S27E137: Earth's Slushy Past, Phobos' Solar Dance, and SpaceX's Orbital Boost

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 137
*The Earth: A Giant Slushie?
New research reveals that Earth once experienced a "slushy" period following its snowball Earth phase. Published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the study by Virginia Tech scientists suggests that as the planet thawed, it transitioned into a slushy state, marked by high carbon dioxide levels and rapid melting. The findings offer fresh insights into Earth's climate evolution and the resilience of life under extreme conditions.
*Phobos Eclipses the Sun
NASA's Mars Perseverance rover has captured a rare celestial event: the Martian moon Phobos eclipsing the Sun. Using its Mastcam-Z camera, Perseverance observed the tiny moon transiting the Sun from its position in Jezero Crater. This remarkable event highlights the ongoing challenges and discoveries as the rover ascends the crater's rim.
*SpaceX Dragon Boosts ISS
For the first time, NASA has utilized the SpaceX Dragon capsule to boost the International Space Station into a higher orbit. This maneuver, using Dragon's Draco thrusters, is part of a broader strategy to maintain the station's altitude and test future deorbit capabilities. The mission also delivered over 2,700 kg of supplies and scientific equipment, including a wooden cubesat and human tissue samples for aging research.
The Science Report
A new study attributes last year's global temperature spike primarily to El Nino, rather than climate change. Meanwhile, scientists discover a 161-million-year-old giant tadpole fossil, shedding light on the evolution of frogs and toads. Additionally, research indicates that popular music in the US has become simpler since the 1950s. Plus, global cell phone sales show regional variations post-COVID, with notable growth in the US, Europe, and Australia.
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00:00 This is space Time Series 27, episode 137 for broadcast on 13 November 2024
00:47 New research suggests that as the planet thawed, it went slushy
04:46 NASA's Mars Perseverance rover captures rare Phobos eclipse of the Sun
07:15 NASA uses SpaceX Dragon cargo ship to boost International Space Station to higher altitude
14:38 Study says El Nino Southern Oscillation caused global temperatures spike last year
16:55 Scientists in South America have discovered the fossilized remains of a 161 million year old tadpole
18:33 New figures show that global cell phone sales dropped following the COVID pandemic