SpaceTime with Stuart Gary

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SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 18
In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore groundbreaking theories about the nature of dark matter, the thermal differences between the lunar far and near sides, and new revelations regarding Jupiter's dimensions.
Dark Matter's Role in the Milky Way
A new study suggests that dark matter could be the driving force behind the gravitational dynamics of our Milky Way galaxy. Researchers propose that a clump of fermionic dark matter might exert similar gravitational influence as the supermassive black hole at the galaxy's center, Sagittarius A. This theory challenges conventional understanding and is supported by data from the European Space Agency's Gaia mission, which mapped the galaxy's outer halo and rotational curve, indicating a potential new model for understanding galactic structures.
Lunar Far Side's Cooler Interior
Recent findings published in Nature Geoscience indicate that the lunar far side may be significantly cooler than the near side. Analyzing samples collected by China's Chang'e 6 mission, scientists discovered that the far side's regolith formed from lava at temperatures approximately 100 degrees Celsius lower than those from the near side. This study provides insight into the Moon's geological history and the uneven distribution of heat-producing elements, which may have resulted from ancient impacts or tidal forces from Earth.
Jupiter's Slimmer Profile
New measurements from NASA's Juno mission reveal that Jupiter is actually slimmer than previously thought, being about 8 kilometers narrower at the equator and 24 kilometers flatter at the poles. These findings refine our understanding of the gas giant's shape and have implications for models of planetary formation and evolution. The data also sheds light on Jupiter's atmospheric dynamics, including its powerful winds and cyclones, enhancing our knowledge of gas giants both within our solar system and beyond.
www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com
✍️ Episode References
Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, Nature Geoscience, Nature Astronomy
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(00:00:00) New study claims that mysterious substance called dark matter could be powering our Milky Way
(00:08:01) New study suggests lunar far side may be a little bit colder than near side
(00:12:52) Space Time is brought to you by Squarespace. com spacetime
(00:14:23) New measurements based on NASA's Juno mission reveal Jupiter is much smaller than previously thought
(00:18:16) People with depressive personalities far more likely to have sexual fantasies, study finds
(00:20:34) New test shows artificial intelligence chatbot admitting it would kill to save itself
(00:27:09) Already we have security companies treating AI chatbots like humans

Sponsor Links:
This episode of SpaceTime is brought to you with the support of Squarespace....your first stop when you want to build a presence online. To check out our special offers, simply visit www.squarespace.com/spacetime for all the details

SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 17
In this episode of SpaceTime, we delve into the recent powerful solar storm that has impacted Earth, the delay of NASA's Artemis 2 manned moon mission, and China's ambitious plans for a futuristic orbital space carrier.
Massive Solar Storm Hits Earth
The sun has unleashed a barrage of solar eruptions, including 41 N-class flares and six X-class flares, with an X8.1 class flare setting a new record for 2026. This storm is described as the strongest radiation event in 20 years, with scientists noting its potential similarity to the historic 1859 Carrington event. The solar activity has disrupted radio communications and produced stunning auroras, while the sun continues its 11-year solar cycle.
Nasa's Artemis 2 Mission Delayed
NASA has postponed the launch of its Artemis 2 manned moon mission due to fuel leaks during a critical launch rehearsal. The mission aims to send a crew of four aboard an Orion spacecraft on a 10-day journey around the moon. The delays stem from issues with the SLS rocket's hydrogen tanks and other technical challenges, with new launch windows opening in March.
China's Orbital Space Carrier Plans
China has announced plans for a Star Wars-style orbital space carrier named Luanio, designed to deploy hypersonic missiles and unmanned stealth drones. This massive spacecraft would be part of an ambitious defense system, although the technology to build such a vehicle is still in the realm of science fiction. The announcement comes amid tensions between the U.S. and China regarding military advancements.
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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.
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✍️ Episode References
Nature Astronomy
Science Advances
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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
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(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

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
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