Space News Today

Dark Stars and Cosmic Origins: Unraveling the Early Universe

In this episode of SpaceTime , we uncover the latest revelations in astrophysics, including the intriguing prospect of supermassive dark stars, Australia's ambitious lunar rover mission, and fresh insights into the formation of our solar system. Supermassive Dark Stars: A New Cosmic Discovery Astronomers have identified potential candidates for a new type of star in the early universe, known as supermassive dark stars. Recent observations from the Webb Space Telescope suggest that these stars, primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, are supported against gravitational collapse by dark matter. This episode delves into how these dark stars could help explain the existence of supermassive black holes and the unexpectedly bright distant galaxies observed by Webb. With the possibility of a smoking gun signature in their spectra, the implications of this discovery could reshape our understanding of dark matter and stellar evolution. Australia's Lunar Rover Mission: A Step Towards the Moon Work is underway on Australia's first lunar rover, set to launch as part of NASA's Artemis programme. This 20-kilogram robotic vehicle, developed by the Queensland University of Technology, will explore lunar geology and contribute to establishing a sustainable human presence on the Moon. The episode covers the rover's design, mission objectives, and the collaborative efforts between Australian institutions and NASA to advance lunar exploration. Piecing Together the Early Solar System New research published in Science Advances reveals that the early solar system was more chaotic than previously thought, with planets forming from recycled fragments of shattered bodies rather than pristine materials. This episode discusses the violent origins of our solar system and how high-energy collisions influenced the development of planetary cores, ultimately shaping the celestial bodies we know today. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com/) ✍️ Episode References Journal of Physical Review Letters https://journals.aps.org/prl/ (https://journals.aps.org/prl/) Science Advances https://www.science.org/journal/sciadv (https://www.science.org/journal/sciadv) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Supermassive Dark Stars: A New Cosmic Discovery Australia's Lunar Rover Mission: A Step Towards the Moon Piecing Together the Early Solar System (00:00) The potential discovery of supermassive dark stars (10:15) Australia's new lunar rover mission details (18:45) New findings on the chaotic origins of the solar system (25:30) Skywatch for October: Meteor showers and celestial highlights Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/29488665?utm_source=youtube

Counting Stars, Tumbling Asteroids, and China’s Space Breakthroughs

Estimating Stars in the Milky Way: Astronomers estimate that our galaxy contains around 100 billion stars, a number that evolves as observational techniques improve. By studying luminosity and mass, scientists refine these estimates, revealing the complexities of counting stars from within our own galaxy.Asteroid Rotation Dynamics: New research uncovers why some asteroids spin smoothly while others tumble chaotically. The study highlights the impact of collisions and internal friction, demonstrating how size and composition influence an asteroid's stability and rotation.China's Space Program Updates: China's Tiangong Space Station is bustling with activity, having recently completed its fourth spacewalk and preparing for the Shenzhou 21 mission. Additionally, the Tianwen 2 probe is on its way to collect samples from Near Earth asteroid Kamo Oalewa, marking significant advancements in China's space exploration efforts.Mysterious Dark Object Detected: Astronomers have detected a dark object through its gravitational effects, potentially a rogue black hole or neutron star. This groundbreaking discovery utilizes microlensing to observe how the object's gravity warps light from distant stars, offering new insights into dark matter and galactic structures.For more cosmic updates, visit our website at astronomydaily.io (http://www.astronomydaily.io/). Join our community on social media by searching for #AstroDailyPod on Facebook, X, YouTubeMusic, TikTok, and our new Instagram account! Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.Thank you for tuning in. This is Anna and Avery signing off. Until next time, keep looking up and exploring the wonders of our universe.✍️ Episode References Milky Way Star Estimates [NASA]( https://www.nasa.gov/ (https://www.nasa.gov/) ) Asteroid Research Insights [European Space Agency]( https://www.esa.int/ (https://www.esa.int/) ) China's Space Missions [China National Space Administration]( http://www.cnsa.gov.cn (http://www.cnsa.gov.cn/) ) Dark Object Detection [Astrophysical Journal]( https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/0004-637X (https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/0004-637X) ) Astronomy Daily [Astronomy Daily]( http://www.astronomydaily.io/ (http://www.astronomydaily.io/) ) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Sponsor Details: Ensure your online privacy by using NordVPN . To get our special listener deal and save a lot of money, visit You'll be glad you did! Become a supporter of Astronomy Daily by joining our Supporters Club. Commercial free episodes daily are only a click way... Click Here (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support) Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/29487030?utm_source=youtube

Comet Updates, Meteor Showers & the Secrets of Uranus’ Moon Ariel | Space Nuts: Astronomy...

Sponsor Details: This episode is brought to you with the support of NordVPN. ...enhance your online privacy with the best in the game. Tiy get our special Space Nuts price and bonus deal , visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts (https://nordvpn.com/spacenuts) or use the code SPACENUTS at checkout. Comets, Meteor Showers, and Mysteries of Uranus In this engaging episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Jonti Horner explore the latest cosmic happenings, from the intriguing updates on interstellar comet 3I Atlas to the meteor showers lighting up our skies. They also delve into the fascinating story of Uranus's moon Ariel, which hints at a hidden ocean in its past, and the potential threat posed by asteroids influenced by Venus. Episode Highlights: - 3I Atlas Update: Andrew and Jonti discuss the latest observations of comet 3I Atlas, the third interstellar object observed, and its rapid journey through our solar system. With a close approach to the sun and Mars, the comet presents unique opportunities for data collection, despite being temporarily out of view from Earth. - Exciting Comet Discoveries: The hosts share news about other comets, including C 2025 R2 Swan and A6 Lemon, highlighting their visibility and potential for amateur astronomers. They discuss the thrill of unexpected comet appearances and the importance of ongoing observation. - Meteor Showers in Focus: Andrew and Jonti provide insights into the upcoming Orionid and Draconid meteor showers, including optimal viewing times and conditions. They discuss the rarity of meteor storms and the impact of moonlight on visibility. - Ariel and Its Hidden Ocean: The episode takes a deeper look at Uranus's moon Ariel, revealing new findings that suggest the presence of a subsurface ocean in its past due to tidal heating. The discussion emphasizes the implications for understanding the potential for life beyond Earth. - Venus and Asteroid Dynamics: The hosts conclude with a thought-provoking discussion about near-Earth asteroids that may be influenced by Venus's gravity, exploring how these objects could pose a long-term threat to Earth in the future. For more Space Nuts, including our continuously updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. (https://www.spacenutspodcast.com/) Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, X, YouTube Music Music, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform. If you’d like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about (https://www.spacenutspodcast.com/about) . Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing. Got a question for our Q&A episode? https://spacenutspodcast.com/ama (https://spacenutspodcast.com/ama) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/29482140?utm_source=youtube

Uranus & Neptune’s Shocking Makeover, Blue Origin’s Next Steps, and Martian Whirlwinds

Reclassification of Uranus and Neptune: New research from the University of Zurich challenges the long-held belief that Uranus and Neptune are ice giants. Advanced computer models suggest these planets may actually be rock giants, altering our understanding of their formation and evolution. This groundbreaking finding could necessitate a reevaluation of how we classify exoplanets, as well.Blue Origin's Upcoming Launch: Blue Origin is set to make headlines with its New Shepard suborbital vehicle, vital for expanding humanity's access to space. Each launch contributes crucial data that enhances safety and prepares for more ambitious missions, including the upcoming New Glenn rocket, which aims to support lunar missions.Philosophical Reflections on Humanity's Place: As we explore the cosmos, we confront profound questions about our existence and uniqueness. The search for extraterrestrial life and studies of dark matter and energy drive our understanding of where we fit in the grand cosmic tapestry.Dust Devils on Mars: European Space Agency orbiters have mapped over 1,000 dust devils on Mars, revealing they can reach speeds of up to 98 mph. This data is crucial for future Mars missions, helping scientists refine atmospheric models and improve weather forecasts for sustained human presence on the planet.For more cosmic updates, visit our website at astronomydaily.io (http://www.astronomydaily.io/). Join our community on social media by searching for #AstroDailyPod on Facebook, X, YouTubeMusic, TikTok, and our new Instagram account! Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.Thank you for tuning in. This is Anna and Avery signing off. Until next time, keep looking up and exploring the wonders of our universe.✍️ Episode References Uranus and Neptune Research [University of Zurich]( https://www.uzh.ch/en.html (https://www.uzh.ch/en.html) ) Blue Origin Launch Details [Blue Origin]( https://www.blueorigin.com/ (https://www.blueorigin.com/) ) Humanity's Cosmic Inquiry [NASA]( https://www.nasa.gov/ (https://www.nasa.gov/) ) Mars Dust Devils Study [European Space Agency]( https://www.esa.int/ (https://www.esa.int/) ) Astronomy Daily [Astronomy Daily]( http://www.astronomydaily.io/ (http://www.astronomydaily.io/) ) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Sponsor Details: Ensure your online privacy by using NordVPN . To get our special listener deal and save a lot of money, visit You'll be glad you did! Become a supporter of Astronomy Daily by joining our Supporters Club. Commercial free episodes daily are only a click way... Click Here (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support) Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/29467208?utm_source=youtube

Comet Encounters, Early Universe Revelations, and Solar Rain Secrets

Comet C/2025 A6 LEMMON Shines Bright: This October, Comet C/2025 A6 LEMMON makes a stunning encore appearance alongside Comet R2 Swan, offering a spectacular view for observers. Currently brightening, A6 LEMMON is set to reach perihelion on November 8th, providing an excellent opportunity for binocular enthusiasts to catch a glimpse of this celestial wanderer.Interstellar Comet 3I Atlas: The fascinating interstellar comet 3I Atlas is also on the radar, known for its unusual backward-looking tail due to internal activity. With an estimated age of 3 to 14 billion years, it offers a glimpse into the early universe's history as it approaches perihelion on October 29th and passes near Venus in early November.Warm Early Universe Discovery: New research reveals that the early universe was unexpectedly warmer than previously thought, particularly during the epoch of reionization. This finding, based on a decade of data analysis, reshapes our understanding of the conditions that allowed the first stars and galaxies to form.Solar Rain Uncovered: Scientists have solved the mystery of solar rain, discovering that cooler, denser plasma clumps descend from the sun's corona. This breakthrough challenges previous models and enhances our understanding of solar dynamics, potentially improving space weather predictions.Launch Roundup: SpaceX dominates the launch schedule with five Falcon 9 missions this week, including Starlink satellite deployments and Amazon's Project Kuiper. Blue Origin also contributes with its New Shepard mission, marking significant advancements in suborbital space travel.Ground-Based Imaging Breakthrough: Astronomers at Johns Hopkins have developed a new algorithm that enhances ground-based telescope images to match space telescope clarity. This innovative technique could revolutionize ground-based astronomy, allowing for deeper, clearer observations of the cosmos.For more cosmic updates, visit our website at astronomydaily.io (http://www.astronomydaily.io/). Join our community on social media by searching for #AstroDailyPod on Facebook, X, YouTubeMusic, TikTok, and our new Instagram account! Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.Thank you for tuning in. This is Anna and Avery signing off. Until next time, keep looking up and exploring the wonders of our universe.✍️ Episode References Comet C/2025 A6 LEMMON Details [NASA]( https://www.nasa.gov/ (https://www.nasa.gov/) ) Interstellar Comet 3I Atlas Observations [NASA]( https://www.nasa.gov/ (https://www.nasa.gov/) ) Early Universe Research [Murchison Wide Field Array]( https://www.mwfa.edu.au/ (https://www.mwfa.edu.au/) ) Solar Rain Study [University of Hawaii]( https://www.hawaii.edu/ (https://www.hawaii.edu/) ) Space Launch Updates [SpaceX]( https://www.spacex.com/ (https://www.spacex.com/) ) Ground-Based Imaging Algorithm [Johns Hopkins University]( https://www.jhu.edu/ (https://www.jhu.edu/) ) Astronomy Daily [Astronomy Daily]( http://www.astronomydaily.io/ (http://www.astronomydaily.io/) ) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Sponsor Details: Ensure your online privacy by using NordVPN . To get our special listener deal and save a lot of money, visit You'll be glad you did! Become a supporter of Astronomy Daily by joining our Supporters Club. Commercial free episodes daily are only a click way... Click Here (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support) Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/29448349?utm_source=youtube

Enceladus Unveiled: Fresh Discoveries of Organic Chemistry Beneath the Ice

In this episode of SpaceTime , we dive into the fascinating findings from Saturn's icy moon Enceladus, discuss delays in the Dream Chaser spaceplane's launch schedule, and celebrate NASA's breakthroughs in laser communications for deep space missions. Enceladus: Unveiling Complex Chemistry Recent discoveries reported in the journal Nature Astronomy reveal that Saturn's moon Enceladus is spewing complex organic molecules from its subsurface ocean. Data collected by the Cassini spacecraft during its mission has unveiled fresh insights into the chemical reactions occurring in this hidden ocean. The presence of organic molecules, including precursors for amino acids, raises the possibility that Enceladus may have once harboured conditions suitable for life. This episode explores how these findings could inform future missions aimed at further investigating Enceladus and its potential habitability. Dream Chaser Spaceplane: A Delay in Launch Sierra Space has announced that their Dream Chaser spaceplane's first free flight demonstration has been pushed back to late 2026. Originally designed as a manned spacecraft, Dream Chaser will now serve as a cargo transport for NASA's Commercial Resupply Services, delivering supplies to the International Space Station. The episode discusses the spaceplane's unique design, its cargo capabilities, and the future of its missions, including plans for a fully operational crewed version. Nasa's Optical Deep Space Laser Communications Success NASA's new Optical Deep Space Laser Communications project has surpassed all technical goals, paving the way for high-speed communications for future crewed missions to Mars. The technology, which successfully transmitted data over vast distances, demonstrated data rates comparable to broadband Internet services. This breakthrough enables faster communication for astronauts and could revolutionise data transmission in deep space. Tune in to learn more about the technology behind this ambitious project and its implications for future space exploration. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com/) ✍️ Episode References Nature Astronomy https://www.nature.com/natureastronomy (https://www.nature.com/natureastronomy) NASA Dream Chaser https://www.nasa.gov/dreamchaser (https://www.nasa.gov/dreamchaser) NASA Optical Deep Space Laser Communications https://www.nasa.gov/lasercom (https://www.nasa.gov/lasercom) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Enceladus: Unveiling Complex Chemistry Dream Chaser Spaceplane: A Delay in Launch NASA's Optical Deep Space Laser Communications Success (00:00) The Dream Chaser spaceplane set for another delay (00:48) Scientists have discovered new complex organic molecules spewing from Saturn's Enceladus (09:41) NASA says new optical Deep Space Laser communications project has exceeded all technical goals (17:29) Around a quarter of all press releases in the United States are probably AI generated (19:23) Companies failing to secure AI agents is causing security risks, warns expert (20:27) Gary Stuart says AI agents can be hacked and should be treated like humans Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/29444332?utm_source=youtube

Breakthrough Cargo Craft, Juno’s Mission Dilemma, and Mars’ Celestial Visitor

Revolutionary ARC Spacecraft: A new player in private spaceflight, Inversion, is set to change the game with its ARC spacecraft, designed to deliver cargo from orbit to Earth in under an hour. This hypersonic vehicle, targeting military applications, promises unprecedented rapid delivery capabilities and could redefine space logistics as we know it.Uncertain Future for Juno: NASA's Juno probe, which has been orbiting Jupiter since 2016, faces an uncertain future due to the ongoing US Government shutdown. The potential early end of its mission could create a significant observational gap for Jupiter, raising concerns about the impact of political and budgetary issues on vital scientific research.New Insights on Early Earth: A recent study suggests that a cataclysmic collision with a Mars-sized object named Theia played a crucial role in making early Earth habitable by delivering essential volatile compounds. This new perspective emphasizes that a planet's habitability is influenced not only by its distance from its star but also by its chaotic historical events.Stalled European Satellite Merger: Talks between major European aerospace companies Airbus, Thales, and Leonardo to merge their satellite manufacturing capabilities have stalled due to disagreements over control and work share. This setback could hinder Europe's competitiveness in the global space market, particularly against entities like Elon Musk's Starlink.Martian Comet Sighting: NASA's Perseverance rover may have captured an image of interstellar comet 3i Atlas, coinciding with its closest approach to Mars. This unprecedented observation offers a unique opportunity to study an interstellar object from another planet, although initial speculations of alien spacecraft have been humorously debunked by scientists.For more cosmic updates, visit our website at astronomydaily.io (http://www.astronomydaily.io/). Join our community on social media by searching for #AstroDailyPod on Facebook, X, YouTubeMusic, TikTok, and our new Instagram account! Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.Thank you for tuning in. This is Anna and Avery signing off. Until next time, keep looking up and exploring the wonders of our universe.✍️ Episode References ARC Spacecraft Details [Inversion]( https://www.inversion.com/ (https://www.inversion.com/) ) Juno Mission Updates [NASA]( https://www.nasa.gov/ (https://www.nasa.gov/) ) Theia Impact Research [Science Advances]( https://www.science.org/journal/sciadv (https://www.science.org/journal/sciadv) ) European Satellite Merger News [Airbus]( https://www.airbus.com/ (https://www.airbus.com/) ) Interstellar Comet 3i Atlas [NASA]( https://www.nasa.gov/ (https://www.nasa.gov/) ) Astronomy Daily [Astronomy Daily]( http://www.astronomydaily.io/ (http://www.astronomydaily.io/) ) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Sponsor Details: Ensure your online privacy by using NordVPN . To get our special listener deal and save a lot of money, visit You'll be glad you did! Sponsor Details: Ensure your online privacy by using NordVPN . To get our special listener deal and save a lot of money, visit You'll be glad you did! Become a supporter of Astronomy Daily by joining our Supporters Club. Commercial free episodes daily are only a click way... Click Here (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support) Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/29428084?utm_source=youtube

Bezos’ Orbital Data Centers, Rare Alien Civilizations, and Earth’s Darkening Dilemma

Jeff Bezos' Vision for Orbital Data Centers: Jeff Bezos has proposed a revolutionary concept of building large-scale data centers in Earth's orbit within the next 10 to 20 years. This ambitious idea aims to leverage continuous solar power and extreme cold temperatures in space to optimize computing efficiency. However, the technical and economic challenges associated with such a venture are immense, with potential costs reaching into the tens of billions.The Rarity of Technological Civilizations: New research suggests that technological civilizations in our galaxy may be exceedingly rare, with the nearest one potentially located 33,000 light years away. Scientists emphasize the delicate balance of geological and atmospheric conditions necessary for intelligent life to thrive, raising questions about our unique existence in the universe.Darkening of the Northern Hemisphere: A concerning study reveals that the Northern Hemisphere is gradually becoming darker, absorbing more solar energy than the Southern Hemisphere. This trend, driven by factors like melting sea ice and reduced aerosol levels, could disrupt global weather patterns and intensify climate change, underscoring the intricate balance of Earth's climate system.Astonishing Growth of a Richie Planet: Observations of the rogue planet CHA 11077626 have shown it pulling in gas and dust at an unprecedented rate of 6 billion tons per second. This behavior blurs the lines between planets and stars, prompting new discussions about the formation of free-floating celestial bodies and their classification in the cosmos.For more cosmic updates, visit our website at astronomydaily.io (http://www.astronomydaily.io/). Join our community on social media by searching for #AstroDailyPod on Facebook, X, YouTubeMusic, TikTok, and our new Instagram account! Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.Thank you for tuning in. This is Anna and Avery signing off. Until next time, keep looking up and exploring the wonders of our universe.✍️ Episode References Orbital Data Centers Proposal [Amazon]( https://www.amazon.com/ (https://www.amazon.com/) ) Technological Civilizations Research [EPSC DPS]( https://www.epsc-dps2025.org/ (https://www.epsc-dps2025.org/) ) Northern Hemisphere Darkening Study [NASA]( https://www.nasa.gov/ (https://www.nasa.gov/) ) Richie Planet Observations [European Southern Observatory]( https://www.eso.org/ (https://www.eso.org/) ) Astronomy Daily [Astronomy Daily]( http://www.astronomydaily.io/ (http://www.astronomydaily.io/) ) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Sponsor Details: Ensure your online privacy by using NordVPN . To get our special listener deal and save a lot of money, visit You'll be glad you did! Become a supporter of Astronomy Daily by joining our Supporters Club. Commercial free episodes daily are only a click way... Click Here (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support) Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/29406528?utm_source=youtube

The Universe’s Countdown: New Insights into Cosmic Fate and Fungal Origins

In this episode of SpaceTime , we explore the future of our universe, the latest advancements in mapping our Milky Way, and the pivotal role fungi played in the evolution of life on land. The Universe's Fate: A Big Crunch in 20 Billion Years A groundbreaking study published in the Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics reveals that the universe is approaching the midpoint of its 33 billion-year lifespan and may end in approximately 20 billion years. Lead author Henry Tighe from Cornell University presents new data suggesting that the universe's cosmological constant may be negative, leading to a contraction and eventual collapse—a phenomenon referred to as the "big crunch." This research, based on observations from the Dark Energy Survey and the dark energy spectroscopic instrument DESI, challenges long-held beliefs about the universe's eternal expansion and opens new avenues for understanding cosmic evolution. Mapping the Milky Way: Gaia's 3D View The European Space Agency's Gaia Space Telescope has unveiled the most precise three-dimensional map of star-forming regions within our Milky Way galaxy. By analysing data from 44 million stars, Gaia has provided insights into the obscured molecular clouds where new stars are born. This innovative mapping technique allows astronomers to understand the distribution of ionised gas and the dynamics of star formation, offering a fresh perspective on our galaxy's structure and the processes that shape it. Fungi: The Pioneers of Terrestrial Life A recent study published in Nature Ecology and Evolution has identified that fungi played a crucial role in preparing Earth for life on land between 900 million and 1.4 billion years ago—much earlier than previously thought. Researchers from the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology utilised a novel gene swap method to trace the evolution of fungi, suggesting that these organisms were instrumental in creating the first ecosystems and nutrient recycling processes that facilitated the emergence of terrestrial life. This discovery reframes our understanding of the timeline for life on Earth and highlights the importance of fungi in shaping our planet's biosphere. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com/) ✍️ Episode References Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics https://www.cosmos.esa.int/web/gaia (https://www.cosmos.esa.int/web/gaia) Nature Ecology and Evolution https://www.nature.com/newe (https://www.nature.com/newe) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . The Universe's Fate: A Big Crunch in 20 Billion Years Mapping the Milky Way: Gaia's 3D View Fungi: The Pioneers of Terrestrial Life Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/29402649?utm_source=youtube

Cosmic Collapses, Black Hole Illusions & Antimatter Mysteries | Space Nuts: Astronomy Insights &...

Sponsor Details: This episode is brought to you with the support of NordVPN. ...enhance your online privacy with the best in the game. Tiy get our special Space Nuts price and bonus deal , visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts (https://nordvpn.com/spacenuts) or use the code SPACENUTS at checkout. Cosmic Questions: Black Holes, Antimatter Stars, and Meteor Photography In this enlightening Q&A episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson tackle a series of fascinating listener queries. From the enigmatic nature of black holes to the potential existence of antimatter stars, and practical tips for capturing meteors on camera, this episode is a treasure trove of cosmic insights and practical advice. Episode Highlights: - Collapse of the Universe: Listener Nate raises an intriguing question about the future of the universe and the concept of the Gnab Gib, or the reverse Big Bang. Andrew and Fred Watson discuss how gravity might pull everything back together and what happens to light during this cosmic collapse. - The Nature of Black Holes: Tad's thought-provoking question leads to a discussion on gravitational time dilation and the observer's perspective of black holes. The hosts explore how black holes form and why it appears as if nothing ever falls into them from our vantage point. - Antimatter Stars: Mark from London and Canada revisits the idea of antimatter stars, prompting a conversation about their potential existence and how we might detect them through unique gamma ray emissions. - Astrophotography Tips: Dave from Inverel shares his passion for nighttime photography and seeks advice on capturing meteors. Andrew and Fred Watson provide practical tips on the best times and techniques for successful meteor photography, including the benefits of using specific apps. For more Space Nuts, including our continuously updating newsfeed and to listen to all our episodes, visit our website. (https://www.spacenutspodcast.com/) Follow us on social media at SpaceNutsPod on Facebook, X, YouTube Music, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favourite platform. If you’d like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about (https://www.spacenutspodcast.com/about) Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing. Got a question for our Q&A episode? https://spacenutspodcast.com/ama (https://spacenutspodcast.com/ama) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/29401056?utm_source=youtube