SpaceTime with Stuart Gary

SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 8
In this episode of SpaceTime, we investigate the surprising ways Mars influences Earth's climate, hear about the safe return of Crew 11 following the first emergency medical evacuation from the International Space Station, and explore a cosmic clock that reveals insights into Australia's geological history.
Mars: A Climate Influencer
A new study has unveiled that the orbit of Mars can significantly impact Earth's climate, even triggering ice ages. Researchers from the University of California Riverside utilized computer simulations to demonstrate how Mars’ gravitational pull alters Earth's orbit and affects long-term climatic cycles. The findings challenge previous assumptions about Mars' minimal influence and highlight the planet's role in shaping Earth's climatic patterns over millions of years.
Crew 11's Safe Return
NASA's SpaceX Crew 11 has successfully splashed down in the North Pacific Ocean after a historic emergency medical evacuation from the ISS. The crew's return, which occurred a month earlier than planned due to medical concerns, was marked by a brilliant display in the night sky as they descended. This marks a significant event in the history of human spaceflight, emphasizing the importance of health monitoring aboard the space station.
Unveiling Australia's Geological History
Scientists have discovered that the rare gas krypton can be used to unlock the secrets of Earth's ancient landscapes. By examining tiny zircon crystals found in ancient beach sands, researchers can gauge how long these minerals have been exposed at the surface, providing insights into erosion rates and potential mineral deposits. This groundbreaking research not only sheds light on the past but also has implications for future resource exploration in Australia.
www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
✍️ Episode References
Journal of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Astronomical Society of the Pacific
NASA Reports
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
(00:00:00) New study shows how the orbit of Mars can affect climate here on Earth
(00:05:52) NASA's SpaceX crew 11 safely returned to Earth after medical evacuation
(00:08:17) SpaceX and NASA astronauts splashdown after 167 days in space
(00:09:00) The crew were returning a month early due to medical concerns
(00:10:46) Scientists use rare gas called krypton to study ancient Earth landscapes
(00:23:05) New data from NASA shows 2025 was the second hottest year since records began
(00:24:38) Some AI chatbots are reporting abuse and fear following interactions with humans

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SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 7
In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into the intriguing possibilities surrounding the origins of life, including new findings from Saturn's moon Titan and the implications for our understanding of life beyond Earth. We also explore the latest research on Europa, one of Jupiter's moons, and uncover the sources of the sun's mysterious gamma rays.
Life's Building Blocks on Titan
A groundbreaking study reveals that Titan, Saturn's largest moon, exhibits unexpected chemical interactions at extremely low temperatures. Researchers found that hydrogen cyanide can mix with nonpolar substances like methane and ethane, challenging traditional chemistry principles. This discovery could provide insights into the prebiotic chemistry that may have preceded life on Earth, as Titan's environment mirrors that of early Earth.
Europa's Quiet Oceans
In a surprising turn, new calculations suggest that the vast subsurface ocean beneath Europa's icy crust may be lifeless. This research indicates that Europa lacks the geological activity, such as hydrothermal vents, necessary to sustain life. Lead author Paul Brian discusses how the moon's stable orbit around Jupiter limits the tidal forces that could drive geological processes, casting doubt on the moon's potential as a habitat for life.
The Source of Solar Gamma Rays
Astronomers have identified the origin of intense gamma radiation emitted during solar flares, linking it to high-energy electrons colliding with plasma in the solar corona. This finding, derived from observations of a significant solar flare in 2017, enhances our understanding of solar flare physics and could improve space weather forecasting.
www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
✍️ Episode References
Journal of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Nature Communications
Nature Astronomy
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.
(00:00:00) Scientists studying Saturn's moon Titan have discovered that normally incompatible substances can mix
(00:05:19) NASA will launch the Dragonfly mission to Titan in 2028
(00:13:36) NASA's Europa Clipper spacecraft will study icy moon Europa
(00:18:11) Astronomers have discovered that gamma rays generated by solar flares are caused by electrons
(00:21:58) Most people who take diabetes drug Mounjaro gain weight back after stopping

Sponsor Links:
This episode of SpaceTime is brought to you with the support of Squarespace. When it's time to get a presence online, go with the folks who support us...and build the best websites easily. No hassles. You can check out their special offer for SpaceTime listeners by visiting our special URL....Click Here

SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 6
In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore groundbreaking discoveries in astrophysics, including the confirmation of Betelgeuse's elusive companion star, a spectacular black hole event, and the BepiColombo spacecraft's approach to Mercury.
Betelgeuse's Companion Star Confirmed
Astronomers have finally confirmed that the red supergiant star Betelgeuse has a companion star, named Saguara. Utilizing data from NASA's Hubble Space Telescope and ground-based observatories, researchers traced the influence of Saguara as it interacts with Betelgeuse's outer atmosphere. This discovery sheds light on the star's peculiar brightness variations and its eventual fate as it nears a supernova explosion, which could occur at any time in astronomical terms.
A Black Hole's Powerful Feast
In a remarkable observation, astronomers witnessed a black hole shredding a massive star in what is described as the most powerful event of its kind ever recorded. Known as a gravitational tidal disruption event, this phenomenon released energy equivalent to 400 billion times that of our Sun, surpassing even the most energetic supernovae. The event, cataloged as AT 2024WPP, offers new insights into black hole behavior and the dynamics of stellar destruction.
BepiColombo's Journey to Mercury
The BepiColombo spacecraft is nearing its orbit insertion around Mercury after a seven-year journey. Launched in 2018, this multi-spacecraft mission will study Mercury's surface, magnetic field, and interaction with solar activity. The mission consists of two orbiters that will work in tandem to gather comprehensive data about this enigmatic planet, promising to enhance our understanding of planetary formation and evolution.
www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
✍️ Episode References
Astrophysical Journal
Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
European Space Agency Reports
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support.

Sponsor Link:
This episode of SpaceTime is brought to you with the support of Squarespace. When it's time to get a presence online, go with the folks who support us...and build the best websites easily. No hassles. You can check out their special offer for SpaceTime listeners by visiting our special URL....Click Here

In this episode of SpaceTime, we uncover new evidence suggesting that dark matter may interact with neutrinos, a revelation that could reshape our understanding of the universe. We also discuss a serious medical issue that has forced one of the crews aboard the International Space Station to return home early, and learn about the remarkable discovery that galaxies spin like clockwork.
Dark Matter and Neutrinos: A Possible Interaction
Scientists are challenging the long-standing standard model of particle physics with new findings indicating that dark matter and neutrinos may interact. This groundbreaking research, reported in Nature Astronomy, provides a rare glimpse into the universe's hidden components. By analyzing data from both the early and late universe, researchers suggest that these elusive cosmic entities could influence the formation of galaxies and other structures, potentially addressing discrepancies observed in cosmological measurements.
Medical Emergency Forces ISS Crew to Return Early
NASA's SpaceX Crew 11 is returning to Earth ahead of schedule due to a medical concern involving one of the astronauts. While the situation is stable and not classified as an emergency, the decision was made to ensure the crew member receives comprehensive medical evaluation on the ground. This marks a historic moment, as it is the first time in 26 years of ISS operations that a medical issue has necessitated an early return.
Galaxies Spin Like Clockwork
Recent studies have confirmed that galaxies rotate approximately once every billion years, regardless of their size. This research, published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, reveals a consistent rotational pattern across different types of galaxies, enhancing our understanding of their mechanics and structure. The findings indicate that older stars exist even at the edges of galaxies, providing valuable insights into galactic formation and evolution.
www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
✍️ Episode References
Nature Astronomy
Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
British Medical Journal
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SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 4
In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore the latest revelations about supermassive black holes, the enigmatic interstellar comet 3I Atlas, and NASA's innovative tests on lunar surface interactions.
Do All Galaxies Host Supermassive Black Holes?
A groundbreaking study utilizing NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory challenges the long-held belief that all galaxies harbor supermassive black holes at their centers. Analyzing data from over 1,600 galaxies, researchers discovered that only about 30% of dwarf galaxies contain these cosmic giants. The findings, published in the Astrophysical Journal, provide crucial insights into the formation of supermassive black holes and suggest that smaller galaxies may have significantly fewer black holes than their massive counterparts.
No Evidence of Alien Intelligence from Comet 3I Atlas
Despite sensational claims, a thorough investigation into the interstellar comet 3I Atlas has yielded no signs of extraterrestrial technology. Observations from the Green Bank Radio Telescope during the comet's closest approach revealed only radio frequency interference, dismissing earlier speculations of alien signals. The analysis reinforces the understanding that the comet's behavior aligns with natural phenomena, rather than advanced civilizations.
NASA's Rocket Plume Studies on Lunar Regolith
NASA is conducting new experiments to understand how rocket plumes interact with the lunar surface, crucial for future lunar landings. Using a sophisticated camera system, scientists are simulating rocket engine behavior in a vacuum chamber to analyze the impact of exhaust on lunar dust and rocks. The data collected will inform the design of landing systems for the Artemis missions and future Mars explorations, ensuring crew safety and mission success.
www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
✍️ Episode References
Astrophysical Journal
NASA Reports
Journal of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry
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 4 for broadcast on 9 January 2026
(00:00:47) Study reveals fewer supermassive black holes in smaller galaxies
(00:12:30) No signs of alien technology from comet 3I Atlas
(00:20:10) NASA's lunar regolith plume interaction tests
(00:25:00) Science report: Microplastics and neurodegenerative diseases, dog ownership and community ties