SpaceTime: Your Guide to Space & Astronomy

Stuart Gary
SpaceTime: Your Guide to Space & Astronomy
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Join host Stuart Gary for weekly explorations into Astronomy, Space, and Science News, featuring insights from 19 years on Australian Public Radio and industry experts. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

  1. Dark Dwarfs and Lunar Insights: The Youngest Meteorite and New Discoveries in the Carina Nebula

    20 HR AGO

    Dark Dwarfs and Lunar Insights: The Youngest Meteorite and New Discoveries in the Carina Nebula

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore the latest discoveries in lunar geology, the intriguing concept of dark dwarves, and the stunning features of the Carina Nebula. The Youngest Basaltic Lunar Meteorite Scientists have uncovered a 2.35 billion-year-old lunar meteorite, Northwest Africa 16286, which fills a significant gap in our understanding of the Moon's volcanic history. This meteorite, distinct in its chemical profile, suggests that volcanic activity on the Moon persisted longer than previously thought, unveiling new insights into its internal heat generation processes. Lead author Joshua Snape from the University of Manchester explains how this rare sample enhances our knowledge of lunar geology without the costs associated with space missions. Hypothetical Dark Dwarfs and Dark Matter A new study proposes the existence of hypothetical objects called dark dwarves, which could help unravel the mystery of dark matter—an invisible substance that constitutes approximately 80% of the universe's mass. Researchers suggest that these low-mass objects could interact with dark matter in ways that produce observable effects, providing a potential pathway to understand this elusive component of the cosmos. The study highlights the importance of identifying markers, such as lithium-7, to confirm the existence of dark dwarfs and advance our understanding of dark matter. Adaptive Optics and the Carina Nebula Using adaptive optics, astronomers have achieved unprecedented clarity in imaging the western wall of the Carina Nebula, revealing intricate structures previously hidden by dust and gas. This breakthrough allows for a deeper investigation into star formation processes in this massive stellar nursery. The enhanced images showcase how massive young stars influence their surroundings and contribute to the cycle of stellar life, offering a glimpse into the conditions that may have shaped our own solar system. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics https://www.journalofcosmology.com/ Nature Journal https://www.nature.com/nature Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support. 00:00 00:49 04:51 09:17 15:16 17:08
    24 min
  2. Secrets of the Moon: Unraveling Volcanic Activity and Solar Wind Dynamics

    2 DAYS AGO

    Secrets of the Moon: Unraveling Volcanic Activity and Solar Wind Dynamics

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we unlock the secrets of the Moon's far side, explore the Sun's helicity barrier, and discuss the European Space Agency's advancements in orbital launch vehicles. Extended Volcanism on the Moon's Far Side Recent findings reveal that the Moon's far side has experienced extended volcanism for at least 1.4 billion years, with two significant volcanic phases occurring around 4.2 and 2.8 billion years ago. This research, stemming from samples collected by China's Chang' E6 mission, provides insights into the Moon's geological history and the asymmetry between its near and far sides. The study highlights the role of colossal impacts in shaping the Moon's interior and suggests uneven distribution of volatile elements. Discovery of the Sun's Helicity Barrier A groundbreaking study has identified a region of the Sun known as the helicity barrier, which plays a crucial role in heating and accelerating the solar wind. Observations from NASA's Parker Solar Probe have confirmed the existence of this barrier, providing insights into the mechanisms of turbulent dissipation and coronal heating. This discovery helps explain temperature anomalies in the solar atmosphere and enhances our understanding of space weather events that impact Earth. European Space Agency's Launch Vehicle Developments The European Space Agency has narrowed its list of potential candidates for future orbital launch vehicles. The selected companies will receive funding to develop their systems, aiming to increase competition and choice in European launch services. This initiative mirrors efforts by NASA in the U.S. to foster a diverse range of commercial launch providers, enhancing capabilities for future space missions. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Nature Journal https://www.nature.com/nature Physical Review https://journals.aps.org/pr/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    20 min
  3. Earth's Rapid Spin: The Shortest Day Ever Recorded and the Eris-1 Rocket Launch

    4 DAYS AGO

    Earth's Rapid Spin: The Shortest Day Ever Recorded and the Eris-1 Rocket Launch

    Sponsor Details This episode is brought to you with the support of NordVPN...our official VPN partners. To grab your heavily discounted price, plus special offer with 30-day moneyback guarantee, head over to www.nordvpn.com/stuartgary and use the coupon coded STUARTGARY at checkout. In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore some fascinating recent developments in our understanding of Earth and beyond. Earth Experiences Its Shortest Day On July 9, Earth recorded one of its shortest days, with a rotation 1.51 milliseconds shorter than the average. We discuss how various factors, including gravitational influences from the Moon and Sun, tectonic movements, and even human activities, affect Earth's rotation. This episode also highlights the implications of these changes on our timekeeping systems and the necessity of leap seconds to maintain accuracy in clocks and navigation systems. Gilmour Space's Ares 1 Rocket Launch Preparations Gilmour Space is gearing up for the maiden test flight of its Ares 1 orbital rocket after previous launch attempts were postponed due to technical glitches and weather conditions. We delve into the rocket's design, which includes a unique hybrid propulsion system, and discuss the significance of this launch as Australia’s first all-Australian designed and built launch vehicle since the 1970s. Revising Earth's Geological Timeline A groundbreaking study suggests that Earth's first solid crust formed from a magma ocean around 4.5 billion years ago, shortly after a massive impact event that created the Moon. This research challenges long-held beliefs about the formation of continents and the onset of plate tectonics, indicating that the chemical signatures of continental crust may have originated much earlier than previously thought. We explore the implications of this study for our understanding of Earth's early geological history and the evolution of life. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Nature Journal https://www.nature.com/nature NASA https://www.nasa.gov/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    29 min
  4. Earth's Rapid Spin: The Shortest Day Ever Recorded and the Eris-1 Rocket Launch: S28E84, 85 & 86

    5 DAYS AGO • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    Earth's Rapid Spin: The Shortest Day Ever Recorded and the Eris-1 Rocket Launch: S28E84, 85 & 86

    SpaceTime S28E84 S28E85 S28E86 w/c July 14th, 2025 Space, Astronomy and Science Podcast. SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 84 *The shortest day on Earth You may not have noticed it, but July 9 was one of the shortest days ever recorded in modern times, with Earth’s rotation being some 1.51 milliseconds shorter than the planet’s current average of 23 hours 56 minutes and 4 seconds. *Gilmore looking to launch into orbit this week Gilmore Space is now looking at a launch date this week for the maiden test flight of the company’s new Eris 1 orbital rocket. *Rewriting Earth’s geological timeline A new study has found that planet Earth’s first solid crust probably formed out of the previous magma ocean around four and a half billion years ago. *The Science Report Scientists classify people on the autism spectrum into four distinct groups based on traits and genetics. The harmful bacteria, viruses and parasites that have infected humans for 37,000 years New study questions current estimates of dinosaur running speeds Skeptics guide to how paranormal beliefs help people cope in uncertain times SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 85 *Unlocking the secrets of the Moon’s mysterious far side Scientists have discovered extended volcanism was spewing across the ancient lunar far side south pole region for some 1.4 billion years. *Discovery of the Sun Helicity barrier sheds new light on the solar wind A new study has confirmed the existence of a region of the Sun which astronomers are calling the Helicity barrier. *Europe’s next generation of launch vehicles The European Space Agency has narrowed down its list of potential candidates for future launch vehicle providers. *The Science Report Extended drought and warm weather damaging South Australia’s marine ecosystems. Using lightning to produce ammonia gas out of thin air. People feel more comforted by AI-generated words of emotional support if they think they're human. Alex on Tech Samsung releases the new Fold and Flip 7s. SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 86 *The youngest basaltic lunar meteorite ever found Scientists studying a 2.35-billion-year-old meteorite have filled a billion year gap in the Moon’s volcanic history. *Could Dark Dwarfs lurking at the centre of the Galaxy explain dark matter A new study suggests hypothetical objects known as dark dwarfs could reveal the true nature of dark matter. *A new view of the spectacular Carina Nebula Astronomers using the international Gemini Observatory have captured the western wall of the Carina Nebula in unprecedented detail. *The Science Report Significant levels of nanoplastics discovered across the Atlantic Ocean. The socioeconomic gap in life expectancy in Australia was larger in 2020–22 compared with 2013–15. A new study maps Killer Whale populations in Australian waters for the first time. https://spacetimewithstuartgary.com https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/ This week’s guests include: Professor Emeritus Simon Turner from Macquarie University ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher ESA Director of Space Transportation Tolker-Nielsen Patrick Hartigan of Rice University, And our regular guests: Alex Zaharov-Reutt from techadvice.life Tim Mendham from Australian Skeptics
    1h 7m
  5. Earth's Ancient Secrets: Unveiling the Oldest Rocks and Mars' Frozen History

    11 JUL

    Earth's Ancient Secrets: Unveiling the Oldest Rocks and Mars' Frozen History

    This episode of SpaceTime is brought to you by NordVPN....our official VPN partner. To get your special SpaceTime listener offer, simply visit www.nordvpn.com/stuartgary. You'll be glad you did...and remember, our special offer comes with a 30 day  money back guarantee...so there's nothing to lose.  In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into groundbreaking research that sheds light on Earth's ancient history, the formation of hot Jupiters, and the enigmatic climate of Mars. Earth's Oldest Rocks Confirmed in Northern Canada A recent study published in the journal Science confirms that the oldest rocks on Earth are located in northern Quebec, Canada, dating back 4.16 billion years. Lead author Jonathan Nally. from the University of Ottawa explains how this discovery provides a unique window into the Hadean Eon, offering insights into the early Earth's environment and the formation of its first continents. While the Jack Hills Range in Australia holds the oldest material of terrestrial origin, these Canadian rocks are pivotal in understanding Earth's formative years. New Insights into Hot Jupiter Formation We explore the intriguing case of CI Tau B, a hot Jupiter that orbits a young star just 450 light-years away. Researchers from Rice University and Lowell Observatory have utilized advanced spectroscopic techniques to analyze the planet's mass and brightness, revealing that it formed through a hot start mechanism rather than traditional models. This study provides a critical benchmark for understanding how giant planets can form rapidly in close proximity to their stars, challenging long-held assumptions in planetary science. Was Mars Always Doomed to be a Desert? A new hypothesis from the University of Chicago suggests that Mars was never meant to remain a warm, habitable planet. The study indicates that the planet's past liquid water periods were likely short-lived, driven by the Sun's gradual brightening. Unlike Earth, which has maintained its habitability, Mars appears to self-regulate towards desert conditions, raising questions about the mechanisms that have led to its current frozen state. The findings, published in Nature, build on previous discoveries by NASA's Curiosity rover and could reshape our understanding of Martian climate history. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Science Journal https://www.sciencemag.org/ Astrophysical Journal Letters https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/1538-4357 Nature Journal https://www.nature.com/nature Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    24 min
  6. Celestial Phenomena: The Largest Oort Cloud Comet and Mars Perseverance's Milestones

    9 JUL

    Celestial Phenomena: The Largest Oort Cloud Comet and Mars Perseverance's Milestones

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore some of the most exciting recent discoveries in astronomy, including the largest Oort Cloud comet ever observed and remarkable achievements from NASA's Mars Perseverance Rover. Comet C/2014 UN271 Bernardinelli-Bernstein: A Giant from the Oort Cloud Astronomers have made a groundbreaking discovery by detecting molecular activity in Comet C/2014 UN271 Bernardinelli-Bernstein, the largest and most distant active comet ever observed. Originating from the Oort Cloud, this colossal comet measures nearly 140 km across, revealing complex jets of carbon monoxide gas and providing insight into its behavior far from the Sun. Observations from the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile have confirmed its status as the largest known Oort Cloud comet, offering a rare glimpse into the chemistry and dynamics of these distant celestial objects. Nasa's Perseverance Rover Sets New Distance Record NASA's Mars Perseverance Rover has achieved a new milestone, traveling 411 meters in a single autonomous drive while exploring the Jezero Crater. This episode highlights the rover's innovative AUTONAV self-driving system and its 30th Abrasion Study of a Martian rock named Kenmore. The findings reveal significant mineral compositions, including clay minerals, iron, and magnesium, enhancing our understanding of Mars' geological history and potential past habitability. Exoplanets Triggering Stellar Flares Astronomers have discovered that certain exoplanets in close orbits around their host stars can trigger powerful stellar flares, leading to atmospheric erosion over time. This groundbreaking finding, reported in the journal Nature, demonstrates the interaction between planets and their stars in a way never before observed. The study, conducted using the European Space Agency's CHEOPS spacecraft, reveals that these energetic flares can significantly impact the evolution of the orbiting planets, providing new insights into the dynamics of stellar systems. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References Astrophysical Journal Letters https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/1538-4357 NASA Perseverance Rover https://mars.nasa.gov/mars2020/ Nature Journal https://www.nature.com/nature Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    23 min
  7. Interstellar Discoveries: The Arrival of Comet 3I Atlas and the Mars Sample Race

    7 JUL

    Interstellar Discoveries: The Arrival of Comet 3I Atlas and the Mars Sample Race

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we dive into the latest astronomical discoveries and the implications for future space exploration. New Interstellar Visitor: Comet 3I Atlas Astronomers have identified a new interstellar object, designated 3I Atlas, which is currently traversing our solar system. Discovered by NASA's ATLAS telescope in Chile, this comet is approximately 670 million kilometers away and poses no threat to Earth, as it will pass at a safe distance of 240 million kilometers. With a velocity exceeding 51 kilometers per second, 3I Atlas is only the third confirmed interstellar visitor, following the enigmatic Oumuamua and the more familiar comet 2I/Borisov. As observations continue, scientists are eager to learn more about its origins and characteristics. China's Ambitious Mars Sample Return Mission Speculation is mounting that China may outpace the U.S. and Europe in the race to return the first samples from Mars. The recently announced Tianwen 3 mission aims to collect Martian samples and bring them back to Earth for detailed analysis, potentially revealing whether life ever existed on the Red Planet. This mission follows China's successful deployment of the Zhurong rover and highlights the ongoing competition in space exploration. Scientists will need to target specific locations on Mars to collect samples that could provide insights into the planet's past habitability. Vera C Rubin Observatory's Stunning First Images Astronomers are thrilled by the first images released by the Vera C Rubin Observatory, which features an 8.4-meter telescope and a 3,200-megapixel camera. This observatory is set to conduct the world's largest sky survey over the next decade, generating an astonishing 20 terabytes of data each night. The Legacy Survey of Space and Time will provide unprecedented insights into cosmic phenomena, including asteroids, supernovae, and the mysteries of dark matter and dark energy. Australian astronomers are collaborating in this global effort, processing and analyzing the vast amounts of data generated. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com ✍️ Episode References NASA ATLAS https://www.nasa.gov/ China's Tianwen 3 Mission https://www.space.com/china-mars-sample-return-tianwen-3 Vera C Rubin Observatory https://www.lsst.org/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    26 min
  8. Interstellar Discovery: The New Comet 3I Atlas and the Race for Martian Samples | S28E81, 82 & 83

    6 JUL • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    Interstellar Discovery: The New Comet 3I Atlas and the Race for Martian Samples | S28E81, 82 & 83

    SpaceTime S28E81 S28E82 S28E83 w/c July 7th, 2025 Space, Astronomy and Science Podcast. SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 81 *A new interstellar object discovered flying through our solar system Astronomers have discovered what appears to be an interstellar object travelling through our solar system. *Could China beat America in bringing samples back from Mars There’s growing speculation that China might beat efforts by America and Europe to bring the first samples of the red planet Mars back to Earth. *The Vera C. Rubin Observatory drops its first stunning images The Astronomers have been astounded by the stunning first images delivered by the new Vera C. Rubin Observatory in Chile. *The Science Report Vanilla, the queen of all flavours, could be under threat due to climate change. A breakthrough blood test to detect leukemia developed in Israel bombed by Iran. A new study has found that Cheese can give you nightmares. Skeptics guide to trashy university degrees SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 82 *Largest Oort Cloud comet ever observed Astronomers have made a groundbreaking discovery by detecting molecular activity in comet C/2014 UN271 (Bernardinelli-Bernstein)—the largest and one of the most distantly active comet ever observed from the Oort Cloud. *Perseverance sets a new distance record on the red planet NASA's Mars Perseverance rover has set a new distance record of autonomous travel as it continues exploring the rim of the red planet’s Jezero Crater. *Discovery of planets triggering stellar flares Astronomers have discovered that some exoplanets on tight orbits can actually trigger stellar flares on their host stars, resulting in a sort of planetary death wish. *The Science Report Study confirms recent warm summers in Antarctica have led to record lows in sea ice in the region. COVIS-19 vaccines targeting the XBB.1.5 Omicron variant saw increased protection from hospitalisation. Websites covertly using browser fingerprinting to track you across different browser sessions. Alex on Tech new Samsung fold and flip SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 83 *New study confirms that the Earth’s oldest rocks are in northern Canada A new study has confirmed that the Earth’s oldest rocks are in Canada. New clues to the creation of hot Jupiters CI Tau b is a paradoxical planet, but new research about its mass, brightness and the carbon monoxide in its atmosphere is starting to answer questions about how a planet so large could have formed around a star that’s only 2 million years old. *Was Mars always doomed to be a desert A new study may explain why the red planet Mars was likely a harsh desert for most of its history. *The Science Report A new type of molecule that can store 100 times more digital data than current technologies. The alarming impact heatwaves have on pet dogs. Calls for more studies to be conducted on Kava. Skeptics guide to the steady growth of online psychic reading https://spacetimewithstuartgary.com https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/ This week’s guests include: Head of Research Data & Software at Australian Astronomical Optics Simon O’Toole from Macquarie University ESA CHEOPS project Scientist Kate Isaak ESA CHEOPS project manager Nicola Rando Lisa Prato from the Lowel Observatory And our regular guests: Alex Zaharov-Reutt from techadvice.life Tim Mendham from Australian Skeptics
    1h 8m

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Join host Stuart Gary for weekly explorations into Astronomy, Space, and Science News, featuring insights from 19 years on Australian Public Radio and industry experts. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

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