Episodios

  • Galactic Mechanics: How Dark Matter and Neutrinos Shape the Universe

    Galactic Mechanics: How Dark Matter and Neutrinos Shape the Universe
    Jan 13 2026
    Sponsor Link:
    This episode of SpaceTime is brought to you with the support of Squarespace. When it's time to get a presence online, go with the folks who support us...and build the best websites easily. No hassles. You can check out their special offer for SpaceTime listeners by visiting our special URL....Click Here

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover new evidence suggesting that dark matter may interact with neutrinos, a revelation that could reshape our understanding of the universe. We also discuss a serious medical issue that has forced one of the crews aboard the International Space Station to return home early, and learn about the remarkable discovery that galaxies spin like clockwork.
    Dark Matter and Neutrinos: A Possible Interaction
    Scientists are challenging the long-standing standard model of particle physics with new findings indicating that dark matter and neutrinos may interact. This groundbreaking research, reported in Nature Astronomy, provides a rare glimpse into the universe's hidden components. By analyzing data from both the early and late universe, researchers suggest that these elusive cosmic entities could influence the formation of galaxies and other structures, potentially addressing discrepancies observed in cosmological measurements.
    Medical Emergency Forces ISS Crew to Return Early
    NASA's SpaceX Crew 11 is returning to Earth ahead of schedule due to a medical concern involving one of the astronauts. While the situation is stable and not classified as an emergency, the decision was made to ensure the crew member receives comprehensive medical evaluation on the ground. This marks a historic moment, as it is the first time in 26 years of ISS operations that a medical issue has necessitated an early return.
    Galaxies Spin Like Clockwork
    Recent studies have confirmed that galaxies rotate approximately once every billion years, regardless of their size. This research, published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, reveals a consistent rotational pattern across different types of galaxies, enhancing our understanding of their mechanics and structure. The findings indicate that older stars exist even at the edges of galaxies, providing valuable insights into galactic formation and evolution.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Nature Astronomy
    Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
    British Medical Journal
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    Más Menos
    25 m
  • Galactic Mysteries: Unveiling Supermassive Black Holes and the Secrets of Comet 3I Atlas

    Galactic Mysteries: Unveiling Supermassive Black Holes and the Secrets of Comet 3I Atlas
    Jan 9 2026
    SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 4
    In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore the latest revelations about supermassive black holes, the enigmatic interstellar comet 3I Atlas, and NASA's innovative tests on lunar surface interactions.
    Do All Galaxies Host Supermassive Black Holes?
    A groundbreaking study utilizing NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory challenges the long-held belief that all galaxies harbor supermassive black holes at their centers. Analyzing data from over 1,600 galaxies, researchers discovered that only about 30% of dwarf galaxies contain these cosmic giants. The findings, published in the Astrophysical Journal, provide crucial insights into the formation of supermassive black holes and suggest that smaller galaxies may have significantly fewer black holes than their massive counterparts.
    No Evidence of Alien Intelligence from Comet 3I Atlas
    Despite sensational claims, a thorough investigation into the interstellar comet 3I Atlas has yielded no signs of extraterrestrial technology. Observations from the Green Bank Radio Telescope during the comet's closest approach revealed only radio frequency interference, dismissing earlier speculations of alien signals. The analysis reinforces the understanding that the comet's behavior aligns with natural phenomena, rather than advanced civilizations.
    NASA's Rocket Plume Studies on Lunar Regolith
    NASA is conducting new experiments to understand how rocket plumes interact with the lunar surface, crucial for future lunar landings. Using a sophisticated camera system, scientists are simulating rocket engine behavior in a vacuum chamber to analyze the impact of exhaust on lunar dust and rocks. The data collected will inform the design of landing systems for the Artemis missions and future Mars explorations, ensuring crew safety and mission success.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Astrophysical Journal
    NASA Reports
    Journal of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    (00:00:00) This is Space Time Series 29, Episode 4 for broadcast on 9 January 2026
    (00:00:47) Study reveals fewer supermassive black holes in smaller galaxies
    (00:12:30) No signs of alien technology from comet 3I Atlas
    (00:20:10) NASA's lunar regolith plume interaction tests
    (00:25:00) Science report: Microplastics and neurodegenerative diseases, dog ownership and community ties
    Más Menos
    20 m
  • Cosmic Clues: Unlocking Dark Matter Secrets from a Distant Supernova

    Cosmic Clues: Unlocking Dark Matter Secrets from a Distant Supernova
    Jan 8 2026
    SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 3
    In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into the latest discoveries in astrophysics and the challenges faced by space agencies worldwide.
    Ancient Supernova Offers Clues to Dark Energy
    Astronomers have made significant strides in understanding dark energy, the enigmatic force driving the universe's accelerated expansion. A newly observed supernova, located 10 billion light years away, has been gravitationally lensed by a foreground galaxy, allowing scientists to analyze multiple images of the same explosion. This phenomenon could help determine the Hubble constant, shedding light on the universe's expansion rate and its ultimate fate, which ranges from a Big Crunch to a Big Rip.
    Sterile Neutrino Hypothesis Nearly Ruled Out
    After over a decade of research, scientists have come close to ruling out the existence of the sterile neutrino, a proposed particle that could explain anomalous neutrino behavior. Data from the Micro BooNE experiment at Fermilab has shown no signs of sterile neutrinos, providing a pivotal moment in particle physics that narrows the search for new theories beyond the standard model.
    China's Reusable Rocket Setback
    China's efforts to develop a reusable rocket faced a significant blow as its Long March 12A failed on its maiden flight. Although the rocket's first and second stages performed as expected, the first stage failed to return successfully, highlighting the challenges in achieving reusability akin to SpaceX's Falcon 9. This setback underscores the competitive nature of the global space industry as China strives to enhance its capabilities.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Astrophysical Letters
    Nature
    Fermilab Reports
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    (00:00:00) This is Space Time Series 29, Episode 3 for broadcast on 7 January 2026
    (00:00:47) Discovering dark energy through a unique supernova
    (00:12:30) Ruling out the sterile neutrino hypothesis
    (00:20:10) China's reusable rocket faces a major setback
    (00:25:00) Science report: Climate change impacts, endangered species, and digital privacy concerns
    Más Menos
    21 m
  • Galactic Secrets: Unravelling the Milky Way's Chemical Bimodality

    Galactic Secrets: Unravelling the Milky Way's Chemical Bimodality
    Jan 6 2026
    SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 2
    In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore the intriguing history of our galaxy and the secrets of Earth's early water retention.
    Unraveling the Milky Way's Chemical Bimodality
    A groundbreaking study suggests that the Milky Way's stellar formation and its unique chemical bimodality may stem from intergalactic gas rather than traditional star formation or galactic collisions. Researchers utilized advanced computer simulations to analyze the formation of 30 simulated galaxies, revealing that the Milky Way's distinct groups of stars, defined by their iron and magnesium content, can emerge through various mechanisms. This research not only enhances our understanding of the Milky Way's evolution but also challenges previous assumptions about the role of smaller galaxies in shaping its chemical structure.
    Earth's Mantle: A Reservoir of Ancient Water
    New findings indicate that Earth's mantle may have locked away vast amounts of water during the planet's formative magma ocean phase. Researchers discovered that bridgmanite, the most abundant mineral in the mantle, could store significant quantities of water, potentially equating to the volume of all today's oceans. This study reshapes our understanding of how water was retained during Earth's extreme early conditions and its role in the transition to a habitable planet. The implications of this research may provide insights into the geological processes that sustain Earth's dynamic environment.
    The Astronomy of Standing Stones
    Reflecting on archaeological astronomy, we revisit a pivotal study that revealed how ancient standing stones in Britain were constructed with astronomical alignments in mind. This research confirms that the earliest stone monuments, including the Great Circles of Scotland, were intentionally oriented to mark the movements of the sun and moon. By examining the patterns of alignment, researchers established a connection between these ancient structures and the cultural significance of celestial events, illustrating the sophisticated understanding early Britons had of their environment and the cosmos.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
    Journal of Science
    Journal of Archaeological Science Reports
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    (00:00:00) This is Space Time Series 29, Episode 2 for broadcast on 5 January 2026
    (00:00:47) New study on the Milky Way's chemical bimodality
    (00:12:30) How bridgmanite in Earth's mantle may have stored ancient water
    (00:20:10) The astronomical significance of ancient standing stones in Britain
    (00:25:00) Science Robert: Sleep apnea linked to Parkinson's disease and more news in science
    Más Menos
    30 m
  • Stellar Spectacles: January's Night Sky Highlights

    Stellar Spectacles: January's Night Sky Highlights
    Jan 2 2026
    SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 1
    In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into extraordinary cosmic phenomena and the ongoing exploration of our solar system.
    Cosmic Matter Ejected at 20% the Speed of Light
    Astronomers have made a groundbreaking observation of matter being ejected from a supermassive black hole at the center of the barred spiral galaxy NGC 3783, located 135 million light years away. This matter, propelled at an astonishing 20% the speed of light, challenges previously held notions about how such superluminal jets are powered. The findings suggest that a sudden change in the magnetic field, rather than radiation, may be responsible for this high-speed outburst, providing new insights into the mechanisms of black hole dynamics and their impact on galactic evolution.
    Wind-Sculpted Landscapes on Mars
    NASA's Perseverance Rover continues its exploration of Mars, focusing on megaripples—large sand formations shaped by wind. These megaripples, some reaching up to 2 meters in height, offer scientists a unique opportunity to study current Martian atmospheric processes. As the rover investigates the Honeyguide region, researchers hope to gain insights into the planet's wind patterns and surface chemistry, which will be crucial for future human missions to Mars.
    Potential Ocean Beneath Uranus's Moon Ariel
    New research suggests that Uranus's moon Ariel may harbor a vast subsurface ocean, potentially more than 170 kilometers deep. This discovery, reported in the journal Icarus, highlights Ariel's unique geological features and raises questions about its past interior structure and orbital dynamics. The study indicates that understanding Ariel's ocean could provide crucial context for the moon's surface fractures and cryovolcanic activity, emphasizing the need for future missions to the Uranian system to confirm these findings.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Astronomy and Astrophysics
    Icarus
    NASA Reports
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    (00:00:00) This is Space Time Series 29, Episode 1 for broadcast on 2 January 2026
    (00:00:47) Cosmic matter ejected from supermassive black hole
    (00:12:30) Perseverance Rover studies wind-sculpted megaripples on Mars
    (00:20:10) Evidence of a subsurface ocean beneath Uranus's moon Ariel
    (00:25:00) Skywatch: January night sky highlights and celestial events
    Más Menos
    38 m
  • Lunar Leap: Artemis 2's Historic Mission and the Future of Moon Exploration

    Lunar Leap: Artemis 2's Historic Mission and the Future of Moon Exploration
    Dec 31 2025
    SpaceTime with Stuart Gary - Series 28 Episode 154
    In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore significant milestones in lunar exploration and the latest challenges in space technology.
    Accelerated Launch for Artemis 2
    NASA has moved up the launch date for the historic Artemis 2 manned moon mission to early February, marking the first human journey to the moon in over 50 years since Apollo 17. The Orion spacecraft, named Integrity, will embark on a 10-day mission, completing a free return trajectory around the moon. This episode discusses the mission's objectives, including in-space demonstrations and the deployment of five cubesats, as well as the importance of this mission for future lunar exploration and potential Mars missions.
    New Insights from Lunar Rock Samples
    Recent studies of lunar rock samples have revealed a new timeline for lunar impacts, pushing back the history of Earth's nearest celestial neighbour by 300 million years. The Apollo 17 rock sample, known as 76535, has provided crucial insights into the moon's formation and its geological history. Advanced computer simulations suggest that the impact that formed the Serenitatis Basin may have brought this rock to the surface, reshaping our understanding of the moon's bombardment history and its implications for Earth.
    Japan's H3 Rocket Failure
    The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has faced a setback with the failure of its new H3 rocket during a satellite launch. This follows a previous failure during its maiden flight. The H3 rocket, designed to replace the H2, aims to enhance Japan's capabilities in the global space market but has encountered significant technical challenges.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Geophysical Research Letters
    NASA Reports
    JAXA Updates
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    (00:00:00) This is Space Time Series 28, Episode 154 for broadcast on 31 December 2025
    (00:00:47) NASA accelerates Artemis 2 moon mission launch
    (00:12:30) New lunar rock samples shift timeline of impacts
    (00:20:10) Japan's H3 rocket fails to deploy satellite
    (00:25:00) Study reveals links between social media use and cognitive performance in children
    (00:27:30) Coffee and tea's effects on bone health in older women
    Más Menos
    25 m
  • Doomsday Dance: Ramses Mission and the Secrets of Apophis

    Doomsday Dance: Ramses Mission and the Secrets of Apophis
    Dec 30 2025
    SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 28 Episode 153
    In this episode of SpaceTime, we dive into thrilling new missions and groundbreaking discoveries in the universe.
    Ramses Mission to Asteroid Apophis
    The European Space Agency has greenlit an exciting new mission to study the infamous doomsday asteroid Apophis. The Ramses spacecraft will closely observe the 450-meter-wide asteroid as it makes a close flyby of Earth on April 13, 2029, at a mere 32,000 kilometers away—closer than many satellites. Initially feared to be on a collision course with Earth, further observations have since ruled out the threat of impact. However, the Ramses mission aims to understand how Earth's gravitational forces might affect Apophis during this close encounter, potentially setting the stage for future impacts. The spacecraft will deploy smaller probes to monitor changes in Apophis's orbit, rotation, and surface, providing vital data for planetary defense and insight into the evolution of asteroids.
    Solving the Mystery of Existence
    In a groundbreaking study, scientists at CERN have made strides in explaining the universe's existence by observing a slight imbalance in the behavior of matter and antimatter. This charge parity (CP) violation suggests that a tiny difference favored matter over antimatter during the Big Bang, allowing the universe to evolve into its current state. The findings, based on 80,000 decays of the Lambda beauty particle, indicate a significant deviation that could reshape our understanding of the cosmos.
    The Largest Planetary Nursery Ever Seen
    Astronomers have discovered the largest planetary nursery ever observed, located in a massive protoplanetary disk around a young star. This chaotic environment, cataloged as IRAS230776707, spans an astonishing 650 billion kilometers and showcases intricate structures that hint at the complex processes of planet formation. The observations, made using NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, reveal a unique perspective on how planetary systems may develop in extreme conditions, raising new questions about the dynamics shaping these disks.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Astrophysical Journal
    Nature
    CERN Reports
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    (00:00:00) This is Space Time Series 28, Episode 153 for broadcast on 29 December 2025
    (00:00:47) ESA's Ramses mission to study asteroid Apophis
    (00:12:30) CERN's discovery of matter-antimatter imbalance
    (00:20:10) Astronomers observe the largest protoplanetary disk ever found
    (00:25:00) New insights into sleep apnea and mental health risks
    (00:28:30) Potential discovery of a new ancient human species
    Más Menos
    22 m
  • Super Kilonova Surprise: Unravelling the Mystery of Cosmic Explosions

    Super Kilonova Surprise: Unravelling the Mystery of Cosmic Explosions
    Dec 26 2025
    In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover groundbreaking astronomical events and the latest advancements in space exploration.
    First Ever Super Kilonova Detected
    Astronomers have made a significant discovery with the potential detection of the first ever super kilonova explosion. This extraordinary event, cataloged as AT 2025ULZ, is believed to have been triggered by a double supernova explosion, producing both gravitational waves and electromagnetic radiation. Lead author Manzi Kasliwal from Caltech's Palomar Observatory discusses how this unique phenomenon could reshape our understanding of stellar evolution and the formation of heavy elements in the universe. With only one confirmed kilonova event to date, this new discovery presents an exciting opportunity to explore the complexities of cosmic explosions.
    Blue Ghost 2 Spacecraft Shake Test
    Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost Mission 2 spacecraft has undergone rigorous shake testing at NASA's Environmental Test Laboratory. This critical assessment simulates the intense vibrations and acoustics experienced during launch, ensuring the spacecraft can withstand the harsh conditions of a rocket ascent. JPL engineer Michael Williams explains the importance of these tests in preparing spacecraft for successful missions, as the Blue Ghost 2 aims to deliver multiple payloads to the lunar far side next year.
    Shenzhou 20 Capsule Returns Safely
    China's Shenzhou 20 spacecraft has successfully completed an unmanned return to Earth after sustaining damage from space debris. Initially intended to bring a crew of Tigernauts back home, mission managers opted for a safe return without the crew due to concerns over a crack in the capsule's viewport. This decision highlights the importance of safety in space missions, while also providing valuable data for future flights.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Astrophysical Journal Letters
    NASA Reports
    Nature Communications
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    (00:00:00) This is Space Time Series 28, Episode 152 for broadcast on 26 December 2025
    (00:00:47) Astronomers detect what could be the first ever super kilonova explosion
    (00:15:30) Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost 2 spacecraft undergoes shake testing at NASA's JPL
    (00:20:10) China's Shenzhou 20 capsule returns safely to Earth after damage from space debris
    (00:25:00) New study reveals the benefits of swearing during physical exertion
    Más Menos
    28 m
adbl_web_global_use_to_activate_DT_webcro_1694_expandible_banner_T1