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

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

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

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

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

In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore significant advancements in space exploration and innovative scientific projects.
Perseverance Rover's New Journey
After nearly five years on Mars, NASA's Perseverance Rover is on the move again, heading to a new site on the rim of Jezero Crater named Lac du Charm. Having traversed over 40 kilometres and collected vital rock core samples, the rover is undergoing extensive evaluations to ensure its longevity, with engineers confident it can operate until at least 2031. We discuss the rover's advanced autonomous driving capabilities and its mission to uncover signs of past microbial life.
Fashion Meets Science: Microbial Fabrics
A groundbreaking project is set to merge fashion and science by sending specially designed fabrics made from bacteria into space. These innovative materials will change colour in response to radiation exposure, potentially protecting astronauts from harmful levels of UV radiation and offering new applications for skin cancer prevention on Earth. Lead researcher Giles Ballet shares insights into how this technology could revolutionise both space exploration and everyday fashion.
Expedition 73 Crew Returns
The Expedition 73 astronauts have safely returned to Earth after an eight-month mission aboard the International Space Station. Their journey has contributed to over 250 experiments, including advancements in bioprinting and remote robotic operations. We also discuss the implications of recent challenges faced by Russia's manned space program.
www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
✍️ Episode References
Journal of Science
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 151 for broadcast on 24 December 2025
(00:00:47) NASA's Perseverance Rover begins a new journey on Mars
(00:12:30) Innovative microbial fabrics set to be tested in space
(00:19:15) Expedition 73 crew returns safely to Earth after eight months in orbit
(00:24:05) New study suggests humans have been using fire for 400,000 years
(00:27:30) Technology tips for buying the right printer for your needs

SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 28 Episode 150
In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into intriguing discoveries and ongoing challenges in the realm of astrophysics and planetary science.
Cosmic Dance of Dying Stars
Astronomers have made fascinating observations of a unique star system named Apep, located over 8,000 light years away in the constellation Norma. This rare system consists of three massive stars locked in a 190-year orbit, creating stunning spirals of cosmic dust. Using the advanced capabilities of NASA's Webb Space Telescope and the Very Large Telescope in Chile, researchers captured extraordinary images revealing four distinct dust shells spiraling outward from the stars. Lead author Ryan White from Macquarie University discusses how these findings enhance our understanding of stellar interactions and the evolution of massive stars over time.
Titan's Liquid Ocean: A New Perspective
A recent study challenges the long-held belief that Saturn's largest moon, Titan, harbors a vast underground ocean. Instead, researchers suggest that Titan may have a more complex internal structure characterized by slushy tunnels and pockets of meltwater rather than a global liquid water ocean. This revelation, based on a reanalysis of data from NASA's Cassini mission, could have significant implications for the search for potential life on Titan, indicating that any existing life forms might inhabit a more confined environment with concentrated nutrients.
NASA's MAVEN: Communication Challenges
Mission managers at NASA are working diligently to restore contact with the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution (MAVEN) spacecraft, which went silent during a routine pass behind Mars on December 6. Engineers are analyzing data from before the loss of signal to identify the cause and determine if the spacecraft can be salvaged. MAVEN has been crucial for studying Mars' atmosphere and has served as a vital communications relay for surface missions.
www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
✍️ Episode References
Astrophysical Journal
Nature
NASA TV
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 150 for broadcast on 22nd December 2025
(00:00:47) NASA's Webb Space Telescope reveals four spectacular dust shells from distant star system
(00:10:58) New study says Titan probably doesn't have a vast underground liquid water ocean
(00:15:57) NASA mission managers continue efforts to restore contact with missing maven spacecraft
(00:18:36) New study finds shared genetic patterns across 14 common psychiatric disorders
(00:20:56) A new study claims acupuncture treatment for lower back pain reduces pain

In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover groundbreaking discoveries and exciting celestial events that illuminate our understanding of the universe.
Earliest Supernova Ever Detected
Astronomers have achieved a remarkable milestone by detecting the earliest supernova ever observed, dating back to a mere 730 million years after the Big Bang. Using the powerful Webb Space Telescope, this supernova, cataloged as GRB250314A, emitted a gamma ray burst that has shattered previous distance records. Lead author Andrew Levin shares insights into how this discovery provides a glimpse into the universe when it was only 5% of its current age, revealing surprising similarities with modern supernovae despite the vast differences in their epochs.
Liquid Water on Mars: New Evidence
New seismic data from NASA's Mars InSight lander suggests that liquid water could still exist beneath the Martian surface, potentially providing a habitat for microbial life. The analysis of marsquakes has revealed boundaries in the Martian crust that indicate the presence of water-filled cracks, offering compelling evidence that life may persist on the Red Planet. We discuss the implications of these findings and the methodologies used to analyze the Martian subsurface.
The Great Geminids Meteor Shower of 2025
The annual Geminid meteor shower is reaching its peak, presenting stargazers with the chance to witness up to 100 meteors per hour under optimal conditions. Unlike many meteor showers that originate from comets, the Geminids are unique as they come from the asteroid 3200 Phaethon. Dr. Robert Massey provides tips on how to best observe this spectacular celestial event, emphasizing the importance of dark skies and the naked eye for optimal viewing.
www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
✍️ Episode References
Astronomy and Astrophysics
British Medical Journal
Nature Communications
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
(00:00:00) New clues suggest that liquid water could still exist on Mars today
(00:00:48) Astronomers have detected the earliest supernova ever seen using the Webb Space Telescope
(00:05:10) New study based on seismic data suggests liquid water may still exist on Mars
(00:09:12) The Geminids are visible between now and December 20th
(00:13:10) New study finds coffee may slow down biological aging of people with mental illnesses

SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 28 Episode 147
In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into remarkable discoveries that significantly enhance our understanding of the cosmos.
Longest Gamma Ray Burst Ever Detected
Astronomers have made headlines with the discovery of the longest gamma ray burst ever recorded, GRB 250702B, which lasted over seven hours. This unprecedented event is reshaping our understanding of stellar explosions and their aftermath. Initial observations indicate that this extraordinary burst may have originated from a black hole consuming a star, prompting new theories about the mechanisms behind these powerful cosmic phenomena. We explore the implications of this finding and how it challenges existing models of gamma ray bursts.
Elemental Bounty in Supernova Remnant
For the first time, scientists have detected chlorine and potassium in the remnants of the supernova Cassiopeia A, utilizing the advanced capabilities of the CRISM spacecraft. This discovery sheds light on the elemental processes that occur during stellar explosions and their connection to the formation of elements crucial for life on Earth. We discuss the significance of these findings and their impact on our understanding of stellar nucleosynthesis.
International Space Station Fully Occupied
In a historic first, the International Space Station has reached full capacity, with all eight of its docking ports in use. We discuss the implications of this milestone, including the logistics of managing multiple spacecraft and the ongoing missions currently underway aboard the ISS.
www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
✍️ Episode References
Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
Astrophysical Journal Letters
Nature Astronomy
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 147 full broadcast on 17 December 2025
(00:00:47) Astronomers have detected the longest gamma ray burst ever detected
(00:11:11) Astronomers have detected chlorine and potassium in a supernova remnant
(00:18:27) International Space Station is fully occupied with all eight docking ports now in use
(00:20:05) New study claims flavonoids may help improve insulin resistance
(00:24:58) You're a multiple award winner. You've won in creative writing and controversy
(00:26:05) Space Time is available every Monday, Wednesday and Friday through bitesz. com

In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore significant developments in space exploration and cosmic studies that could reshape our understanding of the universe.
Nasa's MAVEN Mars Orbiter: Communication Loss
NASA's MAVEN (Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution) spacecraft has gone silent, with contact lost on December 6th after passing behind Mars. The orbiter has been a vital asset for over a decade, studying the Martian atmosphere and solar wind interactions that have transformed Mars from a water-rich world to a cold desert. We delve into MAVEN's critical findings, including the mechanisms of atmospheric escape and the implications of its potential loss for ongoing Martian research.
Galactic Neighbourhoods: Influencing Evolution
A new study reveals how a galaxy's local environment can significantly affect its evolution. The research, published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, demonstrates that galaxies situated in densely populated regions tend to grow more slowly and develop different structures compared to their isolated counterparts. By analysing data from the Deep Extragalactic Visible Legacy Survey, astronomers have gained insights into the complex dynamics of galactic interactions and their impact on star formation rates.
Uranus and Neptune: More Richie than Icy?
Challenging long-held classifications, a recent study suggests that the solar system's ice giants, Uranus and Neptune, may actually be more rocky than icy. Researchers from the University of Zurich conducted computer simulations that indicate a broader range of internal compositions for these planets, which could explain their complex magnetic fields. This new perspective could alter our understanding of planetary formation and evolution, paving the way for future explorations of these distant worlds.
www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
✍️ Episode References
Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
NASA TV
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.