Spacetime With Stuart Gary

SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 07Dark Matter's Role in Milky Way's Stellar StreamsNew research suggests that dark matter may have influenced the formation of the GD-1 stellar stream in the Milky Way. A study in the Astrophysical Journal Letters proposes that a core-collapsing, self-interacting dark matter subhalo could explain the unusual spur and gap features observed in the stream. This finding could deepen our understanding of dark matter's properties and its influence on the universe.Sun's Triple Solar Flare EruptionThe Sun has unleashed three significant X-class solar flares in a single day, with the first and third being X1.1 flares and the second an X1.5. These powerful eruptions, detected by NOAA's Solar Ultraviolet Imager, are part of the Sun's approach to solar maximum, the peak of its 11-year solar cycle. Solar flares can disrupt Earth's communications, power grids, and pose health risks to astronauts.Quadrantids Meteor Shower SpectacleThe Earth is experiencing the Quadrantids meteor shower, offering

SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 06Formation of Pluto-Charon Binary SystemA new study reveals that the formation of the Pluto-Charon dwarf planet binary system may mirror that of the Earth-Moon system. The research, published in Nature Geoscience, suggests that both systems feature a secondary body significantly large in comparison to the primary, unlike other moons in our solar system. The findings could explain Pluto's active geology and potential subsurface ocean, highlighting the significance of giant impacts in shaping planetary bodies.BepiColombo's Final Mercury FlybyThe BepiColombo spacecraft has completed its final close flyby of Mercury, passing just 295 kilometres above the planet's surface. This manoeuvre marks the last gravity assist required for the joint ESA and JAXA mission before it enters Mercury's orbit in late 2026. The mission aims to study Mercury's magnetic field, surface composition, and interaction with the solar wind, enhancing our understanding of planets close to their host stars.Astrono

SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 05Volcanic Activity on MarsNew research suggests recent volcanic activity on Mars, with eruptions possibly occurring within the last 50,000 years. This discovery, based on satellite observations, highlights a mysterious dark deposit in Elysium Planitia, indicating explosive volcanism. The findings could mean Mars is still volcanically active, raising possibilities of habitable conditions due to interactions between magma and icy substrates.Mysteries of Supernova 1987AAstronomers using the Murchison Wide Field Array have been delving into the enigmatic Supernova 1987A. The supernova, marking the death of a blue supergiant star, offers insights into stellar evolution. The peculiar hourglass shape and the unexpected blue supergiant phase of the progenitor star continue to puzzle scientists.Dream Chaser Space Plane Launch DelayedThe inaugural flight of the Dream Chaser space plane, Tenacity, is now scheduled for May. The spacecraft will carry supplies to the International Space Station

SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 04Challenging the Existence of Dark EnergyA groundbreaking study from the University of Canterbury in New Zealand is challenging the long-held belief in dark energy, suggesting that the universe's expansion might not require this enigmatic force. The research proposes the "timescape" model, which accounts for variations in cosmic expansion rates by considering differences in gravitational time dilation. This model could potentially resolve some of the universe's biggest mysteries, including the Hubble tension, by suggesting that dark energy is simply a misinterpretation of cosmic conditions.Solar Wind Slowing Beyond PlutoNASA's New Horizons spacecraft has detected a slowdown in the solar wind as it travels beyond Pluto. The data reveals that the solar wind, a stream of charged particles from the Sun, decelerates as it picks up interstellar material. This discovery offers new insights into the heliosphere's outer reaches and the interaction between solar and interstellar forces.Venu

SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 03Parker Solar Probe's Historic JourneyNASA's Parker Solar Probe has made history by becoming the fastest man-made object, surviving a record-breaking close approach to the Sun's surface. The probe, travelling at an unprecedented speed of 155,520 kilometres per hour, flew just 6.1 million kilometres above the Sun, providing invaluable data to help scientists understand the Sun's impacts on the solar system, including Earth. This mission marks a significant achievement in space exploration, shedding light on the Sun's mysterious processes and aiding in the search for habitable worlds beyond our planet.Mystery of Ultra Luminous X-Ray SourcesAstronomers have detected unusual flaring activity in an ultra luminous X-ray source, challenging our understanding of these enigmatic cosmic phenomena. Observations reveal flux variations by up to a factor of six over a few hours, offering new insights into the nature of these powerful sources, which could be linked to feeding supermassive black

SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 02Liquid Water on Mars: A Mirage?A new study casts doubt on the existence of liquid water on Mars, challenging previous assumptions about recurring slope lineae and the potential for brine pools. Researchers argue that the Martian environment's low temperature and pressure make it unlikely for liquid water to exist, even in the form of salty brines. The findings question the habitability of the Red Planet by Earth standards.New Asteroids DiscoveredNASA's Webb Space Telescope has identified a new population of small main belt asteroids between Mars and Jupiter. These 138 newly discovered celestial bodies range in size from a bus to a football stadium, offering insights into asteroid formation and the potential risks of asteroid impacts on Earth.Australia's Lunar Rover Project AdvancesAustralia's first Lunar Rover project is moving forward with the development of prototype rovers and essential technology to tackle lunar dust challenges. Supported by the Australian Space Agency, this

SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 01Webb Telescope Confirms Hubble TensionThe James Webb Space Telescope has confirmed the Hubble Tension, challenging the current understanding of cosmic theory. New observations reveal that the Universe is expanding faster now than during its early years, suggesting gaps in our understanding of cosmic physics. The study, led by Adam Rees and Thomas Barber, confirms the accuracy of Hubble's measurements, pointing to unknown factors in the Universe's expansion.Liquid Erosion on Asteroid VestaA new hypothesis proposes that liquids could have carved out gullies on the airless asteroid Vesta. Laboratory experiments suggest that briny liquids, rather than dry debris flows, may have formed these features. This study, reported in the Planetary Science Journal, provides insights into the geological processes on Vesta.New Year's Day Fireworks on MarsWhile Earth celebrates New Year's Day, Mars experiences its own fireworks with explosive spring thaws. The Martian northern hemisphere is underg

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 157NASA's Parker Solar Probe Touches the SunNASA's Parker Solar Probe has made history by becoming the first spacecraft to touch the Sun. The probe, weighing 685 kilogrammes, flew within 6.1 million kilometres of the solar surface, achieving unprecedented speeds of over 692 kilometres per hour. This milestone marks a significant step in understanding solar phenomena and space weather, with implications for forecasting geomagnetic storms.Moon's Volcanic Past UnveiledNew samples from China's Chang'e 6 mission to the Moon's far side reveal volcanic activity as recent as 2.8 billion years ago. This finding challenges previous assumptions about the Moon's geological history, suggesting a prolonged period of volcanism on its far side, distinct from earlier samples obtained from the near side.Mapping the Milky WayAstronomers have crafted a new stellar chart offering a more comprehensive map of our Milky Way galaxy. The study reveals the galaxy's formation in two distinct phases, with impl

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 156Superflares: A Century-Long Threat?A new study warns of the potential for our Sun to unleash superflares, with the threat estimated at once per century. These massive eruptions could engulf the Earth, challenging our understanding of solar behaviour. Evidence from other sun-like stars suggests that such violent solar events may be more common than previously thought, urging caution as we continue to study these phenomena.Binary Star Discovery Near Galactic CoreAstronomers have identified the first binary star system near Sagittarius A*, the supermassive black hole at the centre of our galaxy. This discovery, made using the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope, offers new insights into how stars can survive in extreme gravitational environments. The findings could pave the way for detecting planets orbiting close to this massive black hole.NASA's Lucy Mission: Onward to JupiterNASA's Lucy spacecraft has completed its second close flyby of Earth, gaining a gravity

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 155*Discovery of a New Class of Cosmic X-RayAstronomers have identified a new class of cosmic X-ray source, potentially originating from a novel type of nova event. The study, published in the Astrophysical Journal Letters, reveals 29 unusual objects in the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds. These objects displayed unexpected behaviours, such as long-duration X-ray outbursts and recurring outbreaks. The findings suggest these sources, dubbed 'Milli Novae', could play a crucial role in understanding astrophysical phenomena, especially as they may contribute to the mass of white dwarfs, potentially leading to Type 1A supernovae.*Uncovering the Secrets of the CentaursUsing the James Webb Space Telescope, astronomers have begun studying centaurs, a unique family of comet-like asteroids orbiting between Jupiter and Neptune. The study of 2060 Chiron reveals surface chemistry unlike any other known centaur, with carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide ices, and methane gases in its coma. These

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 154*The Moon's Age: A New PerspectiveNew research suggests the Moon may be much older than previously believed. Evidence indicates the Moon's crust underwent extensive remelting around 4.35 billion years ago, obscuring its true age. This study proposes the Moon could be as old as 4.53 billion years, challenging past estimates and offering a new understanding of its formation.*Perseverance Rover's New HorizonsNASA's Perseverance rover has reached the top of Jezero Crater's rim, marking a significant milestone in its mission. With the climb complete, the rover is set to explore new geological terrains, potentially uncovering some of the oldest rocks in the solar system. This new phase promises to deepen our understanding of Mars' ancient history.*Unveiling South Australia's Pink Sands MysteryThe discovery of deep pink sands on South Australian beaches has provided insights into the tectonic history of the region. These findings, published in Communications Earth and Environment, sugg

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 153*The Mysterious Origins of Martian MineralsA new study suggests that some Martian minerals may have formed in liquid carbon dioxide rather than water. While traditional views link Mars' dry river channels to past water presence, this research indicates that under ancient Martian conditions, liquid CO2 could have been a significant factor in shaping the planet's geological features. This finding, published in Nature Geoscience, adds a new layer to the ongoing debate about Mars' liquid past and its implications for the planet's habitability.*Australia's Arnhem Space Centre ShutteredEquatorial Launch Australia has announced the closure of the Arnhem Space Centre due to unresolved lease issues with the Northern Land Council. Originally envisioned as a hub for commercial space launches, the project faced multiple delays over land agreements. Plans are now underway to relocate operations to Queensland, aiming to establish the Australian Space Centre, Geberic which promises significant

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 152*Martian Dust Storms: A New UnderstandingA groundbreaking study reveals the triggers behind Mars' infamous planet-wide dust storms. Researchers from the University of Colorado Boulder suggest that relatively warm and sunny days could initiate these massive storms. Presented at the American Geophysical Union's 2024 meeting, the findings could pave the way for forecasting Martian weather, similar to Earth meteorology. Understanding these storms is crucial, as they pose significant challenges to Mars missions by affecting rovers and landers.*Discovery of New Dark CometsAstronomers have doubled the known population of dark comets, discovering seven more of these enigmatic celestial bodies. These objects, which resemble asteroids but behave like comets, are categorized into two groups based on their orbits and reflectivity. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, explores their potential role in delivering vital materials to Earth, such as water.*

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 151*A New Perspective on the Moon's Aitken BasinRecent observations of the Moon's south pole reveal that the Aitken Basin crater is more circular than previously believed. This significant discovery challenges existing theories about its formation and has implications for future lunar missions, including NASA's Artemis program. The study, published in Earth and Planetary Science Letters, suggests a more direct impact created the crater, offering potential access to deep lunar material for study.*Gravitational Wave Maps Unveil Hidden Cosmic StructuresAstronomers have developed the most detailed gravitational wave maps yet, revealing hidden black holes and cosmic structures. Using pulsar timing arrays, researchers have detected a background of gravitational waves across the universe. This groundbreaking research, reported in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, opens new avenues for understanding galactic evolution and the universe's history.*NASA's First Aircraft A

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 150*Venus: A Lifeless WorldNew research has debunked the long-standing theory that Venusmight have once been habitable. Despite being Earth's sister planet, a study of its atmospheric chemistry reveals that Venus has always been too dry to support oceans, making it an inhospitable world throughout its history. These findings, published in Nature Astronomy, have significant implications for the search for life on exoplanets, suggesting a focus on more Earth-like candidates.*Mars Perseverance Rover Reaches Jezero Crater RimNASA's Mars Perseverance Rover has successfully reached the rim of Jezero Crater, where it is examining the Picotquino region. This area could provide insights into ancient geological processes on Mars, potentially revealing clues about the planet's past climate and the impact that formed the crater.*Quantum Sensors in SpaceNASA's Cold Atom Lab aboard the International Space Station has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by using ultra-cold atoms to detect environ

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 149*Did Earth's Oceans Come from Comets?New research suggests that Earth's oceans may have originated from comets, reigniting the debate about the origins of Earth's water. Recent observations of Comet 67P reveal a similar molecular signature to Earth's oceans, challenging previous findings and suggesting Jupiter family comets could have contributed to Earth's water supply. This discovery, led by Kathleen Mandit from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Centre, highlights the importance of understanding the origins of water, a crucial element for life on Earth.*Discovery of a Rare Main Belt CometA mysterious object in the main asteroid belt has been confirmed as a rare main belt comet. Identified as 456P PanSTARRS, this comet displays regular cometary features despite residing in the main asteroid belt. This discovery, led by Henry Heissch from the Planetary Science Institute, adds to the small but growing list of known main belt comets, offering new insights into the icy bodies of the sola

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 148*Another Delay for NASA's Artemis Moon MissionNASA has announced a delay in the launch of its Artemis 2 manned Moon mission, now rescheduled for April 2026. Originally planned for September 2025, the delay is due to concerns about the Orion spacecraft's heat shield. This postponement also affects the timeline for Artemis 3, which aims to return humans to the lunar surface. NASA's focus is on ensuring the safety and reliability of the spacecraft's reentry systems, with adjustments planned for the Artemis 2 mission trajectory.*Ancient Hot Water Activity on Mars UncoveredA groundbreaking study has provided the oldest direct evidence of ancient hot water activity on Mars, suggesting a potentially habitable past. Researchers analysed zircon grains from the Martian meteorite NWA 7034, known as Black Buddy, revealing elemental evidence of water-rich fluids from 4.45 billion years ago. This discovery enhances our understanding of Mars' hydrothermal systems and their role in the planet's

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 147*A Cosmic Glimpse into the Universe's PastAstronomers have witnessed a rare supernova, 2023 UFX, offering insights into the early universe. This unusual stellar explosion involved a metal-poor red supergiant star, providing clues about the cosmic conditions when the universe began. The study, led by Michael Tucker from Ohio State University, reveals how early supernovae seeded the next generation of stars, shaping galaxies like the Milky Way. The findings underscore the significance of dwarf galaxies as analogues for the universe's infancy, highlighting how metal-poor environments influenced star evolution and supernova behaviour.*Volcanic Mysteries on Jupiter's Moon IoA new study reveals that Io, Jupiter's volcanic moon, has active volcanoes at its poles, potentially regulating internal tidal heating. This discovery, based on NASA's Juno spacecraft data, sheds light on Io's intense volcanic activity and its role in planetary formation processes. Tidal heating, caused by gravita

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 146*Supernova's Potential to End the Dark Matter SearchAstronomers are eagerly awaiting a nearby supernova that could finally solve the mystery of dark matter. A new study suggests that axions, hypothetical particles, could be discovered within seconds of a supernova's gamma-ray burst. The Fermi Gamma Ray Space Telescope might detect these gamma rays, offering insights into the mass of QCD axions. However, the rarity of such supernovae and the telescope's limited field of view pose challenges. Researchers are considering launching a fleet of gamma-ray telescopes, named GALAX, to ensure comprehensive coverage.*Magnetic Tornadoes at Jupiter's PolesA recent study reveals that Jupiter's poles are home to magnetic tornadoes that generate Earth-sized concentrations of hydrocarbon haze. These phenomena, visible only in ultraviolet light, are linked to the planet's strong magnetic fields. The findings, based on Hubble Space Telescope images, shed light on the unique atmospheric dynamics of

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 145*Unveiling the Mysteries of Uranus and NeptuneA new study reveals that Uranus and Neptune, the ice giants of our solar system, may have layered interiors composed of water, methane, and ammonia, similar to oil and water that do not mix. This discovery could explain their unique magnetic fields, previously a mystery to scientists. The research, led by Burkhard Miltzer from the University of California, Berkeley, suggests that these planets have a water-rich layer beneath their cloud tops, followed by a denser carbon-rich layer, challenging previous theories about their internal structure.*Parker Solar Probe's Final Venus FlybyNASA's Parker Solar Probe has completed its last Venus gravity assist, setting its course to come within 6.2 million kilometers of the Sun's surface. This maneuver, aside from aiding the primary mission, has provided new insights into Venus, as the probe's instruments captured unexpected data revealing the planet's surface glowing in the near-infrared spectr