S03E113: Mars Microbe Fossils & Twin Meteor Showers

Welcome to Astronomy Daily, the podcast where we delve into the latest and greatest in space and astronomy. I'm your host, Steve Dunkley, and today we've got a stellar lineup of stories that will take you from Mars to the Moon and beyond. Let's dive into the cosmos.

• Perseverance's Potential Fossil Discovery: NASA's Perseverance rover has made a groundbreaking discovery on Mars, potentially unearthing microbe fossils in a rock named Chevre Falls. This could be the most compelling evidence yet of ancient life on the Red Planet.
• - Mercury's Diamond Mantle: New research suggests that Mercury may have a 15-kilometre thick layer of solid diamond beneath its crust. This discovery could revolutionise our understanding of the planet's formation and evolution.
• - Moon Cave for Human Habitation: Scientists have discovered a massive cave on the Moon, which could serve as a potential shelter for future lunar bases. This cave, located in the Mare Tranquillitatis, offers natural protection from cosmic rays and temperature extremes.
• - Twin Meteor Showers: Stargazers are in for a treat with the upcoming twin meteor showers, the Alpha Capricornids and the Southern Delta Aquariids, peaking next week. This rare celestial event will be best viewed from the Southern Hemisphere.
• - Space Force and Private Sector Collaboration: Akema's subsidiary, Five Rivers Analytics, has secured a $480 million contract to support the US Space Force's satellite control network. This partnership aims to enhance national defence and intelligence operations.
• - Sierra Space's Inflatable Space Module: Sierra Space has successfully completed another burst test on its inflatable space module, a key component of the future commercial space station, Orbital Reef. This innovation promises to revolutionise space habitation and commercialisation.
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