SpaceTime with Stuart Gary

• MAVEN's Silence: Unravelling the Mystery of Mars' Lost Contact

  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 structures compared to their isolated counterparts. By analysing data from the Deep Extragalactic Visible Legacy Survey, astronomers have gained insights into the complex dynamics of galactic interactions and their impact on star formation rates.Uranus and Neptune: More Richie than Icy?Challenging long-held classifications, a recent study suggests that the solar system's ice giants, Uranus and Neptune, may actually be more rocky than icy. Researchers from the University of Zurich conducted computer simulations that indicate a broader range of internal compositions for these planets, which could explain their complex magnetic fields. This new perspective could alter our understanding of planetary formation and evolution, paving the way for future explorations of these distant worlds.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com✍️ Episode ReferencesMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical SocietyNASA TVBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

  --------  

  27:37

  --------

  27:37
• Uranus Unveiled: Decoding the Mystery of Radiation Belts and Martian River Systems

  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 global network, similar to Earth's most biodiverse river basins. This research enhances our understanding of Mars' geological history and its potential for past life.2026 Australasian Sky Guide ReleasedThe 2026 Australasian Sky Guide has officially been released, offering skywatchers a detailed monthly map of celestial events. Highlights include supermoons, planetary alignments, and eclipses, providing an exciting year ahead for astronomy enthusiasts. Dr. Nick Glom shares insights into the guide's features and the astronomical events to look forward to in the coming year.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com✍️ Episode ReferencesProceedings of the National Academy of SciencesCommunications Earth and EnvironmentBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.(00:00:00) Scientists may have finally resolved 39 year old mystery about Uranus radiation belts(00:03:55) A new study has begun the task of mapping ancient river systems on Mars(00:08:06) The 2026 Australasian Sky Guide has just been released(00:10:23) The book tells readers what's up in the sky for each month(00:11:39) Total eclipse of the moon in March is spectacular and easy to photograph(00:14:22) A new study suggests volcanic activity may have paved the way for the Black Death(00:15:37) A new study claims people who want children are more likely to find older faces attractive(00:17:33) Tim Mendham warns about the dangers of taking medical advice on social media(00:20:08) Spacetime is available through bitesz.com and other podcasting platforms

  --------  

  21:24

  --------

  21:24
• Bennu's Bounty: Uncovering Sugars, Space Gum, and Stardust in Asteroid Samples

  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 our galaxy. This discovery, reported in Astronomy and Astrophysics, challenges previous assumptions that these objects were merely clouds of dust on a collision course with destruction. Instead, the new data from the ERIS Enhanced Resolution Imager and Spectrograph reveals a dynamic and stable environment around the black hole, providing a unique laboratory for studying interactions between black holes and stars.Martian Mystery Solved?A new radar technique employed by NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter has cast doubt on the existence of a suspected underground lake beneath the Martian South Pole ice cap. Initial signals that suggested the presence of liquid water have been reinterpreted as possibly being layers of rock and dust. This innovative approach opens new avenues for investigating subsurface resources on Mars, which could have significant implications for future exploration.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com✍️ Episode ReferencesNature GeoscienceNature AstronomyAstronomy and AstrophysicsGeophysical Research LettersBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

  --------  

  32:50

  --------

  32:50
• Galactic Tug-of-War: The Small Magellanic Cloud's Struggle Against Gravitational Forces

  (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 Space Agency's Gaia satellite, researchers have gained unprecedented insights into the interactions between these two galaxies, prompting a reevaluation of their structural dynamics and gravitational relationships with the Milky Way.Europa's Spider: Signs of Subsurface Water?A striking spider-like feature on Jupiter's moon Europa has scientists buzzing with excitement. Researchers suggest this formation, found near the Menanan impact crater, may be evidence of subsurface water seeping through the moon's icy crust following an asteroid impact. The findings, reported in the Planetary Science Journal, could have significant implications for the moon's habitability and the presence of life. By drawing parallels with similar features on Mars, scientists are eager to explore Europa's subsurface properties further, especially with the upcoming Europa Clipper mission set to launch in April 2030.Mars: A Longer Habitable History?New research indicates that Mars may have been habitable for a much longer duration than previously believed. A study published in the Journal of Geophysical Research Planets reveals that ancient underground water may have flowed beneath the Martian sand dunes, creating conditions conducive to life long after its surface water disappeared. This discovery not only enhances our understanding of Mars' geological history but also highlights the potential of subsurface environments as targets for future exploration in the search for past life.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com✍️ Episode ReferencesAstrophysical Journal LettersPlanetary Science JournalJournal of Geophysical Research PlanetsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

  --------  

  21:37

  --------

  21:37
• Lightning Strikes Mars: The First Detection of Electrical Discharges and NASA's New Look at Comet 3I Atlas

  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 piece together the comet's journey and origins, revealing potential clues about water in other star systems.Moss in Space: Resilience Against the VoidA new study has shown that moss can survive the harsh conditions of space for up to 15 years. Researchers sent moss spores to the International Space Station, where they thrived despite exposure to the vacuum and extreme temperatures. This remarkable resilience could have implications for understanding life's potential to endure in extreme environments beyond Earth.Skywatch: December HighlightsAs the December solstice approaches, we take a look at the night sky's highlights, including the Geminids meteor shower and the ticking time bomb of Eta Carina. We also discuss the significance of the December solstice and the celestial events that define this time of year.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com✍️ Episode ReferencesJournal of NatureNASA ReportsJournal of Eye ScienceBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.(00:00:00) NASA's Mars Perseverance Rover has captured evidence of electrical discharges(00:03:47) NASA publishes its own observations of the Interstellar Comet 3I Atlas(00:07:26) Moss spores survive exposure to vacuum of space for up to 15 years(00:09:40) The December solstice marks the beginning of winter in both hemispheres(00:11:54) Axial precession causes a slow and continuous change in Earth's rotational axis(00:15:11) Astronomers describe stars in terms of spectral types based on temperature and characteristics(00:19:04) Two blue stars nearing end of their lives before exploding massive core collapse supernovae(00:24:23) Just above the horizon is the constellation of Orion the Hunter(00:34:04) Canopus talks about the effect of the Moon on stargazing(00:37:03) The Southern Cross starts near the celestial equator and wanders far south(00:39:06) There are two star clusters that we speak about quite often on the show(00:41:50) The only planet that's up in the early evening is Saturn

  --------  

  44:35

  --------

  44:35

Más podcasts de Ciencias

Podcasts a la moda de Ciencias

Acerca de SpaceTime with Stuart Gary