Episodes

  • Cosmic Clues: Unlocking Dark Matter Secrets from a Distant Supernova

    Cosmic Clues: Unlocking Dark Matter Secrets from a Distant Supernova
    Jan 8 2026
    SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 3
    In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into the latest discoveries in astrophysics and the challenges faced by space agencies worldwide.
    Ancient Supernova Offers Clues to Dark Energy
    Astronomers have made significant strides in understanding dark energy, the enigmatic force driving the universe's accelerated expansion. A newly observed supernova, located 10 billion light years away, has been gravitationally lensed by a foreground galaxy, allowing scientists to analyze multiple images of the same explosion. This phenomenon could help determine the Hubble constant, shedding light on the universe's expansion rate and its ultimate fate, which ranges from a Big Crunch to a Big Rip.
    Sterile Neutrino Hypothesis Nearly Ruled Out
    After over a decade of research, scientists have come close to ruling out the existence of the sterile neutrino, a proposed particle that could explain anomalous neutrino behavior. Data from the Micro BooNE experiment at Fermilab has shown no signs of sterile neutrinos, providing a pivotal moment in particle physics that narrows the search for new theories beyond the standard model.
    China's Reusable Rocket Setback
    China's efforts to develop a reusable rocket faced a significant blow as its Long March 12A failed on its maiden flight. Although the rocket's first and second stages performed as expected, the first stage failed to return successfully, highlighting the challenges in achieving reusability akin to SpaceX's Falcon 9. This setback underscores the competitive nature of the global space industry as China strives to enhance its capabilities.
    www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
    ✍️ Episode References
    Astrophysical Letters
    Nature
    Fermilab 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 3 for broadcast on 7 January 2026
    (00:00:47) Discovering dark energy through a unique supernova
    (00:12:30) Ruling out the sterile neutrino hypothesis
    (00:20:10) China's reusable rocket faces a major setback
    (00:25:00) Science report: Climate change impacts, endangered species, and digital privacy concerns
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    21 mins
  • Galactic Secrets: Unravelling the Milky Way's Chemical Bimodality

    Galactic Secrets: Unravelling the Milky Way's Chemical Bimodality
    Jan 6 2026
    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
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    30 mins
  • Stellar Spectacles: January's Night Sky Highlights

    Stellar Spectacles: January's Night Sky Highlights
    Jan 2 2026
    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
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    38 mins
  • Lunar Leap: Artemis 2's Historic Mission and the Future of Moon Exploration

    Lunar Leap: Artemis 2's Historic Mission and the Future of Moon Exploration
    Dec 31 2025
    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
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    25 mins
  • Doomsday Dance: Ramses Mission and the Secrets of Apophis

    Doomsday Dance: Ramses Mission and the Secrets of Apophis
    Dec 30 2025
    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
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    22 mins
  • Super Kilonova Surprise: Unravelling the Mystery of Cosmic Explosions

    Super Kilonova Surprise: Unravelling the Mystery of Cosmic Explosions
    Dec 26 2025
    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
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    28 mins
  • Martian Moves: Perseverance's Journey and Fashionable Microbes in Space

    Martian Moves: Perseverance's Journey and Fashionable Microbes in Space
    Dec 24 2025
    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
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    24 mins
  • Stellar Ballet: Apep's Cosmic Dance and Titan's Liquid Mystery

    Stellar Ballet: Apep's Cosmic Dance and Titan's Liquid Mystery
    Dec 22 2025
    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
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    26 mins