Episodios

  • Cosmic Beginnings and Stellar Discoveries: Unveiling the First Stars and Secrets of the Moon

    Cosmic Beginnings and Stellar Discoveries: Unveiling the First Stars and Secrets of the Moon
    Nov 14 2025
    (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 Detected
    Astronomers 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 suggest that these stars were formed in small clusters and exhibit extremely low metallicity, challenging previous theories about the early universe.
    Secrets of the Moon Revealed
    Two NASA studies have provided fascinating insights into the Moon's internal structure through advanced gravity modelling. By analysing data from the GRAIL mission, researchers have created the most detailed gravitational map of the Moon to date, revealing variations linked to tidal deformation. This research offers clues about the Moon's geological history and volcanic activity, particularly highlighting differences between the near and far sides of the Moon.
    New Insights into Asteroid Vesta
    In a parallel study, scientists examined the asteroid Vesta's structure using data from NASA's Dawn spacecraft. Contrary to earlier beliefs of a layered interior, new measurements suggest Vesta may have a more uniform composition, with only a small core, if any. This revelation challenges long-held assumptions about the formation and evolution of this ancient asteroid.
    Euclid Space Telescope's Stellar Nursery Observations
    The European Space Agency's Euclid Space Telescope has peered into the dark cloud LDN 1641, uncovering a vibrant stellar nursery filled with young stars. This segment discusses the significance of Euclid's observations, which not only aid in fine-tuning the telescope's capabilities but also contribute to our understanding of star formation and the cosmos.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Astrophysical Journal Letters
    Nature
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    22 m
  • Decelerating Cosmos and Solar Secrets: Unravelling Dark Energy and the Sun's Magnetic Dance

    Decelerating Cosmos and Solar Secrets: Unravelling Dark Energy and the Sun's Magnetic Dance
    Nov 13 2025
    (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 Slowing
    A 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 episode discusses various scenarios for the universe's future, including the Big Crunch, Steady State theory, Big Freeze, and Big Rip, and how these new observations could reshape our understanding of cosmic fate.
    First Glimpse of the Sun's Polar Magnetic Field
    Astronomers have captured their first detailed view of the Sun's polar magnetic field in motion, revealing unexpected rapid movements. The Solar Orbiter spacecraft has provided insights into the Sun's magnetic activity, which follows an 11-year cycle. This segment highlights the significance of the findings, which enhance our understanding of solar dynamics and the implications for space weather.
    Current Surge in Space Weather Events
    As the Sun reaches solar maximum, astronomers are observing increased solar storm activity, including multiple X-class and M-class solar flares. This segment discusses the effects of coronal mass ejections on Earth, including spectacular auroras and potential disruptions to technology and power grids. We explore the science behind solar flares and their impact on our planet, providing a comprehensive overview of current space weather conditions.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
    Astrophysical Journal Letters
    Nature Geoscience
    Journal of the American Medical Association
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    26 m
  • Galactic Influences and Supermoons: Exploring Earth's Crust and Taikonaut Trials

    Galactic Influences and Supermoons: Exploring Earth's Crust and Taikonaut Trials
    Nov 10 2025
    (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 Stars
    A 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 may have directly influenced the continents beneath our feet and the conditions that made life possible.
    Taikonaut Stranded in Space
    In a dramatic turn of events, three Chinese taikonauts are stranded in orbit after their Shenzhou 20 spacecraft was struck by suspected space junk just hours before their scheduled return to Earth. This segment discusses the implications of the impact, the ongoing assessments by mission managers, and the potential need for a replacement capsule to ensure the crew's safe return. The episode also reflects on past incidents involving space debris and the measures taken to protect the Tiangong Space Station.
    The Biggest Supermoon of the Year
    Skywatchers around the globe were treated to the biggest supermoon of the year, appearing 7% larger and 30% brighter than a typical full moon. This segment explains the science behind the phenomenon, including the moon's elliptical orbit and its impact on tides. We also discuss how the term "supermoon" became popularised and the frequency of such lunar events, with several more supermoons on the horizon.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Physical Review
    https://journals.aps.org/pr/
    Nature
    https://www.nature.com/
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    Earth's Geology Written in the Stars
    Taikonaut Stranded in Space
    The Biggest Supermoon of the Year
    Earth's Geology Written in the StarsTaikonaut Stranded in SpaceThe Biggest Supermoon of the Year
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    21 m
  • Phosphine Mysteries and Lunar Returns: Unveiling Secrets of Wolf 1130C and the Moon

    Phosphine Mysteries and Lunar Returns: Unveiling Secrets of Wolf 1130C and the Moon
    Nov 8 2025
    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 1130C
    For 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 Formation
    A groundbreaking hypothesis suggests that some planets may produce water during their formation through reactions between rocks and hydrogen under extreme pressure. This new perspective, discussed in the journal Nature, could explain the presence of liquid water on exoplanets located close to their host stars, challenging traditional views of water's origins. The episode examines the laboratory experiments that led to this hypothesis and its potential impact on our understanding of planetary habitability.
    Preparing for Humanity's Return to the Moon
    As NASA gears up for the Artemis 2 mission, which aims to send humans around the Moon, we discuss the significance of returning to the lunar south pole. This area is believed to contain more water than any other region on the Moon, making it a crucial target for future exploration. The episode highlights the advancements in technology and international collaboration that will pave the way for a sustained human presence on the Moon, furthering our exploration of the solar system.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Science
    https://www.sciencemag.org/
    Nature
    https://www.nature.com/
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    Phosphine Discovery in Brian Dwarf Wolf 1130C
    A New Hypothesis for Planetary Water Formation
    Preparing for Humanity's Return to the Moon
    Más Menos
    23 m
  • Stellar Giants and Cosmic Mysteries: The Most Massive Black Hole Merger Yet

    Stellar Giants and Cosmic Mysteries: The Most Massive Black Hole Merger Yet
    Nov 5 2025
    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 Observed
    Astronomers 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 Matter
    Can 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 illuminate the properties of dark matter, which remains one of the biggest mysteries in astrophysics.
    Navigating the Heliosphere with IMAP
    NASA's Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP) is on a mission to study the heliosphere, the protective bubble created by the solar wind. As it travels towards its operational position, IMAP will provide unprecedented insights into the interactions between the solar wind and interstellar space, enhancing our understanding of space weather and its effects on our planet and future space exploration.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Nature Astronomy
    https://www.nature.com/natureastronomy/
    Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
    https://www.pnas.org/
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    The Most Massive Stellar Black Hole Merger Ever Observed
    Unraveling the Mystery of Dark Matter
    Navigating the Heliosphere with IMAP
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    30 m
  • Interstellar Comet 3I Atlas and Hidden Ice: Unraveling Mysteries of Water and Galaxies

    Interstellar Comet 3I Atlas and Hidden Ice: Unraveling Mysteries of Water and Galaxies
    Nov 4 2025
    In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore a trio of intriguing astronomical phenomena that are reshaping our understanding of the cosmos.
    Interstellar Comet 3I Atlas: A Close Encounter
    Interstellar comet 3I Atlas has reached its perihelion, passing closest to the Sun without any signs of alien life forms, despite wild media speculation. This episode discusses how the comet maintained its expected trajectory and velocity, while also revealing groundbreaking findings from NASA's Swift Space Telescope, which detected ultraviolet signatures of water from the comet, providing new insights into the chemistry of interstellar objects and their potential to harbour the building blocks of life.
    A Colossal Gas Bridge Between Dwarf Galaxies
    Astronomers have discovered a massive bridge of neutral hydrogen gas linking two dwarf galaxies, NGC 4532 and DDO 137, located approximately 53 million light years away. This remarkable structure spans an astonishing 185,000 light years and is accompanied by a vast tail of gas extending 1 million light years. The findings shed light on how galaxies interact and evolve, particularly in dense environments like the Virgo Cluster, and offer crucial insights into the dynamics of galactic gas and star formation.
    Volcanic Eruptions and Hidden Ice on Mars
    A new study suggests that explosive volcanic eruptions on ancient Mars may have transported water ice to the equatorial regions of the Red Planet. Using computer modelling, researchers propose that water vapour released during these eruptions could have frozen in the Martian atmosphere, leading to the accumulation of significant ice deposits. This discovery could have profound implications for future human exploration of Mars, as it raises questions about the availability of water resources in unexpected locations.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Astrophysical Journal Letters
    https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/2041-8205
    Nature Communications
    https://www.nature.com/naturecommunications/
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    Interstellar Comet 3I Atlas: A Close Encounter
    A Colossal Gas Bridge Between Dwarf Galaxies
    Volcanic Eruptions and Hidden Ice on Mars
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    25 m
  • Martian Ice and Cosmic Shadows: Unveiling Life and Dark Matter Mysteries

    Martian Ice and Cosmic Shadows: Unveiling Life and Dark Matter Mysteries
    Oct 31 2025
    In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into groundbreaking discoveries that could reshape our understanding of life on Mars and the cosmos beyond.
    Martian Ice: A Potential Reservoir for Life
    A recent study suggests that Martian ice may be the most promising location to search for signs of ancient microbial life. Researchers found that biomolecules from dormant microbes degrade significantly slower in pure water ice compared to Martian soil mixtures. This discovery, published in the journal Astrobiology, raises hopes that future missions to Mars could uncover preserved organic materials in its icy regions, potentially revealing the planet's biological history.
    A Mysterious Dark Object in the Universe
    Astronomers have identified the lowest mass dark object ever detected, with a mass about a million times that of our Sun. This enigmatic object, reported in Nature Astronomy, may offer insights into the nature of dark matter, which constitutes a significant portion of the universe's mass. The object was detected through gravitational lensing, and its small size challenges existing theories about dark matter's composition and distribution.
    NASA's Call for Lunar Mission Bids
    NASA is seeking new bids for its Artemis Moon program, aiming to foster competition among American companies to return humans to the lunar surface. With ongoing delays from SpaceX, NASA Administrator Sean Duffy emphasizes the urgency of the mission as the U.S. races against China to achieve lunar exploration milestones. The upcoming Artemis missions promise to be pivotal in establishing a sustainable human presence on the Moon.
    November Skywatch with Jonathan Nally
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Astrobiology Journal
    https://www.liebertpub.com/journals/astrobiology/1
    Nature Astronomy
    https://www.nature.com/natureastronomy/
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    Martian Ice: A Potential Reservoir for Life
    A Mysterious Dark Object in the Universe
    NASA's Call for Lunar Mission Bids
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    32 m
  • Lunar Relics and Interstellar Insights: Discoveries from the Moon and Comet 3I ATLAS

    Lunar Relics and Interstellar Insights: Discoveries from the Moon and Comet 3I ATLAS
    Oct 29 2025
    (00:00:00) Lunar Relics and Interstellar Insights: Discoveries from the Moon and Comet 3I ATLAS
    (00:00:46) Relics of the outer solar system discovered on the Moon
    (00:03:30) Insights from interstellar comet 3I ATLAS
    (00:07:31) SpaceX's Starship Mega rocket test flight
    (00:23:54) The Science report
    (00:31:46) Episode Wrap

    In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore remarkable discoveries that provide new insights into our solar system and beyond.
    Relics of the Outer Solar System Found on the Moon
    A groundbreaking study reveals that meteorites found on the Moon originated from the outer solar system. Researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences have identified olivine-bearing clasts from lunar regolith collected by the Chang'e 6 mission. These relics, believed to be carbonaceous chondrites, offer critical information about the formation and evolution of planets. The findings suggest that the Moon serves as a pristine archive for meteorites, with implications for understanding the origins of lunar water and organic materials.
    Interstellar Comet 3I ATLAS: Insights into Alien Solar Systems
    The interstellar comet 3I ATLAS is revealing fascinating details about the composition of other solar systems. New observations indicate that 3I ATLAS has been active longer than expected, releasing various molecules as it travels through our solar system. This segment discusses how the comet's behavior challenges existing assumptions about comet activity and provides clues about the materials present in distant star systems.
    SpaceX's Starship Mega Rocket Test Flight
    SpaceX has successfully completed its 11th test flight of the Starship Mega rocket, demonstrating significant advancements in its design and capabilities. The mission involved various maneuvers, including hot staging and payload deployment, as well as tests of the spacecraft's reentry and landing procedures. This episode highlights the importance of these tests for future missions to the Moon and Mars, as SpaceX continues to refine the Starship for interplanetary travel.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
    https://www.pnas.org/
    Astrophysical Journal Letters
    https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/2041-8205
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    Relics of the Outer Solar System Found on the Moon
    Interstellar Comet 3I ATLAS: Insights into Alien Solar Systems
    SpaceX's Starship Mega Rocket Test Flight
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    33 m