting lightning in the Martian atmosphere for the first time. Recorded within two dust devils in Jezero Crater, the rover's Supercam microphone captured electromagnetic and acoustic signals indicative of electrical discharges. This discovery not only confirms long-held theories about Martian electrical activity but also reveals significant implications for the planet's atmospheric chemistry and potential hazards for future missions. NASA's Observations of Interstellar Comet 3I Atlas Following the European Space Agency's observations, NASA has released stunning images of interstellar comet 3I Atlas. As the comet passed close to Mars, NASA's MAVEN and Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter provided crucial data on its trajectory and chemical composition. These insights are helping astronomers piece together the comet's journey and origins, revealing potential clues about water in other star systems. Moss in Space: Resilience Against the Void A new study has shown that moss can survive the harsh conditions of space for up to 15 years. Researchers sent moss spores to the International Space Station, where they thrived despite exposure to the vacuum and extreme temperatures. This remarkable resilience could have implications for understanding life's potential to endure in extreme environments beyond Earth. Skywatch: December Highlights As the December solstice approaches, we take a look at the night sky's highlights, including the Geminids meteor shower and the ticking time bomb of Eta Carina. We also discuss the significance of the December solstice and the celestial events that define this time of year. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Journal of Nature NASA Reports Journal of Eye Science Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support. (00:00:00) NASA's Mars Perseverance Rover has captured evidence of electrical discharges (00:03:47) NASA publishes its own observations of the Interstellar Comet 3I Atlas (00:07:26) Moss spores survive exposure to vacuum of space for up to 15 years (00:09:40) The December solstice marks the beginning of winter in both hemispheres (00:11:54) Axial precession causes a slow and continuous change in Earth's rotational axis (00:15:11) Astronomers describe stars in terms of spectral types based on temperature and characteristics (00:19:04) Two blue stars nearing end of their lives before exploding massive core collapse supernovae (00:24:23) Just above the horizon is the constellation of Orion the Hunter (00:34:04) Canopus talks about the effect of the Moon on stargazing (00:37:03) The Southern Cross starts near the celestial equator and wanders far south (00:39:06) There are two star clusters that we speak about quite often on the show (00:41:50) The only planet that's up in the early evening is Saturn

    45 min
  5. Theia Unveiled: Tracing the Origins of Earth's Moon and Lucy's Journey to Jupiter's Trojans

    3 DEC

    Theia Unveiled: Tracing the Origins of Earth's Moon and Lucy's Journey to Jupiter's Trojans

    (00:00:00) Theia Unveiled: Tracing the Origins of Earth's Moon and Lucy's Journey to Jupiter's Trojans (00:00:50) New study claims Theia and Earth were once neighbours (00:06:16) Lucy’s mission to Jupiter’s trojan asteroids (00:15:26) Starliner’s next mission to be limited to cargo only (00:17:57) The Science Report (00:23:17) Alex on Tech: Dooms Day clock countdown to Digital ID In this episode of SpaceTime, we dive into the intriguing origins of our Moon and the latest developments in space exploration. Theia: The Lost Planet Behind the Moon's Birth A groundbreaking study reveals that Theia, the small planet believed to have collided with Earth to form the Moon, originated from the inner solar system. Researchers from the Max Planck Institute and the University of Chicago have analyzed isotopic compositions of Earth and Moon rocks, suggesting that Theia was likely composed of materials found closer to the Sun than Earth's orbit. This discovery sheds light on the nature of this celestial body and its dramatic impact on our planet's history. Lucy Mission Update: Journey to Jupiter's Trojans NASA's Lucy spacecraft, launched in October 2021, is on an ambitious 12-year mission to explore Jupiter's Trojan asteroids. These ancient remnants from the solar system's formation are crucial for understanding planetary development. Lucy will visit seven asteroids, including both leading and trailing Trojan swarms, providing unprecedented insights into the early solar system. Principal Investigator Hal Levison emphasizes that the mission will revolutionize our understanding of planetary formation and the origins of volatiles and organics on terrestrial planets. Starliner Mission Limited to Cargo In a significant setback, NASA has announced that Boeing's Starliner spacecraft will only carry cargo on its next mission to the International Space Station. This decision follows a series of technical issues that plagued Starliner's previous flights. With the total number of planned missions reduced from six to four, NASA aims to ensure safety and reliability before allowing crewed flights again. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Journal of Science NASA Reports Max Planck Institute Studies Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

    30 min
  6. Dark Matter Detected: A Breakthrough in Cosmic Mystery and CHEOPS' Next Milestone

    1 DEC

    Dark Matter Detected: A Breakthrough in Cosmic Mystery and CHEOPS' Next Milestone

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore groundbreaking advancements in our understanding of the universe and the challenges faced in space exploration. Detecting Dark Matter: A Major Breakthrough After nearly a century of speculation, scientists may have finally detected dark matter. A report in the Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics reveals that gamma rays emitted from dark matter particle collisions have been observed using NASA's Fermi Gamma Ray Space Telescope. This discovery aligns with predictions about dark matter's existence and could signify a new particle not included in the current standard model of particle physics. If confirmed, this finding would represent one of the most significant developments in astronomy and physics to date. CHEOPS Spacecraft Nears Milestone The European Space Agency's CHEOPS (Characterizing Exoplanet Satellite) is approaching another milestone as it enters its sixth year of a mission initially planned for three and a half years. Launched in December 2019, CHEOPS aims to determine the size and characteristics of known exoplanets. With its 30-centimeter optical telescope, the spacecraft has been crucial in observing transiting exoplanets and will now extend its search to include exomoons, enhancing our understanding of planetary systems beyond our own. Disaster at Baikonur Cosmodrome A major disaster struck at the Baikonur Cosmodrome during the launch of the Soyuz MS.28 spacecraft to the International Space Station. The mobile service platform collapsed due to the rocket's exhaust plume, resulting in significant damage to the launch pad. This incident leaves Russia without a functional facility for manned space missions for the first time in 60 years, delaying upcoming launches and posing challenges for future missions. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics European Space Agency Reports NASA News Releases Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

    27 min
  7. 30 NOV • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    Dark Matter Discovery: Unveiling the Cosmos' Invisible Mass and the CHEOPS Mission Milestone| S28E141, 142 & 143

    SpaceTime S28E141 S28E142 S28E143 w/c December 1, 2025 Space, Astronomy and Science Podcast. SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 141 *Have scientists finally detected dark matter After nearly 100 years, astronomers may finally have detected that mysterious substance known as dark matter. *Cheops about to reach another mile stone The European Space Agency’s Cheops spacecraft is about to reach another mile stone as it heads towards the sixth year of what was originally meant to be a three and a half year mission. *A major disaster at the Baikonur Cosmodrome as the Soyuz MS-28 blast off bound for the International Space Station A major disaster at the Baikonur Cosmodrome as a new crew blasts off bound for the International Space Station. The three expedition 73/74 members included one American Astronaut and two Russian cosmonauts. *The Science Report A new study warns that autistic people are more likely to have suicide-related behaviours New details about the creators of Easter Island’s famous Rapa Nui statues. The origins of a 3.4-million-year-old partial Australopithecus foot found in Ethiopia. Skeptics guide to the evil Silvia Browne. SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 142 *New study claims Theia and Earth were once neighbours A new study has found that the small planet that collided with Earth to create the Moon, also originated in the inner Solar System. *Lucy’s mission to Jupiter’s trojan asteroids NASA’s Lucy spacecraft was launched in October 2021 on a 12-year mission to study Jupiter’s trojan asteroids, two clusters of asteroids that share the gas giant’s orbit around the Sun. *Starliner’s next mission to be limited to cargo only NASA says Boeing's trouble plagued Starliner spacecraft won't carry astronauts on its next flight to the International Space Station. *The Science Report Neuroscientists have identified five major epochs of brain structure over the course of a human life. Study shows water fluoridation doesn’t have any negative effects on brain development. China’s People’s Liberation Army successfully tests of a new type of non-nuclear hydrogen bomb. Alex on Tech: Dooms Day clock countdown to Digital ID. SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 143 *Lightning detected on Mars for the first time NASA's Mars Perseverance rover has captured evidence of electrical discharges – lightning -- in the red planet’s atmosphere. *NASA’s new images of Interstellar Comet 3I ATLAS Hot on the heels of the European Space Agency’s observations of the Interstellar Comet 3I ATLAS – NASA as published its own observations using data from its MAVEN spacecraft which is also orbiting the red planet. *Moss can survive in space A new study has shown that moss could survive in the deadly vacuum of space for up to 15 years. *December Skywatch The December Solstice, the ticking time bomb of Eta Carinae and the rock comet Phaethon are among the highlights of the December night skies on SkyWatch https://spacetimewithstuartgary.com https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/ This week’s guests include: Cheops project scientist Kate Isaak from ESA Lucy Principal Investigator Hall Levison from the south West Research Institute in Boulder Colorado. Lucy Deputy Principal Investigator Cathy Olkin from the south West Research Institute in Boulder Colorado. 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 discounts and bonuses are incredible! And it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌

    1h 38m
  8. Interstellar Insights: Tracking Comet 3I/Atlas and the Ganon Superstorm's Impact on Earth

    28 NOV

    Interstellar Insights: Tracking Comet 3I/Atlas and the Ganon Superstorm's Impact on Earth

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into the latest discoveries and challenges in space exploration and Earth science. Tracking Interstellar Comet 3I Atlas from Mars The European Space Agency has successfully monitored interstellar comet 3I Atlas from its ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter, significantly improving the accuracy of its predicted trajectory by a factor of ten. The comet, which travels at speeds of up to 250,000 km/h, was observed from a unique vantage point, allowing astronomers to refine its path through our solar system. This remarkable achievement underscores the importance of multi-location observations in planetary defense efforts. Geomagnetic Superstorm Ganon's Impact on Earth's Plasma Sphere A recent study reveals how the geomagnetic superstorm Ganon dramatically compressed Earth's plasmasphere, reducing its size to just a fifth of its normal extent. This event, which occurred in May 2024, provides crucial insights into the effects of extreme space weather on our planet's protective layers. The findings will enhance solar storm forecasts and help safeguard satellites and communication systems during such events. Delays for the Dream Chaser Spaceplane Sierra Space's Dream Chaser spaceplane faces further delays, now expected to launch its first orbital flight in approximately a year. Originally designed for crew transport, the spacecraft is now slated for resupply missions to the International Space Station. Despite setbacks, recent tests have demonstrated its systems' readiness for future operations, although challenges remain as the ISS's operational life nears its end. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Earth Planets and Space Journal Journal of the American Chemical Society NASA Reports Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

    25 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-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support.

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