Hints of Alien Life, a Galactic Mystery, and Juno's Safe Mode Incident
In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore groundbreaking revelations suggesting the potential for alien life beyond Earth. Using NASA's Webb Space Telescope, astronomers have detected chemical signatures of dimethyl sulfide and dimethyl disulfide in the atmosphere of the exoplanet K2 18 b, a sub-Neptune world located 124 light years away in the habitable zone of its host star. While these findings are incredibly promising, researchers urge caution as they work to confirm these biosignatures through further observations.
A Surprising Spiral Galaxy from the Early Universe
Next, we dive into the discovery of a surprisingly large spiral galaxy dating back 11.4 billion years, which challenges current models of galaxy formation. This massive galaxy, dubbed the "Big Wheel," is three times larger than expected for its time, prompting astronomers to rethink how galaxies can grow and evolve in the early universe. The implications of this finding could reshape our understanding of cosmic structure and formation processes.
NASA's Juno Spacecraft in Safe Mode
Additionally, we discuss a recent anomaly that forced NASA's Juno spacecraft to enter safe mode during a close flyby of Jupiter. The spacecraft's precautionary measures allowed it to protect its systems and continue diagnostics, ensuring the mission's ongoing success as it gathers vital data about the gas giant and its moons.
00:00 Space Time Series 28 Episode 48 for broadcast on 21 April 2025
00:49 Potential biosignatures detected on K2 18 b
06:30 Implications for the search for extraterrestrial life
12:15 Discovery of an ancient spiral galaxy in the early universe
18:00 Challenges to current galaxy formation models
22:45 Juno spacecraft enters safe mode after anomaly
27:00 Summary of recent astronomical discoveries
30:15 Science report: Health benefits of sauerkraut and lunar dust solar panels
www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
www.bitesz.com
🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn. Enjoy incredible discounts and bonuses! Plus, it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌
Check out our newest sponsor - Old Glory - Iconic Music and Sports Merch and now with official NASA merchandise. Well worth checking out...
Become a supporter of this Podcast for as little as $3 per month and access commercial-free episodes plus bonuses: https://www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com/about
✍️ Episode References
Astrophysical Journal Letters
https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/0004-637X
Nature Astronomy
https://www.nature.com/nature-astronomy/
Applied and Environmental Microbiology
https://aem.asm.org/
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-space-astronomy--2458531/support.