Spacetime With Stuart Gary

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

In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore the latest astronomical phenomena and significant discoveries that are shaping our understanding of Earth and space.Auroral Displays Light Up the SkiesPlanet Earth has been treated to an extraordinary display of auroras, with both the Aurora Australis and Aurora Borealis lighting up the skies following three powerful X-class solar flares, including an X 5.1 event on November 11. This segment dives into the mechanics behind these solar flares, the resulting coronal mass ejections (CMEs), and how they triggered spectacular auroras visible at lower latitudes than usual, including sightings as far north as Cairns and even Florida.Largest Modern Impact Crater DiscoveredScientists have uncovered what is believed to be the largest modern impact crater on Earth, the 900-metre-wide Jinling Crater in southern China. This well-preserved structure, dating back to the Holocene epoch, offers new insights into extraterrestrial impacts and their effects on our planet. The discovery ch

(00:00:00) Cosmic Beginnings and Stellar Discoveries: Unveiling the First Stars and Secrets of the Moon (00:00:47) Have astronomers finally seen the universe’s first stars (00:04:06) Hidden secrets about the Moon and the asteroid Vesta (00:10:45) Euclid peers deep into a stellar nursery full of baby stars (00:16:05) The Science Report (00:18:09) Skeptics guide to flat earthers falling flat on their face again In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover groundbreaking findings that could reshape our understanding of the universe's early stars, the Moon's hidden secrets, and the asteroid Vesta's internal structure.First Stars DetectedAstronomers may have finally glimpsed the universe's first stars, known as Population 3 stars, thanks to observations from NASA's Webb Space Telescope. These luminous giants, formed just 200 million years after the Big Bang, are believed to have ended the cosmic dark ages and initiated the epoch of reionisation. The episode delves into the significance of these findings, which sugges

(00:00:00) Decelerating Cosmos and Solar Secrets: Unravelling Dark Energy and the Sun's Magnetic Dance (00:00:45) More confirmation that the Universe's expansion is slowing (00:08:53) First glimpse of the Sun’s polar magnetic field in motion (00:14:09) Space Weather events ramping up (00:18:24) The Science Report (00:20:29) Alex on Tech NEO the humanoid housekeeper In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore significant revelations about the universe's expansion, the Sun's magnetic field, and the current surge in solar weather activity.The Universe's Expansion Rate is SlowingA new study has confirmed that the universe's rate of expansion, which began after the Big Bang 13.8 billion years ago, is slowing down. This finding contradicts previous theories suggesting that the expansion was accelerating due to dark energy. We delve into the implications of this research, which indicates that dark energy may be evolving more rapidly than previously understood, potentially marking a paradigm shift in cosmology. The epi

(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 StarsA 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 ma

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 1130CFor 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 FormationA groundbreaking hypothesis suggests that some planets may produce water during their formation through reactions between rocks and hydrogen under extreme pressure. This new perspective, d

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 ObservedAstronomers 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 MatterCan 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