Space News Today

In this episode of Astronomy Daily, Anna and Avery cover six space and astronomy stories for Saturday, April 18, 2026. Comet MAPS has met its end at the Sun — the pair reflect on what happened and what comes next. Artemis III's SLS rocket stage rolls out of New Orleans on Monday. JWST and ALMA have revealed a stunning monster spiral galaxy hiding behind cosmic dust 11.5 billion years ago. An exoplanet system is changing its orbital architecture in real time. Four planets are gathering in a pre-dawn planet parade visible tonight. And 33,000 hydrogen halos have been found that solve a decades-old mystery about the early universe's fuel supply. Story 1: Comet MAPS — Death of a Sungrazer Comet C/2026 A1 (MAPS), a Kreutz sungrazer discovered on January 13, 2026 by French amateur astronomers at the AMACS1 Observatory in Chile, disintegrated during its close solar approach on April 4. The nucleus — estimated at approximately 400 metres in diameter based on JWST observations — could not survive passage just 160,000 km above the solar surface. A brief dust tail was visible in coronagraph images from SOHO and GOES-19, but the debris cloud has since dispersed. Attention now shifts to Comet C/2025 R3 (PanSTARRS) as the next comet of interest. MAPS was the furthest-discovered Kreutz sungrazer in history, spotted 81 days before perihelion. Sources: EarthSky | StarWalk Space News | Sky & Telescope Story 2: Artemis III SLS Core Stage Rollout On Monday, April 20, NASA will roll the top four-fifths of the Artemis III Space Launch System core stage — containing the liquid hydrogen tank, liquid oxygen tank, intertank, and forward skirt — out of the Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans and load it onto the Pegasus barge for delivery to Kennedy Space Center. The engine section is already at Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building. Four RS-25 engines are expected to arrive from Stennis Space Center by July 2026. Artemis III is currently targeting a 2027 launch for a crewed Earth-orbit test of Orion docking with commercial lunar landers, with a crewed Moon landing planned for 2028. Source: NASA Artemis III Media Release | nasa.gov Story 3: JWST & ALMA Reveal Monster Spiral Galaxy ADF22.A1 Using the James Webb Space Telescope and the Atacama Large Millimeter Array (ALMA), an international team led by Hideki Umehata (Nagoya University) has revealed the true nature of ADF22.A1 — a galaxy in the SSA22 protocluster from 11.5 billion years ago. Previously hidden behind heavy cosmic dust, JWST unveiled its spiral stellar structure while ALMA mapped its rotating gas disk, spinning at an extraordinary 530 km/s — more than twice our own Milky Way. With an effective radius of approximately 22,800 light years, it is nearly twice the size of typical galaxies from that era. Cold accretion from the Cosmic Web is the leading explanation for its rapid growth and spin-up. A companion study examines nine additional dusty star-forming galaxies in the same protocluster, revealing diverse evolutionary stages and morphologies. Sources: ALMA Observatory Press Release | Publications of the Astronomical Society of Japan (2025) | ApJ (2026) Story 4: TOI-201 — Shape-Shifting Exoplanet System A team led by Ismael Mireles (University of New Mexico) has published findings in Science Advances confirming three bodies in the exoplanet system TOI-201: a super-Earth (TOI-201 d, 1.4x Earth radius, 5.85-day orbit), a warm Jupiter (TOI-201 b, ~0.5 Jupiter masses, 53-day orbit), and a brown dwarf (TOI-201 c, ~7.9-year orbit). The brown dwarf's gravity is actively distorting the inner planets' orbits on human timescales — the super-Earth's transits are shifting, and within 200 years it will stop transiting the star from Earth's viewpoint. TOI-201 c is the longest-period transiting object ever discovered. The system is 372 light-years away in the constellation Pictor. Next transit of TOI-201 c: March 26, 2031. Paper: Mireles et al., Science Advances, April 15

The heroes of Artemis II speak! Less than a week after their historic lunar flyby, Commander Reid Wiseman, pilot Victor Glover, mission specialist Christina Koch and Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen held their first full post-mission press conference — and their words were extraordinary. Plus: Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket is on the pad for Sunday's landmark first-ever booster reuse; a 34-year dream becomes reality as the world's highest telescope opens in the Chilean Andes; astronomers discover 33,000 hydrogen halos that were hiding the universe's missing fuel; tonight is your best chance to spot the brightest comet of the year; and a solar storm could paint the weekend skies with aurora. Links & Sources • NASA Artemis II Postflight News Conference: nasa.gov/artemis-ii-news-and-updates • Blue Origin New Glenn NG-3: spaceflightnow.com • FYST Telescope Inauguration: news.cornell.edu • HETDEX Hydrogen Halos Study: hetdex.org / Astrophysical Journal • Comet C/2025 R3 Skywatching Guide: science.nasa.gov • Solar Activity & Aurora Forecast: earthsky.org 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32796094?utm_source=youtube

SpaceTime Series 29 Episode 46 *Discovery of over eleven thousand new asteroids Preliminary data from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory has led to the discovery of over 11,000 new asteroids. *Confirmation that the Earth was made locally A new study has shown that planet Earth was formed from materials located in the inner solar system rather than stuff from beyond Jupiter. *Virgin Galactic’s new spaceship to be flying before the end of the year Space tourism company Virgin Galactic says work on the first of its new Delta class spacecraft will be completed within a few weeks. and construction of the second of these sub orbital space planes is now underway. *The Science Report Could routine be key to successful weight loss. A new study has found that Tyrannosaurus Rex walked and ran on their tippy toes. The Australian Army’s new Huntsman Self-Propelled Howitzers now rolling off the production line. Skeptics guide to monsters in the railroad yard. Our Guests This Week: DSN Spokesperson Rhianna Lyons from the CSIRO Sean Hodgman from the Australian National University Yogesh Sridhar from the Australian National University And our regular guests: Alex Zaharov-Reutt from techadvice.life Tim Mendham from Australian Skeptics 🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn (http://www.bitesz.com/nordvpn) . The discounts and bonuses are incredible! And it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌ If you’d like to support the podcast and gain access to bonus content by becoming a SpaceTime crew member, you can do just that through premium versions on Patreon, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Details on the Support page on our website https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/ (https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/) For more SpaceTime and show links: https://linktr.ee/biteszHQ (https://linktr.ee/biteszHQ) If you love this podcast, please get someone else to listen to. Thank you… For more podcasts visit our HQ at https://bitesz.com (https://bitesz.com) Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32792496?utm_source=youtube

In this intriguing episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson explore the latest revelations in space science, focusing on the presence of water on the Moon, the fascinating findings from the comet 3I Atlas, and the innovative use of graphene in propulsion technology. This episode is a deep dive into how these cosmic elements intertwine and shape our understanding of the universe. Episode Highlights: - Water on the Moon: Andrew and Fred discuss the recent studies suggesting that the water found in lunar craters may have accumulated over billions of years, primarily through solar wind interactions rather than single impactful events. They delve into the implications of this discovery for future lunar exploration and potential resource utilization. - Comet 3I Atlas: The hosts share exciting insights from the ESA's JUICE spacecraft, which has provided unprecedented observations of the interstellar comet 3I Atlas. They highlight the significant water vapor emissions and the implications for understanding comet behavior as it travels through our solar system. - Graphene Aerogel Propulsion: A fascinating discussion unfolds around the recent experiments with graphene aerogels and their potential for light-driven propulsion in space. Andrew and Fred explore how this innovative technology could revolutionize space travel, enabling efficient and sustainable propulsion methods for future missions. - Future of Space Exploration: The episode wraps up with reflections on the importance of ongoing research and technological advancements in the realm of space exploration, emphasizing the need for in-situ investigations to unravel the mysteries of our celestial neighbors. 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, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite 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. 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/32768673?utm_source=youtube

SpaceTime Series 29 Episode 45 *The South Atlantic anomaly is growing – are the planet’s poles about to flip A new study has confirmed that a gigantic weak spot in planet Earth’s protective magnetic field known as the South Atlantic anomaly is growing ever larger. *New study narrows down the mostly likely locations for water on the Moon A new study suggests water likely accumulated on the Moon slowly over billions of years, rather than during one big event. *Pairs of atoms observed existing in two places at once for the first time Quantum physicists have observed pairs of atoms entangled in two different places at once for the first time. *The Science Report Claims King Harold's legendary 200-mile march to the Battle of Hastings in 1066 never happened. A new study has shown that the world’ earliest known octopus fossil isn’t actually an octopus. Artificial Intelligence hardware is changing how fast large language models respond. Alex on Tech: On device AI has arrived. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32749539?utm_source=youtube

SpaceTime Series 29 Episode 44 *NASA’s Artemis II returns to Earth after its historic mission to the Moon NASA’s Artemis II mission has returned safely to Earth following its historic journey around the Moon. The four person crew splashed down in the North Pacific Ocean off the San Diego coast ending the ten day record setting flight which saw them travel further from mother Earth than humans have ever ventured before. *Astronomers have discovered the most primitive star ever seen Astronomers have identified one of the earliest stars ever seen; and the nearest candidate yet found to the first generation of stars created out the primordial material of the big bang. *Fireball spotted over Victoria, Australia Residents in Rutherglen have reported a large green-tailed fireball streaking across the Victorian skies. It’s the latest is a spate of meteor sightings over the past month or so with others reported in Germany, Ohio, Texas, and Washington State.. *The Science Report A new study has shown that summer is arriving earlier, lasting longer and packing more heat. Scientists say people with obstructive sleep apnoea have a 71% higher risk of heart issues or death. The Australian Navy getting a new fleet of 40 Bluebottle unmanned warships. Skeptics guide to the creep of creationism in schools Our Guests This Week: DSN Spokesperson Rhianna Lyons from the CSIRO Sean Hodgman from the Australian National University Yogesh Sridhar from the Australian National University And our regular guests: Alex Zaharov-Reutt from techadvice.life Tim Mendham from Australian Skeptics 🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn (http://www.bitesz.com/nordvpn) . The discounts and bonuses are incredible! And it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌ If you’d like to support the podcast and gain access to bonus content by becoming a SpaceTime crew member, you can do just that through premium versions on Patreon, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Details on the Support page on our website https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/ (https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/) Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32710979?utm_source=youtube

Relativistic Doppler Beaming, Martian Water, and Fusion Confusion In this engaging Q&A edition of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson dive into a variety of thought-provoking listener questions that explore the depths of astronomy and space science. From the complexities of relativistic Doppler beaming in black holes to the intriguing evidence of water on Mars and the mysteries of nuclear fusion in the sun, this episode is brimming with cosmic insights and scientific clarity. Episode Highlights: - Relativistic Doppler Beaming: Ron from New York asks about the brightness differences in black hole accretion disks. Andrew and Fred explain how relativistic speeds affect light emission, leading to the phenomenon known as Doppler beaming and why we don't see the expected color shifts. - Water on Mars: Sunny from California questions the geological evidence for water on Mars. The hosts discuss the findings from the Phoenix lander and the implications of briny water on the Martian surface, confirming that it was indeed water, albeit potentially different from what we know on Earth. - Earth's Mass and Space Junk: Holt raises a fascinating question about how much material we can send into space before it impacts Earth's orbit. Andrew and Fred provide insights into the negligible mass we've launched compared to the Earth's total mass, reassuring listeners that our planet remains unaffected. - Fusion Reactions in the Sun: Ken from Maroochydore seeks clarification on the fusion process in the sun, specifically regarding mass loss and binding energy. The hosts unravel the complexities of fusion, explaining how energy is produced and the significance of mass defects in nuclear reactions. 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, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite 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. 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/32708692?utm_source=youtube

SpaceTime Series 29 Episode 43 *Climate change is slowing Earth's spin at an unprecedented rate A new study has found that climate change is slowing the Earth rotation at an unprecedented rate compared to past 3.6 million years *Magnetic waves discovered deep inside the Sun Scientists have detected large scale magnetic waves moving deep inside the Sun. The discovery reported in the journal Nature Astronomy could help scientists predict solar activity. *Mystery medical evacuation from space station finally explained That mystery medical evacuation from the International Space Station earlier this year has finally been explained. *April SkyWatch The splendours of the Southern Cross and its two pointer stars Alpha and Beta Centauri, the blue Supergiant Canopus and the Lyrids meteor shower are among the highlights of the April night skies on SkyWatch. Our Guests This Week: Artemis lunar science lead Kelsey Young from NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Centre And our regular guests: Alex Zaharov-Reutt from techadvice.life Tim Mendham from Australian Skeptics And Senior science writer and Sky and Telescope magazine contributor Jonathan Nally 🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn (http://www.bitesz.com/nordvpn) . The discounts and bonuses are incredible! And it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌ If you’d like to support the podcast and gain access to bonus content by becoming a SpaceTime crew member, you can do just that through premium versions on Patreon, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Details on the Support page on our website https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/ (https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/) Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32667831?utm_source=youtube

The Artemis II crew — Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen — are on final approach to Earth after nine historic days in deep space. Splashdown is scheduled for Friday off San Diego. We have the full countdown, plus the story behind what NASA scientists called 'audible screams of delight' when the crew spotted micrometeorite impact flashes on the Moon during their lunar flyby. Also in today's episode: astronomers at ISTA in Austria have identified a brand new class of stellar remnant — two ultra-massive, X-ray emitting white dwarfs named Gandalf and Moon-Sized. Mars continues to disappoint on the habitability front. Four planets are lining up in April skies. And we close with the story of four astronauts, their iPhones, and the greatest selfies in human history. Sources & links: • Artemis II splashdown coverage: nasa.gov/artemis • Micrometeorite impacts & lunar science: space.com | sciencenews.org | spaceq.ca • Gandalf & Moon-Sized white dwarfs: ista.ac.at | universetoday.com • Mars surface habitability: universetoday.com • April planet alignment: starwalk.space • Artemis II iPhone photography: space.com | engadget.com 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32655829?utm_source=youtube

Sponsor Link: This episode of Space Nuts is brought to you with th support of NordVPN . When online, stay safe, stay private and browse with confidence. To get our great deal visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts (https://nordvpn.com/spacenuts) or use the code SPACENUTS at checkout. And remember, there's a 30 Day Money Back Guarantee . Artemis 2 Launch, Australian Astronomy Setbacks, and the Mystery of X-Ray Binaries In this thrilling episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson dive into the latest advancements in space exploration and the challenges faced by the Australian astronomy community. The successful launch of Artemis 2 marks a significant milestone for humanity's return to the Moon, while a recent government decision leaves Australian astronomers concerned about their future access to critical telescopes. The episode also explores the intriguing discovery of an X-ray binary that defies conventional understanding, revealing new mysteries in the cosmos. Episode Highlights: - Artemis 2 Launch: Andrew and Fred share their excitement over the successful launch of Artemis 2, discussing the mission's significance and the historic achievements of the crew as they become the first humans to travel further than Apollo 13. - Australian Astronomy Challenges: The hosts delve into the Australian government's decision to discontinue its partnership with the European Southern Observatory, examining the potential impact on local astronomers and the future of optical astronomy in Australia. - X-Ray Binary Discovery: A fascinating conversation unfolds around the discovery of two peculiar X-ray binaries that challenge existing theories, leading to discussions about the nature of these celestial objects and what they reveal about stellar evolution. - Future of Astronomy: Andrew and Fred reflect on the implications of these developments for the broader astronomy community, contemplating the balance between funding, scientific advancement, and international collaboration. 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, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite 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. 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/32650573?utm_source=youtube

Today's Space News — Astronomy Daily S05E84 | April 8, 2026 In today's episode, Anna and Avery cover six incredible stories spanning the final days of humanity's return to deep space, a lost spacecraft mystery, and fresh science rewriting how we understand our own planet. TODAY'S STORIES: (00:00) Intro (01:30) Story 1 — Artemis II Day 7/8: science debrief done, trajectory burns fired, and the crew heads home for a historic splashdown Friday (08:00) Story 2 — Cygnus CRS-24 launch delayed to April 10 due to weather — now launching the same day Artemis II lands (13:00) Story 3 — Earth formed entirely from inner Solar System material: Jupiter blocked everything else, and water was already here (19:00) Story 4 — ESA Juice delivers stunning new data on interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS: 70 Olympic pools of water per second (24:00) Story 5 — Comet C/2025 R3 PanSTARRS is the new comet to watch this April — and it's looking good (29:00) Story 6 — FEATURE: Mars 96, the lost Mars mission that crashed back to Earth 30 years ago — and was never found Subscribe for daily space and astronomy news | astronomydaily.io | @AstroDailyPod 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32647520?utm_source=youtube

SpaceTime Series 29 Episode 42 *NASA looking at nine possible landing sites for man’s return to the Moon NASA have narrowed down their list of possible landing sites for their return of humans to the lunar surface. The Artemis IV mission will target one of nine possible landing sites around the lunar south pole. *Saturn's weird magnetic shield A new study has found that Saturn’s magnetosphere – the magnetic bubble surrounding the ringed world – is lopsided. *Concerns grow as a Starlink satellite explodes in orbit SpaceX are still trying to determine what caused the sudden break up of a Starlink broad band communication satellite last week. *The Science Report Climate change to push more venomous snakes towards populated communities. Germany checking out Australia’s MQ-28 Ghost Bat autonomous combat aircraft. Teens turning to artificial intelligence for emotional support, validation, and companionship. Alex on Tech new Intel CPU 🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn (http://www.bitesz.com/nordvpn) . The discounts and bonuses are incredible! And it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌ If you’d like to support the podcast and gain access to bonus content by becoming a SpaceTime crew member, you can do just that through premium versions on Patreon, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Details on the Support page on our website https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/ (https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/) For more SpaceTime and show links: https://linktr.ee/biteszHQ (https://linktr.ee/biteszHQ) If you love this podcast, please get someone else to listen to. Thank you… Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32627323?utm_source=youtube

The Artemis II crew has completed the most significant human spaceflight milestone since 1972 — a historic lunar flyby that took four astronauts further from Earth than any humans in history. In today's episode, Anna and Avery cover every moment of Flight Days 6 and 7, including the far-side blackout, a solar eclipse observed from beyond the Moon, and what comes next on the journey home. Plus: NASA faces another proposed 47% science budget cut, a cargo ship heads to the space station, Europe and China are about to launch a groundbreaking solar shield explorer called SMILE, and Blue Origin reveals its ambitious plan to map the Moon's hidden water ice. Today's Stories 1. Artemis II Days 6 & 7: The Lunar Flyby • The crew of Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen completed a 7-hour lunar flyby on April 6 • Orion reached a maximum distance of 252,760 miles from Earth, surpassing the Apollo 13 record of 248,655 miles • Closest lunar approach: 4,067 miles above the surface at approximately 7 p.m. EDT • Christina Koch became the first woman to complete a lunar flyby • The crew witnessed an Earthset, Earthrise, and a solar eclipse from behind the far side of the Moon • Day 7 is a rest day; splashdown in the Pacific is targeted for April 10 2. NASA FY2027 Budget Proposal • White House proposes $18.8 billion for NASA — a 23% overall reduction • Science Mission Directorate would be cut by 47%, from $7.25B to $3.9B • More than 40 missions face termination; Mars Sample Return and SERVIR named explicitly • Exploration/Artemis funding would increase by ~10% • Congress rejected nearly identical cuts last year 3. Cygnus NG-24 ISS Resupply • Launch targeted April 8 from Cape Canaveral on SpaceX Falcon 9 • Named S.S. Steven R. Nagel after four-time shuttle veteran • Carrying 11,000+ lbs including Cold Atom Lab upgrade and stem cell research hardware • Also includes Africa's ClimCam AI-powered climate camera from Egypt, Kenya, and Uganda 4. SMILE Mission — Launch April 9 • Joint ESA / Chinese Academy of Sciences mission; first ever jointly designed, built, launched and operated by both agencies • Launches April 9 on Vega-C from French Guiana; 3-year science mission • Will give humanity its first complete, simultaneous view of Earth's magnetosphere reacting to the solar wind • Four instruments: soft X-ray imager, UV aurora camera, light ion analyser, magnetometer • Science orbit reaches 121,000 km above North Pole; up to 40 hours continuous observation per orbit • Critical for understanding and predicting space weather — protecting satellites, power grids and communications 5. Blue Origin Oasis-1: Lunar Water Ice Prospecting • Introduced at the 2026 Lunar and Planetary Science Conference (LPSC) • Two-smallsat mission deployed from Blue Origin's uncrewed Mk1 lander; ultra-low 10x50 km polar orbit • Instruments: neutron spectrometer (water ice to 1m depth), magnetometer (metals), multispectral imager (Helium-3) • 90-day global mapping phase followed by 10-day controlled deorbit — science continues to impact • Partnership with Luxembourg Space Agency; data licensed commercially, non-commercial data released publicly via ESRIC • Phase 1 of a 3-phase Project Oasis roadmap: orbit survey, surface mobility, then extraction operations 6. April Skywatching • Comet C/2025 R3: closest approach April 27, magnitude ~8, binoculars needed • Lyrid meteor shower peaks April 21–22, look toward Lyra from 10pm • Mercury at best visibility of 2026 in the eastern pre-dawn sky Links & Resources • NASA Artemis II Flight Day 6 updates: nasa.gov • Planetary Society Artemis II guide: planetary.org • NASA FY2027 budget: spacenews.com • Cygnus NG-24 launch: nasaspaceflight.com • ESA SMILE mission: esa.int/smile • Blue Origin Oasis-1: blueorigin.com Connect With Us • Website: astronomydaily.io • Twitter/X: @AstroDailyPod • Instagram: @AstroDailyPod • TikTok: @AstroDailyPod • YouTube: Astronomy Daily • Tumblr: AstroDailyPod Become a sup

For the first time since Apollo 17 in 1972, human beings are flying around the Moon — and it's happening RIGHT NOW. In this episode of Astronomy Daily, Anna and Avery deliver a full Artemis II update covering Flight Days 4 and 5, and the historic lunar flyby unfolding TODAY. We also have the promised verdict on Comet MAPS — the 'Easter comet' that plunged toward the Sun on April 4. Did it survive? Then two remarkable discovery stories: 87 hidden stellar streams uncovered in the Milky Way's outskirts, and the Vera C. Rubin Observatory's stunning debut — 11,000 new asteroids in just six weeks. We close with an extraordinary astronomical event: a solar eclipse witnessed from beyond the Moon's far side. IN THIS EPISODE: • 00:00 — Intro • Story 1 — Artemis II: Days 4 & 5 + Today's Lunar Flyby • Story 2 — Comet MAPS: The Easter Comet's Fate • Story 3 — Third Dark-Matter-Free Galaxy Discovered • Story 4 — 87 Hidden Stellar Streams Found in the Milky Way • Story 5 — Rubin Observatory: 11,000 Asteroids in 6 Weeks • Story 6 — Solar Eclipse from Beyond the Moon 🌐 astronomydaily.io | 🐦 @AstroDailyPod 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32593433?utm_source=youtube

SpaceTime Series 29 Episode 41 *Human’s finally flying back to the Moon after a break of over half a century Humans have returned to the Moon for the first time in over half a century. The historic Artemis II mission blasted off from space launch complex 39B at the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida carrying four crew members aboard the Orion spacecraft Integrity on a ten day mission around the Moon and back. *Could gravitational waves be the origin of dark matter A new study suggests that gravitational waves could be responsible for the production of dark matter during the early phases of the formation of the cosmos. *Yet another large meteor sighting – should we be concerned? There’s been yet another large meteor sighting – this time in the Pacific northwest of the United States. *The Science Report Growing evidence vaping causes cancer just like cigarettes and other tobacco and nicotine products. Australia and New Zealand have the highest prevalence of sexual violence against kids in the world. The first South Australian made guided missiles come off the production line in Port Wakefield. Skeptics guide to Australia’s most haunted house Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32588823?utm_source=youtube

Black Holes, Pulsar Planets, and the Mysteries of Bennu In this captivating Q&A episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson tackle an array of intriguing listener questions that delve deep into the cosmos. From the nature of black holes and their supermassive growth to the discovery of planets orbiting pulsars, and the latest findings from the asteroid Bennu, this episode is packed with cosmic insights and scientific discussions. Episode Highlights: - Understanding Black Holes: Andrew and Fred explore the complexities of black holes, addressing how they can accrete enough matter to become supermassive within cosmological time scales, and the fascinating concept of time dilation at the event horizon. - Pulsar Planets: Hazel's question about planets orbiting pulsars sparks a discussion on the survival of these celestial bodies after supernova explosions and the potential effects of pulsar radiation on their environments. - Asteroid Bennu Update: David inquires about the latest findings from the asteroid Bennu, and the hosts reveal exciting new research on the complex chemical landscape and the implications of liquid water's interaction with organic materials on this carbon-rich asteroid. - Neutrinos and Black Holes: Keith's question leads to a discussion on the elusive neutrinos, their ability to pass through matter, and what happens to them when they encounter a black hole. 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, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite 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. 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/32586832?utm_source=youtube

Artemis II, Comet MAPS, and Mercury: Your Space Week Just Got Very Busy It's Day 3 of the Artemis II mission, a sungrazer comet is emerging from the solar corona, an Atlas V just set a payload record, and Mercury is at its best of the year. Here's everything you need to know from today's episode of Astronomy Daily. Artemis II Flight Day 3: Orion Doesn't Even Need a Course Correction Four humans are on their way to the Moon, and everything is going better than planned. Flight controllers cancelled the first of three scheduled trajectory correction burns today — Orion is already on such a precise path that the burn simply wasn't needed. As Howard Hu, NASA's Orion program manager, noted, this reflects exceptional navigation performance throughout the mission. The crew — Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, Mission Specialist Christina Koch, and CSA astronaut Jeremy Hansen — spent Day 3 on medical readiness drills, practising CPR in weightlessness and checking out the spacecraft's medical equipment. They also successfully tested Orion's optical communications system, transmitting HD video back to Earth from deep space. On Monday, April 6th, Orion will swing around the lunar far side at its closest approach — briefly out of radio contact with Earth — and at the mission's farthest point will travel 252,757 miles from home. That breaks the human spaceflight distance record set by Apollo 13 in 1970. Fifty-six years. We're finally going further. Comet MAPS: The Solar Plunge Is Done — Now Comes the Wait At 14:22 UTC on April 4th, Comet C/2026 A1 (MAPS) reached perihelion — passing just 161,000 kilometres from the surface of the Sun, skimming through the lower solar corona. Whether it survived that encounter is still being determined from spacecraft imagery, as the comet remains in the Sun's glare for ground-based observers. If MAPS emerges intact, the Southern Hemisphere viewing window opens April 6th to 10th. Look west after sunset, low on the horizon, near Venus. Brightness predictions range from magnitude -5 (comparable to Venus) to extraordinary scenarios even brighter. Even a nucleus breakup could leave a spectacular dust tail — what's known as a 'headless wonder.' Either way, this story is not over. Atlas V Sets a Record: 29 Amazon Leo Satellites, Heaviest Payload Ever At 1:45 a.m. Eastern Time on April 4th, a ULA Atlas V 551 lifted off from Cape Canaveral carrying 29 Amazon Leo satellites — the heaviest payload in the rocket's 102-mission history. Mission LA-05 continues Amazon's build-out of its 3,200-satellite internet constellation (formerly Project Kuiper), with around 241 satellites now on orbit. Amazon faces an FCC deadline to have half its constellation operational by July 2026. Blue Ghost Challenges a Fundamental View of the Moon New data from Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost lander — which operated on the lunar surface for two weeks in March 2025 — is shaking up decades of lunar science. Scientists expected Blue Ghost's landing site at Mare Crisium, well outside the Moon's 'hot zone,' to show significantly cooler interior temperatures than Apollo landing sites. It didn't. The near-side/far-side temperature divide may be far less pronounced than previously thought, suggesting heat-producing elements are more widely distributed beneath the surface. 'We may have to abandon that binary,' said principal investigator Seiichi Nagihara. Pulsars Broadcast Further Than Anyone Knew — With Australian Science Behind the Discovery A study led by Professor Michael Kramer (Max Planck Institute) and Dr Simon Johnston (CSIRO) has found that about one third of millisecond pulsars emit radio waves from two completely separate regions — including a distant zone at the very edge of their magnetic reach called the current sheet. This overturns decades of received wisdom and suggests pulsars should be detectable from a wider range of directions than previously thought — with implications for gravitational wave detection using

Astronomy Daily Season 5, Episode 80 — Friday, April 3, 2026 It's Day 2 of the Artemis II mission and the crew is on their way to the Moon after a perfect translunar injection burn. We've also got a comet about to face perihelion, a dark matter mystery deepening, stunning new JWST images, and the escalating fight over the future of our night skies. In today's episode: 🚀 ARTEMIS II — TRANSLUNAR INJECTION BURN: The Orion spacecraft successfully completed its TLI burn on April 2, sending four astronauts toward the Moon for the first time since Apollo 17 in 1972. Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen delivered one of the quotes of the year from orbit. 🚽 ARTEMIS II — THE LUNAR LOO: Hours after launch, Orion's toilet malfunctioned. Christina Koch fixed it. This is why test flights exist. ☄️ SUNGRAZER COMET C/2026 A1 (MAPS): Tomorrow, this Kreutz sungrazer passes 161,000 km from the Sun's surface. It could vaporise — or become the most spectacular comet since Ikeya-Seki. Southern Hemisphere watchers: eyes on the western horizon from April 6. 🌌 DARK MATTER-FREE GALAXIES: Yale astronomers have confirmed a third galaxy with essentially no dark matter — NGC 1052-DF9. The 'Bullet Dwarf' collision theory is gaining powerful evidence. 🌟 JWST + W51: The James Webb Space Telescope has revealed hidden young stars in the W51 star-forming region, piercing dust clouds that have blocked our view for decades. ⚠️ NIGHT SKY UNDER THREAT: Reflect Orbital's orbital mirror satellite launches this month. SpaceX wants one million satellites. The astronomical community is fighting back. Find us at: http://astronomydaily.io (http://astronomydaily.io) Follow us: @AstroDailyPod Part of the Bitesz.com Podcast Network 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32553431?utm_source=youtube

SpaceTime Series 29 Episode 40 *Using archaeology to study the history of galaxies like the Milky Way Astronomers have for the first time used what they’re calling galactic archaeology to trace the history of a galaxy beyond our own galaxy the Milky Way. *Europe reconnects with its lost Proba-3 spacecraft The European Space Agency has finally re-established contact with one of the spacecraft in its Proba 3 mission. *Using blue-green algae to grow food on Mars Scientists have used a cyanobacteria-based fertilizer could grow food in a simulated Mars environment. *The Science Report A new study warns that abstinence could affect sperm quality. Scientists recover ancient Pinot Noir grape pips almost 600 years old. New study shows many birds are boozing on the human equivalent of a beer every day. Skeptics guide to Age of Disclosure. Our Guests This Week: NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman Dr. Lori Glaze acting associate administrator for NASA's Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate Carlos Garcia-Galan program executive in charge of NASA’s Moon Base Project. Jasmin Plattner from ZARM -- the Center for Applied Space Technology and Microgravity ZARM research scientist Tiago Ramalho from the University of Bremen. And our regular guests: Alex Zaharov-Reutt from techadvice.life Tim Mendham from Australian Skeptics 🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn (http://www.bitesz.com/nordvpn) . The discounts and bonuses are incredible! And it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌ If you’d like to support the podcast and gain access to bonus content by becoming a SpaceTime crew member, you can do just that through premium versions on Patreon, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Details on the Support page on our website https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/ (https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/) For more SpaceTime and show links: https://linktr.ee/biteszHQ (https://linktr.ee/biteszHQ) Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32546914?utm_source=youtube

Artemis 2, Space Toilets, and the Discovery of a Second Generation Star In this fascinating episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson take you on a journey through the latest developments in space exploration. With Artemis 2 set to launch, they dive into the mission's exciting details, including Australia's role in communication and the innovative design of the spacecraft's toilet system. They also discuss NASA's ambitious plans for a permanent moon base and the recent evacuation of an astronaut from the International Space Station, shedding light on the challenges faced in space travel. Finally, the episode wraps up with an intriguing discovery of a second generation star, offering insights into the universe's early history. Episode Highlights: - Artemis 2 Launch: Andrew and Fred explore the Artemis 2 mission, discussing the significance of Australia's CSIRO involvement in communications and the advanced technology behind the Orion spacecraft's hygiene bay. - NASA's Moon Base Plans: The hosts delve into NASA's announcement of a $20 billion investment over seven years to establish a permanent base on the moon, examining the implications for future lunar exploration. - ISS Crew Evacuation Update: A detailed look at the recent medical emergency involving astronaut Mike Finke, including the mystery surrounding his seizure and the ongoing investigations to ensure astronaut safety in space. - Second Generation Star Discovery: Andrew and Fred discuss the implications of discovering a second generation star, known as Pick 2503, and what it reveals about the universe's formation and the lifecycle of stars. 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, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite 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. 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/32545649?utm_source=youtube

Today is the day. Artemis II — NASA's first crewed Moon mission in 54 years — lifted off last night, and as we record this, four astronauts are preparing to leave Earth's orbit forever on the Translunar Injection burn. In this special launch-day edition, Anna and Avery cover the near-flawless launch, today's critical TLI milestone, the historic firsts being set by the crew aboard Orion (named Integrity), what the next ten days look like on the road to the Moon, the international CubeSats that hitched a ride, and the stunning coincidence of a full Pink Moon rising as humanity headed moonward. Key Sources • NASA Liftoff Announcement — nasa.gov • NASA Artemis Live Updates Blog — nasa.gov/blogs/artemis • NASA Coverage Schedule — nasa.gov/missions/artemis • CNN Artemis II Live Updates — cnn.com • Time Magazine — 'The Lunar Mission the World Is Watching' • Astronomy.com — Live Updates: Artemis 2 • NPR — NASA Launches Four People on Artemis II • Wikipedia — Artemis II • FAI World Air Sports Federation — Artemis II Records • Fast Company — Pink Moon / Artemis II Upcoming Mission Milestones • Tonight, April 2 (~8 PM ET): Translunar Injection burn — crew leaves Earth orbit • Sunday, April 5: Crew communication downlinks; Apollo 13 distance record expected to be broken • Monday, April 6: Lunar flyby — closest approach ~4,000 miles from Moon surface • Friday, April 10: Pacific Ocean splashdown 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32533162?utm_source=youtube

SpaceTime Series 29 Episode 39 *Gateway space station axed in favour of a base on the Moon – Part 2 In the second part of our special report on the pausing of construction on the Lunar Gateway space station project, we’ll detail the plans to build a permanent base at the Moon’s south pole. The seven year 20 billion dollar project will see more than thirty spacecraft sent to the Moon to deploy rovers, equipment, habitat modules and of course people. *Extending the life of the International Space Station As part of NASA’s new Ignition program the International space Station will have its life extended until at least 2032. *Nuclear powered spacecraft to fly in 2028 In December 2028 NASA will launch the Space Reactor‑1 Freedom, the first nuclear powered interplanetary spacecraft which will journey to Mars demonstrating advanced nuclear electric propulsion in deep space. *Yet another meteor sighting – this time in Texas There’s been yet another large meteor sighting this time in Texas. It’s the third major meteor event in the past month. Last week, a large meteor air burst above Ohio, and the week before another exploded in the skies above northern Europe with fragments raining down across northern Germany. *The Science Report Australia's environment experienced above average conditions for the fifth year in a row. The world’s most detailed cellular atlas of early-stage prostate cancer. New study shows Tik Tok users have difficulty with their concentration and emotions. Alex on Tech Sora killed off. 🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn (http://www.bitesz.com/nordvpn) . The discounts and bonuses are incredible! And it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌ If you’d like to support the podcast and gain access to bonus content by becoming a SpaceTime crew member, you can do just that through premium versions on Patreon, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Details on the Support page on our website https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/ (https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/) For more SpaceTime and show links: https://linktr.ee/biteszHQ (https://linktr.ee/biteszHQ) If you love this podcast, please get someone else to listen to. Thank you… Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32516628?utm_source=youtube

Launch day has arrived. In this episode of Astronomy Daily, Anna and Avery countdown to tonight's historic Artemis II launch — humanity's first crewed lunar mission since 1972 — and explore the dramatic stories unfolding alongside it: a sungrazing comet faces its moment of truth just three days from perihelion; astronomers raise urgent alarms over plans for one million new satellites; the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS leaves its open-data legacy; and fascinating new science unpacks the hellish reality of Venus and a creative low-tech solution for mapping the Moon's interior. Story References Story 1: Artemis II Launch • NASA Artemis II Mission Hub: nasa.gov/mission/artemis-ii • NASA Live Coverage (NASA+, YouTube, Amazon Prime) — begins 7:45 AM EDT April 1 • Launch window: 6:24–8:24 PM EDT Wednesday April 1 (09:24–11:24 AEDT Thursday April 2) • Crew: Reid Wiseman (Commander), Victor Glover (Pilot), Christina Koch, Jeremy Hansen (CSA) • Mission duration: 10 days, splashdown April 10 off San Diego Story 2: Comet MAPS • C/2026 A1 (MAPS) perihelion: April 4, 2026 at ~14:23 UTC • Perihelion distance: ~160,000 km above Sun's surface (solar corona passage) • Kreutz sungrazer family — related to Great Comet of 1106 • Nucleus estimated ~400m diameter (JWST MIRI observation, Feb 7 2026) • Best-case post-perihelion brightness: magnitude -5 to -10 • Source: Sky & Telescope, EarthSky, Universe Today, Wikipedia Story 3: Satellite Megaconstellations • SpaceX proposal: 1,000,000 satellites (AI orbital data centres) — FCC filing Jan 30, 2026 • Reflect Orbital proposal: 50,000 mirror satellites — FCC filing July 31, 2025 • IAU, RAS, and ESO have all filed formal FCC objections • Nature study (Dec 2025): 96%+ of future space telescope exposures affected if constellations completed • Hubble: up to 1/3 of images contaminated • Source: Universe Today, Astronomy Magazine, Nature Story 4: 3I/ATLAS Open Data • NASA open data archive now available: science.nasa.gov/solar-system/comets/3i-atlas • Key finding: 3I/ATLAS unusually rich in methanol vs hydrogen cyanide • Observed by 12+ NASA missions including Hubble, JWST, TESS, SPHEREx, MAVEN, Perseverance • Jupiter flyby: March 16, 2026 at 0.358 AU • Source: NASA Science, Space.com, NRAO Story 5: Venus • Surface temperature: 464°C average • Atmospheric pressure: 92× Earth (equivalent to ~1km ocean depth) • Longest spacecraft survival: ~2 hours (Soviet Venera probes) • Source: Universe Today, April 1 2026 Story 6: Lunar Optical Fibre • Two new journal papers propose telecom-grade optical fibre for lunar seismic mapping • Could map deep interior and identify lava tube locations • Lava tubes: potential natural shelters for future astronauts • Source: Universe Today, April 1 2026 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32515294?utm_source=youtube

Episode 77 of Astronomy Daily, Season 5. Recorded 31 March 2026. Today's episode is our Artemis II launch-eve special — humanity prepares to return to the Moon for the first time in over 53 years. We also cover a record-breaking 'space laser' 8 billion light-years away, the ancient age of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, a star bearing the fingerprint of the universe's first stars, and new simulations supporting the shattered moon origin of Saturn's rings. STORY SOURCES • Artemis II Countdown — NASA.gov: https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/missions/2026/03/30/nasas-artemis-ii-launch-mission-countdown-begins/ • Artemis II Mission Guide — NBC News: https://www.nbcnews.com/science/space/artemis-ii-nasa-moon-launch-time-astronauts-how-watch-what-know-rcna255627 • Artemis II Launch Coverage — CBS News: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/nasa-artemis-ii-moon-launch-astronauts-flight-plan/ • X1.4 Solar Flare — Space.com: https://www.space.com/astronomy/sun/powerful-x-class-solar-flare-triggers-radio-blackout-ahead-of-artemis-2-launch • Solar Flare NASA Statement — NASA Science: https://science.nasa.gov/blogs/solar-cycle-25/2026/03/30/strong-solar-flare-erupts-from-sun-30/ • Gigamaser Discovery — Space.com: https://www.space.com/astronomy/galaxies/record-breaking-space-laser-erupts-from-merging-galaxies-8-billion-light-years-away • Gigamaser — ScienceAlert: https://www.sciencealert.com/astronomers-spot-a-record-breaking-space-laser-8-billion-light-years-away • 3I/ATLAS Age — Space.com: https://www.space.com/astronomy/comets/interstellar-comet-3i-atlas-may-be-nearly-12-billion-years-old-so-ancient-its-star-system-may-no-longer-exist • 3I/ATLAS — Live Science: https://www.livescience.com/space/comets/interstellar-messenger-3i-atlas-could-be-nearly-as-old-as-the-universe-itself-james-webb-telescope-observations-reveal • PicII-503 Star — Smithsonian Magazine: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/astronomers-discovere-a-rare-primitive-star-that-provides-a-chemical-snapshot-of-the-early-universe-180988454/ • PicII-503 — NOIRLab: https://noirlab.edu/public/news/noirlab2607/ • Saturn Rings / Chrysalis — Space.com: https://www.space.com/astronomy/saturn/are-saturns-rings-made-of-a-lost-shattered-moon-new-evidence-arises-for-the-case 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32496598?utm_source=youtube

Episode Summary With Artemis II just three days from launch, today's episode delivers a landmark space moment alongside the sad news that Mars Sample Return's Earth Return Orbiter has been formally cancelled by ESA. We also cover SpaceX's enormous Transporter-16 rideshare launch, Cornell's definitive list of 45 best-bet habitable exoplanets, a paradigm-shifting discovery about pulsar radio emissions, and the first confirmed evidence of lightning-like activity on Mars. Stories Covered • Artemis II — NASA confirms zero technical issues, launch on track for April 1 at 6:24 p.m. EDT • ESA Earth Return Orbiter — formally cancelled after ESA member states vote to end the programme; Airbus in transition talks • SpaceX Transporter-16 — 119 payloads launched to Sun-synchronous orbit from Vandenberg this morning • 45 Habitable Exoplanets — Cornell/Carl Sagan Institute catalog published in MNRAS; TRAPPIST-1, Proxima Centauri b among top targets • Millisecond Pulsar Radio Emissions — signals confirmed originating beyond the light cylinder for the first time • Martian Lightning — MAVEN data reveals whistler wave consistent with electrical discharge during a 2015 dust storm Source URLs • Artemis II launch updates: https://www.space.com/news/live/artemis-2-nasa-moon-mission-launch-updates-march-29-2026 • ESA Earth Return Orbiter cancellation: https://europeanspaceflight.com/esa-member-states-call-for-cancellation-of-earth-return-orbiter/ • SpaceX Transporter-16: https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2026/03/transporter-16/ • 45 Habitable Exoplanets (ScienceDaily): https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260325005926.htm • Millisecond Pulsar discovery (Phys.org): https://phys.org/news/2026-03-radio-edge-extreme-stars-surfaces.html • Mars Lightning / MAVEN (Phys.org): https://phys.org/news/2026-03-nasa-maven-evidence-lightning-mars.html 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32477207?utm_source=youtube

SpaceTime Series 29 Episode 38 *Gateway space station axed in favour of a base on the Moon – Part 1 In this special report, we’ll look at NASA’s decision to pause construction of the Lunar Gateway space station project in favour of accelerating plans to build a permanent base at the Moon’s south pole. Forget everything you’ve heard until now! NASA is shifting focus totally on a new endeavour named Ignition which is designed to achieve US President Donald Trump’s National Space Policy with the aim of establishing a permanent human presence on the Moon. The seven year 20 billion dollar project will see more than thirty spacecraft sent to the Moon to deploy rovers, equipment, habitat modules and of course people . *A New Artemis Mission As part of these changes the cadence of Artemis flights to the Moon will increase to at least one surface landing every year. And the configuration of the 98 metre tall SLS Space Launch System moon rocket will be standardised with the use of a Centaur V upper stage replacing both the current Interim Cryogenic Propulsion Stage and the planned Exploration Upper Stage. *Cosmonauts forced take control of a Russian Progress cargo ship Cosmonauts aboard the International Space Station were forced to take control of a Russian Progress cargo ship and dock the spacecraft manually after two of its KURS automated rendezvous antennas failed to deploy. *The Science Report Planet Earth has just experienced its 11 hottest years on record. Scientist have created a novel organism which has developed a primitive nervous system. Study shows people have been living with dogs as companions for over 14 thousand years. Skeptics guide to the ghost face in the northern lights Our Guests This Week: NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman Dr. Lori Glaze acting associate administrator for NASA's Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate Carlos Garcia-Galan program executive in charge of NASA’s Moon Base Project. Jasmin Plattner from ZARM -- the Center for Applied Space Technology and Microgravity ZARM research scientist Tiago Ramalho from the University of Bremen. And our regular guests: Alex Zaharov-Reutt from techadvice.life Tim Mendham from Australian Skeptics 🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn (http://www.bitesz.com/nordvpn) . The discounts and bonuses are incredible! And it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌ If you’d like to support the podcast and gain access to bonus content by becoming a SpaceTime crew member, you can do just that through premium versions on Patreon, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Details on the Support page on our website https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/ (https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/) For more SpaceTime and show links: https://linktr.ee/biteszHQ (https://linktr.ee/biteszHQ) Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32473096?utm_source=youtube

Sponsor Link: This episode of Space Nuts is brought to with the support of Incogni . Reduce the volume of spam calls and emails. Lower the risk of identity theft. Make your personal details harder to find online. Gain peace of mind by visiting for 60% off! Cosmic Q&A: Comets, Magnetic Reversals, and the Nature of Time In this thought-provoking Q&A episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson tackle a series of intriguing listener questions that span the cosmos. From the fascinating journeys of comets to the implications of Earth's magnetic pole reversal, and the philosophical musings on the origin of time, this episode is a rich tapestry of cosmic inquiry. Episode Highlights: - The Journey of Comets: Listener Nate from Perth dives into the paths of comets, exploring whether they all follow similar trajectories or carve out their own unique paths. Andrew and Fred unravel the mysteries of the Oort Cloud and the gravitational influences that shape these celestial wanderers. - Magnetic Pole Reversal: Michael from Canada raises concerns about the potential effects of Earth's overdue magnetic pole reversal on satellites in low Earth orbit. The hosts discuss the gradual nature of these reversals and the implications for our technology as the magnetic field weakens. - The Nature of Time: Local listener George presents a profound question about the essence of time, contemplating whether it exists as a construct of energy motion. Andrew and Fred delve into the complexities of time in the context of relativity and quantum mechanics, exploring its elusive nature and the philosophical questions it raises. - Galaxies and the Observable Universe: Tom from Ireland grapples with the concept of distance in the universe, questioning how galaxies can appear to be further apart than the age of the universe itself. Andrew and Fred clarify the concepts of look-back time and the universe's expansion, shedding light on this common cosmic conundrum. 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, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite 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. 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/32470475?utm_source=youtube

Episode S05E75 — Saturday, 28 March 2026 | astronomydaily.io | @AstroDailyPod 🚀 Story 1: Artemis II Crew Arrives at Kennedy Space Center The four-person crew of NASA's Artemis II mission — Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, Mission Specialist Christina Koch (NASA), and Mission Specialist Jeremy Hansen (CSA) — arrived at Kennedy Space Center on Friday, March 27, 2026, ahead of a planned April 1 launch. The 10-day mission will fly the crew around the Moon and back to Earth — the first crewed lunar mission since Apollo 17 in 1972. Launch window: 6:24 PM EDT, April 1–6, 2026. Sources: NASA.gov, Space.com, AP, Orlando Sentinel ☄️ Story 2: Hubble Detects First-Ever Spin Reversal of a Comet A new study in The Astronomical Journal reveals that comet 41P/Tuttle-Giacobini-Kresák reversed its direction of rotation — a first in observational astronomy. Gas jets acting as thrusters slowed the comet's spin and flipped it into a new direction. The comet's nucleus measures just 1 km across. Researchers warn the rapid new spin could lead to the comet's disintegration. Source: NASA Science / Space Telescope Science Institute, March 26, 2026 🌑 Story 3: LIGO Signal May Be a Primordial Black Hole A November 2025 LIGO detection of a gravitational wave signal from an object with less than one solar mass — impossible through stellar evolution — may be evidence of a primordial black hole formed in the Big Bang's first moments. A new University of Miami study in The Astrophysical Journal finds the detection consistent with primordial black hole models and suggests these objects could help explain dark matter. Source: Universe Today / University of Miami, March 27, 2026 ⭐ Story 4: IXPE Delivers New Portrait of Oldest-Known Supernova NASA's IXPE (Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer) has produced a new X-ray image of supernova remnant RCW 86 (SN 185) — the oldest recorded supernova, first observed by Chinese astronomers in 185 AD. Combined with Chandra and XMM-Newton data, the image reveals the remnant's expansion has slowed at the edge of a low-density cavity, producing a reflected shock. Source: NASA / Phys.org, March 25–27, 2026 🏥 Story 5: Mike Fincke Speaks About His ISS Medical Emergency NASA astronaut Mike Fincke has given his first detailed account of the January 7, 2026 medical event that led to the first-ever medical evacuation from the International Space Station. In an AP interview, Fincke revealed he lost the ability to speak for approximately 20 minutes while eating dinner. Doctors have ruled out a heart attack but the cause remains unknown. The incident ended Crew-11's mission early, returning Fincke, Zena Cardman, Kimiya Yui, and Oleg Platonov to Earth on January 15. Source: Associated Press / Phys.org, March 27, 2026 ☀️ Story 6: Solar Activity — AR4403 Flares, Possible CME March 29 Sunspot region AR4403, which rotated into view on March 26, produced an M3.9 solar flare causing a minor radio blackout over the Indian Ocean. Conditions are quiet on March 28, but space weather forecasters expect a co-rotating interaction region and coronal hole high-speed stream to arrive March 29, bringing unsettled geomagnetic conditions and possible aurora visibility at mid-latitudes. Southern Hemisphere observers in Australia and New Zealand should watch Sunday–Monday nights. Source: EarthSky / The Sun Today, March 27, 2026 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--5

Welcome to Astronomy Daily, Season 5, Episode 74 — your daily briefing on the most exciting developments in space and astronomy, hosted by Anna and Avery. IN TODAY'S EPISODE • Artemis II crew arrives at Kennedy Space Center — launch just 5 days away • Webb and Hubble combine for the most detailed Saturn portrait ever captured • New research reveals Jupiter's lightning may be up to a million times more powerful than Earth's • Japan's XRISM telescope solves a 50-year X-ray mystery surrounding naked-eye star Gamma Cassiopeiae • Cornell astronomers publish a shortlist of 45 exoplanets most likely to host alien life • The Isar Aerospace Spectrum scrub mystery is solved — it was an unauthorised boat STORY SOURCES & LINKS Story 1 — Artemis II: NASA Kennedy Space Center / NASA.gov https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/missions/2026/03/25/nasa-teams-continue-artemis-ii-preparations-at-launch-pad/ https://www.nasa.gov/missions/artemis/artemis-ii/nasa-sets-coverage-for-artemis-ii-moon-mission/ Story 2 — Saturn Images: NASA Science / Scientific American https://science.nasa.gov/missions/webb/nasa-webb-hubble-share-most-comprehensive-view-of-saturn-to-date/ Story 3 — Jupiter Lightning: Berkeley News / AGU Advances https://news.berkeley.edu/2026/03/23/lightning-bolts-on-jupiter-pack-more-than-100-times-the-power-of-earths-flashes/ Story 4 — Gamma Cassiopeiae: ScienceDaily / Astronomy & Astrophysics https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260325041723.htm Story 5 — 45 Exoplanets: Royal Astronomical Society / ScienceDaily https://ras.ac.uk/news-and-press/research-highlights/best-places-look-alien-life-scientists-identify-45-earth-worlds Story 6 — Isar Aerospace: NASASpaceFlight.com / Bloomberg https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2026/03/isar-onward-and-upward/ CONNECT WITH US • Website: astronomydaily.io • Twitter/X: @AstroDailyPod • Instagram: @AstroDailyPod • TikTok: @AstroDailyPod • YouTube: @AstroDailyPod • Tumblr: @AstroDailyPod • Network: Bitesz.com Podcast Network 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32438448?utm_source=youtube

Sponsor Link: This episode of SpaceTime is brought to you with the support of Squarespace ...your one-stop solution for building a professional online presence with ease. To explore our special offers, just visit www.squarespace.com/spacetime (https://squarespace.com/spacetime) SpaceTime Series 29 Episode 37 *Solving one of the mysteries of the Small Magellanic Cloud Astronomers may have finally solved one of the many mysteries of the Small Magellanic Cloud – a satellite dwarf galaxy the orbits the Milky Way. *Protecting astronauts from radiation in deep space NASA’s first manned mission to the moon in over half a century has been rolled out back to the launch pad and is now slated for launch on April first. *Another step forward in growing food in space Scientists have been putting their astronomical green thumbs to the test by trying to grow plants in simulated lunar and Martian soils. *The Science Report Study shows teen bullies are more likely to suffer faster biological ageing and obesity. Three new species of Australian rock-dwelling monitor lizards have been formally described. The spray-on fabric coating that can clean clothing without detergent. Skeptics guide to Florida’s skunk ape. https://spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://spacetimewithstuartgary.com) https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/ (https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/) This week’s guests include: Dr Trevor Lafleur from the University of New South Wales NASA Meteoroid Environment Office Lead Dr Bill Cooke from the Marshall Space Flight Centre Cryosat Principal Investigator Duncan Wingham University College London Ralph Cordey from EADS Astrium Research fellow Katharine Giles University College London And our regular guests: Alex Zaharov-Reutt from techadvice.life Tim Mendham from Australian Skeptics 🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn (http://www.bitesz.com/nordvpn) . The discounts and bonuses are incredible! And it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌ If you’d like to support the podcast and gain access to bonus content by becoming a SpaceTime crew member, you can do just that through premium versions on Patreon, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Details on the Support page on our website https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/ (https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/) For more SpaceTime and show links: https://linktr.ee/biteszHQ (https://linktr.ee/biteszHQ) If you love this podcast, please get someone else to listen to. Thank you… For more podcasts visit our HQ at https://bitesz.com (https://bitesz.com) Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32433738?utm_source=youtube

Sponsor Link : This episode of Space Nuts is brought to with the support of Incogni . Reduce the volume of spam calls and emails. Lower the risk of identity theft. Make your personal details harder to find online. Gain peace of mind by visiting www.incogni.com/spacenuts (https://incogni.com/spacenuts) for 60% off! Asteroid Spins, Superpuff Planets, and Martian Groundwater Discoveries In this exciting episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson delve into a trio of captivating astronomical topics. From the peculiarities of a rapidly spinning asteroid to the mysteries surrounding superpuff planets, and groundbreaking revelations about Martian groundwater, this episode is a treasure trove of cosmic insights. Episode Highlights: - Spun Out Asteroid: Andrew and Fred discuss the intriguing asteroid 2025 MN45, which spins at an astonishing rate of 1 minute and 54 seconds per rotation. They explore the implications of such rapid rotation on its structure and what it might reveal about its composition. - Superpuff Planet Kepler 51D: The hosts examine the latest findings on Kepler 51D, a planet with an unusually low density that has been compared to cotton candy. They discuss the challenges astronomers face in understanding its hazy atmosphere and the ongoing research aimed at uncovering its secrets. - Martian Groundwater Insights: A major highlight of the episode is the discussion about new research suggesting the existence of a planet-wide groundwater system on Mars. Andrew and Fred analyze the geological evidence that indicates a historical hydrological network, shedding light on Mars's wet past and its potential for supporting life. 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, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite 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. 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/32431620?utm_source=youtube

Episode Summary Today's episode opens with a brief update on the Isar Aerospace Spectrum rocket, which aborted at T-3 seconds on March 25 — just before engine ignition — with no new launch date yet announced. The main stories cover Canada's cancellation of its first lunar rover mission; the century-old mystery of Gamma Cassiopeiae's anomalous X-ray emissions finally solved by the XRISM space telescope; new research suggesting Neptune's axial tilt may have been caused by its captured moon Triton; NASA's Dragonfly rotorcraft entering full integration and testing ahead of a 2028 launch to Saturn's moon Titan; Russia returning to orbit from Baikonur Cosmodrome following last November's structural collapse; and the new SPHEREx telescope detecting a bipolar hydrogen shell around the remnant of Nova Persei 1901. Story Sources Update — Isar Aerospace Spectrum NASASpaceFlight.com — Isar Aerospace scrubs second launch of Spectrum rocket https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2026/03/isar-onward-and-upward/ Isar Aerospace Mission Updates https://isaraerospace.com/mission-updates-overview Story 1 — Canada Cancels Moon Rover Space.com — Canada cancels its 1st moon rover: 'It's hopefully not a lost cause' https://www.space.com/space-exploration/artemis/canada-cancels-its-1st-moon-rover-its-hopefully-not-a-lost-cause Canadian Space Agency — Spending Plan 2026-27 https://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/publications/dp-2026-2027.asp Story 2 — Gamma Cassiopeiae Mystery Solved Space.com — Scientists finally solve century-old mystery of star with unexpected X-ray emissions https://www.space.com/astronomy/stars/scientists-finally-solve-century-old-mystery-of-star-with-unexpected-x-ray-emissions ESA / EurekAlert — XRISM solves famous star's 50-year mystery https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1120872 ScienceDaily — Astronomers solve 50-year mystery of a naked-eye star's extreme X-rays https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260325041723.htm Story 3 — Neptune's Tilt & Triton Astrobiology.com / arXiv — Neptune's Obliquity Was Likely Engendered By Triton's Tidal Evolution https://astrobiology.com/2026/03/neptunes-obliquity-was-likely-engendered-by-tritons-tidal-evolution.html Story 4 — Dragonfly Integration Testing NASA Science — NASA's Dragonfly Mission Begins Rotorcraft Integration, Testing Stage https://science.nasa.gov/blogs/dragonfly/2026/03/10/nasas-dragonfly-mission-begins-rotorcraft-integration-testing-stage/ Johns Hopkins APL — Dragonfly Mission Begins Rotorcraft Integration, Testing Stage https://www.jhuapl.edu/news/news-releases/260312-dragonfly-integration-begins Story 5 — Russia Returns to Orbit from Baikonur Universe Today — Russia Returns to Orbit from Baikonur Following Structural Collapse https://www.universetoday.com/ Story 6 — SPHEREx & Nova Persei 1901 Phys.org — Using NASA's SPHEREx space telescope, astronomers observe remnants of the eruption of Nova Persei 1901 https://phys.org/space-news/ 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32419381?utm_source=youtube

Sponsor Link: This episode of SpaceTime is brought to with the support of Squarespace . Take your ideas online the easy way. Build a professioanl website...anyone can do it! Give it a try for free by visiting www.squarespace.com/spacetime (https://squarespace.com/spacetime) SpaceTime Series 29 Episode 36 *How to tell gas giants from brown dwarfs A new study has found that giant planets spin faster than their cosmic brown dwarfs lookalikes. *A nuclear power station on the Moon gets the green light NASA and the U.S. Department of Energy have renewed their partnership to develop a nuclear fission reactor to power a permanent base on the lunar surface by 2030. *Using an ice satellite to detect powerful geomagnetic storms The European Space Agency’s Cryosat spacecraft has accurately measured the impact of resent geomagnetic storm activity from the Sun as it slammed into Earth’s magnetic field.. *The Science Report New study shows that higher air pollution levels increase the risk of physical disabilities. Working out someone’s mood by the way they walk. Over half of teens admit that they’ve created at least one image using AI nudification tools. Alex on Tech: Portable data centres on their way down under. For more SpaceTime visit www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://spacetimewithstuartgary.com) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32400309?utm_source=youtube

Wednesday, March 25, 2026 In today's episode of Astronomy Daily, Anna and Avery cover six major stories from the last 24 hours in space and astronomy — including two landmark NASA announcements that could reshape the future of human space exploration. Story 1: NASA Cancels Lunar Gateway — Pivots to $20 Billion Moon Base NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced at the agency's 'Ignition Day' event that the Lunar Gateway orbital space station has been paused, with resources redirected toward a phased $20 billion base on the lunar surface. The three-phase plan runs from 2026 to beyond 2032 and involves international partners including JAXA, the Italian Space Agency, and the Canadian Space Agency. Source: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/artemis/nasas-lunar-gateway-space-station-is-out-moon-bases-are-in (https://www.space.com/space-exploration/artemis/nasas-lunar-gateway-space-station-is-out-moon-bases-are-in) Story 2: NASA's SR-1 Freedom — The First Nuclear-Powered Interplanetary Spacecraft Also announced at Ignition Day, Space Reactor-1 Freedom is planned for a December 2028 launch to Mars. It will use Nuclear Electric Propulsion and carry the Skyfall payload — three Ingenuity-class helicopters designed to scout future human landing sites and map subsurface water ice. Source: https://www.space.com/astronomy/mars/nasas-1st-nuclear-powered-interplanetary-spacecraft-will-send-skyfall-helicopters-to-mars-in-2028 (https://www.space.com/astronomy/mars/nasas-1st-nuclear-powered-interplanetary-spacecraft-will-send-skyfall-helicopters-to-mars-in-2028) Story 3: Two Planets Forming Around Infant Star WISPIT 2 Astronomers using the ESO's Very Large Telescope have directly imaged two gas giant planets forming around the 5.4-million-year-old star WISPIT 2, located 437 light-years away in Aquila. The system is described as a mirror of our early solar system, with potential for more planets yet to be discovered. Published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters. Source: https://www.space.com/astronomy/exoplanets/scientists-discover-mirror-of-our-solar-system-in-2-exoplanets-forming-around-a-star (https://www.space.com/astronomy/exoplanets/scientists-discover-mirror-of-our-solar-system-in-2-exoplanets-forming-around-a-star) Story 4: Hubble Revisits the Crab Nebula — 25 Years On NASA has released new Hubble Space Telescope images of the Crab Nebula, taken 25 years after the telescope first observed the object. The images reveal the nebula's continued expansion — the still-evolving remnant of a supernova first observed by astronomers in 1054 AD. Source: https://www.space.com/astronomy/hubble-revisits-a-cosmic-crab-after-25-years-space-photo-of-the-day-for-march-23-2026 (https://www.space.com/astronomy/hubble-revisits-a-cosmic-crab-after-25-years-space-photo-of-the-day-for-march-23-2026) Story 5: Fiber-Optic Cables Could Detect Moonquakes Two new studies from Los Alamos National Laboratory suggest that fiber-optic cables deployed directly on the lunar surface could detect moonquakes using Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS). The technique could replace expensive individual seismometers, with a single cable acting as thousands of sensors across hundreds of kilometres of lunar terrain. Source: https://www.space.com/astronomy/moon/future-artemis-missions-could-use-fiber-optic-cables-to-monitor-moonquakes (https://www.space.com/astronomy/moon/future-artemis-missions-could-use-fiber-optic-cables-to-monitor-moonquakes) Story 6: Rocket Lab 'Daughter of the Stars' — Europe's First Celeste Navigation Satellites Rocket Lab's Electron rocket launched the first two satellites for ESA's Celeste LEO-PNT constellation from Māhia, New Zealand on March 25. The mission is ESA's first foray into low-Earth orbit navigation, designed to complement and strengthen Europe's Galileo system. The constellation is named after Maria Celeste, daughter of Galileo Galilei. Source: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/rocket-lab-electron-la

Thank you for listening to Astronomy Daily! Here's everything from today's episode: Story 1: Artemis II — T-Minus Days to Launch NASA is targeting April 1, 2026 for the launch of Artemis II — the first crewed lunar flyby since Apollo 17 in 1972. The crew of Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen will fly a 10-day free-return trajectory around the Moon aboard the Orion spacecraft on the SLS rocket from Kennedy Space Center. The six-day launch window runs April 1–6. Meanwhile, a new analysis suggests the mission could face elevated solar superflare risk, though NASA is proceeding after a successful Flight Readiness Review. Source: NASA — https://www.nasa.gov/mission/artemis-ii/ Solar risk analysis: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/artemis/artemis-2-moon-mission-shouldnt-launch-until-late-2026-new-analysis-of-solar-superflares-suggests Story 2: G3 Geomagnetic Storm & Aurora Australis Multiple coronal mass ejections from the Sun triggered a G3 (strong) geomagnetic storm, producing vivid auroral displays from New York to Scotland to — remarkably — Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Adelaide. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology issued a severe storm warning for March 23. Conditions are easing on March 24 (Kp 3–4) but some aurora activity may continue. March is historically the best month for auroras due to the equinox effect, and with Solar Cycle 25 at its peak, scientists say this could be the best aurora viewing period until the mid-2030s. Aurora forecast: https://earthsky.org/sun/sun-news-activity-solar-flare-cme-aurora-updates/ Aurora Australis guide: https://www.elle.com.au/culture/news/aurora-australis-southern-lights-march-2026-tonight-alert/ Story 3: JWST Finds 'Impossible' Atmosphere on Lava World TOI-561 b A Carnegie Institution-led team used NASA's James Webb Space Telescope to detect the strongest evidence yet for an atmosphere around a rocky exoplanet. TOI-561 b — an ultra-hot super-Earth about twice Earth's mass, orbiting its star every 10.56 hours — was expected to be a bare rock. Instead, JWST measured a dayside temperature far cooler than a bare rock would produce, indicating a thick atmosphere redistributing heat above a global magma ocean. The findings were published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters. Source: Carnegie Institution for Science — https://carnegiescience.edu/ultra-hot-lava-world-has-thick-atmosphere-upending-expectations ScienceDaily: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260322020255.htm Story 4: Sealed Apollo 17 Moon Rocks Reveal Surprise Sulfur Signal Sealed lunar samples from Apollo 17 (collected 1972, opened through NASA's ANGSA program) have revealed unexpected sulfur isotope signatures. A Brown University-led team found volcanic material from the Taurus-Littrow region is strongly depleted in sulfur-33 — unlike anything found on Earth. Possible explanations include ancient lunar atmospheric chemistry or a legacy of the Theia impact that formed the Moon. Published in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Planets. Source: Brown University — https://www.brown.edu/news/2025-10-06/sulfur-isotopes-apollo-samples SciTechDaily: https://scitechdaily.com/scientists-open-moon-rocks-locked-away-since-1972-and-find-something-totally-unexpected/ Story 5: This Week in Global Rocketry An exceptional week of launches spanning five countries and seven rocket types: SpaceX Falcon 9 (Starlink 17-17, Tuesday; Starlink 10-44, Thursday — B1067's record 34th flight; Transporter 16, Sunday), Rocket Lab Electron (ESA Celeste demo sats, Wednesday, NZ), Isar Aerospace Spectrum (Onward and Upward, Wednesday, Norway), Chang Zheng 2C (Wednesday, China), CAS Space Kinetica 1 (Friday, China), Russia's debut Soyuz-5 (Friday, Baikonur), and ULA Atlas V (Amazon Leo batch, Sunday). The 73rd orbital launch attempt of 2026 worldwide. Full preview: https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2026/03/launch-preview-032326/ Update: Progress MS-33 & Spectrum Rocket Progress MS-33 (also know

Sponsor Link: This episode of SpaceTime is brought to you with the support of Squarespace ...your one stop for building a professional online presence the easy way. To check out our special offers, just visit www.squarespace.com/spacetime (https://squarespace.com/spacetime) SpaceTime Series 29 Episode 35 *The black hole merger that sent ripples through spacetime Scientists have detected the merger of a pair of stellar mass black holes which was quickly followed seconds later by a powerful gamma ray burst.. *A new type of ion propulsion system for spacecraft Scientists are developing a new type of ion propulsion system for spacecraft which would be easier to produce and provide better performance than current xenon based plasma systems. *Thousands watch a fireball streak across the Ohio skies Residents across North Eastern Ohio have seen a spectacular day time meteor streak across the skies. *The Science Report Study shows Greenland’s Ice dome melted over 7,000 years ago.. Warnings of worsening human health impacts from the production of plastics. Scientists discover the region of the brain responsible for controlling hypocrisy. Skeptics guide to America’s growing belief in flying saucers. For more SpaceTime visit www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32367922?utm_source=youtube

Astronomy Daily — Season 5, Episode 70 Monday, March 23, 2026 In today's episode, Anna and Avery cover six stories spanning a live European rocket launch attempt, a sixty-year-old NASA emergency brought back to life through newly surfaced photographs, a cosmic explosion caught only by its echo, the fight to preserve the night sky, a supply run to the ISS with an unexpected complication, and a first-of-its-kind discovery involving brown dwarf stars. Story 1: Europe's Spectrum Rocket — Bid for Orbit Today Isar Aerospace's Spectrum rocket is attempting its second test flight today — its qualification mission for ESA's European Launcher Challenge. Launching from Andøya Spaceport in Norway, the mission carries five CubeSats and one experiment from European universities and companies, all supported by ESA's Boost! program. If successful, it would mark a landmark moment for European sovereign access to space. Source: ESA — Spectrum's Qualifying Second Launch (https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Boost/Spectrum_s_qualifying_second_launch) Story 2: Neil Armstrong — The Gemini 8 Emergency Sixty years ago this month, Neil Armstrong and David Scott survived one of NASA's most dangerous pre-Apollo emergencies aboard Gemini 8. A spacecraft malfunction sent the capsule into an uncontrolled spin reaching one revolution per second. Never-before-seen photographs of Armstrong's recovery have been donated to the Armstrong Air and Space Museum in Wapakoneta, Ohio. Source: Phys.org — Space News (https://phys.org/space-news/) Story 3: Astronomers Catch the Echo of a Billion-Sun Explosion Using the ASKAP radio telescope in Western Australia, astronomers identified ASKAP J005512-255834 — a radio signal representing the most convincing "orphan afterglow" of a gamma-ray burst ever detected. The original explosion went unseen because its jet wasn't aimed at Earth, but the lingering radio echo has been detectable for over 1,000 days. Research published in The Astrophysical Journal. Source: The Conversation — A Cosmic Explosion With the Force of a Billion Suns (https://theconversation.com/a-cosmic-explosion-with-the-force-of-a-billion-suns-went-unseen-until-we-caught-its-echo-275565) Story 4: The Fight to Save the Night Sky The Royal Astronomical Society, ESA, and the International Astronomical Union have filed formal objections to the FCC over two proposed satellite constellations: SpaceX's application for up to one million orbiting AI data centre satellites, and Reflect Orbital's proposal for 50,000 space mirrors each four times brighter than the full Moon. Experts warn the proposals could permanently transform humanity's view of the night sky. Source: Space.com — Astronomers Protest Giant Orbiting Mirror Project (https://www.space.com/space-exploration/satellites/this-is-really-intolerable-astronomers-protest-giant-orbiting-mirror-project-and-spacexs-million-ai-satellites) Story 5: Progress 94 Launches to ISS — With a Glitch Russia's Progress 94 cargo spacecraft launched successfully from Baikonur on March 22, carrying around three tonnes of food, fuel, and supplies to the ISS. One of its KURS automated docking antennas failed to deploy after launch. Docking at the Poisk module is scheduled for March 24. If the antenna issue isn't resolved, commander Sergei Kud-Sverchkov will conduct a manual docking. Source: NASA — Progress Cargo Craft Launches to Resupply Station Crew (https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2026/03/22/progress-cargo-craft-launches-to-resupply-station-crew/) Story 6: First-Ever Brown Dwarf Pair Caught in Mass Transfer Caltech researchers using the Zwicky Transient Facility have discovered ZTF J1239+8347 — the first-ever observed brown dwarf binary undergoing mass transfer. The pair orbit each other every 57 minutes at a separation smaller than the Earth-Moon distance. The system will eventually either merge into a single star or one dwarf will accrete enough mass to ignite fusion. Research published in

This episode of Space Nuts is brought to you by NordVPN . In today's digital age, securing your online privacy is essential. Trust the VPN we use - NordVPN . For our special offer, visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts (https://nordvpn.com/spacenuts) Cosmic Queries: Hawking Radiation, Dark Energy, and Moving Earth In this engaging Q&A episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson dive into intriguing listener questions that span the cosmos. From the mysteries of Hawking radiation to the enigma of dark energy, and even a thought-provoking "what if" scenario about moving Earth to a new star system, this episode is packed with fascinating discussions and astronomical insights. Episode Highlights: - Hawking Radiation Explained: Tony from Marrickville poses a question about the entanglement of particles that pop into existence near black holes. Andrew and Fred explore the concept of quantum entanglement and how it relates to Hawking radiation, shedding light on this complex phenomenon. - Understanding Dark Energy: Stuart Gary Gary from Tasmania asks about the implications of dark energy and its role in the universe's expansion. The hosts discuss current theories, including the cosmological constant, and unravel the mysteries surrounding this elusive form of energy. - What If We Could Move Earth? Thomas from Virginia presents a thought-provoking scenario about relocating Earth to another star's Goldilocks zone. Andrew and Fred contemplate the potential effects on Earth's atmosphere during such a journey, drawing parallels to science fiction while grounding the discussion in scientific principles. 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, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite 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. 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/32347967?utm_source=youtube

Today on Astronomy Daily: NASA's Artemis II moon rocket has arrived at Launch Pad 39B at Kennedy Space Center, with a launch target of April 1st — the first crewed mission beyond Earth orbit in over 53 years. Plus: astronomers have discovered the first-ever mass-transferring brown dwarf binary; Hubble accidentally caught a comet disintegrating in real time; 15 new moons have been confirmed around Jupiter and Saturn; our Moon is accumulating over 100 metric tons of human-made debris; and a dramatic spacecraft double-header — ESA's Proba-3 has been recovered from a month-long blackout, while NASA's MAVEN Mars orbiter remains missing after more than three months of silence. Story 1: Artemis II Arrives at Launch Pad 39B NASA's Artemis II SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft completed an 11-hour overnight journey to Launch Pad 39B on March 20, 2026. Launch is targeted for no earlier than April 1. The crew — Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen — will fly a 10-day free-return trajectory around the Moon, making this the first crewed deep-space mission since Apollo 17 in December 1972. Source: https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/missions/2026/03/20/nasas-artemis-ii-rocket-arrives-at-launch-pad-39b/ Story 2: First Mass-Transferring Brown Dwarf Binary Researchers at Caltech have identified ZTF J1239+8347, a brown dwarf binary system with an orbital period of just 57.41 minutes in which one brown dwarf is actively pulling material from its companion — a first for this class of objects. The system, only ~1,000 light-years away, is a prime candidate for JWST follow-up observations. Published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters. Source: https://www.universetoday.com/articles/this-pair-of-brown-dwarfs-cant-get-enough-of-each-other Story 3: Hubble Catches Comet C/2025 K1 Breaking Apart In a remarkable stroke of luck, NASA's Hubble Space Telescope captured comet C/2025 K1 (ATLAS) fragmenting into at least four pieces over three consecutive days in November 2025. The comet was not the original target of the observation. The findings, published in Icarus, reveal the comet is unusually carbon-depleted and raise new questions about the delay between fragmentation and visible brightening. Source: https://science.nasa.gov/missions/hubble/nasas-hubble-unexpectedly-catches-comet-breaking-up/ Story 4: 15 New Moons Confirmed for Jupiter and Saturn The Minor Planet Center announced on March 16, 2026 that four new moons have been confirmed around Jupiter (bringing its total to 101) and 11 new moons around Saturn (bringing its total to 285). All are small irregular moons, discovered by combining archival telescope data with new observations. With the Vera C. Rubin Observatory now operational, further discoveries are expected. Source: https://earthsky.org/space/more-moons-for-jupiter-and-saturn-total-satellite-discoveries/ Story 5: Human Debris on the Moon — Over 100 Metric Tons and Counting More than 100 metric tons of human-made objects now litter the lunar surface — spacecraft hardware, scientific instruments, and even waste from Apollo missions. With a wave of crewed and commercial lunar missions approaching under Artemis and beyond, space policy researchers are urging the development of international agreements to protect scientifically sensitive lunar sites before they are damaged or contaminated by human activity. Source: https://www.universetoday.com — lunar debris policy Story 6: MAVEN Still Missing / Proba-3 Recovered NASA's MAVEN Mars orbiter, lost since December 6, 2025, remains uncontacted despite three months of recovery efforts using the Deep Space Network, Green Bank Observatory, and the Curiosity rover. An anomaly review board is assessing options. Meanwhile, ESA's Proba-3 coronagraph spacecraft — silent since February 14 after a power failure — has been successfully recovered after engineers exploited a brief window when the tumbling spacecraft's solar panels briefly faced the Sun. MAVEN source: https://www.space.c

It's the first day of astronomical spring — and the universe is celebrating in style. On today's Astronomy Daily, Anna and Avery cover a triple CME solar storm with aurora potential reaching as far south as Illinois, explain why the vernal equinox amplifies aurora activity, report on the ongoing meteorite hunt following Tuesday's spectacular Ohio fireball, reveal an extraordinary 14-billion-year-old star that carries the chemical fingerprints of the universe's very first stars, bring a happy update on Europe's Proba-3 solar science satellite which has ended a month of silence, and explain how X-ray CT scans of returned asteroid samples finally cracked one of Bennu's longest-standing mysteries. Stories in This Episode 1. Triple CME Strike + Equinox Aurora Alert Three coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are currently en route to Earth, with the first arriving today. Forecasters predict G2 (moderate) to G3 (strong) geomagnetic storm conditions, potentially bringing auroras as far south as Illinois. The timing coincides with the vernal equinox — historically one of the best aurora windows of the year due to the Russell-McPherron effect. 2. The Vernal Equinox — Today! The 2026 March equinox arrived today at 14:46 UTC, marking the astronomical start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere (and autumn in the Southern). Tonight, a thin crescent Moon appears alongside Venus in the west-southwest sky. 3. Ohio Fireball — Meteorite Hunt Underway On St. Patrick's Day (March 17), a seven-ton asteroid exploded over northeast Ohio with the force of 250 tons of TNT. NASA confirmed meteorites landed near Medina County, and hunters from across the US have already found fragments in the Sharon Center area. 4. Ancient 'Cosmic Fossil' Star PicII-503 Astronomers have discovered PicII-503, a second-generation star in the Pictor II dwarf galaxy with only 1/40,000th of the Sun's iron — the lowest ever measured outside the Milky Way. Its extraordinary carbon-to-iron ratio links it to mysterious carbon-enhanced metal-poor stars scattered across our galaxy's halo, solving a long-standing stellar mystery. Published in Nature Astronomy by Anirudh Chiti (Stanford) et al. 5. Proba-3 Phones Home — 'A Great Relief!' ESA confirmed on March 19 that its Proba-3 Coronagraph satellite — silent since mid-February after an anomaly caused it to lose attitude control — has reestablished contact via the Villafranca ground station. The spacecraft is in safe mode, solar-powered, and undergoing health checks before science operations can resume. 6. NASA Cracks Bennu's Boulder Mystery X-ray CT scans of returned OSIRIS-REx samples reveal Bennu's boulders are riddled with internal crack networks — the missing piece explaining the asteroid's puzzling low thermal inertia. Published in Nature Communications. The findings will improve asteroid characterisation from Earth-based telescopes globally. Source Links Triple CME / Aurora Alert — Space.com: https://www.space.com/stargazing/auroras/aurora-alert-powerful-geomagnetic-storm-could-spark-northern-lights-as-far-south-as-illinois-on-march-19 (https://www.space.com/stargazing/auroras/aurora-alert-powerful-geomagnetic-storm-could-spark-northern-lights-as-far-south-as-illinois-on-march-19) Triple CME / Sun News — EarthSky: https://earthsky.org/sun/sun-news-activity-solar-flare-cme-aurora-updates/ (https://earthsky.org/sun/sun-news-activity-solar-flare-cme-aurora-updates/) NOAA Space Weather Prediction Centre: https://www.spaceweather.gov (https://www.spaceweather.gov) Vernal Equinox 2026 — EarthSky: https://earthsky.org/astronomy-essentials/everything-you-need-to-know-vernal-or-spring-equinox/ (https://earthsky.org/astronomy-essentials/everything-you-need-to-know-vernal-or-spring-equinox/) Ohio Fireball — EarthSky: https://earthsky.org/earth/sonic-boom-from-a-meteor-cleveland-ohio-and-pennsylvania-mar-17-2026/ (https://earthsky.org/earth/sonic-boom-from-a-meteor-cleveland-ohio-and-pennsylvania-mar-17-2026/) Ohio Meteorite Hunt — C

SpaceTime Series 29 Episode 34 *NASA's Van Allen Probe A comes to a fiery end After a mission lasting some 14 years, NASA's Van Allen Probe A spacecraft has re-entered Earth’s atmosphere in a fiery death plunge burning up over the Pacific Ocean. *NASA Mobile Launcher 2 on hold Last week’s announcement of changes to the Artemis Moon launch schedule has now resulted in NASA pulling the plug on further work on its Mobile Launcher two project which has been under construction at the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida for two years. *Spectacular failure for Japanese rocket . SpaceOne have failed in their third attempt to become the first private Japanese company to put a satellite in orbit. *The Science Report New warnings that the rate of climate change has surged since 2015. The first patient to be surgically connected to a genetically modified pig liver. Why some domestic cats are prone to chronic kidney disease. Skeptics guide to the FBI investigating Big Foot. https://spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://spacetimewithstuartgary.com) https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/ (https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/) This week’s guests include: Linda Losurdo from the University of Sydney Van Allan probes Deputy Project Scientist Nicky Fox from the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory And our regular guests: Alex Zaharov-Reutt from techadvice.life Tim Mendham from Australian Skeptics 🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn (http://www.bitesz.com/nordvpn) . The discounts and bonuses are incredible! And it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32311897?utm_source=youtube

Sponsor Link : This episode of Space Nuts is brought to with the help of NordVPN . When you need to ramp up your privacy online, use the one we use and trust - NordVPN . To get our special price and offer simply visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts (https://nordvpn.com/spacenuts) Exoplanet Collisions, DART Mission Revelations, and Australia's Astronomical Future In this thought-provoking episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson explore the latest cosmic discoveries and their implications for the future of astronomy. From the dramatic collision of two exoplanets to groundbreaking insights from the DART mission and the potential fate of Australia's telescopic capabilities, this episode is packed with engaging discussions and astronomical insights. Episode Highlights: - Exoplanet Collision: Andrew and Fred delve into the recent observation of two exoplanets colliding around the star Gaia20ehk, located 11,000 light years away. They discuss the significance of this rare event, its potential implications for planetary formation, and what it might reveal about our own solar system's history. - DART Mission Insights: The hosts revisit the DART mission, highlighting new findings from the impact on the asteroid moon Dimorphos. They discuss the peculiar surface streaks observed and the implications of material transfer between Didymos and Dimorphos, drawing parallels to cosmic events in our own solar system. - The Future of Australian Astronomy: A critical discussion unfolds regarding the impending end of Australia's strategic partnership with the European Southern Observatory. Andrew and Fred consider the challenges and opportunities this presents, referencing a compelling economic study that advocates for continued investment in astronomical research and infrastructure. 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, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite 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. 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/32304367?utm_source=youtube

A massive day in space as NASA's Artemis II moon rocket heads to the launchpad tonight, NASA and China both conduct spacewalks, CERN announces a brand-new particle, and astronomers reveal a nearby galaxy has been hiding the aftermath of a cosmic collision. Episode Highlights 🚀 Story 1: Artemis II Rollout — The Moon Rocket Heads to the Pad Tonight NASA is rolling the Artemis II Space Launch System and Orion spacecraft to Launch Pad 39B tonight (March 19), targeting an 8 p.m. EDT start for the slow 4-mile crawler journey. The April 1 launch window remains firmly on track. Crew members Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen have entered quarantine — making history as the first crew to venture to the vicinity of the Moon since 1972. Source: NASA Blogs / Space.com 👨‍🚀 Story 2: Dual Spacewalk Day — ISS & Tiangong Both Suit Up NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Chris Williams completed U.S. Spacewalk 94 on March 18, spending 7 hours and 2 minutes preparing the ISS for a new roll-out solar array. Meanwhile on March 16, Shenzhou 21 commander Zhang Lu tied the Chinese EVA record with his sixth career spacewalk alongside crewmate Wu Fei outside China's Tiangong station. Sources: NASA / Space.com ⚛️ Story 3: CERN's LHCb Discovers New Doubly Charmed Particle The LHCb experiment at CERN announced the first discovery made by its upgraded detector: the Xi-cc-plus baryon, a proton-like particle containing two charm quarks and one down quark, making it roughly four times heavier than a proton. Detected at 7-sigma significance, it settles a two-decade-old scientific dispute and is the 80th particle discovered by LHCb. Source: CERN / Universe Today 🌌 Story 4: Small Magellanic Cloud Caught Mid-Transformation University of Arizona astronomers have confirmed that the Small Magellanic Cloud — one of the Milky Way's closest galactic neighbours — collided directly with the Large Magellanic Cloud a few hundred million years ago and is still reeling from the impact. The finding upends decades of assumptions about the SMC's use as a benchmark for early universe galaxy studies. Source: The Astrophysical Journal / Sky & Telescope 🪐 Story 5: Exotrojans — Hunting Asteroid Companions Around Other Stars A new paper in The Astrophysical Journal by Jackson Taylor (West Virginia University) and colleagues pushes the search for exotrojans — asteroid co-orbital companions to exoplanets — into some of the most extreme environments yet studied, as the hunt continues for the first confirmed detection. Source: The Astrophysical Journal / Universe Today 📡 Story 6: SETI Rethink — Time to Broaden the Search A new paper argues that the decades-long focus on narrow radio and microwave bandwidths in the search for alien signals may be too limiting, and proposes broadening the electromagnetic search to a much wider range of the spectrum. Source: Universe Today Find Us Everywhere • 🌐 Website: astronomydaily.io • 🐦 Twitter/X: @AstroDailyPod • 📸 Instagram: @AstroDailyPod • 🎵 TikTok: @AstroDailyPod • ▶️ YouTube: @AstroDailyPod • 📝 Tumblr: @AstroDailyPod • 🎙️ Part of the Bitesz.com Podcast Network 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32290338?utm_source=youtube

A packed episode today: a live spacewalk is underway at the ISS as we record, asteroid Ryugu has yielded all five DNA building blocks, a solar storm is heading for Earth overnight, Artemis II's moon rocket is about to roll out, and Blue Origin has unveiled an asteroid defence mission concept. Story 1 — ISS Spacewalk 94: Meir & Williams EVA NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Chris Williams conducted U.S. spacewalk 94 today (March 18), exiting the ISS Quest airlock at approximately 8:00 a.m. EDT for a planned 6.5-hour EVA. The pair installed a modification kit and routed cables to prepare the 2A power channel for a future roll-out solar array (IROSA). It is Meir's fourth spacewalk and Williams' first. A second EVA (spacewalk 95) is planned for approximately April 1 to prep the 3B power channel. • Source: NASA — nasa.gov • Watch: NASA+, Amazon Prime, YouTube (search 'NASA spacewalk 94') Story 2 — Asteroid Ryugu: All Five DNA Building Blocks Found Samples returned from asteroid Ryugu by Japan's Hayabusa-2 mission contain all five canonical nucleobases — adenine, guanine, cytosine, thymine, and uracil — the building blocks of DNA and RNA. The findings, published March 16 in Nature Astronomy, suggest these life-essential compounds are widespread across the solar system and may have been delivered to early Earth by asteroid impacts. • Source: Nature Astronomy (DOI: 10.1038/s41550-026-02791-z) • Lead researcher: Dr. Toshiki Koga, JAMSTEC (Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology) • Further reading: phys.org, space.com, gizmodo.com Story 3 — Aurora Alert: CME Arriving March 19 A coronal mass ejection (CME) produced by an M2.7 solar flare from active region AR4392 on March 16 is forecast to reach Earth on March 19. NOAA has issued a G2 (Moderate) geomagnetic storm watch, with potential for isolated G3 (Strong) conditions. Aurora could be visible across northern US states, Canada, and northern Europe overnight March 19–20. The timing coincides with the vernal equinox, enhancing the geomagnetic effect via the Russell-McPherron effect. • Source: NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center — swpc.noaa.gov • Aurora tracking: SpaceWeatherLive, My Aurora Forecast (apps) • Further reading: space.com, earthsky.org, watchers.news Story 4 — Artemis II: Rollout Decision Happening Today NASA's Artemis II SLS rocket is preparing to roll out from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Launch Pad 39B at Kennedy Space Center, with the final timing decision being made today (March 18). Engineers completed repairs faster than expected after fixing an electrical harness in the flight termination system. Rollout is expected March 19 or 20, preserving the April 1 launch window. The crew: Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch (NASA), and Jeremy Hansen (CSA) — the first crewed mission to lunar space since Apollo 17 in 1972. • Source: NASA — nasa.gov/artemis, space.com • Launch window: April 1–6, 2026 (with additional dates available) • Watch the rollout livestream: NASA YouTube channel Story 5 — Blue Origin NEO Hunter: Asteroid Defence Blue Origin has partnered with NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Caltech to develop the NEO Hunter mission concept — a planetary defence system built on the Blue Ring spacecraft platform. NEO Hunter combines ion beam deflection (firing charged particles to nudge an asteroid off course) and 'Robust Kinetic Disruption' (crashing into the asteroid at up to 22,600 mph), with a dedicated 'Slamcam' satellite documenting any impact. No launch date has been announced. • Source: Blue Origin (via X / space.com, March 17, 2026) • Blue Ring platform: modular satellite bus supporting up to 4,000 kg payload • Partners: NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology 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

SpaceTime Series 29 Episode 33 *What the birth of our Sun tells us about the evolution of our galaxy Astronomers studying the birth and early evolution of the Sun have uncovered how the shape of our galaxy has changed dramatically over the past few billion years.. *Making cosmic dust in the lab . A new study examining how the building blocks of life are formed in extreme deep space environments has created cosmic dust in a laboratory. *China selects a landing site for its first manned mission to the Moon Beijing has identified four possible landing sites for China's first manned mission to the lunar surface. *The Science Report The new Super K flu strain that’s beating vaccinations. A new study has shown that taking a daily multivitamin could help slow biological ageing. Social media and video games linked to poorer developmental outcomes in kids and teens. Alex on Tech: Norton scam genie 🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn (http://www.bitesz.com/nordvpn) . The discounts and bonuses are incredible! And it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌ If you’d like to support the podcast and gain access to bonus content by becoming a SpaceTime crew member, you can do just that through premium versions on Patreon, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Details on the Support page on our website https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/ (https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/) For more SpaceTime and show links: https://linktr.ee/biteszHQ (https://linktr.ee/biteszHQ) If you love this podcast, please get someone else to listen to. Thank you… Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32259838?utm_source=youtube

Astronomy Daily S05E65 — 17 March 2026 Six stories from the frontiers of space and astronomy, hosted by Anna and Avery. IN THIS EPISODE: • 🪐 JWST identifies a brand new class of exoplanet — a permanent magma ocean world with a hydrogen sulfide atmosphere 35 light-years from Earth • 📡 RBFLOAT — the brightest fast radio burst ever detected — is pinpointed to a galaxy 130 million light-years away, with a mysterious JWST infrared discovery at the same location • 🧑‍🚀 The first ISS spacewalk of 2026 is happening TOMORROW — NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Chris Williams step outside at 8am EDT, March 18. Watch live on NASA+ • 🌊 Hidden water beneath Mars — new research suggests the Red Planet was habitable far longer than we thought, and Curiosity is investigating strange 'spiderweb' formations that reveal its watery history • 🚀 100 years ago yesterday, Robert Goddard launched the world's first liquid-fuelled rocket. But where is 'Nell' — the original rocket — today? The mystery of space history's greatest missing artefact • 🛸 MIT, MITRE and Sandia publish a Nature paper on a photonic chip that could replace bulky mechanical mirrors on spacecraft — a potential revolution in space communications and LiDAR SOURCE LINKS: • JWST / L 98-59 d magma planet (Nature Astronomy, 16 March 2026): phys.org/news/2026-03-class-molten-planet-abundant-sulfur.html • RBFLOAT fast radio burst papers (Astrophysical Journal Letters): sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260315004348.htm • ISS Spacewalk 94 — live coverage: NASA+ / NASA YouTube (6:30am EDT, 18 March 2026) • Mars water research and Curiosity boxwork ridges: sciencedaily.com • Goddard centennial — collectSPACE: collectspace.com/news/news-031626a-robert-goddard-liquid-fuel-rocket-centennial-where-nell.html • MIT photonic chip paper (Nature): universetoday.com — March 16, 2026 Find us: astronomydaily.io | @AstroDailyPod on Twitter/X, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Tumblr Part of the Bitesz.com Podcast Network 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32243395?utm_source=youtube

In today's episode of Astronomy Daily, Anna and Avery cover six remarkable stories spanning an interstellar farewell, a stunning pre-dawn sky show, a potential new Martian mineral, ghost particles from long-dead stars, a revolutionary new framework for detecting alien life, and the astonishing possibility of habitable moons drifting starless through the galaxy. Stories Covered in S05E64 1. 3I/ATLAS: The Interstellar Comet's Jupiter Farewell: Today marks the closest approach of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS to Jupiter before it leaves our solar system forever. New ALMA data reveals the comet carries extraordinary levels of methanol — a chemical fingerprint from another solar system entirely. 2. Mercury, Mars & the Moon: Tonight and tomorrow morning, Mercury and Mars gather close to a crescent Moon in the pre-dawn sky. Southern Hemisphere observers have the best view. This week also brings the March equinox (March 20) and heightened aurora activity. 3. A New Mineral on Mars?: Scientists may have discovered a previously unknown mineral hidden in Mars's ancient sulfate deposits. Found by combining laboratory experiments with orbital spectroscopy, the potential discovery could shed new light on Mars's ancient watery past. 4. Ghost Particles from Dead Stars: Japan's upgraded Super-Kamiokande detector may detect the Diffuse Supernova Neutrino Background for the first time in 2026 — a faint signal from every supernova across cosmic history, including stars that exploded before Earth was born. 5. Life, But Not As We Know It: A new framework called Assembly Theory, published today in Universe Today, offers a way to detect alien life that bears no resemblance to life on Earth. Rather than searching for specific biosignature gases, it asks how complex the atmospheric chemistry is — and is designed for the upcoming Habitable Worlds Observatory. 6. Starless Moons: Moons orbiting free-floating planets — worlds ejected from their home solar systems — could sustain liquid water oceans for up to 4.3 billion years, powered by tidal heating and insulated by hydrogen atmospheres. No star required. Astronomy Daily is part of the Bitesz.com Podcast Network. New episodes every weekday. Website: astronomydaily.io Twitter/X: @AstroDailyPod Instagram: @AstroDailyPod TikTok: @AstroDailyPod 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32221139?utm_source=youtube

SpaceTime Series 29 Episode 32 *The birth of a magnetar seen for the first time Astronomers have for the first time seen the birth of a magnetar — a highly magnetized, spinning neutron star. *Rewriting the textbooks on the history of the Moon A new study claims the lunar near and far sides experienced similar levels of asteroid and meteor bombardment, despite the very different appearances of the two. *Spectacular fireball light up the skies of Europe The European Space Agency is analysing a spectacular fireball which lit up the skies over Europe last week dropping debris all along its trajectory. *The Science Report Study shows little science showing cannabis can help people with mental health conditions. Australia’s digital ID scheme moves to phase II forcing some adults to adopt it. The weird ancient crocodile that walked on two legs. Skeptics guide to predicting the end of the world. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32215998?utm_source=youtube

Cosmic Q&A: Red Giants, Accretion Disks, and Dark Energy In this captivating Q&A episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson tackle a variety of listener questions that span the cosmos. From the fate of our Sun as it becomes a red giant to the mysteries of dark energy, this episode is a treasure trove of astronomical insights and engaging discussions. Episode Highlights: - The Fate of Our Sun: Jeff from Arkansas asks about the implications of the Sun swelling into a red giant in approximately 5 billion years. Andrew and Fred explain the process and its potential effects on the outer planets, addressing concerns about rogue planets and gravitational influences. - Understanding Accretion Disks: Blue from London inquires about the apparent high-speed motion of material in accretion disks around black holes despite gravitational time dilation. The hosts clarify the dynamics at play and the distances involved in these cosmic phenomena. - Expanding Universe Mysteries: Julian from Canada poses questions about the expansion of the universe and its acceleration. Andrew and Fred dive into the complexities of dark energy and the Hubble constant, shedding light on current theories and ongoing research. - Dark Energy and the Multiverse: Peter from Sandy Kaye explores the possibility of unseen matter in the universe affecting expansion and whether other universes could influence ours. The discussion delves into speculative theories and the nature of gravity. 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, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite 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. 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/32214243?utm_source=youtube

Episode: S05E63 | Date: Saturday, 14 March 2026 Hosted by Anna & Avery | Astronomy Daily Podcast Network — Bitesz.com From galactic migrations to Pi Day planets, Episode 63 covers six stories that span the breadth of the solar system and beyond. Our Sun turns out to have hitched a ride outward from the Milky Way's interior billions of years ago — and brought thousands of stellar companions with it. China has named a leading candidate for its first crewed Moon landing. Russia is dusting off the legacy of the legendary Soviet Venera programme with an ambitious 2036 return to Venus. NASA's nuclear-powered Titan drone is now being physically built. China's Mars sample return mission is constructing actual spacecraft. And in honour of Pi Day, we visit the exoplanet whose year lasts almost exactly 3.14 days. Story 1: The Sun Was Part of a Galactic Migration of Solar Twins A new study in Astronomy & Astrophysics by researchers at Tokyo Metropolitan University and the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan has built the largest-ever catalogue of solar twins — 6,594 Sun-like stars. Using ESA's Gaia satellite, they found a clustering of stars aged 4–6 billion years, suggesting the Sun migrated outward from the Milky Way's inner regions billions of years ago, possibly when the galactic bar was still forming and its 'corotation barrier' was weak enough to allow mass stellar movement. This migration may have placed Earth in a calmer, more life-friendly region of the Galaxy. • Journal: Astronomy & Astrophysics (March 2026) • Lead researchers: Daisuke Taniguchi (Tokyo Metropolitan University) & Takuji Tsujimoto (NAOJ) • Data source: ESA Gaia satellite — catalogue of ~2 billion stars • Key finding: Sun likely formed ~10,000 light-years closer to the Galactic Centre than its current position Story 2: China Eyes Rimae Bode for Its First Crewed Moon Landing A study published in Nature Astronomy (9 March 2026) proposes Rimae Bode — a volcanic region near Sinus Aestuum on the lunar near side — as a prime candidate for China's first crewed lunar landing, targeted for 2030. The site contains five distinct terrain types including pyroclastic deposits, mare basalts, rille systems and highland material. Researcher Jun Huang (China University of Geosciences, Wuhan) described it as a 'geological museum.' Four specific landing spots within the region have been proposed. • Journal: Nature Astronomy (March 2026) • Lead researcher: Jun Huang, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan • Site: Rimae Bode, near Sinus Aestuum, lunar near side • Oldest volcanic activity in region: ~3.2–3.7 billion years ago • China's crewed lunar landing target: 2030 Story 3: Russia Plans Venera-D Mission to Venus in 2036 Russia's First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov confirmed on 10 March 2026 that Russia plans to launch the Venera-D mission — comprising a lander, atmospheric balloon, and orbiter — to Venus in 2036. The mission would extend the legacy of the Soviet Venera programme (1961–1983), which remains the only national programme to have successfully landed on Venus. Scientific goals include searching for microbial life in Venus's clouds and studying the planet's atmosphere. • Mission: Venera-D (lander + balloon + orbiter) • Planned launch: 2036 • Agency: Roscosmos • Heritage: Soviet Venera programme — 16 missions, 1961–1983 • Science goal: Search for biosignatures in Venusian cloud layers (48–60 km altitude) • Source: TASS, citing Razvedchik Journal interview with Denis Manturov Story 4: NASA Begins Building Dragonfly — Nuclear-Powered Drone for Titan NASA and Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) officially began integration and testing of the Dragonfly rotorcraft on 10 March 2026. The car-sized, nuclear-powered octocopter is designed to fly across the surface of Saturn's moon Titan, targeting a 2028 launch on a SpaceX Falcon Heavy and arriving at Titan in 2034. It will explore diverse terrain including organic dunes and the Sel

It’s a bumper Friday edition of Astronomy Daily. NASA gives Artemis II the official green light to launch on April 1st, marking the first crewed lunar mission in over 53 years. Astronomers witness the birth of a magnetar for the very first time, confirming a decade-old theory and demonstrating Einstein’s general relativity in a supernova. A star 11,000 light-years away shows evidence of two planets catastrophically colliding in real time. A bus-sized asteroid buzzed past Earth last night closer than the Moon, discovered just five days ago. A fast solar wind stream from a coronal hole could bring auroras to higher latitudes tonight. And scientists may have identified the source of the most energetic neutrino ever recorded. Story 1: Artemis II — Green Light for April 1 Launch NASA completed its Flight Readiness Review on 12 March 2026, with all mission teams voting unanimously ‘go’ for launch. The Space Launch System and Orion capsule will roll out to Launch Complex 39B on 19 March, with the primary launch window opening on 1 April at 6:24pm ET. Backup windows exist on 2–6 April and 30 April. The crew of four — Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen — will fly a 10-day figure-eight loop around the Moon. It will be the first crewed mission beyond low Earth orbit since Apollo 17 in December 1972. The previously planned Moon landing on Artemis III has been moved to Artemis IV, though NASA’s 2028 goal for a lunar landing remains unchanged. • NASA Artemis II Mission Page: https://www.nasa.gov/mission/artemis-ii/ • CNN coverage of FRR outcome: https://www.cnn.com/2026/03/12/science/nasa-artemis-2-launch-date-risk-assessment Story 2: First-Ever Observed Birth of a Magnetar Astronomers have for the first time directly observed the birth of a magnetar — a highly magnetized, rapidly spinning neutron star — confirming it as the power source behind some of the universe’s brightest stellar explosions. The discovery, published in Nature on 11 March 2026, centres on superluminous supernova SN 2024afav, located approximately one billion light-years from Earth. Graduate student Joseph Farah at UC Santa Barbara, working with Las Cumbres Observatory’s global telescope network, detected a distinctive ‘chirp’ pattern in the supernova’s fading light — four oscillations with shortening intervals. This pattern is explained by a wobbling accretion disc around the newborn magnetar, driven by Lense-Thirring precession — a general relativistic effect. The finding confirms a 2010 theory by UC Berkeley physicist Dan Kasen, and marks the first time general relativity has been required to explain supernova mechanics. • Berkeley News: https://news.berkeley.edu/2026/03/11/astronomers-capture-birth-of-a-magnetar-confirming-link-to-some-of-universes-brightest-exploding-stars/ • Space.com: https://www.space.com/astronomy/stars/astronomers-witness-colossal-supernova-explosion-create-one-of-the-most-magnetic-stars-in-the-universe-for-the-first-time Story 3: Two Planets Caught Colliding 11,000 Light-Years Away Researchers at the University of Washington have published evidence of a catastrophic planetary collision observed in real time around star Gaia20ehk, located approximately 11,000 light-years from Earth near the constellation Puppis. The star began flickering erratically from 2016, before its light output went ‘completely bonkers’ around 2021 — the signature of a massive debris cloud from two colliding worlds passing in front of the star. The debris orbits at roughly one astronomical unit from the star — the same as Earth’s distance from the Sun — and may eventually coalesce into new planetary bodies resembling an Earth-Moon system. The paper was published 11 March in The Astrophysical Journal Letters. • University of Washington: https://www.washington.edu/news/2026/03/11/uw-astronomers-spot-planet-collision-evidence/ • ScienceDaily: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260311213429.htm Story 4: Asteroid 2026 EG1 Flie

Sponsor Links This episode is brought to you by Squarespace . When it's time to get online you need Squarespace to make the process straightforward and easy. To check out how they can help you and our special offer to get started, visit www.squarespace.com/spacetime (https://squarespace.com/spacetime) SpaceTime Series 29 Episode 31 *Planet Earth’s balance is shifting A new study claims planet Earth’s balance is shifting with the Northern Hemisphere absorbing significantly more solar energy than the Southern Hemisphere -- a shift that could reshape global weather patterns. *A unique insight into the Sun’s inner life Astronomers discover that the Sun’s internal structure changes from one solar cycle minimum to the next. *Landsat 9: More than just a picture For over 50 years, the Landsat program has provided the longest continuous satellite record of Earth's land surface from space. *The Science Report New warnings about the bleak future for Victoria’s critically endangered Brush-tailed rock-wallabies. Study shows teens who use cannabis are more likely to develop psychiatric disorders. Research shows bird watchers develop denser attention and perception-related areas in their brains. Skeptics guide to Elon Musk’s opinion on UFOs https://spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://spacetimewithstuartgary.com) https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/ (https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/) This week’s guests include: Professor Michele Trenti from the University of Melbourne Artemis II astronaut Christina Cook Artemis II astronaut Jeremy Hanson Orion and Artemis systems food lab manager Ashua Ook NASA Artemis flight controller Wyatt Mckinley And our regular guests: Alex Zaharov-Reutt from techadvice.life Tim Mendham from Australian Skeptics And senior science writer and Sky and Telescope magazine contributor Jonathan Nally 🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn (http://www.bitesz.com/nordvpn) . The discounts and bonuses are incredible! And it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32168960?utm_source=youtube

Sponsor Links: The episode of Space Nuts is brought to you with the support of NordVPN . Haveing a good secure VPN connection is more important than ever...so get the one we use - NordVPN. For our special offer visit www.nordvpn.com/spacenuts (https://nordvpn.com/spacenuts) Asteroid Updates, DART Mission Insights, and the Chris Case of 3I ATLAS In this exciting episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson delve into the fascinating world of comets and asteroids. From the latest updates on asteroid 2024 YR4's potential impact with the Moon to groundbreaking findings from the DART mission, this episode is packed with cosmic discoveries and intriguing discussions. Episode Highlights: - Asteroid 2024 YR4 Update: The hosts discuss the recent observations made using the James Webb Space Telescope, which have ruled out the possibility of asteroid 2024 YR4 hitting the Moon in 2032. They explore the significance of these findings and the implications for future lunar missions. - DART Mission Success: Andrew and Fred revisit the DART mission, highlighting how the impact on the asteroid moon Dimorphos not only changed its orbit but also altered the orbit of the entire Didymos system around the Sun. This marks a historic achievement in planetary defense and asteroid science. - The Mystery of 3I ATLAS: The episode concludes with a discussion on comet 3I ATLAS, which has been found to have an unusual chemical composition, particularly a high ratio of methanol to hydrogen cyanide. The hosts ponder what this could mean for our understanding of other solar systems and the chemistry of celestial bodies. 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, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite 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. 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/32168323?utm_source=youtube

In today's episode of Astronomy Daily — S05E61, Thursday 12 March 2026 — Anna and Avery cover six of the biggest stories in space and astronomy from the past 24 hours. Stories in this episode: • 3I/ATLAS, our third confirmed interstellar visitor, has been found to be extraordinarily rich in methanol — a type of alcohol — with ALMA observations revealing methanol-to-hydrogen cyanide ratios far beyond almost any known solar system comet. The findings offer a chemical fingerprint of a distant planetary system, and the comet makes its closest pass to Jupiter on March 16. • Firefly Aerospace's Alpha rocket successfully returned to flight on March 11, completing its seventh mission — 'Stairway to Seven' — after an 11-month stand-down following two mishaps in 2025. The mission also validated key Block II upgrade systems ahead of the next-generation rocket's debut on Flight 8. • NASA held its Artemis II Flight Readiness Review today at Kennedy Space Center, a critical milestone ahead of a potential April launch. The SLS/Orion stack is being prepared for its second rollout after a helium flow issue was repaired in the Vehicle Assembly Building. • A landmark helioseismology study from the University of Birmingham and Yale, drawing on 40 years of data from the Birmingham Solar-Oscillations Network, reveals that the Sun's internal structure shifts measurably between solar cycle minima — with implications for space weather forecasting. • NASA's Van Allen Probe A reentered Earth's atmosphere on March 11, eight years earlier than expected, with the current active solar cycle responsible for accelerating its orbital decay. Most of the 600kg spacecraft burned up over the eastern Pacific. • Astronomers using ESO's Very Large Telescope have discovered a third gas cloud — G2t — orbiting Sagittarius A*, the Milky Way's central supermassive black hole. Its near-identical orbit to the previously known G1 and G2 clouds suggests all three likely originated from the same binary star system. Find full episodes, transcripts and more at astronomydaily.io. Follow us @AstroDailyPod on all major platforms. 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32154123?utm_source=youtube

Welcome to Episode 60 of Astronomy Daily Season Five! In today's episode, Anna and Avery cover six major stories from the world of space and astronomy — including a neutron star collision in an unprecedented location, the latest Artemis II news, and a cosmic mystery solved after decades. Stories covered in this episode: 1. NASA Discovers Neutron Star Crash in Unexpected Location A fleet of NASA telescopes — including Chandra, Fermi, Swift, and Hubble — has detected a neutron star merger inside a tiny galaxy buried in a vast stream of gas, 4.7 billion light-years away. It's the first time this type of collision has been spotted in such an environment, and it may explain why gamma-ray bursts sometimes appear outside any galaxy — and how precious metals like gold and platinum ended up in distant stellar regions. Published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters. 2. Artemis II Flight Readiness Review NASA will host a Flight Readiness Review press conference on Thursday 12 March at Kennedy Space Center, covering progress toward the first crewed Artemis mission. The rocket is currently back in the Vehicle Assembly Building following a helium issue, with rollout to the launchpad expected around 19 March and a launch target of no earlier than 1 April 2026. 3. Firefly Alpha 'Stairway to Seven' Scrubbed Again Firefly Aerospace's Alpha rocket — attempting its return to flight after a 10-month grounding — has been scrubbed three times in 10 days. The latest scrub occurred on 10 March during fluid loading after off-nominal readings. A new launch date will be confirmed following engineering review. This mission is the final Block I Alpha flight, with the upgraded Block II debuting on Flight 8. 4. DART Mission Reveals 'Cosmic Snowball Fight' Between Asteroids Researchers at the University of Maryland have found the first direct visual proof of material transfer between two asteroids — fan-shaped streaks on the surface of asteroid moon Dimorphos, left by debris thrown off its parent asteroid Didymos at just 30.7 cm/s. The discovery provides visual confirmation of the YORP effect and has implications for planetary defence modelling. ESA's Hera mission arrives at Didymos in December 2026. Published in The Planetary Science Journal. 5. Starship Flight 12 — About Four Weeks Away SpaceX is approximately four weeks from the launch of Starship Flight 12, which will be the first flight of the upgraded V3 configuration — the most powerful version of the already record-breaking vehicle. Engineers have completed propellant system tests on Ship 39 at Starbase, Texas, and preflight preparations are continuing. 6. Giant Cosmic Sheet Discovered Around the Milky Way Astronomers from the University of Groningen, publishing in Nature Astronomy, have used advanced computer simulations to discover that the matter surrounding our Local Group is arranged in a vast, flat sheet — dominated by dark matter — stretching tens of millions of light-years across. This structure, flanked by enormous empty voids, explains why nearby galaxies are moving away from us rather than being pulled inward. It's the first detailed map of dark matter distribution in our cosmic neighbourhood. Astronomy Daily is part of the Bitesz.com Podcast Network. Website: astronomydaily.io | Social: @AstroDailyPod on all major platforms 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) This episode includes AI-ge

Sponsor Link This episode of SpaceTime is brought to you with the support of Squarespace - your one stop when you're ready to build an online presence with ease. To take up our special offer and help support the show, visit www.squarespace.com/spacetime (https://squarespace.com/spacetime) SpaceTime Series 29 Episode 30 * Solar superstorm hits the red planet Over the past few years planet Earth has been slammed by a series of violent solar storms erupting from the Sun as it transitioned through solar max the climax of its eleven year solar cycle. But what happens when these same storms hit Mars? *Recent tectonic activity discovered on the Moon Scientists have produced the first global map and analysis of small mare ridges seen on the surface of the Moon. *Repair work underway on NASA’s Artemis II manned Moon rocket Work is continuing to repair NASA’s Artemis II rocket as mission managers prepare to return humans to lunar orbit for the first time in over 50 years. *The Science Report Kids who consume more ultra-processed foods more likely to have issues with behaviour and emotions. New clues about how primates – including humans – evolved. New hope for banana lovers as the threat of Panama disease continues to challenge the Cavendish variety. Alex on Tech new MacBook Neo. 🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn (http://www.bitesz.com/nordvpn) . The discounts and bonuses are incredible! And it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌ If you’d like to support the podcast and gain access to bonus content by becoming a SpaceTime crew member, you can do just that through premium versions on Patreon, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Details on the Support page on our website https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/ (https://www.bitesz.com/show/spacetime/support/) Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32123212?utm_source=youtube

A 1,300-pound NASA satellite is falling back to Earth today, a meteorite punched through a German roof after a dazzling European fireball, Congress wants to keep the International Space Station flying until 2032, ALMA has captured the largest-ever image of the Milky Way's core, astronomers have mapped a hidden 'sea of light' from 10 billion years ago, and Jupiter appears to reverse direction in tonight's sky. Stories Covered 1. Van Allen Probe A Falls to Earth: NASA's 600kg Van Allen Probe A — launched in 2012 to study Earth's radiation belts — is making an unplanned early return to Earth today, March 10, 2026. Deactivated in 2019 after a seven-year mission, its descent was accelerated by unexpectedly high solar activity expanding Earth's atmosphere. Most of the spacecraft will burn up on reentry; the risk of any harm to people on the ground is approximately 1 in 4,200. 2. German Meteorite Strike: On the evening of Sunday 8 March, a brilliant fireball lit up the skies over Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg and the Netherlands, attracting over 3,000 reports to the International Meteor Organization. Fragments reached the ground in Koblenz, Germany — with the largest piece punching a football-sized hole through the roof of a residential building. No one was injured. ESA's Planetary Defence team estimates the original object was just a few metres across. 3. ISS Extended to 2032: The NASA Authorization Act of 2026 has passed the Senate Commerce Committee with bipartisan support, pushing the ISS retirement date from 2030 to September 2032. The extension aims to prevent a gap in U.S. human presence in low Earth orbit while commercial successor stations are developed. The bill also rejects proposed cuts to NASA's budget and funds key programmes including the Chandra X-ray Observatory. 4. ALMA's Milky Way Mosaic: The ALMA CMZ Exploration Survey (ACES) has produced the largest ALMA image ever — a sweeping 650-light-year mosaic of the Milky Way's Central Molecular Zone, assembled from hundreds of observations by over 160 scientists worldwide. The image reveals a intricate web of cold gas filaments feeding star formation near supermassive black hole Sagittarius A*, and detects dozens of molecules from simple silicon compounds to complex organics like methanol and ethanol. 5. 3D Map of the Early Universe: Using data from the Hobby-Eberly Telescope Dark Energy Experiment (HETDEX), astronomers have created the largest 3D map yet of the universe as it appeared 9–11 billion years ago — during 'cosmic noon', the peak era of star formation. By tracking Lyman-alpha light from energised hydrogen rather than individual galaxies, the team revealed a hidden 'sea of light' filling the spaces between galaxies. The dataset comprised over 600 million spectra, with 95% still untapped for future research. 6. Jupiter's Retrograde Motion: Tonight, Jupiter begins its apparent reversal of direction against the background stars — a well-known optical illusion called retrograde motion caused by Earth overtaking the slower-moving outer planet in its orbit. Jupiter is well-placed in the evening sky and easily visible to the naked eye; binoculars will reveal its four bright Galilean moons. Links & Resources NASA Van Allen Probe A reentry update: nasa.gov/missions/van-allen-probes ESA fireball analysis: esa.int/Space_Safety/Planetary_Defence ALMA ACES Survey: almaobservatory.org | ESO press release: eso.org/public/news/eso2603/ HETDEX project: hetdex.org Astronomy Daily: astronomydaily.io | @AstroDailyPod on all platforms 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 supporte

Sponsor Links: This episode of SpaceTime is presented with the support of Squarespace ....your one stop for when you're ready to get online. To chek our special discount offers, simply voisit www.squarespace.com/spactime (https://squarespace.com/spacetime) and use the cou[on code SPACETIME at checkout. SpaceTime Series 29 Episode 29 *Earliest known barred spiral galaxy Our Milky Way galaxy is known as a barred spiral, and debate continues on exactly how the bar section at the heart of these types of galaxies form and evolve. Now astronomers have discovered one of the earliest barred spiral galaxies ever seen. *Australia's SpIRIT satellite mission comes to an end After more than 25 months of successful operations in space, the University of Melbourne’s SpIRIT satellite mission (https://spirit.research.unimelb.edu.au/) has come to an end. *International Space Station to remain in orbit an additional two years International Space Station is now expected to remain in orbit for an additional two years extending its operational life to 2032. *The Science Report Climate is likely to see neutral El Ni?o/La Ni?a conditions until at least the middle of the year. New research into the mating habits between Neanderthals and modern human. The diverse range of foods eaten across Europe thousands of years ago. Skeptics guide to claims smoking cures cancer. For more SpaceTime visit www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://spacetimewithstuartgary.com) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32100734?utm_source=youtube

In today's episode, Anna and Avery explore five of the week's most compelling space and astronomy stories: a new SETI Institute study suggesting stellar space weather could be scrambling alien radio signals before they even leave their home systems; groundbreaking research revealing that spaceflight physically shifts and deforms the human brain inside the skull; the impressive engineering story behind Roscosmos restoring Baikonur's launch pad in record time ahead of the Progress MS-33 mission; a surprising new finding from Nature that Earth's elliptical orbit plays a much bigger role in shaping El Niño and global weather patterns than previously thought; and the endlessly fascinating question of whether asteroid impacts could allow microbes to travel between planets — including the possibility that life on Earth may have originated on Mars. Stories Covered • Why SETI may be missing alien radio signals — space weather around distant stars could be smearing narrowband signals beyond the reach of current detectors (SETI Institute, March 2026) • Spaceflight physically shifts and deforms the brain inside the skull — new MRI study of 26 astronauts published in PNAS reveals extent of microgravity's neurological impact (University of Florida, March 2026) • Baikonur's Site 31/6 launch pad fully restored after November 2025 damage — over 150 workers complete repairs in under two months, clearing path for Progress MS-33 on March 22 (NASASpaceFlight, March 2026) • Earth's distance from the Sun found to dramatically alter seasons — new Nature study shows orbital eccentricity drives its own annual cycle in the Pacific cold tongue, influencing El Niño over millennia (UC Berkeley, March 2026) • Did Earth life begin on Mars? New research examines how asteroid impacts could allow microbes to travel between planets via ejected rock (Universe Today, March 2026) Connect With Us Website: astronomydaily.io Twitter/X, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Tumblr: @AstroDailyPod Part of the Bitesz.com Podcast Network 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32083275?utm_source=youtube

Sponsor Links: This episode of Space Nuts is brought to with the support of NordVPN. When you need to make your online life secure, get the one we use, NordVPN. To take advantage of our special offer, visit www.nordvpn/spacenuts (https://nordvpn.com/spacenuts) Mars Meteor Showers, Gas Giants, and the Search for Alien Civilizations In this engaging Q&A episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson respond to intriguing questions from listeners about our universe. From the risks of meteor showers on Mars to the gravitational effects of Jupiter on its moons, this episode is filled with cosmic curiosities and insightful discussions. Episode Highlights: - Meteor Showers on Mars: David from the UK wonders about the potential hazards of meteor showers on Mars, given its thin atmosphere. Andrew and Fred discuss how the reduced atmospheric pressure could allow smaller meteorites to reach the Martian surface and the implications for future human habitation. - Exploring Gas Giants: Penny asks whether there are plans to fly spacecraft through the atmospheres of Saturn and Jupiter. The hosts explain the challenges of such missions and highlight ongoing projects focused on the fascinating moons of these gas giants instead. - The Gravitational Dance of Europa: Andy from London seeks clarity on how Jupiter's gravity affects its moon, Europa, without pulling it closer. Andrew and Fred elaborate on the tidal forces at play and how they create the intriguing geological activity observed on Europa. - The Search for Alien Civilizations: Duncan raises the thought-provoking question of whether we are truly alone in the universe. The hosts discuss the vast distances involved in the Milky Way and the implications for potential communication with extraterrestrial life. 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, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite 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. 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/32079007?utm_source=youtube

ASTRONOMY DAILY — S05E57 | Saturday 7 March 2026 A landmark week for planetary defence — scientists confirm that NASA's DART impact didn't just move an asteroid's orbit around its companion, it shifted the entire binary system's path around the Sun. Plus: gravitational waves double, a European spacecraft goes silent, a 45-year theory bites the dust, a young Sun caught in the act — and a double planet show in tonight's sky. In This Episode • [00:00] Cold Open — Humanity moved a solar orbit • [02:00] Story 1: DART changed Didymos's orbit around the Sun (Science Advances, March 2026) • [06:00] Story 2: LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA doubles the gravitational wave catalog with GWTC-4 • [10:00] Story 3: ESA's Proba-3 Coronagraph spacecraft goes dark — recovery underway • [13:00] Story 4: Stars keep their rotation pattern for life — 45-year theory overturned (Nature Astronomy) • [16:30] Story 5: Chandra captures first astrosphere around a Sun-like star • [19:30] Story 6: Venus and Saturn pair up in tonight's sky — skywatching guide Connect With Us • Website & Blog: astronomydaily.io • Social: @AstroDailyPod • Network: Bitesz.com Podcast Network 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32058681?utm_source=youtube

Astronomy Daily — S05E55 | 6 March 2026 Six stories today covering planetary defence, a cosmic laser record, a solar superstorm on Mars, space debris pollution, a mystery satellite launch, and the most charming farming experiment you'll hear about all year. Stories This Episode 1. Asteroid 2024 YR4 — Moon Impact Officially Ruled Out NASA has confirmed, using the James Webb Space Telescope, that infamous asteroid 2024 YR4 will not hit the Moon in 2032. The space rock — once the most dangerous asteroid identified in two decades — will instead pass the Moon at a distance of around 13,200 miles. It previously held a 4% lunar impact probability, now fully eliminated thanks to Webb's extraordinary sensitivity pushing it to the limits of what the telescope can observe. 2. MeerKAT Detects Cosmic 'Gigalaser' 8 Billion Light-Years Away South Africa's MeerKAT radio telescope has spotted the most distant hydroxyl megamaser ever detected — a natural 'space laser' in a galaxy undergoing a violent collision more than 8 billion light-years away. The signal is so powerful it qualifies as a gigamaser. Adding to the serendipity, the signal was further amplified by a foreground galaxy acting as a gravitational lens on its 8-billion-year journey to Earth. The discovery points toward the future capability of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA). 3. ESA's Mars Orbiters Record Solar Superstorm Hitting Mars A new Nature Communications study reveals what happened when the record-breaking May 2024 solar superstorm hit Mars. ESA's Mars Express and ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter recorded unprecedented electron density spikes in the Martian upper atmosphere — up to 278% above normal — and both spacecraft experienced computer glitches from the energetic particles. The study uses a novel spacecraft-to-spacecraft radio occultation technique and highlights how Mars's lack of a global magnetic field leaves it vulnerable to solar events in ways that Earth is not. 4. SpaceX Falcon 9 Re-entry Directly Linked to Atmospheric Lithium Plume For the first time, scientists have directly tied a specific rocket re-entry to a measurable atmospheric pollution event. Researchers at the Leibniz Institute for Atmospheric Physics detected a tenfold spike in lithium vapour in the upper atmosphere — from 3 to 31 atoms per cubic centimetre — in the hours following the uncontrolled re-entry of a Falcon 9 upper stage off Ireland in February 2025. Eight thousand backward atmospheric simulations confirmed the connection. Published in Communications Earth & Environment, the paper raises important questions about the growing chemical footprint of the commercial space industry. 5. Rocket Lab Launches Mystery Satellite — 'Insight at Speed is a Friend Indeed' Rocket Lab completed its 83rd Electron launch from New Zealand, deploying a single satellite for a confidential commercial customer to an orbit 470 km above Earth. The company announced the mission just hours before liftoff, offering no further details on the customer or the payload's purpose. 6. Scientists Grow Chickpeas in Simulated Moon Dirt for First Time Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University have successfully grown and harvested chickpeas in simulated lunar regolith — the first time this has ever been achieved. Using a combination of vermicompost (worm castings) and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi to condition the otherwise toxic, sterile moon dirt, the team produced flowering, seed-bearing plants in soil mixtures of up to 75% regolith simulant. The chickpeas have not yet been cleared for eating pending metal accumulation testing — but the team's goal of 'moon hummus' is, apparently, very much alive. Find Us: astronomydaily.io | @AstroDailyPod on all platforms Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts · Spotify · YouTube · everywhere you listen Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support (https://www.spreaker.com/

SpaceTime with Stuart Gary - Series 29 Episode 28 In this episode of SpaceTime , we dive into the groundbreaking mapping of Uranus's upper atmosphere, the European Space Agency's innovative Planetary Defense Fly Eye Telescope, and NASA's critical findings on Boeing's Starliner spacecraft. Mapping Uranus's Upper Atmosphere A new study has successfully created a three-dimensional map of Uranus's upper atmosphere, revealing how the ice giant's unusual magnetic field influences its auroral activity. This detailed mapping, reported in Geophysical Research Letters , shows emissions from molecules located up to 5,000 kilometers above the cloud tops, confirming a cooling trend over the past 30 years. The research highlights the complex dynamics of Uranus's magnetosphere, which is tilted and offset, leading to unique auroral patterns unlike any other planet in our solar system. ESA's Fly Eye Telescope for Planetary Defense The European Space Agency is developing the Fly Eye Telescope, designed to detect Near Earth Objects (NEOs) that could pose a threat to Earth. Inspired by the compound eye of insects, this innovative telescope uses a unique design to scan vast areas of the sky efficiently, identifying potential impact risks. With plans for a network of these telescopes, ESA aims to enhance our capability to monitor and mitigate the dangers posed by asteroids and comets. Nasa's Scathing Robert on Boeing's Starliner NASA has released a critical report detailing the failures of Boeing's CST-100 Starliner spacecraft, highlighting engineering vulnerabilities and internal mistakes that jeopardized crew safety. The investigation found Starliner less reliable for crew survival compared to other manned spacecraft, leading to a recommendation that no further crewed flights occur until all technical issues are resolved. The report underscores the need for stringent oversight in space missions to ensure astronaut safety. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com/) ✍️ Episode References Geophysical Research Letters Support our podcast: Become a supporter (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32038562?utm_source=youtube

Artemis Updates, the Brian Nebula, and Galactic Mapping In this enlightening episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson dive into the latest developments in space exploration and celestial phenomena. From the shifting timelines of the Artemis program to the fascinating discoveries made by the James Webb Space Telescope, this episode is packed with cosmic insights and intriguing discussions. Episode Highlights: - Artemis Program Updates: Andrew and Fred discuss the recent delays in the Artemis 2 mission, which is now expected to launch no earlier than April. They also explore the implications of the newly inserted Artemis 3 mission, which will focus on testing spacecraft capabilities in Earth orbit before the lunar landing. - The Brian in Space: The hosts delve into the discovery of the PMR1 nebula, also known as the Exposed Cranium Nebula. They discuss its unusual appearance and the significance of the James Webb Space Telescope's observations that reveal this nebula's intricate structure, reminiscent of a brain. - Mapping the Galactic Center: Andrew and Fred highlight a groundbreaking survey of the center of our galaxy, revealing the complex dynamics and chemical compositions within this turbulent region. They discuss the technologies used in this research and what it means for our understanding of the Milky Way. 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, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite 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. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space (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/32036521?utm_source=youtube

Welcome back to Astronomy Daily! In S05E55, Anna and Avery explore six fascinating stories from across the cosmos — from auroras on Jupiter’s largest moon to the latest JWST galaxy reveal, a breakthrough solar storm warning system, a beautiful combined nebula image, Japan’s ongoing rocket struggles, and Europe’s ambitious plans for orbital repair robots. Stories This Episode 1. Ganymede’s Auroras Mirror Earth’s Northern Lights Scientists using data from NASA’s Juno spacecraft have revealed that Jupiter’s largest moon Ganymede has fragmented, patch-like auroras remarkably similar to those seen on Earth. The research, led by the University of Liège and published in Astronomy & Astrophysics, suggests that the fundamental physical processes generating auroras may be universal across magnetised bodies in the solar system. Ganymede is the only moon known to have its own intrinsic magnetic field. 2. New Solar Superflare Forecasting System An international team has developed the first system capable of predicting when and where extreme solar storms are likely to occur, with up to a year’s advance warning. By analysing 50 years of X-ray data, researchers identified a 1.7-year and a 7-year solar cycle whose alignment predicts high-risk periods. The current window (mid-2025 to mid-2026) is flagged as elevated danger. Published in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics. 3. Cat’s Eye Nebula — Euclid and Hubble Combined NASA and ESA have combined imagery from the Euclid and Hubble space telescopes to produce a breathtaking new composite view of the Cat’s Eye Nebula — the glowing remnant of a dying star about 3,000 light-years away in Draco. The image showcases the nebula’s complex layered shells and intricate inner structure in unprecedented detail. 4. JWST Reveals Spiral Galaxy NGC 5134 The James Webb Space Telescope has captured a stunning infrared portrait of NGC 5134, a barred spiral galaxy 65 million light-years away. Webb’s infrared capability pierces through galactic dust to reveal glowing stellar nurseries and the full cycle of star birth and evolution playing out across the galaxy’s spiral arms. 5. Japan’s Kairos Rocket — Safety Abort on Third Attempt Space One’s Kairos No. 3 rocket was aborted just 30 seconds before liftoff on March 4 when a safety monitoring system detected unstable positioning satellite signals. Following two failed launches in 2024 and multiple weather scrubs this week, the company has yet to set a new launch date. The window remains open until March 25. A successful launch would mark the first orbital success for a fully private Japanese rocket. 6. Europe’s Orbital Repair Robots European companies led by Thales Alenia Space are developing robotic satellites capable of refuelling, repairing and repositioning spacecraft in orbit. A demonstration mission is planned for 2028. With nearly 15,000 operational satellites now in orbit — most never designed to be serviced — the in-orbit servicing market could transform how we manage space infrastructure. Regulatory questions around liability remain unresolved. Links & Further Reading Full show notes, images and source links: astronomydaily.io Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | All podcast platforms Watch on: YouTube — Astronomy Daily Follow us: @AstroDailyPod on Twitter/X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Tumblr Part of the Bitesz.com Podcast Network 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

SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 27 In this episode of SpaceTime , we explore the potential explosion of a massive star, NASA's innovative mission to study Earth's auroras, and the latest setbacks for the Artemis 2 lunar mission. Supernova on the Horizon Astronomers are buzzing with excitement as WOHG 64, one of the largest stars known, shows signs of impending supernova activity. Located 163,000 light years away in the Large Magellanic Cloud, this red supergiant is shedding its outer layers and transitioning toward its explosive end. With a luminosity 282,000 times that of the sun and an estimated size 1,500 times greater, WOHG 64's dramatic evolution raises questions about the lifecycle of massive stars and the nature of supernovae. Nasa's CINEMA Mission to Study Auroras NASA is set to launch the CINEMA mission in 2030, aiming to unravel the mysteries of Earth's auroras and the role of the magnetotail in their formation. This innovative mission will consist of nine small satellites designed to gather data on the dynamics of auroral activity and the magnetosphere. By combining particle measurements and imaging, CINEMA will provide insights into auroral substorms and their connection to explosive magnetic events, enhancing our understanding of space weather and its impact on technology. Artemis 2 Mission Delayed NASA has rolled back the Artemis 2 moon rocket into the vehicle assembly building due to issues with the helium system, further delaying the mission aimed at returning humans to lunar orbit for the first time in over 50 years. This rollback follows earlier delays related to the liquid hydrogen fuel system and other minor technical issues. With the crewed mission now facing additional setbacks, NASA continues to work diligently to ensure a successful launch. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com/) ✍️ Episode References Nature Astronomy, PLOS ONE Support our podcast: Become a supporter (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32000610?utm_source=youtube

The Blood Moon has come and gone — and what a show it was. In today's Astronomy Daily, Anna and Avery recap last night's total lunar eclipse, the last visible from North America until New Year's Eve 2028. Plus: NASA confirms Artemis 2 repairs are complete and an April crewed Moon mission is back on track. Astronomers have found the most tightly packed quadruple star system ever discovered — four stars crammed into a space no bigger than Jupiter's orbit. Gravitational waves could be about to solve one of cosmology's biggest mysteries: the Hubble Tension. The world's first private commercial space telescope has captured its first star. And finally — why do physicists say interstellar travel is impossible and aliens definitely haven't visited? In This Episode • 00:00 — Cold Open & Show Introduction • 02:00 — Story 1: Blood Moon Total Lunar Eclipse Recap • 06:00 — Story 2: Artemis 2 Repairs Complete, April Launch on Track • 09:00 — Story 3: Record-Breaking Quadruple Star System TIC 120362137 • 12:30 — Story 4: Gravitational Waves and the Hubble Tension • 15:30 — Story 5: Mauve — World's First Private Space Telescope • 18:30 — Story 6: Why Interstellar Travel Is Impossible • 22:00 — Show Close Find Us • Website: astronomydaily.io • Social: @AstroDailyPod • Network: Bitesz.com Podcast Network 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/32000098?utm_source=youtube

In today’s episode, Anna and Avery cover six stories from across the space and astronomy world — including a seismic shift in NASA’s Artemis program, a jaw-dropping Webb telescope discovery, fresh imagery of an interstellar comet, and the debut of a powerful new reusable rocket from China. 🚀 IN THIS EPISODE • NASA officially redesigns Artemis 3 — no Moon landing, and SpaceX’s Starship may not even fly on the mission • The James Webb Space Telescope discovers PSR J2322-2650b: a lemon-shaped exoplanet orbiting a pulsar every 7.8 hours, with a carbon-rich atmosphere that defies all known planetary science • A new ‘stochastic siren’ method using gravitational waves from merging black holes could finally resolve the Hubble tension — one of physics’ deepest mysteries • ESA’s JUICE spacecraft captures its first detailed image of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, revealing a glowing coma and sweeping tail • This week’s global launch roundup: Japan’s Kairos rocket makes its third attempt, and SpaceX eyes its 600th Falcon booster recovery • China’s CAS Space prepares to debut Kinetica-2, a reusable heavy-lift rocket targeting late March 🔗 LEARN MORE • Full episode details and blog post: astronomydaily.io • NASA Artemis updates: nasa.gov/artemis • Webb telescope news: science.nasa.gov/mission/webb ⭐ SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review — it helps other space enthusiasts find the show. New episodes every weekday. Find us: astronomydaily.io • @AstroDailyPod • Bitesz.com Podcast Network 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31978940?utm_source=youtube

SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 26 In this episode of SpaceTime , we delve into NASA's postponed return to the lunar surface, a remarkable hypersonic test flight by an Australian company, and the fascinating hidden chemistry at the heart of the Milky Way galaxy. Nasa's Lunar Return Delayed NASA has announced a significant delay in its plans to return humans to the lunar surface, pushing the Artemis 4 mission to 2028. The upcoming Artemis 3 mission will focus on testing systems in low Earth orbit instead of conducting a lunar landing. NASA officials emphasize the need for a methodical approach to ensure the safety and success of future missions, including critical tests of lunar landers from SpaceX and Blue Origin. This strategic shift aims to facilitate at least one major lunar landing annually starting in 2028. Successful Hypersonic Test Flight An Australian scramjet has achieved a successful test flight, propelling the Dart hypersonic aircraft to speeds exceeding five times the speed of sound. This milestone underscores the potential of scramjet technology, which utilizes a unique engine design without moving parts to achieve hypersonic speeds. The successful mission, launched from Rocket Lab’s Wallops Island facility, marks a significant step toward developing autonomous hypersonic vehicles capable of sustained flight and could pave the way for future space travel advancements. Revealing the Milky Justin's Chemistry Astronomers have captured the largest and most detailed image of the central region of the Milky Way galaxy, unveiling a complex network of filaments and cosmic gas. This groundbreaking observation, made possible by the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), provides unprecedented insights into the processes of star formation in the galactic center. The study reveals the intricate chemistry of the central molecular zone, detecting various molecules and enhancing our understanding of star formation in extreme environments. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com/) ✍️ Episode References Scientific Reports, Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society Support our podcast: Become a supporter (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31969055?utm_source=youtube

Tonight's sky is putting on a show — and we've got all the science to go with it! In this episode, Anna and Avery cover six incredible stories: a Blood Moon total lunar eclipse happening tonight, a revolutionary new telescope issuing 800,000 cosmic alerts in a single night, the violent origin story of Saturn's rings and its moon Titan, new research revealing Earth's magnetic poles can take 70,000 years to reverse, the James Webb Space Telescope mapping Uranus in 3D, and a wild — and cautionary — tale about the legal status of Apollo moon rocks. STORIES THIS EPISODE 1. 🌕 Blood Moon Tonight — Total Lunar Eclipse March 2/3 A total lunar eclipse turns the Moon blood red tonight, visible from North America, Australia, New Zealand and Asia. Totality begins at 6:04 a.m. ET and lasts 59 minutes — the last blood moon until 2028. We explain why the Moon turns red and how to catch the rare 'selenelion' phenomenon. 2. 🔭 Vera Rubin Observatory — 800,000 Alerts in One Night The Vera Rubin Observatory — home to the world's largest digital camera at 3.2 gigapixels — issued 800,000 alerts to astronomers in a single night on February 24. At full capacity it could generate 7 million alerts nightly, revolutionising real-time astronomy. 3. 🪐 Titan & Saturn's Rings — Born from One Catastrophic Collision New research suggests Saturn's largest moon, Titan, formed from a colossal collision between two older moons hundreds of millions of years ago — and that same impact created Saturn's iconic rings. One event, two iconic solar system features. 4. 🌍 Earth's Magnetic Poles — 70,000 Years to Flip Scientists analysing 40-million-year-old deep-sea sediment cores have found evidence of a geomagnetic reversal that lasted 70,000 years — far longer than the 10,000-year benchmark. During that time, Earth's weakened magnetic field would have exposed the planet to significantly higher cosmic radiation. 5. ⭐ Webb Maps Uranus in 3D — Wild Auroras Revealed The James Webb Space Telescope has produced the first 3D map of Uranus's upper atmosphere using its Near Infrared Spectrometer, revealing complex auroras unlike anything seen before and mapping the structure of its ionosphere in unprecedented detail. 6. 🌑 Moon Rocks & the Law — Don't Even Think About It! Apollo moon rocks are US federal property — and buying, selling or owning them is a serious federal crime. We tell the extraordinary story of the 2002 NASA intern heist, and explain the one legal way you can own a piece of the Moon. USEFUL LINKS • Eclipse times for your location: timeanddate.com/eclipse (https://timeanddate.com/eclipse) • Vera Rubin Observatory: rubinobservatory.org • NASA Lunar Sample Laboratory: curator.jsc.nasa.gov • Astronomy Daily website: astronomydaily.io • Follow us on social: @AstroDailyPod 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31951881?utm_source=youtube

Unimagined Discoveries, Planet Nine Mysteries, and the Sungrazing Comet In this captivating Q&A episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson tackle a range of thought-provoking listener questions that explore the unknowns of our universe. From the potential for undiscovered celestial phenomena to the enigma of Planet Nine, this episode is filled with cosmic curiosities and insights. Episode Highlights: - Unimagined Existence: Bailey from Durban asks whether there are things in the universe that we have yet to imagine. Andrew and Fred discuss the surprises revealed by the James Webb Telescope and the potential for new discoveries that could challenge our current understanding of the cosmos. - The Planet Nine Puzzle: Sarah from Townsville wonders why we can locate distant exoplanets but struggle to find Planet Nine in our own solar system. The hosts explain the challenges involved in observing faint objects close to home and the technology behind planet detection methods. - Comet C2026A1: Eli from Anchorage brings attention to a newly discovered sungrazing comet set to be visible in April. Andrew and Fred delve into what makes this comet special and the uncertainty surrounding its visibility, drawing parallels to previous comet behavior. - Rusty's Solar Pergola: Rusty from Donnybrook revisits his idea of a solar pergola and its environmental implications in light of Elon Musk’s satellite plans. The hosts discuss the feasibility and potential consequences of such a massive solar array in orbit. 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, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite 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. 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/31944871?utm_source=youtube

NASA rewrites the Artemis roadmap, the Space Force grounds Vulcan Centaur, astronomers peer back 11 billion years to the universe's most extraordinary construction site, water bears reveal surprising secrets about Martian soil, NASA passes a key milestone in extracting oxygen from lunar regolith, and ancient stellar lighthouses rewrite the Milky Way's origin story. Plus — six planets in tonight's sky. 📰 STORIES THIS EPISODE 1 — NASA Overhauls the Artemis Programme NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced a sweeping restructure of the Artemis Moon programme on Friday 27 February. The headline change: Artemis III will no longer attempt a crewed lunar landing. Instead it has been redesigned as a low Earth orbit test flight in 2027, where astronauts will dock with the SpaceX Starship Human Landing System and potentially Blue Origin's Blue Moon lander, testing suits, life support and rendezvous procedures before anyone attempts a surface landing. The Block 1B SLS upgrade has been scrapped, vehicle configuration standardised, and NASA is targeting annual Moon landings from Artemis IV and V in 2028, with at least one surface landing per year thereafter. Isaacman invoked Apollo's step-by-step approach as his model — pointing out the programme was essentially jumping from Apollo 8 to the Moon landing without the intervening tests. The Lunar Gateway space station was notably absent from the announcement. Artemis II — the crewed flight around the Moon — remains on track for no earlier than 1 April 2026 pending resolution of a helium pressurisation issue. 2 — Space Force Grounds Vulcan Centaur The U.S. Space Force has placed an indefinite hold on all national security launches aboard ULA's Vulcan Centaur rocket following a repeat solid rocket booster anomaly during the USSF-87 mission on 12 February — the rocket's fourth flight. A booster nozzle appeared to separate during ascent, mirroring an incident on Vulcan's second certification flight in October 2024. The payloads were successfully delivered, but Space Force Col. Eric Zarybnisky confirmed at the AFA Warfare Symposium that no further Vulcan national security missions will fly until the issue is fully resolved. With over a dozen military launches manifested for 2026, the grounding threatens significant disruption to the Pentagon's launch schedule. 3 — The Universe's Most Extraordinary Construction Site Astronomers using the Very Large Array and ALMA telescope have discovered J0846 — the first strongly gravitationally lensed protocluster core ever found. A foreground galaxy cluster is acting as a cosmic zoom lens, magnifying a cluster of at least 11 furiously star-forming galaxies more than 11 billion light years away — all crammed into a region smaller than the distance between the Milky Way and Andromeda. Completely invisible to optical telescopes due to dense dust shrouding, ALMA's detection of cold dust and gas revealed the extraordinary scene. Lead researcher Nicholas Foo (Arizona State University) describes it as catching a galaxy cluster in the very first chapter of its life. 4 — Could Mars Soil Actually Block Earth Microbes? A Penn State-led international team published findings in the International Journal of Astrobiology showing that simulated Martian regolith significantly suppresses tardigrade (water bear) activity — one of the toughest creatures on Earth. Critically, rinsing the regolith with water largely reversed the harmful effect, suggesting the culprit is a water-soluble compound — possibly salts or perchlorates detected by previous Mars missions. The dual implication: Martian soil may naturally protect the Red Planet from Earth contamination, and could potentially be treated to support plant growth in future habitats. 5 — Extracting Oxygen from Lunar Soil — A Major Milestone NASA's Carbothermal Reduction Demonstration (CaRD) project has passed a key integrated prototype test aboard the ISS, confirming that concentrated solar energy can drive a chemica

Episode 50 of Season 5! Today Anna and Avery bring you six unmissable space stories: a star 1,540 times the size of our Sun transforming into a rare yellow hypergiant in real time; SpaceX's Dragon CRS-33 capsule completing a historic ISS-boosting mission and splashing down this morning; the James Webb Space Telescope revealing the haunting 'Exposed Cranium' nebula in unprecedented detail; a total lunar eclipse blood moon arriving this Tuesday (March 3) — the last until 2028/29; groundbreaking research showing Jupiter's icy moons may have been born with life's molecular building blocks embedded in them; and NASA shaking up its human spaceflight leadership following a damning report on the Boeing Starliner Crew Flight Test. STORIES IN THIS EPISODE: • (00:00) Intro & Episode 50 Milestone • (02:00) WOH G64: Red supergiant transforms into yellow hypergiant — supernova imminent? • (06:00) SpaceX CRS-33 Dragon splashes down after historic six-month ISS-boosting mission • (09:00) Webb's Exposed Cranium Nebula: A dying star's brain-shaped farewell • (12:00) Blood Moon Alert: Total lunar eclipse Tuesday March 3 — where to watch • (14:30) Jupiter's moons born with life's building blocks — new research • (17:00) NASA leadership shakeup: Starliner fallout claims two senior figures • (19:30) Outro FIND US: • Website: astronomydaily.io • Social: @AstroDailyPod on all major platforms • Part of the Bitesz.com Podcast Network 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31908764?utm_source=youtube

Sponsor Link: This episode of SpaceTime is brought to you by Squarespace. Create your own exceptional website with ease at squarespace.com/spacetime (https://squarespace.com/spacetime) . SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 25 In this episode of SpaceTime , we explore the intriguing mysteries of Mars' gullies, uncover a unique inside-out planetary system, and witness the inaugural launch of Europe's most powerful rocket. Mysterious Martian Gullies Explained Scientists have made significant strides in understanding the enigmatic gullies on Mars, previously thought to be shaped by unknown forces. A new study published in Geophysical Research Letters reveals that blocks of frozen carbon dioxide are the culprits behind these formations. When the Martian winter sets in, CO2 ice accumulates and, upon warming, sublimates, creating gas pressure that carves deep gullies in the Martian surface. This groundbreaking phenomenon, likened to the sandworms of Dune, showcases a unique geological process not observed on Earth. Inside-Out Planetary System Discovery Astronomers have identified a remarkable new planetary system, catalogued as LHS 1903, that defies conventional models of planetary formation. Unlike our solar system, which features rocky planets close to the star and gas giants further out, LHS 1903 has a small rocky planet orbiting outside of two gas giants. This discovery, detailed in Science , suggests that this rocky world may have formed in a gas-depleted environment, challenging existing theories about how planets evolve and raising questions about the nature of planetary systems. Europe's Powerful Rocket Launch The European Space Agency has successfully launched the Ariane 64, its most powerful rocket to date, from the Kourou Spaceport in French Guiana. This inaugural mission, VA267, carried 32 satellites into orbit for Amazon's LEO network, marking a significant milestone as the largest number of satellites ever launched by an Ariane rocket. With plans for an average of 10 launches per year, the Ariane 64 is set to play a crucial role in the future of satellite deployment. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com/) ✍️ Episode References Geophysical Research Letters, Science Support our podcast: Become a supporter (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31903922?utm_source=youtube

Tiny Jupiter, Unusual Comet Behavior, and Gravitational Lensing In this exciting episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson delve into some intriguing astronomical discoveries. They discuss the surprising news about Jupiter's size, the strange rotation of Comet 41P, and the fascinating concept of utilizing solar gravitational lensing for deep space exploration. Episode Highlights: - Jupiter's Revised Size: The duo explores new measurements from NASA's Juno mission that indicate Jupiter is slightly smaller than previously thought. They discuss the implications of these findings on our understanding of the gas giant's internal structure and atmospheric dynamics. - The Mystery of Comet 41P: Andrew and Fred reveal the unusual behavior of Comet 41P, which has experienced a significant slowdown in its rotation, potentially reversing its spin direction. They analyze the possible causes of this phenomenon and what it could mean for the comet's future. - Solar Gravitational Lensing: The hosts dive into the concept of using the Sun's gravitational field as a lens to observe distant exoplanets. They discuss the challenges of reaching the solar gravitational lens focal point and the technologies that might one day make such missions feasible. 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, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite 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. 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/31901861?utm_source=youtube

Astronomy Daily | S05E49 | February 26, 2026 Six Planets, a Surprise in the Milky Way, and the First ISS Medical Evacuation Revealed Tonight the Moon sits right next to Jupiter in what is the visual highlight of the February six-planet alignment. Meanwhile, astronomers have made a jaw-dropping discovery about our galaxy’s magnetic field, NASA has named the astronaut at the centre of last month’s historic ISS medical evacuation, and a hypersonic scramjet launch has been scrubbed. All that and more in today’s episode. IN THIS EPISODE • SKYWATCHING — Moon-Jupiter conjunction tonight: the six-planet alignment (Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune) is peaking right now, with Jupiter blazing beside the waxing Moon after sunset. The Blood Moon total lunar eclipse arrives March 3. • DEEP SPACE — The world’s largest radio telescope array has made new chemical discoveries in the turbulent heart of the Milky Way around Sagittarius A*, our galaxy’s supermassive black hole. • ARTEMIS UPDATE — NASA’s SLS rocket has returned to the Vehicle Assembly Building for repairs; early April is now the earliest realistic launch window for the crewed lunar flyby. • ISS — NASA has named the astronaut who required the first-ever medical evacuation from the International Space Station, following last month’s early return of Crew-11. • SCIENCE — A groundbreaking new map of the Milky Way’s magnetic field reveals an unexpected diagonal reversal in the Sagittarius Arm — a discovery that prompted an OMG moment for the lead researcher. • LAUNCH UPDATE — Rocket Lab’s HASTE ‘That’s Not a Knife’ hypersonic mission carrying an Australian hydrogen scramjet demonstrator has been scrubbed; no new date yet. FIND US Website: astronomydaily.io | Social: @AstroDailyPod | Part of the Bitesz.com Podcast Network 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31883765?utm_source=youtube

Sponsor Link: This episode of SpaceTime is brought to with the kind support of Squarespace . Bring your stories to life with Squarespace, the easiest way to create an exceptional website, blog, portfolio, or online store. To check out our special offers, vist squarespace.com/spacetime (https://squarespace.com/spacetime) and us the promo code SPACETIME. SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 24 In this episode of SpaceTime , we uncover astonishing discoveries about the birth of black holes, a revolutionary Martian navigation system, and the arrival of NASA's SpaceX Crew 12 at the International Space Station. The Birth of a Black Hole: A New Perspective Astronomers have made a groundbreaking discovery by observing a star in the Andromeda Galaxy collapsing into a black hole without the expected supernova explosion. The star, catalogued as M31 2014 DS1, was seen glowing brightly in infrared light before fading away, leaving behind a dust shell. This event, which had been anticipated for decades, suggests that massive stars may collapse directly into black holes, challenging long-held assumptions about stellar deaths. The findings, published in the journal Science, provide new insights into the processes that govern black hole formation and indicate that such direct collapses may be more common than previously thought. NASA's New Martian Navigation System NASA has introduced an innovative navigation system for its Perseverance rover, allowing it to determine its location on Mars with remarkable precision—within 25 centimeters. The new technology, called Mars Global Localization, enables the rover to autonomously compare panoramic images with orbital terrain maps, eliminating the need for Earth-based assistance. This advancement significantly enhances the rover's ability to explore the Martian surface independently, paving the way for more extensive scientific investigations. SpaceX Crew 12 Arrives at the ISS NASA's SpaceX Crew 12 has successfully docked with the International Space Station, restoring the crew complement to seven members. The mission includes a diverse crew of two Americans, a Russian, and a French astronaut, who will conduct approximately 250 scientific experiments in orbit. Additionally, NASA has approved a sixth private mission to the ISS, slated for next year, which aims to support new research initiatives and infrastructure development for future human spaceflight missions. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com/) ✍️ Episode References Journal Science, NASA Reports Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31877069?utm_source=youtube

NASA's Artemis II moon rocket begins its rollback to the Vehicle Assembly Building today as a helium flow issue kills the March launch window — and the crew's unannounced presence at Trump's State of the Union adds a fascinating new dimension. Plus: James Webb achieves an astronomical first by identifying a supernova's progenitor star that was invisible to every other telescope; the case for life on exoplanet K2-18b keeps building; the sun goes spotless for the first time since 2022; China's Shenzhou-20 astronauts reveal gripping new details about last year's space debris emergency; and the U.S. Postal Service turns Webb's greatest hits into stamps. Full episode rundown at 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31864397?utm_source=youtube

Today on Astronomy Daily: NASA's Artemis II mission is rolling back to the Vehicle Assembly Building today after a helium flow issue dashed hopes of a March launch. We cover the latest on what went wrong, what it means for the April window, and what happens next. We also have five more stories to get through: Perseverance just gained the ability to locate itself on Mars with GPS-like precision — no Earth assistance required. Scientists have published a daring plan to intercept interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS using a solar slingshot manoeuvre, with a launch in 2035 and a 50-year journey to follow. China's mysterious Shenlong space plane is back in orbit on its fourth mission, and we still know almost nothing about it. We run through this week's packed launch schedule — including Rocket Lab's hypersonic scramjet test flight happening today, and Firefly Aerospace's return to flight on Friday. And we close with a genuinely beautiful piece of science: researchers have used supercomputers to solve a 50-year-old mystery about how elements move inside red giant stars. In This Episode 00:00 — Introduction 01:30 — Story 1: Artemis II rollback — the latest 05:30 — Story 2: Perseverance gets GPS on Mars 09:00 — Story 3: The 50-year mission to chase 3I/ATLAS 12:30 — Story 4: China's Shenlong space plane — Mission 4 15:00 — Story 5: This week's launch schedule 17:30 — Story 6: Supercomputers solve the red giant mystery 19:30 — Outro Find Us Website: astronomydaily.io Social: @AstroDailyPod Network: Bitesz.com Podcast Network 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31841666?utm_source=youtube

Sponsor Link: This episode of Spacetime is brought to you with the support of Squarespace...when it's time to get online, it's time to visit Squarespace. Free trial. To find out more visit squarespace.com/spacetime (https://squarespace.com/spacetime) SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 23 In this episode of SpaceTime, we investigate the discovery of a nearly invisible galaxy dominated by dark matter, the latest delays in the Artemis 2 mission to the Moon, and the anticipated launch of Australia's new hypersonic scramjet. A Dark Matter Galaxy Unveiled Astronomers have identified an almost invisible galaxy, catalogued as CDG2, located in the Perseus galaxy cluster approximately 300 million light years away. This galaxy is believed to be composed of about 99% dark matter, making it one of the most dark matter-dominated galaxies ever detected. The findings, published in Astrophysical Research Letters, reveal that dark matter constitutes roughly 80% of the universe's total matter, and CDG2's faint presence was confirmed through observations of its globular clusters using NASA's Hubble Space Telescope and the European Space Agency's Euclid Space Observatory. Artemis 2 Mission Delayed Again NASA has announced another delay for the Artemis 2 mission, which aims to return humans to lunar orbit for the first time in over 50 years. A helium leak discovered in the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket's upper stage has prompted the agency to roll back the launch vehicle to the vehicle assembly building for repairs. This setback eliminates the potential for a March launch, with the next available windows opening in early April. The Artemis 2 mission will carry a crew of four on a 10-day journey to the Moon, including critical system tests and satellite deployments. Australia's Hypersonic Scramjet Launch Imminent An Australian company is set to test its new hypersonic scramjet-powered aircraft, the Dart AE, before the end of the month. This innovative vehicle will utilize a 3D printed Spartan Scramjet engine, designed to operate at speeds exceeding Mach 5 with liquid hydrogen fuel. The mission, codenamed Cassowary Vex, will launch aboard a Rocket Lab electron rocket and aims to validate the scramjet propulsion system under real hypersonic flight conditions while producing zero carbon emissions. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com/) ✍️ Episode References Astrophysical Research Letters Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31832743?utm_source=youtube

🚀 Astronomy Daily — Season 5 | Monday, February 23, 2026 NASA rolls back the Artemis 2 moon rocket, Europa's ocean gets a life-friendly upgrade, SpaceX breaks its own booster reuse record, Rocket Lab launches a hypersonic mission TODAY, Mars dust storms reveal how the Red Planet lost its water, and SIX planets are visible in tonight's sky. IN THIS EPISODE: 🌕 Artemis 2 rollback — the crew is released from quarantine and the moon launch is pushed to April 🌊 Europa's hidden ocean may be receiving nutrients from the surface — big news for the search for life 🛸 SpaceX flies two Falcon 9s in one day and sets a new booster reuse record 🔥 Rocket Lab's HASTE hypersonic test rocket launches TODAY from Wallops, Virginia 🌪️ A Mars dust storm was moving water at unexpectedly high rates — new clues to the Red Planet's past 🌟 Six-planet parade peaks this week + the crescent Moon passes through the Pleiades tonight FOLLOW ASTRONOMY DAILY: 🌐 astronomydaily.io 📱 @AstroDailyPod on all platforms 🎙️ Part of the Bitesz.com Podcast Network 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31814186?utm_source=youtube

Sponsor Link: This episode of Space Nuts is brought to you by NordVPN . Protect your online privacy with the one we trust - NordVPN . To get our special deal, visit nordvpn.com/spacenuts (https://nordvpn.com/spacenuts) . And Incogni - i ncogni.com/spacenuts (https://incogni.com/spacenuts) Exploring Dark Matter, Telescope Innovations, and Olympus Mons In this engaging Q&A edition of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson tackle a range of fascinating listener questions that dive deep into the mysteries of our universe. From the elusive nature of dark matter to the future of space telescopes, this episode promises to enlighten and entertain. Episode Highlights: - The Mystery of Dark Matter: Listener Bob from Chicago asks how astronomers have determined that approximately 80% of the universe is made up of dark matter. Fred explains the historical context and the groundbreaking techniques that have led to this astonishing conclusion. - Next-Gen Telescopes: Ben also inquires about the next large telescope to be launched. Fred shares his excitement for the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) in Chile, which promises to revolutionize our understanding of the cosmos with its advanced capabilities. - Understanding Telescopes: Ash from Australia seeks clarity on the different types of telescopes and the wavelengths they detect. Fred elaborates on the intricate designs of optical, infrared, and radio telescopes, explaining how their unique technologies allow them to observe various forms of light. - The Graviton Enigma: Russ from the UK poses a thought-provoking question about the graviton and its relation to Einstein's theory of gravity. Fred discusses the complexities of gravity as a force and the ongoing quest to understand its fundamental particles. - Olympus Mons and Space Elevators: Robert from Iceland wonders if Olympus Mons could serve as a staging point for a space elevator. The hosts explore the challenges and feasibility of this intriguing concept, revealing the importance of location in such ambitious projects. 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, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite 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. 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/31808838?utm_source=youtube

Astronomy Daily — Season 5, Episode 45 | February 21, 2026 "Countdown to the Moon: Artemis II Crew in Quarantine" The Artemis II crew — Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, Mission Specialist Christina Koch (NASA), and Mission Specialist Jeremy Hansen (CSA) — have officially entered quarantine ahead of a targeted March 6, 2026 launch. With the second Wet Dress Rehearsal completed successfully on February 19th, humanity is just two weeks away from returning to the Moon for the first time since Apollo 17 in 1972. Anna and Avery break down everything you need to know about this historic mission. Also on today's episode: • DARK MATTER UNDER PRESSURE: A new paper in Physical Review D claims its findings represent the first step toward the end of dark matter theory as we know it — researchers have found a plethora of baryonic (ordinary) dark matter signals that challenge the standard cosmological model. • AURORA WATCH: A large coronal hole on the Sun has rotated into a geoeffective position, with fast solar wind expected to reach Earth around February 22nd. Skywatchers at higher latitudes should keep their eyes on the skies tomorrow night. • MARS WATER UPDATE: New research suggests water ice on Mars may be accessible far closer to the equator than previously believed — a game-changing development for future human exploration of the Red Planet. • SERIAL KILLER BLACK HOLES: Astronomers using James Webb Space Telescope data have confirmed that active supermassive black holes don't just shut down star formation in their own galaxies — they can suppress star formation in neighbouring galaxies too. • SPACEX NEAR MISS: SpaceX successfully landed its Falcon 9 booster in The Bahamas for only the second time ever after launching 29 Starlink satellites — but someone at SpaceX admitted they 'almost did have a really terrible day.' Full show notes and episode sources available at astronomydaily.io Follow us: @AstroDailyPod on all platforms Part of the Bitesz.com Podcast Network 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31789733?utm_source=youtube

S05E44 | Friday, February 20, 2026 It's a big one today! We cover EIGHT stories including breaking news from NASA's Kennedy Space Center, a damning independent report into the Boeing Starliner crisis, two astonishing dark matter discoveries, the first ancient Jellyfish Galaxy, SpaceX rocket pollution science, and a cosmic farewell to a comet we'll never see again. Plus — yes — we briefly and responsibly address the UFO/UAP conversation. Stories in this episode: • Artemis II Wet Dress Rehearsal — Did NASA just clear the path to a March 6 launch? • Starliner Independent Report — NASA says 'we failed them' as Type A mishap is confirmed • UAP Files — Trump hints at declassification: should we get excited? • Hubble finds CDG-2: the most dark matter-dominated galaxy ever discovered • Jellyfish Galaxy spotted 5 billion years after the Big Bang — earlier than thought possible • First real-time observation of SpaceX rocket re-entry pollution cloud • First confirmed dark galaxy — a structure with no stars at all • Comet Wierzchoś at closest approach today — and it's never coming back 🌐 astronomydaily.io | 📱 @AstroDailyPod | Part of the Bitesz.com Podcast Network 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31773666?utm_source=youtube

Sponsor Link: This episode of Space Nuts is brought to you by Incogni . Reduce the volume of spam calls and emails. They can't spam you if they can't find you. To find out more and to take up our 60% off offer , visit incogni.com/spacenuts (https://incogni.com/spacenuts) and use the coupon code SPACENUTS at checkout. Lava Tubes on Venus, Elon Musk's New Target, and China's Lunar Ambitions In this intriguing episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson explore a variety of captivating topics that span our solar system. From the surprising discovery of lava tubes on Venus to Elon Musk's shifting focus from Mars to the Moon, this episode is packed with astronomical insights and updates on space exploration. Episode Highlights: - Lava Tubes on Venus: A new study suggests the existence of massive lava tubes on Venus, with evidence pointing to structures that could reach up to a kilometer wide. Andrew and Fred discuss the implications of this discovery and how it was derived from radar data collected by the Magellan spacecraft. - Elon Musk's Change of Plans: The hosts delve into Elon Musk's evolving vision for space travel, as he shifts his focus from colonizing Mars to prioritizing lunar missions. They discuss the logistical challenges of Mars travel and the advantages of a Moon base. - China's Reusable Booster Test: The China Manned Space Agency has successfully tested a reusable booster and a new spacecraft designed for lunar missions. Andrew and Fred analyze the significance of this achievement in the context of the current space race. - Titan's Mysterious Past: The episode concludes with a look at Saturn's moon Titan, which may have formed from a collision between two moons. The hosts explore the implications of this theory and what it means for future exploration of Titan. 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, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite 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. 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/31768142?utm_source=youtube

SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 22 In this episode of SpaceTime , we delve into the formation of the universe's most enigmatic objects, explore the origins of Saturn's iconic rings, and get updates on NASA's Artemis 2 mission. Black Holes and Exotic Cosmic Structures A groundbreaking study suggests that some of the universe's most exotic entities, including black holes and cannibal stars, may have formed just seconds after the Big Bang. Researchers from the International School of Advanced Studies propose that subatomic particles condensed into halos of matter, which then collapsed to create these fascinating cosmic structures. Their findings, published in Physical Review D, indicate that even in the earliest moments of the universe, complex physical phenomena were already taking shape, paving the way for our understanding of cosmic evolution. The Formation of Saturn's Rings New research proposes that Saturn's largest moon, Titan, may have formed from the collision of two older moons, potentially linking this event to the creation of Saturn's spectacular ring system. The study, reported in the Planetary Science Journal, utilizes computer simulations to explore the dynamics of Saturn's moons and their interactions, suggesting that Titan's merger could explain its unique orbit and the age of the rings, estimated to be around 100 million years. NASA's Artemis 2 Mission Update Following the recent scrubbing of the Artemis 2 launch due to hydrogen leaks, NASA has made significant repairs and is preparing for another attempt. Engineers have replaced seals in the mobile launcher's umbilical area and are conducting further testing to ensure the rocket's readiness. With multiple launch windows available in March, the Artemis 2 mission aims to test key systems aboard the Orion spacecraft, setting the stage for future lunar exploration and the eventual return of humans to the Moon. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com/) ✍️ Episode References Physical Review D, Planetary Science Journal Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31768373?utm_source=youtube

S05E43 | February 19, 2026 🚀 Artemis Fuels Up LIVE | Pulsar at Our Galaxy's Heart | Universe's Fate Revealed | City Killer Asteroids | Mercury Tonight! It's a big one today — and we mean that literally. As we record, NASA is fuelling its Artemis II Space Launch System rocket at Kennedy Space Center in a make-or-break second wet dress rehearsal. But that's just the start. We've also got a cosmic discovery that could let us test Einstein's theories like never before, new data suggesting the universe will end in a 'Big Crunch', a sobering warning about thousands of undetected city-killing asteroids, a perfect night to spot Mercury, and a music video filmed in orbit. Welcome to Astronomy Daily. IN THIS EPISODE: • 🚀 Artemis II Wet Dress Rehearsal: NASA loads 700,000+ gallons of cryogenic propellant in its second fuelling test — critical step toward a March 6 crewed launch around the Moon • 🌌 Pulsar Near Sagittarius A*: Columbia University & Breakthrough Listen detect a candidate millisecond pulsar spinning at 8.19ms next to our galaxy's supermassive black hole — a potential new test of General Relativity • 💥 Big Crunch Theory: Cornell physicist Henry Tye uses fresh DESI and DES dark energy data to calculate the universe has a ~33 billion year total lifespan — challenging the 'Big Freeze' consensus • ☄️ City Killer Asteroids: NASA's Planetary Defense Officer warns 25,000 mid-sized asteroids capable of devastating cities orbit near Earth — and we've only found 40% of them • 🔭 Mercury Tonight: The innermost planet reaches greatest eastern elongation — your best evening viewing chance of 2026. Look west after sunset! • 🎵 Space Music Video: China's Shenzhou 21 crew celebrate the Year of the Horse with a music video filmed aboard Tiangong Space Station Follow NASA's Artemis II live stream at nasa.gov | Follow us @AstroDailyPod 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31753066?utm_source=youtube

SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 21 In this episode of SpaceTime , we explore intriguing revelations about the search for life on Mars, the surprising effects of Saturn's moon Enceladus on its planet, and the monumental volcanic events that reshaped Earth's tectonic landscape. Life on Mars: A New Perspective Recent findings suggest that non-biological processes cannot fully explain the organic compounds found in Martian regolith samples collected by NASA's Curiosity rover. Published in the journal Astrobiology, the study indicates that life may have contributed to some of these compounds, challenging previous assumptions. The research involved evaluating potential non-biological sources and concluded that the abundance of organics on Mars could hint at past life, sparking renewed interest in the Red Planet's potential habitability. Enceladus' Electromagnetic Influence A fascinating study reveals that Saturn's icy moon Enceladus trails a wake of electromagnetic ripples extending over half a million kilometers, significantly influencing its giant host planet. Data from NASA's Cassini mission demonstrated how Enceladus' geysers contribute to energy and momentum circulation within Saturn's magnetic environment, marking a crucial discovery about the moon's role in the Saturnian system. Earth's Volcanic History New research highlights how Earth's largest volcanic event, associated with the Ontong Java Plateau, dramatically altered a major tectonic plate. The findings suggest that extensive volcanic activity led to significant physiochemical modifications within the oceanic plate, enhancing our understanding of plate formation processes and the environmental impacts of such massive eruptions. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com/) ✍️ Episode References Astrobiology, Geophysical Research Space Physics, Geophysical Research Letters Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31744215?utm_source=youtube

Episode: S05E42 — Wednesday, February 18, 2026 Hosts: Anna & Avery Network: Bitesz.com Podcast Network In today's episode of Astronomy Daily, Anna and Avery cover six unmissable stories from across the cosmos. Here's what we're talking about in S05E42: 1. Artemis II Wet Dress Rehearsal Round Two NASA begins fuelling the SLS moon rocket tomorrow (Feb 19) for a second critical practice countdown. Engineers have replaced two seals and a filter after hydrogen leaks forced the February launch window to be abandoned. A clean test is required before NASA will commit to a launch date — currently no earlier than March 6. The four-person crew includes Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen, each of whom will make history on the flight. 2. Moon Occults Mercury Tonight — Plus a Ganymede Transit Tonight, February 18, a thin crescent Moon passes so close to Mercury that observers in Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Georgia will see the Moon hide Mercury in a rare occultation. For everyone else, a stunning close conjunction is visible in the western sky just after sunset. Simultaneously, Jupiter's moon Ganymede transits the gas giant's face through the night. Two events, one evening. 3. Ariane 6 Launches Amazon Kuiper Satellites Europe's most powerful Ariane 6 configuration successfully launched 32 satellites for Amazon's Project Kuiper broadband constellation today — a direct competitor to SpaceX's Starlink. The launch highlights both the commercial ambitions of Amazon's internet satellite programme and the ongoing resurgence of European launch capability. 4. 3I/ATLAS Update: JUICE Data Downlinking Now ESA's JUICE spacecraft is currently transmitting data it collected on interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS back to Earth — the downlink window runs February 18–20. If successful, this would be the closest-ever spacecraft observations of an interstellar object. Meanwhile, 3I/ATLAS heads toward a close Jupiter flyby in March that may trigger fresh outbursts. 5. How Titan Formed — And Why Saturn Has Rings New research from the SETI Institute proposes a single ancient catastrophe that explains multiple Saturn mysteries at once: a moon called proto-Hyperion collided with proto-Titan about 400 million years ago. The merger debris re-accreted into Saturn's inner moons and left behind the iconic ring system. The hypothesis also explains Saturn's unusual axial tilt, Iapetus's orbital inclination, and the surprising youth of Titan's surface. 6. Russia's 30-Day Mars Engine Rosatom's Troitsk Institute is ground-testing a nuclear-powered magnetoplasma engine that its developers claim could reach Mars in 30 days — compared to 8 months for chemical rockets. With a plasma exhaust velocity of 100 km/s, the system is part of a global race toward deep-space plasma propulsion also being pursued by NASA's VASIMR programme and Chinese researchers. A flight prototype is targeted for 2030. Follow & Connect 🌐 astronomydaily.io 📱 @AstroDailyPod 🎙️ Available on all major podcast platforms 📺 YouTube — optimised for mobile viewing Astronomy Daily is part of the Bitesz.com Podcast Network. 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31733029?utm_source=youtube

Astronomy Daily — S05E41 | Tuesday 17 February 2026 Ring of Fire, Farewell Comet, and the Smell of Rotten Eggs in Space Two celestial events happen TODAY — an annular solar eclipse transforms the Antarctic Sun into a ring of fire, and a rare hyperbolic comet makes its closest pass to Earth before leaving the solar system forever. Plus, JWST uses the smell of rotten eggs to solve a major exoplanet mystery, NASA performs a CT scan on the northern lights, a startup plans to fuel rockets with water, and we preview why 2026 is the dawn of a golden age of eclipses. In This Episode: • Ring of Fire solar eclipse over Antarctica — happening today, February 17, with up to 96% of the Sun covered and a 616km-wide path of annularity • Comet Wierzchoś (C/2024 E1) makes its closest approach to Earth today at 151 million km — a one-way trip out of the solar system, never to return • JWST detects hydrogen sulfide in giant exoplanets orbiting HR 8799, proving they formed like planets, not brown dwarfs — published in Nature Astronomy • NASA’s BADASS and GNEISS twin rocket missions launch from Alaska to “CT scan” the electrical circuitry of the aurora • General Galactic, led by ex-SpaceX engineer Halen Mattison, reveals plan to make rocket fuel from water — satellite test in October 2026 • 2026: A golden age of eclipses begins — total lunar eclipse March 3, total solar eclipse over Europe August 12, and much more ahead Hosted by: Anna & Avery Produced by: Huw at Bitesz.com Website: astronomydaily.io Social: @AstroDailyPod across all platforms Network: Bitesz.com Podcast Network 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31717508?utm_source=youtube

In this episode of SpaceTime , we dive into groundbreaking research revealing the true composition of the Earth's core, explore new insights into solar neutrinos, and uncover the complexities of Martian volcanoes. Earth's Core Contains Vast Hydrogen Reservoir A recent study published in Nature Communications indicates that Earth's core may hold up to 45 oceans' worth of hydrogen, challenging the long-held belief that water on our planet primarily came from asteroids and comets. Utilizing advanced laboratory techniques, researchers simulated the extreme conditions of the core to uncover its surprising hydrogen content, suggesting a significant internal source of water far beyond previous estimates. Neutrinos from the Sun's Core A new dark matter experiment has successfully detected neutrinos originating from the Sun's core, marking a significant milestone in our understanding of these elusive particles. The LZ experiment at the Sanford Underground Research Facility captured signals from Brian 8 solar neutrinos, providing valuable data on solar processes and setting new limits for dark matter research. This breakthrough highlights the potential of neutrino studies in unraveling the mysteries of both dark matter and stellar dynamics. Complexity of Martian Volcanoes New findings published in Geology reveal that young Martian volcanoes are far more complex than previously thought. Researchers have discovered that these volcanoes were shaped by long-lasting and evolving magma systems rather than single eruptions. By analyzing surface features and mineral compositions from orbit, scientists have reconstructed the intricate eruptive history of these volcanic systems, shedding light on the Red Planet's geological past. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com/) ✍️ Episode References Nature Communications, Geology Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . (00:00:00) New study reveals Earth's core may contain vast amounts of hydrogen (00:08:30) Breakthrough in solar neutrino detection from the Sun's core (00:16:45) Insights into the complex eruptive history of Martian volcanoes (00:25:00) Science report: The link between caffeine consumption and reduced dementia risk (00:32:15) Study on the frequency of passionate love experiences in humans Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31705905?utm_source=youtube

• Crew-12 Docks at ISS — The SpaceX Crew-12 mission docked at the International Space Station on Valentine’s Day, restoring the station to full strength after over a month with a skeleton crew. Astronauts Jessica Meir, Jack Hathaway, Sophie Adenot, and Andrey Fedyaev join Expedition 74 for an eight-month mission. • Artemis 2 Hydrogen Leak Update — NASA’s “confidence test” on the SLS rocket’s repaired hydrogen fueling seals showed mixed but cautiously encouraging results. March remains the earliest potential launch window for humanity’s first crewed mission to the Moon in over 50 years. • Enceladus: Electromagnetic Powerhouse — A major new study of 13 years of Cassini data reveals Saturn’s tiny moon Enceladus generates Alfvén waves extending over 504,000 km, transforming our understanding of how small moons influence giant planetary magnetospheres. • Catching 3I/ATLAS — Researchers from the Initiative for Interstellar Studies propose a Solar Oberth Manoeuvre mission launching in 2035 that could intercept the interstellar comet, currently heading toward Jupiter for its closest pass on March 16. • Geomagnetic Storm Watch — G1 minor storming is likely today as a coronal mass ejection arrives alongside fast solar wind from a returning transequatorial coronal hole. Aurora possible at higher latitudes tonight. • SpaceX Starlink 6-103 — 29 Starlink V2 Mini satellites launched to orbit in the early hours of today, the 10th orbital flight from Cape Canaveral in 2026. LINKS & RESOURCES: • NASA Crew-12 Docking: https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/spacestation/2026/02/14/spacex-crew-12-docks-to-station-beginning-long-duration-mission/ • Artemis 2 Confidence Test Update: https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/missions/2026/02/13/following-confidence-test-nasa-continues-artemis-ii-data-review/ • Enceladus Alfvén Wings Study: https://phys.org/news/2026-02-tiny-enceladus-giant-electromagnetic-saturn.html • 3I/ATLAS Solar Oberth Paper: https://www.universetoday.com/articles/a-new-concept-for-catching-up-with-3iatlas • Space Weather Updates: https://earthsky.org/sun/sun-news-activity-solar-flare-cme-aurora-updates/ • Spaceflight Now Launch Schedule: https://spaceflightnow.com/launch-schedule/ Astronomy Daily is part of the Bitesz.com Podcast Network Website: https://astronomydaily.io Social: @AstroDailyPod 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31696390?utm_source=youtube

Sponsor Link: This episode of Space Nuts is brought to you with the support of NordVPN . When it's time to do something about your online privacy, use the one we trust - NordVPN . To get our special deal visit nordvpn.com/spacenuts (https://nordvpn.com/spacenuts) Dark Matter Theories, Solar Origins, and Black Hole Temperatures In this milestone 600th episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson celebrate with a captivating Q&A session , tackling a variety of thought-provoking questions from listeners around the globe. Prepare to dive deep into the mysteries of the universe as they explore intriguing theories and concepts that challenge our understanding of cosmology. Episode Highlights: - Dark Matter and Dark Energy: Daryl from South Australia presents a unique theory suggesting a connection between dark matter and dark energy, likening them to opposites with gravitational effects. Andrew and Fred dissect this idea and discuss the fundamental differences between these two cosmic phenomena. - Where Was the Sun Born? Slaty Bartfast from Norway asks if we could see the Sun's birth by pointing a telescope at its historical coordinates. The hosts explain why this wouldn’t yield any observable results and discuss the concept of solar siblings born in the same gas cloud. - Black Hole Temperatures: Bjorn from Gothenburg seeks clarification on the temperature of black holes and the material that spirals into them. Andrew and Fred clarify how the extreme heat of accreting material contrasts with the near-absolute zero temperature of the black hole itself. - The Expansion of Space: Peter from Falun poses a complex question about the nature of space and time in an expanding universe. The hosts unravel the intricacies of how our measurements of distance and time are affected by the universe's expansion. 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, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite 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. 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/31689187?utm_source=youtube

Happy Valentine's Day from Astronomy Daily! The cosmos has pulled out all the stops today — from astronauts docking at the space station to a dying star sending the universe a literal heart-shaped Valentine. Plus, the ring of fire eclipse countdown, why eclipses always arrive in pairs, a comet that flipped its spin, a six-planet parade to look forward to, and a chance of aurora tonight. In this episode: 🚀 SpaceX Crew-12 launched yesterday and docks at the ISS today — a Valentine's Day arrival to end a month of skeleton-crew operations 🌑 Just 3 days until the "ring of fire" annular solar eclipse over Antarctica on February 17th 🌒 Why eclipses come in pairs: eclipse seasons explained — and 2026 has four eclipses across two spectacular seasons 💖 A dying star's cosmic Valentine: Mira A ejects a heart-shaped cloud of gas and dust 300 light-years from Earth ☄️ Comet 41P stuns scientists by flipping its rotation direction — what's behind this mysterious spin reversal? 🪐 Six-planet parade coming February 28 — Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Uranus and Neptune line up at a civilised hour 🌌 Bonus: Possible Valentine's Day aurora from geomagnetic activity tonight Website: https://astronomydaily.io Social: @AstroDailyPod on all platforms Part of the Bitesz.com podcast network 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31674495?utm_source=youtube

Today on Astronomy Daily: Astronomers have witnessed something extraordinary in the Andromeda Galaxy — a massive star that simply vanished, collapsing into a brand-new black hole without the usual supernova fireworks. We cover the SpaceX Crew-12 launch to the ISS, Europe's powerful Ariane 64 flying for the first time with Amazon satellites aboard, another booster anomaly for ULA's Vulcan rocket, a bizarre inside-out planetary system that defies formation models, and NASA's plan to rescue the Swift observatory from orbital decay. Timestamped Chapters 00:00 — Welcome to Astronomy Daily 01:30 — SpaceX Crew-12 launches to the ISS 04:00 — Star vanishes in Andromeda — a black hole is born 08:30 — Europe's Ariane 64 flies for the first time 10:30 — Vulcan rocket suffers repeat booster anomaly 13:00 — The bizarre inside-out planetary system of LHS 1903 15:30 — NASA's Swift observatory fights for survival 17:30 — Sign-off and how to stay connected Key Links • NASA Crew-12 Blog: nasa.gov/blogs/commercialcrew • Vanishing Star Study (Science): doi.org/10.1126/science.adt4853 • Inside-Out Planet Study (Science): doi.org/10.1126/science.adl2348 • NASA Swift Observatory: nasa.gov/swift • Show Website: astronomydaily.io • Social Media: @AstroDailyPod on all platforms 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31657241?utm_source=youtube

Sponsor Link: This episode of SpaceTime is brought to with the help of Squarespace . When it's time to get online, you need Suarespace to make you look professional. To get the Spacetime special offer simply visit www.squarespace.com/spacetime (https://squarespace.com/spacetime) or use the code SPACETIME at checkout. SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 19 In this episode of SpaceTime , we explore astonishing discoveries in astrophysics, planetary science, and aerospace engineering. Astronomers Observe Possible Black Hole Explosion Astronomers are investigating what could be the first ever observation of a black hole explosion. A recent study published in Physical Review Letters suggests that the mysterious high-energy neutrino detected in 2023 may have originated from a quasi-extremal primordial black hole. This type of black hole, theorized to exist since the Big Bang, could explain the otherwise unexplainable energy levels of the neutrino and potentially unlock the secrets of dark matter and the fundamental nature of the universe. Mars' Dust Storms and Water Loss New research published in Communications Earth and Environment reveals that localized dust storms on Mars may play a significant role in the planet's water loss. While Mars is currently a dry desert, evidence from its surface indicates a wetter past. The study shows that intense dust storms can transport water vapor to higher altitudes, facilitating its escape into space, thus contributing to the long-standing mystery of Martian water depletion. Plasma Daniel for Hypersonic Testing A groundbreaking facility known as the plasma tunnel is now being used by scientists and engineers to simulate the extreme conditions spacecraft face during atmospheric reentry. The plasma tunnel generates high-speed plasma flows that mimic the intense heat and pressure experienced during reentry, providing critical data for developing safer and more efficient spacecraft. This innovative technology could revolutionize our understanding of hypersonic flight and enhance mission safety for future space exploration. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com/) ✍️ Episode References Physical Review Letters, Communications Earth and Environment Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . (00:00:00) Astronomers investigate a potential black hole explosion (00:07:15) New study reveals how dust storms on Mars contribute to water loss (00:15:30) The plasma tunnel: recreating atmospheric reentry conditions (00:22:45) Science report: Genetic factors influencing life expectancy (00:30:00) Bigfoot sightings and cultural phenomena in America Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31653798?utm_source=youtube

Sponsor Link: www.incogni.com/spacenuts (https://incogni.com/spacenuts) Cosmic Dust in a Jar, Volcanic Eruptions on Io, and the Quest for Intelligent Life In this exciting episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson delve into a series of captivating cosmic stories that will spark your imagination. From the groundbreaking creation of cosmic dust in a lab to the simultaneous volcanic eruptions on Jupiter's moon Io, this episode is a treasure trove of astronomical insights. Episode Highlights: - Cosmic Dust in a Jar: A Sydney PhD student has synthesized cosmic dust in a laboratory setting. Andrew and Fred discuss the implications of this breakthrough for our understanding of how complex organic molecules form in space, and whether this could reduce the need for future space missions to gather samples from asteroids. - Simultaneous Volcanic Eruptions on Io: The hosts explore the extraordinary event of five volcanoes erupting at once on Io, revealing insights into the moon’s geological activity. They discuss the gravitational forces at play and how this discovery challenges previous theories about Io's solid interior. - Follow the Coal to Find Intelligent Life: A new theory suggests that the presence of coal may be a key factor in the development of intelligent civilizations. Andrew and Fred unpack the idea that access to natural resources could influence technological advancement, raising questions about the rarity of intelligent life in the universe. 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, Instagram, and more. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite 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. 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/31653308?utm_source=youtube

In today's episode of Astronomy Daily, Anna and Avery unpack six major space stories. China has achieved a crucial milestone in its crewed lunar programme, successfully testing the Mengzhou capsule's abort system at maximum dynamic pressure while also demonstrating SpaceX-style rocket recovery with the Long March 10 first stage. ULA's Vulcan Centaur rocket is set to launch its longest mission yet, delivering GSSAP space surveillance satellites directly to geosynchronous orbit for the US Space Force. We explain why NASA's Artemis 2 Moon mission has remarkably few launch opportunities — just 11 dates across March and April — and what orbital mechanics, solar power constraints, and hydrogen leaks have to do with it. In astronomy news, NASA's Hubble Space Telescope has produced its clearest image yet of the Egg Nebula, a pre-planetary nebula offering a rare glimpse of a Sun-like star in its death throes. A provocative new study in the journal Astrobiology argues that the 1976 Viking missions may have detected signs of Martian life after all, with perchlorates masking the organic signatures. And finally, astronomers continue searching for remnants of Comet C/2019 Y4 ATLAS, which spectacularly disintegrated during the 2020 pandemic — but may not be entirely gone. Timestamps [00:00] Introduction [01:30] China's Mengzhou capsule abort test & Long March 10 rocket recovery [05:30] ULA Vulcan USSF-87 launch — GSSAP satellites for Space Force [08:30] Artemis 2 launch windows — why only 11 chances in 2 months [11:30] Hubble's stunning Egg Nebula image — a dying star's final act [14:00] Did NASA's Viking missions find life on Mars? New evidence says maybe [16:30] The mystery of 'dead' Comet ATLAS — could fragments survive? [18:00] Sign-off 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31642585?utm_source=youtube

Four astronauts are stuck in quarantine in Florida as weather keeps pushing back the Crew-12 launch — now targeting no earlier than Friday, February 13. We've got the full story, including the remarkable subplot involving a Russian cosmonaut who was quietly removed from the mission in December. Plus: interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS is on its way out of the solar system forever, but new data from NASA's SPHEREx and James Webb telescopes reveals it's been carrying a chemical cocktail from another star system — one that's unlike anything we've seen in our own comets. Also in today's episode: NASA let an AI drive the Perseverance rover on Mars for two days straight; new research suggests Earth may have hit a rare chemical jackpot during formation that made life possible; the Ring of Fire solar eclipse is just one week away; and Starship is back on track after the Booster 18 disaster, with Flight 12 targeting a March launch window. In This Episode • SpaceX Crew-12: Three launch scrubs, skeleton ISS crew, and the cosmonaut spy subplot • 3I/ATLAS farewell: SPHEREx detects alien chemistry; JWST finds record CO2-to-water ratio • AI drives Perseverance on Mars — 456 metres without human control • Earth's lucky chemistry: why phosphorus and nitrogen almost didn't make it to the surface • Ring of Fire annular solar eclipse — February 17 over Antarctica • Starship Flight 12: Booster 19 passes cryo tests, March launch window in sight Key Links • Full show notes & blog: astronomydaily.io • NASA Crew-12 mission blog: nasa.gov • NASA SPHEREx 3I/ATLAS data: science.nasa.gov • Universe Today — AI drives Perseverance: universetoday.com • Nature Astronomy — Earth habitability study: nature.com Subscribe & Connect Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. New episode every weekday. Full transcripts, blog posts and show notes at 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) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31620158?utm_source=youtube