In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore groundbreaking discoveries and ambitious plans in the realm of space exploration.The Most Distant Black Hole: Casper's Lidz 9Astronomers have identified the most distant black hole ever observed, known as Casper's Lidz 9, dating back 13.3 billion years to a time when the universe was only half a billion years old. This supermassive black hole, weighing in at approximately 300 million solar masses, raises intriguing questions about its rapid growth in the early universe. The findings, published in the Astrophysical Journal, provide a unique opportunity to study the structure and evolution of galaxies during this enigmatic period, with implications for our understanding of black hole formation.New Insights into Ancient Martian WaterRecent research suggests that Mars was even wetter than previously believed. A study presented at the Royal Astronomical Society's national meeting examined over 1500 kilometres of ancient riverbeds in the Nochesterra region, indicating that flowing water was widespread during the Noche and Hesperian transition around 3.7 billion years ago. These findings challenge existing theories about Mars's dry history and suggest a more complex and active planet, potentially providing a more hospitable environment for ancient life.Nuclear Reactors for Moon and Mars BasesThe United States has unveiled plans to develop nuclear reactors to power future bases on the Moon and Mars, with the first plant expected to launch by the end of the decade. This initiative aims to support sustained human presence on these celestial bodies, addressing energy needs that solar power cannot fulfil. The reactors will provide essential electricity for life support, scientific equipment, and resource utilisation, marking a significant step in the ongoing space race.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com✍️ Episode ReferencesAstrophysical Journalhttps://iopscience.iop.org/journal/1538-4357NASA's Artemis Programhttps://www.nasa.gov/specials/artemis/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
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Martian Glaciers Revealed: Unveiling Water Ice and the Hunt for Intermediate Mass Black Holes
In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover intriguing discoveries about Mars, the cosmos, and the latest advancements in space technology.Martian Glaciers: Pure Water IceRecent research reveals that Martian glaciers are composed of over 80% pure water ice, challenging previous assumptions that they were primarily rocky. This groundbreaking study, led by Yuval Steinberg from the Weizmann Institute, utilized standardized measurements to analyze the dielectric properties of these glaciers, providing a clearer understanding of their composition. The findings not only enhance our knowledge of Martian geology but also have significant implications for future manned missions, as these glaciers could serve as vital water sources for astronauts.Discovery of an Intermediate Mass Black HoleNASA's Hubble Space Telescope and Chandra X-Ray Observatory have identified a rare intermediate mass black hole, known as NGC6099HLX1, actively consuming a star. This black hole, located approximately 450 million light-years away, resides in a compact star cluster and exhibits extreme luminosity during its tidal disruption event. The discovery sheds light on the formation of black holes and their role in galactic evolution, providing crucial insights into the elusive intermediate mass category that bridges stellar and supermassive black holes.United States Space Force's X37B MissionThe United States Space Force is gearing up for the eighth mission of its Boeing X37B space shuttle, set to launch from Cape Canaveral Space Force Base. This mission will test advanced technologies, including a high-bandwidth inter-satellite laser communications system and a cutting-edge quantum inertial sensor. The X37B's unique capabilities allow it to conduct classified operations while remaining difficult to track, highlighting its significance in modern space operations.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com✍️ Episode ReferencesIcarus Journalhttps://www.journals.elsevier.com/icarusAstrophysical Journalhttps://iopscience.iop.org/journal/1538-4357NASA Hubble Space Telescopehttps://hubblesite.org/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
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Galactic Secrets Uncovered: The Milky Way's Orphan Galaxies and Parker Solar Probe's Stunning Solar Images
In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore exciting new findings about our galaxy, the latest achievements of NASA's Mars Curiosity rover, and groundbreaking images of the Sun captured by the Parker Solar Probe.Milky Way's Hidden SatellitesRecent research suggests that the Milky Way may host up to 100 previously undetected satellite galaxies. Using advanced supercomputer simulations and mathematical modeling, astronomers have identified the existence of these faint dwarf galaxies, which could provide crucial support for the Lambda cold dark matter model. Currently, only 60 companion galaxies are confirmed, but with new telescopes like the Vera Rubin Observatory, the search for these elusive satellites is set to expand, potentially reshaping our understanding of the universe's structure.Curiosity Rover Reaches New HeightsNASA's Mars Curiosity rover has made significant progress in its exploration of Mount Sharp, revealing intricate geological formations known as boxwork. This unique terrain, shaped by ancient groundwater processes, offers valuable insights into the Red Planet's history. Curiosity has been utilizing its advanced instruments to analyze the composition of the Martian surface and conduct atmospheric observations, marking a new phase in its mission to uncover the secrets of Mars.Parker Solar Probe's Record-Breaking ImagesIn a groundbreaking achievement, NASA's Parker Solar Probe has captured the closest images of the Sun ever taken. These stunning observations, made during a recent pass through the solar corona, are helping scientists understand solar phenomena and their impact on space weather. The high-resolution images reveal important details about the solar wind and coronal mass ejections, providing insights that could improve predictions of solar activity and protect technology on Earth.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com✍️ Episode ReferencesNature Astronomyhttps://www.nature.com/natureastronomy/NASA Mars Curiosity Missionhttps://mars.nasa.gov/msl/Parker Solar Probehttps://www.nasa.gov/content/parker-solar-probeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.00:00 New study says Milky Way could have far more satellite galaxies than previously thought00:47 Our Milky Way galaxy could have more satellite galaxies surrounding it than previously predicted05:37 NASA's Mars Curiosity rover reaches new heights exploring boxwork terrain on Mount Sharp09:08 NASA's Parker Solar Probe captured stunning new images of the solar atmosphere18:40 A new study warns that hail storms could hit Australian cities harder due to climate change
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ERIS 1: Australia's Orbital Rocket Launch Attempt and the Cosmic Origins of Life
In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into significant developments in space exploration, from Australia's latest rocket launch attempt to groundbreaking theories about the origins of life.Australia's ERIS 1 Rocket Launch: A Learning ExperienceIn a dramatic turn of events, Gilmour Space's ERIS 1 rocket experienced a failure just seconds after liftoff, marking Australia's first orbital rocket launch in years. Despite the setback, CEO Adam Gilmour emphasizes the lessons learned from the test flight, which will inform the design and operation of future launches. The rocket's ascent was initially promising, but engine failures led to a crash shortly after clearing the launch tower. Fortunately, no injuries or environmental damage occurred, and the mission provided valuable data that will enhance the next attempt.Life's Origins: A Cosmic PerspectiveA new study suggests that the building blocks of life may have originated in outer space rather than on Earth. Using the ALMA radio telescope, astronomers detected complex organic molecules in the protoplanetary disk of the protostar UH V883 Orionis. These findings indicate that essential compounds, such as ethylene glycol and glycolonitrile, are not only present in various cosmic environments but may also be the precursors to amino acids and other vital biological components. This research supports the notion that the seeds of life are widespread throughout the universe.Boeing's Starliner Delays ContinueBoeing's Starliner spacecraft faces further delays, now pushed back to at least 2026 before it can carry humans into space. Ongoing technical issues have plagued the project, including helium leaks and thruster control problems. NASA is working closely with Boeing to address these challenges, but the timeline for crewed missions remains uncertain as SpaceX continues to lead in transporting astronauts to the International Space Station.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com✍️ Episode ReferencesAstrophysical Journal Lettershttps://iopscience.iop.org/journal/1538-4357NASA's Commercial Crew Programhttps://www.nasa.gov/exploration/commercial/crew/index.htmlGilmour Spacehttps://gilmourspace.com/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.00:00 A new study says the evolution of life may well have origins in outer space00:47 Gilmour Space's Ares 1 orbital rocket crashed two seconds after launch10:37 A new study says the evolution of life may have origins in outer space11:28 Astronomers find 17 complex organic molecules in distant planet forming disk19:35 New study finds images can shape public opinion regardless of true facts22:06 World Meteorological Organization says megaflash stretched 829km in 2017
In this episode of SpaceTime, we embark on a thrilling journey through the cosmos, exploring the potential for life on Mars, a remarkable discovery in the outer solar system, and the crucial mapping of sulfur throughout our galaxy.Searching for Life on MarsA new study reveals that thick layers of clay on Mars could indicate stable environments conducive to life billions of years ago. Researchers have identified that these clay deposits likely formed in standing bodies of water, providing the right conditions for chemical weathering and potentially supporting ancient life. The findings suggest that the balance between water and carbon cycles on Mars may explain the planet's geological history and the absence of carbonate rocks. Lead author Rhianna Moore discusses how these stable terrains could have fostered habitable conditions for extended periods, offering insights into the Red Planet's wet past.Discovery of 2020 VN40: A Distant Cosmic CompanionAstronomers have discovered a rare celestial body, 2020 VN40, located far beyond Neptune, moving in perfect synchronicity with the ice giant. This trans-Neptunian object orbits the sun once for every ten orbits Neptune completes, providing new insights into the dynamics of the outer solar system. The discovery, reported in the Planetary Science journal, enhances our understanding of how distant objects interact with Neptune's gravity and offers clues about the solar system's evolution.Mapping Sulfur in the Milky WayA groundbreaking study has mapped the distribution of sulfur across the Milky Way, an essential element for life. Utilizing the CRISM X-Ray Imaging and Spectroscopy mission, scientists have directly measured sulfur in both its gaseous and solid forms within the interstellar medium. The findings shed light on sulfur's role in the cosmos and its potential implications for understanding life's distribution throughout the galaxy. This research marks a significant step in answering fundamental questions about the building blocks of life in the universe.www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com✍️ Episode ReferencesNature Astronomyhttps://www.nature.com/natureastronomy/Planetary Science Journalhttps://iopscience.iop.org/journal/2632-3338CRISM Missionhttps://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/asteroids/overview/crism.htmlBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
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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