Space News Today

Astronomy Daily - The Podcast: S04E02

Welcome to another episode of Astronomy Daily, your source for the latest in space exploration and astronomy. I'm Anna, and today we delve into some captivating stories, from unexpected space debris in Kenya to groundbreaking black hole discoveries and the intriguing tale of Ireland's lost moon rocks.

Highlights:

- Mysterious Space Debris in Kenya : Residents of Mukuku Village in Kenya were taken by surprise when a massive metal object, identified as a rocket separation ring, fell from the sky. The Kenya Space Agency has secured the area and is investigating the incident under International Space Law protocols.

- SpaceX's Environmental Impact Study : Vandenberg Space Force Base in California is conducting an environmental impact study in response to SpaceX's increasing launch activities. Local communities express concerns over the environmental and noise impacts of up to 100 annual launches.

- Remarkable Black Hole Discoveries : 2024 unveiled extraordinary black hole findings, including the fastest growing black hole observed, a binary star system orbiting Sagittarius A, and an intermediate mass black hole in Omega Centauri. These discoveries challenge previous assumptions and expand our understanding of these cosmic giants.

- NASA's Challenging Year : NASA faced significant challenges in 2024, with issues in the Boeing Starliner mission and the end of the Ingenuity helicopter's mission on Mars. Despite setbacks, these experiences offer valuable lessons for future missions.

- Tribute to Mars Exploration : The Rose Parade in Pasadena featured a stunning tribute to Mars exploration, with a float showcasing a replica of NASA's Ingenuity helicopter, highlighting the intersection of space exploration and cultural heritage.

- Ireland's Lost Moon Rocks: A fascinating story from Ireland reveals the journey and eventual loss of their Apollo moon rocks, with remnants still buried in a landfill. Fortunately, a second lunar sample from Apollo 17 remains preserved in the National Museum of Ireland.

For more cosmic updates, visit our website at astronomydaily.io. (http://www.astronomydaily.io) Join our community on social media by searching for #AstroDailyPod on Facebook, X, Tumblr, YouTube, YouTubeMusic, and TikTok . Share your thoughts and connect with fellow space enthusiasts.

Thank you for tuning in. This is Anna signing off. Until next time, keep looking up and stay curious about the wonders of our universe.

00:00 - A metal object from a rocket launch landed in a Kenyan village on Tuesday

03:17 - 2024 has been a remarkable year for black hole discoveries

05:27 - NASA had several significant setbacks in 2016, but they also provided valuable lessons

08:10 - A recently uncovered story from Ireland reveals the fascinating journey of their Apollo moon rocks

✍️ Episode References

Kenya Space Agency

[Kenya Space Agency](https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/hubble/main/index.html)

Event Horizon Telescope

[Event Horizon Telescope](https://www.boeing.com/space/starliner/)

Ingenuity Helicopter

[NASA Ingenuity Helicopter](https://mars.nasa.gov/technology/helicopter/)

Rose Parade

[Rose Parade](https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) .

Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/24886152?utm_source=youtube

Astronomy Daily - The Podcast: S04E01

Happy New Year, and welcome to the first episode of Astronomy Daily for 2025! I'm Anna, and I'm thrilled to be back with you for another exciting year of space exploration and astronomical discoveries. Today, we're diving into some fascinating developments that are already shaping up to make 2025 a landmark year in space science.

Highlights:

- Commercial Spaceflight Boost: The U.S. Federal Communications Commission has expanded the spectrum for launch communications, allocating additional frequencies to support the growing commercial space industry. This move is set to streamline the licensing process and accelerate the pace of commercial space activities.

- NASA's Orion Capsule Concerns: Inspectors have discovered significant damage to the Orion capsule's heat shield, causing delays in the Artemis program. NASA has announced changes to the re-entry trajectory and manufacturing methods to ensure crew safety for future missions.

- Gravitational Wave Detection Breakthrough : Scientists have developed a new technique called optical spring tracking, enhancing our ability to detect gravitational waves. This advancement could lead to observations of cosmic events from the universe's earliest moments.

- Studying Lunar Space Debris : The Lunar Meteoroid Impact Observer (Lumio) mission aims to study meteoroid strikes on the Moon's far side. Positioned at the Earth-Moon L2 Lagrange point, Lumio will provide unprecedented data on space debris impacts.

- Remarkable Exoplanet Discoveries : 2024 was a year of extraordinary exoplanet discoveries, including the lowest density "cotton candy" planet and a planet with a super eccentric orbit. These findings expand our understanding of planetary diversity and formation.

- SpaceX's Ambitious Starship Plans: SpaceX is set to increase its launch frequency in 2025, with plans for up to 25 launches and significant upgrades to the Starship vehicle. These developments aim to revolutionize access to space and support NASA's Artemis program.

For more cosmic updates, visit our website at astronomydaily.io (http://www.astronomydaily.io) . Join our community on social media by searching for #AstroDailyPod on Facebook, X, Tumblr, YouTube, YouTubeMusic, and TikTok . Share your thoughts and connect with fellow space enthusiasts.

Thank you for tuning in. This is Anna signing off. Until next time, keep looking up and stay curious about our amazing universe.

00:00 - This is the first episode of astronomy daily for 2025

00:59 - The FCC has just expanded the spectrum available for launch communications

03:23 - NASA inspectors discovered cracks in Orion's heat shield following its 2022 splashdown

05:40 - Scientists have developed a new technique called optical spring tracking to detect gravitational waves

07:39 - Scientists are developing a new way to study lunar meteoroid impacts

09:56 - This year has been an extraordinary year for exoplanet discoveries

12:12 - SpaceX's Starship rocket system has successfully completed six test flights to date

14:40 - From gravitational wave detection to SpaceX's ambitious plans for Starship

✍️ Episode References

U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

[FCC Official Website](https://www.fcc.gov/)

NASA Artemis Program

[NASA Artemis](https://www.nasa.gov/specials/artemis/)

SpaceX

[SpaceX Official Website](https://www.spacex.com/)

Advanced Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO)

[LIGO Official Website](https://www.ligo.caltech.edu/)

European Space Agency (ESA) Lunar CubeSat for Exploration

[ESA Lunar CubeSat Competition](https://www.esa.int/)

Astronomy Daily Website

[Astronomy Daily](https://astronomydaily.io/)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) .

Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/24872726?utm_source=youtube

SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 01

Webb Telescope Confirms Hubble Tension

The James Webb Space Telescope has confirmed the Hubble Tension, challenging the current understanding of cosmic theory. New observations reveal that the Universe is expanding faster now than during its early years, suggesting gaps in our understanding of cosmic physics. The study, led by Adam Rees and Thomas Barber, confirms the accuracy of Hubble's measurements, pointing to unknown factors in the Universe's expansion.

Liquid Erosion on Asteroid Vesta

A new hypothesis proposes that liquids could have carved out gullies on the airless asteroid Vesta. Laboratory experiments suggest that briny liquids, rather than dry debris flows, may have formed these features. This study, reported in the Planetary Science Journal, provides insights into the geological processes on Vesta.

New Year's Day Fireworks on Mars

While Earth celebrates New Year's Day, Mars experiences its own fireworks with explosive spring thaws. The Martian northern hemisphere is undergoing dynamic surface changes, including frost avalanches and gas geysers. These phenomena offer a unique glimpse into the seasonal cycles on the Red Planet.

00:00 This is space Time Series 28, Episode 1, for broadcast on January 1 2025

00:52 Measurement discrepancy between Hubble and Webb on Universe's expansion remains unexplained

13:51 The Martian northern hemisphere is going through an active, even explosive spring thaw

21:17 New study shows teen smoking increases risk of heart disease later in life

23:54 Software update will turn AirPods Pro 2 into therapeutic grade hearing aid

28:32 TechRadar released its annual Top of the Pops list this year

29:51 TechRadar said the Apple Vision Pro was the biggest flop of 2024

31:21 Space Time with Stuart Gary is available on many podcasting platforms

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✍️ Episode References

Astrophysical Journal

[https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/](https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/)

Planetary Science Journal

[https://psj.aas.org/](https://psj.aas.org/)

NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter

[https://mars.nasa.gov/mro/](https://mars.nasa.gov/mro/)

American College of Cardiology

[https://www.jacc.org/](https://www.jacc.org/)

Australian Zoologist

[https://www.rzsnsw.org.au/](https://www.rzsnsw.org.au/)

Journal Interface

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Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/24872412?utm_source=youtube

Astronomy Daily - The Podcast: S03E246

Welcome to Astronomy Daily, your daily source of space and astronomy news. I'm Anna, and today, as we close out 2024, we've got an exciting lineup of stories, from stellar explosions to perfect planetary systems and upcoming cometary visitors.

Highlights:

- Stellar Explosion Captured by Hubble : The Hubble Space Telescope has captured a breathtaking image of Galaxy Lida 22057, located 650 million light years away in the constellation Gemini, featuring the spectacular supernova SN2024PI. This type Ia supernova, observed as a pale blue dot near the galaxy's core, offers insights into stellar evolution and the processes that shape our universe.

- Space Launches Break Records: 2024 has been a record-breaking year for space launches, with 259 orbital missions successfully placing over 2,700 payloads into orbit. SpaceX dominated with 134 launches, delivering 85% of all payloads to space, including over 1,900 Starlink satellites. The US and China led the launch landscape, with India and Europe gearing up for increased activity in 2025.

- India's Space Docking Experiment: India's space program marks a significant milestone with the successful launch of Spadex, testing crucial docking technologies for future missions including the Gaganyaan program and Chandrayaan 4 lunar mission. The mission's success represents a major step forward in India's spacefaring capabilities.

- NASA's Challenging Year : NASA faced dramatic challenges in 2024, including the extended stay of astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore on the ISS due to issues with the Boeing Starliner, the bittersweet end of the Ingenuity helicopter mission on Mars, and challenges with the Europa Clipper mission. Despite these hurdles, NASA continues its pursuit of space exploration.

- Perfect Planetary System Discovered: Located 105 light years away in the constellation Coma Berenices, astronomers have discovered a remarkable star system dubbed mathematically perfect. The star HD 110067 hosts six exoplanets in a synchronized dance, offering insights into planetary formation and potential habitability.

- Comet Atlas Approaches : Skywatchers can look forward to Comet Atlas (C2024G3) making its way toward the inner solar system, potentially shining as brightly as Venus. Scheduled to reach its closest approach to the sun on January 13, 2025, this comet promises an exciting start to the astronomical calendar.

For more cosmic updates, visit our website at astronomydaily.io (http://www.astronomydaily.io) . Join our community on social media by searching for #AstroDailyPod on Facebook, X, Tumblr, YouTube, YouTubeMusic, and TikTok. Share your thoughts and connect with fellow space enthusiasts.

Thank you for tuning in. This is Anna wishing you a Happy New Year and signing off. Until tomorrow's cosmic update, keep looking up and stay curious about the wonders of our universe.

00:00 - Astronomy Daily brings you latest stellar explosions and upcoming cometary visitors

02:26 - SpaceX dominated the landscape with 134 launches, accounting for 85% of payloads

04:42 - India successfully launches Spadex space docking experiment

06:55 - 2024 was a particularly challenging year for NASA with several significant developments

09:14 - New research suggests HD 110067's stellar system is younger than previously thought

12:59 - Happy New Year!

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Astronomy Daily - The Podcast: S03E245

Welcome to Astronomy Daily, your daily source of cosmic insights and stellar discoveries. I'm Anna, and today we have a thrilling array of stories that highlight the rapid advancements in our understanding of the universe.

Highlights:

- Vesta's Mysterious Gullies: Dive into NASA's groundbreaking discovery on the asteroid Vesta, where evidence of ancient brine flows has been uncovered. Learn how meteoroid impacts and salty water have shaped these enigmatic features, offering insights into similar processes across the solar system.

- Next-Gen Mars Helicopters: Explore NASA's ambitious plans for the next generation of Mars helicopters. Building on the success of Ingenuity, the new Mars chopper promises enhanced capabilities, paving the way for more detailed aerial exploration of the Red Planet.

- Deep Space Network Upgrade : Discover the major upgrade to NASA's Deep Space Network with the installation of Deep Space Station 23. This new antenna at Goldstone will revolutionize communication with our farthest explorers, ensuring robust connectivity for future space missions.

- 2025 Celestial Events Preview : Get ready for a spectacular year of celestial events in 2025. From the Quadrantid meteor shower to the Devil's Horns solar eclipse, there's a lot to look forward to. Learn how these events will illuminate our skies and enhance our understanding of the cosmos.

- Comet Tracking via Meteor Showers : In a fascinating development for planetary defense, scientists have devised a new method to track potentially hazardous comets using meteor shower data. This innovative approach could provide early warnings, enhancing our ability to protect Earth.

For more cosmic updates, visit our website at astronomydaily.io. Join our community on social media by searching for #AstroDailyPod on Facebook, X, Tumblr, YouTubeMusic, and TikTok. Share your thoughts and connect with fellow space enthusiasts.

Thank you for tuning in. This is Anna signing off. Until next time, keep looking up and stay curious about the wonders of our universe.

00:00 - Astronomy Daily brings you the latest in space and astronomy news

01:02 - Scientists have made a breakthrough in understanding the mysterious gullies on Vesta

03:18 - NASA has unveiled their vision for the next generation of martian aerial exploration

05:43 - NASA has upgraded its Deep Space Network with a massive new antenna

08:10 - Space enthusiasts have an exciting year ahead in 2025 with numerous celestial events planned

10:47 - Scientists develop new way to track potentially dangerous comets by studying meteor showers

13:01 - This week's Astronomy Daily features fascinating stories from across the cosmos

✍️ Episode References

NASA Dawn Mission

[NASA Dawn](https://dawn.jpl.nasa.gov/)

Jet Propulsion Laboratory

[JPL](https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/)

NASA Mars Helicopter

[NASA Mars Helicopter](https://mars.nasa.gov/technology/helicopter/)

Deep Space Network

[NASA DSN](https://deepspace.jpl.nasa.gov/)

Northern Arizona University

[NAU](https://nau.edu/)

Quadrantid Meteor Shower

[Quadrantids](https://www.amsmeteors.org/meteor-showers/meteor-shower-calendar/)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) .

Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/24858452?utm_source=youtube

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 157

NASA's Parker Solar Probe Touches the Sun

NASA's Parker Solar Probe has made history by becoming the first spacecraft to touch the Sun. The probe, weighing 685 kilogrammes, flew within 6.1 million kilometres of the solar surface, achieving unprecedented speeds of over 692 kilometres per hour. This milestone marks a significant step in understanding solar phenomena and space weather, with implications for forecasting geomagnetic storms.

Moon's Volcanic Past Unveiled

New samples from China's Chang'e 6 mission to the Moon's far side reveal volcanic activity as recent as 2.8 billion years ago. This finding challenges previous assumptions about the Moon's geological history, suggesting a prolonged period of volcanism on its far side, distinct from earlier samples obtained from the near side.

Mapping the Milky Way

Astronomers have crafted a new stellar chart offering a more comprehensive map of our Milky Way galaxy. The study reveals the galaxy's formation in two distinct phases, with implications for understanding its structure and evolution. This research provides new insights into areas previously hidden from view.

00:00 This is space Time Series 27 episode 157 for broadcast on 30 December 2024

00:47 NASA's Parker Solar Probe flew closer to the sun than any other spacecraft

02:05 NASA launched Parker solar probe to touch the Sun in August 2018

10:04 New data from China's Chang'e 6 mission suggests lunar volcanism still active

13:09 Astronomers develop new stellar chart providing a more complete map of our Milky Way galaxy

16:45 New study claims drinking tea or coffee reduces risk of head and neck cancers

18:46 Scientists at Monash University have made a breakthrough in energy storage technology

20:57 Consumer magazine Choice has announced its shonky award winners for 2024

www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com

www.bitesz.com

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✍️ Episode References

Parker Solar Probe

https://www.nasa.gov/content/parker-solar-probe

Chang'e 6 Mission

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-020-2128-4

Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics

https://www.aip.de/en

Sloan Digital Sky Survey

https://www.sdss.org/

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) .

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Space Nuts Episode: Dark Energy Discoveries, Ancient Peruvian Observatories, and Solar Proximity #482

Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson as they explore groundbreaking discoveries in this fascinating episode of Space Nuts. From potential evidence of dark energy to the mysteries of an ancient Peruvian observatory, and the record-breaking feats of NASA's Parker Solar Probe, this episode is packed with cosmic insights and historical wonders.

Episode Highlights:

- Dark Energy Detection: Dive into the latest research from the University of Cambridge, where scientists may have accidentally stumbled upon evidence of dark energy. Explore the significance of this potential discovery and its implications for the future of physics.

- Ancient Peruvian Observatory: Discover the story behind a 2,200-year-old observatory in Peru, recently granted World Heritage status. Learn about its role in ancient civilization and the remarkable precision of its astronomical alignments.

- Parker Solar Probe's Record-Breaking Mission: Marvel at NASA's Parker Solar Probe as it makes its closest-ever approach to the Sun, achieving unprecedented speeds and providing new insights into solar physics. Understand how this mission is reshaping our knowledge of the Sun's mysterious processes.

For more Space Nuts, including our continually updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, X, YouTube Music, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform.

For more Space and Astronomy News Podcasts, visit our HQ at www.bitesz.com.

Become a supporter of this podcast for extended commercial-free episodes and more. Visit our Support page for options: spacenutspodcast.com/about

Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.

00:00 - Space Nuts is taking a bit of a break at the moment

01:30 - University of Cambridge scientists looking for detection of dark energy using Italian telescope

08:07 - Peruvian observatory that was discovered in 2005 has hit the news again

14:26 - NASA's Parker Solar Probe made its closest ever approach to the Sun

17:29 - NASA is getting ready to announce major changes to its Mars sample return mission

18:56 - From record breaking solar encounters to the evolving plans for Mars

✍️ Episode References

University of Cambridge

[University of Cambridge](https://www.cam.ac.uk/)

Gran Sasso National Laboratory

[Gran Sasso National Laboratory](https://www.lngs.infn.it/en)

University of Leicester

[University of Leicester](https://le.ac.uk/)

NASA Parker Solar Probe

[NASA Parker Solar Probe](https://www.nasa.gov/content/goddard/parker-solar-probe)

NASA Mars Sample Return Mission

[NASA Mars Sample Return Mission](https://mars.nasa.gov/msr/)

Astronomy Daily

[Astronomy Daily](https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts--2631155/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts--2631155/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) .

Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/24838307?utm_source=youtube

Astronomy Daily - The Podcast: S03E244

Welcome to Astronomy Daily, your go-to source for the latest in space exploration and astronomy news. I'm Anna, and today we're diving into some groundbreaking stories, from the Parker Solar Probe's historic solar approach to a rare astronomical event to wrap up the year.

Highlights:

- Parker Solar Probe's Record-Breaking Pass : NASA's Parker Solar Probe has achieved a remarkable feat by completing its closest ever pass to the Sun, breaking its own record. On December 24, the spacecraft flew just 3.8 million miles from the solar surface at an astonishing speed of 430,000 miles per hour, making it the fastest human-made object in history. This mission marks humanity's first direct investigation of a star, offering unprecedented insights into the Sun's behavior.

- Blue Origin's New Glenn Milestones : Blue Origin has reached two significant milestones with its New Glenn rocket. The company completed a successful integrated hot fire test of the launch vehicle, and the FAA granted a commercial launch license. New Glenn's first flight will carry the Blue Ring Pathfinder, paving the way for national security space launch missions and potential government contracts.

- Rare Astronomical Event : Black Moon: As December comes to a close, stargazers can look forward to a rare Black Moon on December 30th. This second New Moon of the month offers perfect conditions for observing celestial objects, with Venus, Saturn, and Jupiter visible in the night sky alongside the winter constellations.

- Sun's Christmas Light Show: On December 25, the Sun unleashed four powerful solar flares in a synchronized event known as sympathetic solar flares. While the resulting coronal mass ejection is expected to pass north of Earth, scientists remain hopeful for future aurora displays as solar activity continues.

- Mars Sample Return Mission Redesign: NASA is set to announce a major redesign of the Mars Sample Return Mission in early January. This decision aims to address timeline and budget concerns, with the goal of returning Martian samples to Earth before human missions to the Red Planet begin.

For more cosmic updates, visit our website at astronomydaily.io. (https://www.nasa.gov/content/goddard/parker-solar-probe

Blue Origin

https://www.blueorigin.com/

Federal Aviation Administration

https://www.faa.gov/

United Launch Alliance

https://www.ulalaunch.com/

Perseverance Rover

https://mars.nasa.gov/mars2020/

Astronomy Daily

https://astronomydaily.io/

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Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/24826123?utm_source=youtube

Astronomy Daily - The Podcast: S03E243

Welcome to Astronomy Daily, your daily dose of the most fascinating developments in space science and astronomical discoveries. I'm Anna, and today we're exploring some incredible stories from across the cosmos.

Highlights:

- Game-Changing Telescopes : Discover the potential of the Giant Magellan Telescope (GMT) and the 30 Peter Telescope (TMT) as highlighted in a recent National Science Foundation report. These groundbreaking telescopes promise to redefine our understanding of the universe, addressing questions about galaxy formation, dark matter, and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Despite their potential, these projects face financial and technical hurdles, needing $1.6 billion to progress.

- The Quest for Water on Mars : Delve into the ongoing search for liquid water on Mars. A new study challenges previous assumptions, suggesting that features like recurring slope lineae may be dry flows of sand and dust. Researchers are now focusing on brines, though their stability on Mars remains questionable. Despite setbacks, the search continues, driven by the hope that life might have adapted to Mars' extreme conditions.

- China's Space Sector Milestones : Learn about Landspace's recent achievements, including a successful launch and a $123 million funding boost for reusable methane-powered rockets. This marks a significant step in China's commercial space sector, with plans for cargo missions to the Tiangong space station by 2026.

- The Running Chicken Nebula: Marvel at the newly released image of the Running Chicken Nebula, captured by the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope. This emission nebula, located 6,500 light-years away, captivates with its whimsical, chicken-like shape and vibrant colors.

- Stargazing Tips for Beginners : If you've received a telescope recently, Sky & Telescope offers essential tips for getting started. Learn how to familiarize yourself with your equipment, practice during daylight hours, and choose the best celestial targets like the Moon, Jupiter, and Saturn for your first observations. Link: https://skyandtelescope.org/astronomy-resources/stargazing-basics/get-started-with-that-new-holiday-telescope/ (https://skyandtelescope.org/astronomy-resources/stargazing-basics/get-started-with-that-new-holiday-telescope/)

For more cosmic updates, visit our website at astronomydaily.io. (https://www.nsf.gov/](https://www.nsf.gov/)

Giant Magellan Telescope (GMT)

[https://www.gmto.org/](https://www.gmto.org/)

Thirty Peter Telescope (TMT)

[https://www.tmt.org/](https://www.tmt.org/)

European Southern Observatory (ESO)

[https://www.eso.org/](https://www.eso.org/)

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences

[https://www.pnas.org/](https://www.pnas.org/)

Landspace

[https://www.landspace.com/](https://www.landspace.com/)

Sky & Telescope

[https://skyandtelescope.org/](https://skyandtelescope.org/)

Running Chicken Nebula (IC 2872/Gum 40)

[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IC_2872](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IC_2872)

Tiangong Space Station

[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiangong_space_station](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiangong_space_station)

Vincent Chevrier

[https://www.uark.edu/research/chevrier/](https://www.uark.edu/research/chevrier/)

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Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/24814605?utm_source=youtube

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 156

Superflares: A Century-Long Threat?

A new study warns of the potential for our Sun to unleash superflares, with the threat estimated at once per century. These massive eruptions could engulf the Earth, challenging our understanding of solar behaviour. Evidence from other sun-like stars suggests that such violent solar events may be more common than previously thought, urging caution as we continue to study these phenomena.

Binary Star Discovery Near Galactic Core

Astronomers have identified the first binary star system near Sagittarius A*, the supermassive black hole at the centre of our galaxy. This discovery, made using the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope, offers new insights into how stars can survive in extreme gravitational environments. The findings could pave the way for detecting planets orbiting close to this massive black hole.

NASA's Lucy Mission: Onward to Jupiter

NASA's Lucy spacecraft has completed its second close flyby of Earth, gaining a gravity assist to propel it towards Jupiter's Trojan asteroids. This manoeuvre is part of Lucy's 12-year mission to study these ancient celestial bodies, believed to be remnants from the early solar system. The spacecraft's journey promises to unlock new secrets about the formation of our planetary neighbourhood.

00:00 This is Spacetime Series 27, episode 156 for broadcast on 27th December 2024

00:48 New observations suggest our sun may be far more violent than previously thought

05:17 Astronomers detect binary star system near supermassive black hole

08:49 NASA's Lucy spacecraft makes second close flyby of the Earth

10:37 NASA's Lucy mission is heading to the Jupiter Trojans

12:26 Sea ice levels in the ocean surrounding Antarctica reach new record lows in 2023

13:52 A new study claims drinking moderate amounts of wine can ward off heart disease

15:05 There are headlines saying believing in Loch Ness monster makes you less stressed

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✍️ Episode References

NASA Lucy spacecraft

https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/lucy/overview/index.html

Max Planck Institute

https://www.mpg.de/en

European Southern Observatory

https://www.eso.org/public/

Kepler space telescope

https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/kepler/main/index.html

Nature Communications

https://www.nature.com/ncomms/

British Medical Journal

https://www.bmj.com/

European Heart Journal

https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj

Australian Sceptics

https://www.skeptics.com.au/

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