Episodes

  • Europa's Ice Shell and Planet Nine: Unveiling the Thickness of Frozen Worlds and Cosmic Oddities

    Europa's Ice Shell and Planet Nine: Unveiling the Thickness of Frozen Worlds and Cosmic Oddities
    Feb 7 2026
    SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 16
    In this episode of SpaceTime, we dive into groundbreaking revelations about Europa's ice shell, explore new evidence for the existence of a potential Planet Nine, and discuss a significant advancement in quantum physics that challenges the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle.
    Europa's Ice Shell Thickness Revealed
    Data from NASA's Juno mission has provided the first insights into the thickness of Europa's icy crust, estimating it to be around 29 kilometers. This measurement comes from Juno's 2022 flyby, where the spacecraft utilized its microwave radiometer to analyze the moon's surface temperature and characteristics. The findings suggest that beneath this thick ice lies a global ocean of liquid water, potentially harboring the ingredients necessary for life. Understanding the ice shell's structure is crucial for future missions, including NASA's Europa Clipper, set to arrive in 2030.
    The Case for Planet Nine
    A new study published in Nature Astronomy presents fresh simulations suggesting that wide-orbit planets, like the hypothesized Planet Nine, could be a natural outcome of chaotic early planetary systems. Researchers found that during turbulent phases of stellar formation, planets can be flung into distant orbits rather than being ejected entirely. This work offers a 40% chance that a Planet Nine-like object exists, providing a promising avenue for future exploration as telescopes become more capable of surveying the distant solar system.
    Advancements in Quantum Physics
    In a remarkable breakthrough, physicists have demonstrated a method to sidestep the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle, allowing for simultaneous precise measurements of a particle's position and momentum. This innovative approach, detailed in Science Advances, could pave the way for ultra-precise sensor technologies across various fields, including navigation and astronomy. The study redefines the boundaries of quantum measurement, offering new possibilities for scientific exploration.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Nature Astronomy
    Science Advances
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    Show More Show Less
    20 mins
  • Mercury's Hidden Activity and Titan's Dragonfly: Exploring Volatile Streaks and Robotic Rotocopters

    Mercury's Hidden Activity and Titan's Dragonfly: Exploring Volatile Streaks and Robotic Rotocopters
    Feb 4 2026
    SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 15
    In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover intriguing discoveries about Mercury's geological activity, NASA's innovative Dragonfly mission to Titan, and the environmental impacts of rocket fuel pollution.
    Mercury's Surprising Streaks
    A new study reveals bright streaks, or lineae, on Mercury's surface, suggesting the planet is not as geologically inactive as previously thought. Researchers from the University of Bern utilized machine learning to analyze over 100,000 images from NASA's MESSENGER spacecraft, discovering that these streaks are likely caused by the outgassing of volatile materials from beneath Mercury's crust. This finding indicates ongoing geological processes and will be further explored by the BepiColombo mission, set to reach Mercury later this year.
    NASA's Dragonfly Mission to Titan
    NASA is developing the Dragonfly, a car-sized rotocopter designed to explore Saturn's moon Titan, which features methane and ethane lakes. Scheduled for launch in 2028, Dragonfly will utilize Titan's dense atmosphere to fly to various locations, examining environments that may harbor organic materials essential for life. The mission builds on the success of the Ingenuity rotocopter on Mars, with extensive testing underway to ensure optimal performance in Titan's unique conditions.
    Rocket Fuel Pollution and the Ozone Layer
    A recent study highlights the damaging effects of burning rocket fuels, such as kerosene, on Earth's ozone layer. The report indicates that the rapid growth of the rocket launch industry is exacerbating this issue, particularly affecting regions like Antarctica and parts of Australia. Researchers are calling for restrictions on the use of these fuels to mitigate environmental harm.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Nature Communications, Earth and Environment
    Climate and Atmospheric Science
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    (00:00:00) Streaks on the surface of Mercury suggesting it's not quite dead yet
    (00:11:13) Burning rocket fuel damages Earth's ozone layer, study finds
    (00:12:28) A new study claims cyber attacks can spark intense social media discussions
    (00:14:53) Apple bans anti woke Holly Valent song from iTunes in Australia
    (00:16:39) Apple has now had hypertension notifications authorized by the TGN
    (00:18:04) Space Time is available every Monday, Wednesday and Friday through bitesz. com
    Show More Show Less
    19 mins
  • Earth's Water Origins and Io's Volcanic Secrets: Unveiling Tectonic Climate Drivers and Lunar Archives

    Earth's Water Origins and Io's Volcanic Secrets: Unveiling Tectonic Climate Drivers and Lunar Archives
    Feb 3 2026
    In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore new insights into the origins of Earth's water, groundbreaking discoveries beneath the surface of Jupiter's volcanic moon Io, and how tectonic plate movements may have influenced Earth's climate throughout history.
    New Clues on Earth's Water Origins
    A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that asteroid and comet impacts could only account for a small fraction of Earth's water supply. By analyzing oxygen isotopes in lunar regolith collected during the Apollo missions, researchers found that the early Earth likely retained little to no water during its formative years. This challenges long-held beliefs and suggests that the majority of Earth's water must have originated from other sources, rather than being delivered by celestial bodies.
    Unprecedented Volcanic Activity on Io
    NASA's Juno spacecraft has captured remarkable data on Io, the most volcanically active body in our solar system. Observations from a December flyby revealed the most energetic eruption ever detected on Io, affecting a vast area of 65,000 square kilometers. The findings indicate that interconnected magma reservoirs beneath Io's surface are responsible for this extraordinary volcanic activity, providing new insights into the moon's geological dynamics and evolution.
    Tectonic Plates and Earth's Climate
    A new study suggests that carbon released from shifting tectonic plates may have played a significant role in Earth's climatic transitions, rather than volcanic activity as previously thought. Researchers reconstructed carbon movements over the last 540 million years, providing evidence that carbon emissions from mid-ocean ridges were the primary drivers of climate shifts between ice ages and warmer periods. This research reshapes our understanding of past climate dynamics and offers valuable insights for future climate models.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
    Journal of Geophysical Research Planets
    Communications Earth and Environment
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    Show More Show Less
    23 mins
  • Cosmic Echoes and Jovian Secrets: Unraveling the Milky Way's Black Hole and Jupiter's Water Mysteries

    Cosmic Echoes and Jovian Secrets: Unraveling the Milky Way's Black Hole and Jupiter's Water Mysteries
    Jan 30 2026
    Sponsor Link:
    This episode is brought to you with thanks to Squarespace. Bring your stories to life with Squarespace, the easiest way to create an exceptional website, blog, portfolio, or online store. To take up our great offer and help support the show, just visit www.squarespace.com/spacetime or use the Promo Code SPACETIME at checkout.

    SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 13
    In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover the hidden violent past of the Milky Way's supermassive black hole, delve into the origins of water on Jupiter's Galilean moons, and explore how meteor impacts are triggering dust avalanches on Mars.
    The Violent History of Sagittarius A
    For years, Sagittarius A, the supermassive black hole at the center of our galaxy, has been perceived as a quiet entity. However, new research published in the Astrophysical Journal Letters indicates that it may have experienced dramatic flares in the past. Observations from the CRISM Space Telescope reveal X-ray emissions from a gas cloud near Sagittarius A, suggesting a history of explosive activity that alters our understanding of supermassive black hole evolution and the history of our galaxy.
    Water Origins of Jupiter's Galilean Moons
    A groundbreaking study has determined that the contrasting water content of Jupiter's four large Galilean moons was established during their formation rather than evolving later. This research sheds light on the stark differences between Io, which is dry and volcanically active, and Europa, believed to have a subsurface ocean. The findings suggest that the primordial environment around Jupiter played a crucial role in shaping these moons' compositions.
    Meteor Impacts Trigger Dust Avalanches on Mars
    New evidence indicates that meteor impacts on Mars are causing dust avalanches, creating dark streaks on the planet's surface. An analysis of images from the European Space Agency's ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter reveals that these avalanches occur primarily due to dry processes, driven by seasonal dust and wind activity, rather than water-related phenomena. This discovery enhances our understanding of Martian surface dynamics and the impact of meteor activity.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Astrophysical Journal Letters
    Nature Communications
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    (00:00:00) Sagittarius A's hidden violent past revealed
    (00:12:45) Origins of water on Jupiter's Galilean moons
    (00:25:30) Meteor impacts causing dust avalanches on Mars
    (00:35:00) February night sky highlights and celestial events.
    (00:00:00) This is space time series 29, episode 13 for broadcast on 30 January 2026
    (00:00:47) X ray emissions from the Crism Space Telescope suggest Sagittarius A flared
    (00:07:59) A new study claims dust avalanches caused by meteor impacts are creating Martian streaks
    (00:10:22) February is the second month of the year in the Julian and Gregorian calendars
    (00:12:03) February's Orion meteor showers usually peak around February 8th
    (00:22:18) Blue supergiant Rigel is the second brightest star in the constellation Orion
    (00:31:08) Rygel: Sirius is the brightest star in the night sky
    (00:35:09) February is a great time to look for bright stars in the night sky
    (00:38:04) The night sky is sparse with the old planets at the moment
    Show More Show Less
    43 mins
  • Earth's Hidden Mantle Secrets: Mars' Blue Past and the Cosmic Gas Pipeline of Galaxy Growth

    Earth's Hidden Mantle Secrets: Mars' Blue Past and the Cosmic Gas Pipeline of Galaxy Growth
    Jan 28 2026
    Sponsor Link:
    This episode is brought to you with thanks to Squarespace. Bring your stories to life with Squarespace, the easiest way to create an exceptional website, blog, portfolio, or online store. To take up our great offer and help support the show, just visit www.squarespace.com/spacetime or use the Promo Code SPACETIME at checkout.

    SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 12
    In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover groundbreaking discoveries about Earth's mantle, the watery past of Mars, and the rapid growth of galaxies through cool gas filaments.
    Distinct Histories of Earth’s Mantle Provinces
    Recent research reveals that the two massive continent-sized regions deep within the Earth's mantle have unique chemical compositions and histories. This study challenges long-held assumptions and uses seismic wave data to illustrate how these large low velocity provinces differ in density and material, impacting the planet's heat extraction from the core and potentially affecting the stability of Earth's magnetic field.
    Confirmation of Mars as a Blue Planet
    New evidence from ancient Martian river deltas suggests that Mars was once covered by a vast ocean. High-resolution images reveal delta-like structures, indicating that water once flowed into an ocean approximately 3 billion years ago. This discovery supports the notion of a once habitable environment on Mars, offering insights into its geological history and the potential for life.
    Galaxies Growing Through Cool Gas Filaments
    A fascinating new study has demonstrated how galaxies can rapidly grow by drawing in filaments of cool gas. Observations from the Keck Telescope's Cosmic Webb Imager provide direct evidence of these gas streams spiraling into galaxies, fueling star formation at unprecedented rates. This research offers significant insights into the processes of galaxy formation and the role of the cosmic web in shaping the universe.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Scientific Reports
    MPJ Space Exploration
    Nature Astronomy
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    (00:00:00) Distinct histories of Earth's mantle provinces
    (00:12:15) Mars confirmed as a blue planet with ancient ocean
    (00:25:30) Galaxies grow rapidly through cool gas filaments
    (00:35:00) Discovery of the oldest known rock art in the world.
    Show More Show Less
    25 mins
  • Solar Storms and Lunar Returns: The Artemis 2 Mission and Earth's Record-Breaking Solar Flare

    Solar Storms and Lunar Returns: The Artemis 2 Mission and Earth's Record-Breaking Solar Flare
    Jan 27 2026
    Sponsor Link:
    This episode is brought to you with thanks to Squarespace. Bring your stories to life with Squarespace, the easiest way to create an exceptional website, blog, portfolio, or online store. To take up our great offer and help support the show, just visit www.squarespace.com/spacetime or use the Promo Code SPACETIME at checkout.

    SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 11
    In this episode of SpaceTime, we dive into the latest astronomical events, including a record-setting solar storm impacting Earth, the historic Artemis 2 mission preparing to return astronauts to the Moon, and groundbreaking evidence confirming an ancient asteroid impact in the North Sea.
    Record-Breaking Solar Storm Strikes Earth
    Planet Earth has recently experienced a massive geomagnetic storm triggered by an X1.9 class solar flare, followed by a coronal mass ejection. This event produced stunning auroras, visible as far north as Sydney and Brisbane. We discuss how such solar storms can affect technology on Earth and in space, including potential disruptions to communications and navigation systems, as well as the impact on satellites in low Earth orbit.
    Artemis 2: A Historic Return to the Moon
    NASA's Artemis 2 mission is gearing up to send astronauts back to the Moon for the first time in over 50 years. The crew will embark on a 10-day journey, orbiting the Moon and traveling further than any humans have before. We explore the mission's objectives, including testing spacecraft systems, practicing docking procedures, and conducting deep space science experiments, all while preparing for future lunar landings.
    Proof of an Ancient Asteroid Impact
    A decades-long debate over the origins of the Silverpit Crater in the North Sea has been resolved with new evidence confirming it was formed by an asteroid impact 43 to 46 million years ago. Utilizing seismic imaging and microscopic analysis, researchers have established this crater as a significant impact site, shedding light on the history of asteroid collisions on Earth and their implications for our planet's geological evolution.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Nature Communications
    NASA Reports
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    (00:00:00) Record solar storm strikes Earth
    (00:12:30) Artemis 2 mission prepares to send astronauts back to the Moon
    (00:25:00) Evidence confirms asteroid impact in the North Sea
    (00:35:15) New insights into Earth's climate from ancient geological events.
    Show More Show Less
    27 mins
  • Nuclear Rockets and Cosmic Mergers: Exploring the Future of Space Travel and Galactic Evolution

    Nuclear Rockets and Cosmic Mergers: Exploring the Future of Space Travel and Galactic Evolution
    Jan 23 2026
    SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 10
    In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore groundbreaking developments in space exploration, including the imminent launch of the first nuclear-powered rocket, the merging of low mass dwarf galaxies, and the intriguing connection between Earth-like planets and gas giants.
    The Dawn of Nuclear Rocket Technology
    History is set to be made as NASA and DARPA prepare to test the world’s first fully operational nuclear-powered orbital rocket. This innovative vehicle utilizes a nuclear thermal propulsion system that heats liquid hydrogen propellant through nuclear fusion, achieving nearly double the efficiency of conventional rockets. The test aims to validate reactor operation in orbit, potentially revolutionizing space travel by reducing transit times to Mars and allowing for larger payloads.
    Merging Dwarf Galaxies: A New Discovery
    A recent study published in the Astrophysical Journal Letters confirms that low mass dwarf galaxies can merge with one another. Observations of the Ursa Minor dwarf spheroidal galaxy reveal previously hidden stellar structures, suggesting that even the smallest galaxies experience mergers. These findings challenge traditional views on galaxy formation and evolution, indicating that interactions between dwarf galaxies may be more common than previously believed.
    The Connection Between Earth-Like and Gas Giant Planets
    Astronomers have found that rocky planets similar to Earth are more likely to exist in star systems that also contain large gas giants like Jupiter. This research, reported in Astronomy and Astrophysics, shows that cold Jupiters, which orbit beyond the snow line, play a significant role in the formation of super Earths in the inner regions of their planetary systems. The study offers new insights into the complex dynamics of planetary formation and the conditions that lead to the development of terrestrial planets.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Astrophysical Journal Letters
    Astronomy and Astrophysics
    Science Advances
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    (00:00:00) NASA and DARPA prepare to test the first nuclear-powered orbital rocket
    (00:10:15) New study confirms mergers among low mass dwarf galaxies
    (00:20:45) Link discovered between Earth-like planets and gas giants
    (00:30:00) China breaks through barriers in nuclear fusion reactor development
    (00:35:20) The impact of ultra-processed foods on global health.
    Show More Show Less
    17 mins
  • Cosmic Mysteries: Unveiling the Secrets of Black Holes, Jupiter's Oxygen, and Earth's Gamma Ray Revolution

    Cosmic Mysteries: Unveiling the Secrets of Black Holes, Jupiter's Oxygen, and Earth's Gamma Ray Revolution
    Jan 21 2026
    SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 9
    In this episode of SpaceTime, we unravel the enigma of the universe's mysterious little red dots, delve into groundbreaking insights from Jupiter regarding the evolution of our solar system's planets, and mark the commencement of construction on Earth's largest gamma-ray observatory.
    The Mystery of the Little Red Dots
    A fascinating new study reveals that the enigmatic little red dots observed in early images from the NASA Webb Space Telescope are, in fact, young black holes cloaked in ionized gas. Researchers from the Niels Bohr Institute's Cosmic Dawn Center have determined that these black holes, much smaller than previously thought, are in the process of consuming gas, which creates immense heat and radiation, giving them their distinctive red appearance. This discovery sheds light on the formation of some of the universe's earliest black holes just 700 million years after the Big Bang.
    Jupiter's Role in Planetary Evolution
    New simulations indicate that Jupiter may contain up to 50% more oxygen than the Sun, providing fresh insights into how the planets in our solar system formed. By developing a comprehensive model of Jupiter's atmosphere, researchers have resolved a long-standing debate regarding the gas giant's chemical composition. The findings suggest that Jupiter's atmosphere circulates much more slowly than previously believed, which could alter our understanding of planetary migration and formation processes.
    Construction of Earth's Largest Gamma-Ray Observatory
    Engineers have officially begun construction on the Cherenkov Telescope Array Observatory, set to be the largest gamma-ray telescope ever built. Located in Chile's Atacama Desert, this observatory will significantly enhance our ability to study high-energy cosmic phenomena, such as black holes and supernovae. With over 60 telescopes across two sites, the observatory will allow astronomers to observe gamma rays with unprecedented accuracy, potentially unlocking new discoveries about dark matter and the fundamental laws of physics.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Nature Journal
    Planetary Science Journal
    Advances in Atmospheric Sciences
    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
    (00:00:00) New study reveals little red dots in Webb images are young black holes
    (00:07:30) Jupiter may have 50% more oxygen than the Sun, reshaping planetary formation theories
    (00:15:45) Construction begins on the Cherenkov Telescope Array Observatory
    (00:22:00) New data confirms 2025 saw record ocean heat storage
    (00:25:30) Advances in autonomous driving technology showcased at CES 2026.
    Show More Show Less
    29 mins