Spacetime With Stuart Gary

SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 1In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into extraordinary cosmic phenomena and the ongoing exploration of our solar system.Cosmic Matter Ejected at 20% the Speed of LightAstronomers have made a groundbreaking observation of matter being ejected from a supermassive black hole at the center of the barred spiral galaxy NGC 3783, located 135 million light years away. This matter, propelled at an astonishing 20% the speed of light, challenges previously held notions about how such superluminal jets are powered. The findings suggest that a sudden change in the magnetic field, rather than radiation, may be responsible for this high-speed outburst, providing new insights into the mechanisms of black hole dynamics and their impact on galactic evolution.Wind-Sculpted Landscapes on MarsNASA's Perseverance Rover continues its exploration of Mars, focusing on megaripples—large sand formations shaped by wind. These megaripples, some reaching up to 2 meters in height, off

SpaceTime with Stuart Gary - Series 28 Episode 154In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore significant milestones in lunar exploration and the latest challenges in space technology.Accelerated Launch for Artemis 2NASA has moved up the launch date for the historic Artemis 2 manned moon mission to early February, marking the first human journey to the moon in over 50 years since Apollo 17. The Orion spacecraft, named Integrity, will embark on a 10-day mission, completing a free return trajectory around the moon. This episode discusses the mission's objectives, including in-space demonstrations and the deployment of five cubesats, as well as the importance of this mission for future lunar exploration and potential Mars missions.New Insights from Lunar Rock SamplesRecent studies of lunar rock samples have revealed a new timeline for lunar impacts, pushing back the history of Earth's nearest celestial neighbour by 300 million years. The Apollo 17 rock sample, known as 76535, has provided crucial insights into the

SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 28 Episode 153In this episode of SpaceTime, we dive into thrilling new missions and groundbreaking discoveries in the universe.Ramses Mission to Asteroid ApophisThe European Space Agency has greenlit an exciting new mission to study the infamous doomsday asteroid Apophis. The Ramses spacecraft will closely observe the 450-meter-wide asteroid as it makes a close flyby of Earth on April 13, 2029, at a mere 32,000 kilometers away—closer than many satellites. Initially feared to be on a collision course with Earth, further observations have since ruled out the threat of impact. However, the Ramses mission aims to understand how Earth's gravitational forces might affect Apophis during this close encounter, potentially setting the stage for future impacts. The spacecraft will deploy smaller probes to monitor changes in Apophis's orbit, rotation, and surface, providing vital data for planetary defense and insight into the evolution of asteroids.Solving the Mystery of Existenc

In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover groundbreaking astronomical events and the latest advancements in space exploration.First Ever Super Kilonova DetectedAstronomers have made a significant discovery with the potential detection of the first ever super kilonova explosion. This extraordinary event, cataloged as AT 2025ULZ, is believed to have been triggered by a double supernova explosion, producing both gravitational waves and electromagnetic radiation. Lead author Manzi Kasliwal from Caltech's Palomar Observatory discusses how this unique phenomenon could reshape our understanding of stellar evolution and the formation of heavy elements in the universe. With only one confirmed kilonova event to date, this new discovery presents an exciting opportunity to explore the complexities of cosmic explosions.Blue Ghost 2 Spacecraft Shake TestFirefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost Mission 2 spacecraft has undergone rigorous shake testing at NASA's Environmental Test Laboratory. This critical assessment simulates the inte

In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore significant advancements in space exploration and innovative scientific projects.Perseverance Rover's New JourneyAfter nearly five years on Mars, NASA's Perseverance Rover is on the move again, heading to a new site on the rim of Jezero Crater named Lac du Charm. Having traversed over 40 kilometres and collected vital rock core samples, the rover is undergoing extensive evaluations to ensure its longevity, with engineers confident it can operate until at least 2031. We discuss the rover's advanced autonomous driving capabilities and its mission to uncover signs of past microbial life.Fashion Meets Science: Microbial FabricsA groundbreaking project is set to merge fashion and science by sending specially designed fabrics made from bacteria into space. These innovative materials will change colour in response to radiation exposure, potentially protecting astronauts from harmful levels of UV radiation and offering new applications for skin cancer prevention on Earth. Lead

SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 28 Episode 150In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into intriguing discoveries and ongoing challenges in the realm of astrophysics and planetary science.Cosmic Dance of Dying StarsAstronomers have made fascinating observations of a unique star system named Apep, located over 8,000 light years away in the constellation Norma. This rare system consists of three massive stars locked in a 190-year orbit, creating stunning spirals of cosmic dust. Using the advanced capabilities of NASA's Webb Space Telescope and the Very Large Telescope in Chile, researchers captured extraordinary images revealing four distinct dust shells spiraling outward from the stars. Lead author Ryan White from Macquarie University discusses how these findings enhance our understanding of stellar interactions and the evolution of massive stars over time.Titan's Liquid Ocean: A New PerspectiveA recent study challenges the long-held belief that Saturn's largest moon, Titan, harbors a vast underground

In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover groundbreaking discoveries and exciting celestial events that illuminate our understanding of the universe.Earliest Supernova Ever DetectedAstronomers have achieved a remarkable milestone by detecting the earliest supernova ever observed, dating back to a mere 730 million years after the Big Bang. Using the powerful Webb Space Telescope, this supernova, cataloged as GRB250314A, emitted a gamma ray burst that has shattered previous distance records. Lead author Andrew Levin shares insights into how this discovery provides a glimpse into the universe when it was only 5% of its current age, revealing surprising similarities with modern supernovae despite the vast differences in their epochs.Liquid Water on Mars: New EvidenceNew seismic data from NASA's Mars InSight lander suggests that liquid water could still exist beneath the Martian surface, potentially providing a habitat for microbial life. The analysis of marsquakes has revealed boundaries in the Martian crust that

SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 28 Episode 147In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into remarkable discoveries that significantly enhance our understanding of the cosmos.Longest Gamma Ray Burst Ever DetectedAstronomers have made headlines with the discovery of the longest gamma ray burst ever recorded, GRB 250702B, which lasted over seven hours. This unprecedented event is reshaping our understanding of stellar explosions and their aftermath. Initial observations indicate that this extraordinary burst may have originated from a black hole consuming a star, prompting new theories about the mechanisms behind these powerful cosmic phenomena. We explore the implications of this finding and how it challenges existing models of gamma ray bursts.Elemental Bounty in Supernova RemnantFor the first time, scientists have detected chlorine and potassium in the remnants of the supernova Cassiopeia A, utilizing the advanced capabilities of the CRISM spacecraft. This discovery sheds light on the elemental process

In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore significant developments in space exploration and cosmic studies that could reshape our understanding of the universe.Nasa's MAVEN Mars Orbiter: Communication LossNASA's MAVEN (Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution) spacecraft has gone silent, with contact lost on December 6th after passing behind Mars. The orbiter has been a vital asset for over a decade, studying the Martian atmosphere and solar wind interactions that have transformed Mars from a water-rich world to a cold desert. We delve into MAVEN's critical findings, including the mechanisms of atmospheric escape and the implications of its potential loss for ongoing Martian research.Galactic Neighbourhoods: Influencing EvolutionA new study reveals how a galaxy's local environment can significantly affect its evolution. The research, published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, demonstrates that galaxies situated in densely populated regions tend to grow more slowly and develop different s

In this episode of SpaceTime, we tackle some of the most intriguing cosmic mysteries and discoveries that could reshape our understanding of the universe.Unraveling Uranus: The Mystery of Its Radiation BeltsFor 39 years, the intense electron radiation belts surrounding Uranus have puzzled scientists since NASA's Voyager 2 flyby in 1986 revealed unexpectedly high levels of radiation. New analyses suggest these findings may be explained by a solar wind structure interacting with the Uranian system during Voyager 2's visit. This research opens up new questions about the fundamental physics governing these extreme energy levels and the unique characteristics of Uranus itself.Mapping Martian River Systems: A Historic FirstA groundbreaking study has mapped ancient river systems on Mars, identifying 16 large drainage basins that could have supported life billions of years ago. By synthesizing previous data on Martian river valleys, lakes, and canyons, scientists have outlined how these systems could have formed a gl

SpaceTime with Stuart Gary - Series 28 Episode 145In 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 BennuNASA'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 HoleAstronomers have observed numerous stars in stable orbits around Sagittarius A, the supermassive black hole at the center of

(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 DuressAstronomers 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 Spa

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 DiscoveryNASA'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 AtlasFollowing 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 pi

(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 BirthA 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

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 BreakthroughAfter 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 MilestoneThe 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 a

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 MarsThe 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 SphereA 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 fin

(00:00:00) Cosmic Speedsters: Unravelling Our Solar System's Surprising Velocity and Enceladus' Organic Secrets (00:00:46) Our solar system is moving faster than expected (00:04:38) Organic molecules discovered erupting from Saturn’s moon Enceladus (00:08:29) A new satellite launched to study Earth’s oceans (00:13:49) The Science Report (00:15:52) Alex on Tech In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover groundbreaking insights into Earth's mysteries and the cosmos beyond.Mysterious Structures in Earth's MantleA new study reveals that enigmatic structures within Earth's mantle may hold vital clues about why our planet evolved the conditions necessary for life. These massive formations, known as large low shear velocity provinces and ultra low velocity zones, reside at the boundary between the mantle and outer core, approximately 2,900 kilometres beneath the surface. The research suggests these anomalies could be remnants of Earth's formative processes, providing a deeper understanding of how elements from the co

(00:00:00) Cosmic Clues Beneath Us: The Mantle's Role in Life and the Milky Way Unveiled (00:00:47) Mysterious structures within Earth's mantle may hold clues to life (00:05:05) A new unprecedented view of the Milky Way Galaxy (00:12:36) Stranded Chinese taikonauts return safely to Earth (00:14:21) The Science Report (00:16:58) Skeptics guide to the return of the haunted doll. In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover groundbreaking insights into Earth's mysteries and the cosmos beyond.Mysterious Structures in Earth's MantleA new study reveals that enigmatic structures within Earth's mantle may hold vital clues about why our planet evolved the conditions necessary for life. These massive formations, known as large low shear velocity provinces and ultra low velocity zones, reside at the boundary between the mantle and outer core, approximately 2,900 kilometres beneath the surface. The research suggests these anomalies could be remnants of Earth's formative processes, providing a deeper understanding of how ele

(00:00:00) Exploring Mars and Beyond: The Escapade Mission and the Expanding Mysteries of the Pleiades (00:00:43) NASA's ESCAPADE mission to Mars blasts off (00:10:00) The Pleiades prove to be far bigger than thought (00:14:05) Ending the debate over interstellar comet 3I-Atlas (00:17:05) The Science Report (00:19:39) Skeptics guide to talking to plants. In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore the latest advancements in space exploration and cosmic discoveries that deepen our understanding of the universe.NASA's Escapade Mission Launches to MarsNASA has successfully launched its first dual satellite mission to Mars, the Escapade spacecraft, aboard Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket. This innovative mission aims to map the Martian magnetic field and atmosphere in three dimensions, providing crucial insights into how Mars lost its atmosphere and the conditions necessary for future human colonization. The twin probes, named Blue and Gold, will utilize a unique trajectory that allows for flexible launch windows, cr

In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into remarkable discoveries that illuminate the origins of our planet and the cosmos beyond.Ancient Australian Rocks Shed Light on Earth's OriginsScientists have made significant strides in understanding the formation of Earth and the Moon through the analysis of 3.7 billion-year-old feldspar crystals from the Murchison region in Western Australia. This research reveals that continental growth began relatively late in Earth's history, around three and a half billion years ago, suggesting a shared composition between Earth and the Moon following a colossal impact event. The findings challenge existing theories about the timing of crustal development and provide new insights into the early geological processes that shaped our planet.Hints of a Possible Fifth Force in NatureA groundbreaking report has emerged, suggesting the potential existence of a fifth fundamental force of nature. Researchers have observed unexpected deviations in electron transitions among calcium isoto