Spacetime With Stuart Gary

In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover the latest revelations in astrophysics, including the intriguing prospect of supermassive dark stars, Australia's ambitious lunar rover mission, and fresh insights into the formation of our solar system.Supermassive Dark Stars: A New Cosmic DiscoveryAstronomers have identified potential candidates for a new type of star in the early universe, known as supermassive dark stars. Recent observations from the Webb Space Telescope suggest that these stars, primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, are supported against gravitational collapse by dark matter. This episode delves into how these dark stars could help explain the existence of supermassive black holes and the unexpectedly bright distant galaxies observed by Webb. With the possibility of a smoking gun signature in their spectra, the implications of this discovery could reshape our understanding of dark matter and stellar evolution.Australia's Lunar Rover Mission: A Step Towards the MoonWork is underway on Australi

In this episode of SpaceTime, we dive into the fascinating findings from Saturn's icy moon Enceladus, discuss delays in the Dream Chaser spaceplane's launch schedule, and celebrate NASA's breakthroughs in laser communications for deep space missions.Enceladus: Unveiling Complex ChemistryRecent discoveries reported in the journal Nature Astronomy reveal that Saturn's moon Enceladus is spewing complex organic molecules from its subsurface ocean. Data collected by the Cassini spacecraft during its mission has unveiled fresh insights into the chemical reactions occurring in this hidden ocean. The presence of organic molecules, including precursors for amino acids, raises the possibility that Enceladus may have once harboured conditions suitable for life. This episode explores how these findings could inform future missions aimed at further investigating Enceladus and its potential habitability.Dream Chaser Spaceplane: A Delay in LaunchSierra Space has announced that their Dream Chaser spaceplane's first free flig

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 YearsA 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 ViewThe European Space Agency's Gaia Space Telescope has unvei

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 MissionNASA has launched the Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP) to investigate the heliosphere, the magnetic bubble surrounding our solar system. This mission aims to

(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 ShrinkageRecent 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 ObservatoryNASA ha

(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

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 UniverseAstronomers 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 MarsNASA's Perseverance rover has provided compelling evidence that Mars's Jezero Crater experienced multiple episodes of liquid water flooding, each

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 6,000Astronomers 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 SurfaceScientists are making strides in understanding th

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 UniverseScientists 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 technolog

In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore the thrilling prospects of observing exploding black holes, an astonishing stellar jet on the outskirts of the Milky Way, and the meticulous preparations for an Earth observation satellite mission.Exploding Black Holes on the HorizonA groundbreaking study suggests that astronomers may soon witness a black hole explosion, an event theorised to occur once every 100,000 years. Researchers now believe there’s a 90% chance of observing such an explosion within the next decade, potentially revealing primordial black holes formed shortly after the Big Bang. These explosions could provide a comprehensive catalogue of all subatomic particles, including those yet to be discovered, fundamentally altering our understanding of the universe's origins.Immense Stellar Jet DiscoveredAstronomers have identified a colossal stellar jet erupting from a young star in the Milky Way's outskirts, specifically in the Sharpless 2284 region. This rare phenomenon involves twin jets of hot plasma e

In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover the secrets of ancient geology, explore the watery past of an asteroid, and delve into the origins of globular clusters.Supercontinent Breakup RevealedScientists have made significant strides in understanding the breakup of the supercontinent Rodinia, which occurred over 800 million years ago. Research conducted on rare minerals in Outback Australia has revealed how niobium-rich carbonatites rose through fault zones during tectonic rifting, providing insights into the geological processes that shaped our planet. These findings not only illuminate the history of Rodinia but also highlight the importance of niobium in modern technologies, such as electric vehicles and advanced alloys.Water Activity on Asteroid RichieExciting new research confirms that liquid water once flowed on the parent body of the near-Earth asteroid Richie, challenging previous assumptions about water activity on asteroids. Analysis of rock samples returned by Japan's Hayabusa2 mission has shown evi

In this episode of SpaceTime, we dive into groundbreaking discoveries on Mars, the intriguing atmosphere of Makemake, and the awe-inspiring total lunar eclipse that captivated millions.Potential Biosignatures on MarsNASA scientists have revealed that samples collected by the Perseverance rover from Jezero Crater may hold the best chance yet of uncovering evidence of past microbial life. The samples, taken from the rock formation known as Chiava Falls, exhibit characteristics that could indicate potential biosignatures. These findings suggest that Mars may have been habitable for longer than previously thought, challenging earlier assumptions about the planet's history.Atmosphere Discovered on MakemakeIn a remarkable discovery, astronomers have detected indications of a methane gas atmosphere on the distant dwarf planet Makemake. This finding, made using NASA's Webb Space Telescope, suggests the presence of a tenuous atmosphere or possibly cryovolcanic activity. Makemake, which resides in the Kuiper Belt, is n

Sponsor Details:This episode of SpaceTime is brought to you with the support of Insta360. Capture your adventures with their latest game-changer, the GOUltra. For a special SpaceTime listener offer, visit store.insta360.com and use the promo code SPACETIME at checkout. Help support SpaceTime and get a great deal. Win/win!In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore fascinating insights into the origins of Earth's water, the launch of Israel's advanced spy satellite, and the development of a groundbreaking high-energy rocket fuel.About Earth's Water OriginsRecent findings suggest that the water in Comet 12P Pons-Brooks shares the same isotopic signature as Earth's oceans, bolstering the hypothesis that comets played a vital role in delivering water and essential ingredients for life to our planet. Observations from the Atacama Large Millimetre/Submillimeter Array telescope reveal that the deuterium to hydrogen ratio in the comet's water is remarkably similar to that found in Earth's oceans, providing compelling ev

Sponsor Details:This episode of SpaceTime is brought to you with the support of Insta360. Capture your adventures with their latest game-changer, the GOUltra. For a special SpaceTime listener offer, visit store.insta360.com and use the promo code SPACETIME at checkout. Help support SpaceTime and get a great deal. Win/win!In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into some astounding revelations in solar physics and planetary science, including the extreme temperatures of solar flares, new insights into the formation of Jupiter's core, and the tantalising possibility of life evolving on nearby exoplanets.Solar Flares Hotter Than Ever ImaginedRecent research has revealed that solar flares can reach temperatures exceeding 60 million degrees Celsius, a staggering six and a half times hotter than previously believed. This groundbreaking finding, published in the Astrophysical Journal Letters, may provide answers to a long-standing mystery regarding solar flare spectral lines. The study suggests that positively charge

Sponsor Details:This episode of SpaceTime is brought to you with the support of Insta360. Capture your adventures with their latest game-changer, the GOUltra. For a special SpaceTime listener offer, visit store.insta360.com and use the promo code SPACETIME at checkout. Help support SpaceTime and get a great deal. Win/win!In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover groundbreaking discoveries in planetary science and solar physics, including the remnants of ancient asteroids on Mars, the recovery of the Mother's Day meteorite, and new insights into solar energetic particles.Asteroid Remnants Found in Martian MantleA new study reveals that fragments from ancient asteroids, which significantly impacted Mars around 4.5 billion years ago, are now trapped within the planet's mantle. Data from NASA's Mars Insight lander has provided unprecedented insights into the Martian interior, showing that these remnants, some up to four kilometres wide, offer a unique glimpse into Mars' geological history. The findings suggest a s

In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover some of the most exciting discoveries and developments in the universe, including the detection of the brightest fast radio burst ever observed, the New Horizons spacecraft's record-setting hibernation, and an innovative method for generating oxygen in space.Brightest Fast Radio Burst DetectedAstronomers have identified what is being hailed as the brightest fast radio burst (FRB) ever recorded. Catalogued as FRB 2025 0316A, this extraordinary flash of energy was detected 130 million light years away in the spiral galaxy NGC 4141. The burst's unprecedented brightness and proximity provide scientists with a unique opportunity to study its origins and the environment surrounding it, potentially shedding light on the enigmatic sources of these fleeting cosmic phenomena.New Horizons Enters Record HibernationNASA's New Horizons spacecraft has officially begun a record-setting hibernation period as it journeys through the Kuiper Belt, now over 9.2 billion kilometres from Eart

In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore the latest developments in space exploration, including the European Space Agency's Juice mission, NASA's Psyche spacecraft, and groundbreaking advancements in lunar resource utilization.Juice Mission Back on TrackThe European Space Agency's Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer, Juice, is set for a critical flyby of Venus after overcoming a communications anomaly that temporarily severed contact with Earth. Engineers successfully restored communication with the spacecraft, which is now on its way to study Jupiter's Galilean moons—Ganymede, Callisto, and Europa—believed to harbor subsurface oceans that may support extraterrestrial life. The flyby will assist Juice in gaining the necessary speed for its journey to Jupiter, scheduled for arrival in 2031.Psyche Spacecraft CalibrationNASA's Psyche spacecraft, launched in 2023, has successfully calibrated its onboard cameras as it journeys toward the metal-rich asteroid of the same name. The spacecraft aims to unlock the secrets of pl

In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into thrilling advancements in space exploration, including a remarkable test flight of SpaceX's Starship, groundbreaking insights into Mars, and a classified mission from the United States Space Force.Starship's Spectacular Test FlightAfter overcoming numerous challenges, SpaceX's Starship has successfully completed its 10th test flight, launching from Texas and splashing down in the Indian Ocean. This flight demonstrated the rocket's capabilities, including a controlled splashdown of the Super Heavy booster and the successful deployment of Starlink satellite simulators. The mission provided critical data on the vehicle's performance during reentry, including stress testing its heat shield.New Insights into MarsThe European Space Agency's Mars Express Orbiter has provided new observations of the Acheron Foci region, revealing the geological forces that have shaped the Red Planet. These findings highlight the impact of ancient geological upheaval and climatic shifts on M

This episode is brought to you by the support of Insta360 - the leaders and innovators in portable 360 Photography. And they have just released the all new UltraGo...the take anywhere camera. Get all the details by visiting store.insta360.com and use the promo code SPACETIME at checkout for our special listener offer. In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore groundbreaking discoveries and developments in the realm of astrophysics and space exploration.Rogue Planets and Their PotentialA fascinating new study reveals that giant free-floating planets, known as rogue planets, may have the ability to form their own miniature planetary systems independently of a host star. Observations from the Webb Space Telescope have identified young rogue planets with masses between 5 to 10 times that of Jupiter. These dim objects, which emit primarily in the infrared spectrum, are believed to hold secrets about the formation of planetary systems. The findings indicate that disks of warm dust surrounding these planets could pro

This episode of SpaceTime is brought to you by Insta360's newest camera, the GoUltra. To get more details on this go anywhere camera, visit store.insta360.com and for our special offer use the code SPACETIME at checkout.In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover the mysteries lurking in the cosmos, from a rogue supermassive black hole to a meteorite crash in Georgia, and the origins of asteroids Bennu and Ryugu.An Invisible Monster in the CosmosAstronomers have made a chilling discovery of a supermassive black hole, 600 million light years away, that has been lurking in the darkness of space. Using NASA's Hubble and Chandra space telescopes, along with a Very Large Array radio telescope, researchers identified this rogue black hole that consumes stars and planets that venture too close. The black hole was revealed through a tidal disruption event, where a star was torn apart and swallowed, offering a glimpse into the physics of these cosmic behemoths.Meteorite Slams into Georgia HomeIn an extraordinary event, a