Astronomy Daily - The Podcast: S03E163Welcome to Astronomy Daily, your source for the latest space and Astronomy news. I'm your host, Anna, and today we'll be covering a range of exciting topics, from SpaceX's ambitious Mars plans to new discoveries about our galaxy's magnetic halo. Strap in for a cosmic journey as we explore the frontiers of space exploration and scientific discovery.Highlights:- SpaceX's Mars Missions: Elon Musk has announced that SpaceX aims to launch approximately five uncrewed starship missions to Mars within the next two years. These missions align with the upcoming Earth-Mars transfer window and will be crucial in determining the timeline for future crewed expeditions. If successful, the first crewed missions could launch in as little as four years.- FAA Fine Against SpaceX: The Federal Aviation Administration has proposed a $633,000 fine against SpaceX for violating agency rules. This has sparked a debate about safety practices in the private space industry. FAA administrator Mike Whitaker emphasized the need for rigorous safety management systems, while SpaceX disputes the claims, asserting their commitment to safety.- Milky Way's Magnetic Halo: Scientists have discovered a magnetic halo surrounding our Milky Way galaxy, stretching 16,000 light years beyond the galactic plane. This finding, led by the National Institute for Astrophysics, reveals magnetized structures connected to the Eroceta bubbles and provides new insights into galactic growth processes.- SpaceX Crew-9 Mission Delay: The Crew-9 mission to the International Space Station has been delayed due to Tropical Storm Helene. Originally planned for Thursday, the launch is now tentatively set for Stuart at 1:17 PM Eastern. Preparations continue, with safety remaining the top priority.- ESA's Draco Mission: The European Space Agency is preparing for the Draco mission, aimed at understanding the final moments of a satellite's life during reentry. This mission will collect crucial data on temperature, pressure, and strain, enhancing future satellite designs and space debris mitigation strategies.- WASP-107b Atmospheric Discovery: Using NASA's James Webb Space Telescope, astronomers have observed an east-west asymmetry in the atmosphere of the exoplanet WASP-107b. This discovery is crucial for understanding the climate and atmospheric dynamics of worlds beyond our solar system.For more space news, be sure to visit our website at astronomydaily.io. There you can sign up for our free Daily newsletter, catch up on all the latest space and Astronomy news with our constantly updating newsfeed, and listen to all our back episodes.Don't forget to follow us on social media. Just search for #AstroDailyPod on Facebook, X, YouTubeMusic, and TikTok.Thank you for tuning in. This is Anna signing off. Until next time, keep looking up and stay curious about the wonders of our universe.Sponsor Links:NordVPNNordPassMalwarebytesProton MailOld Glory - Iconic Music and Sports Fan MerchBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support.

Astronomy Daily - The Podcast: S03E162Welcome to Astronomy Daily, your source for the latest space and Astronomy news. I'm your host, Anna. And we've got an exciting lineup of stories for you today. From innovative methods to protect our planet from potential asteroid impacts to groundbreaking discoveries on the surface of Mars, we'll be exploring the cutting edge of space exploration and research. We'll also be catching up with astronauts returning from the International Space Station, looking ahead to upcoming missions, and even delving into some cosmic history that might have affected Earth's climate millions of years ago. Strap in and get ready for a journey across the solar system and beyond as we bring you up to speed on the most fascinating developments in Astronomy and space science.Highlights:- Asteroid Deflection with X-rays: In a groundbreaking development, scientists have proposed a new method to protect our planet from potential asteroid impacts. A recent study published in Nature Physics suggests that powerful x-rays could be an effective way to divert asteroids on collision courses with Earth. Researchers from Sandia National Laboratories in the USA conducted lab-based experiments firing x-ray pulses at small rock samples, mimicking the effects of x-rays generated by nuclear explosions in space. This method could potentially steer asteroids up to 4 km in diameter away from Earth, offering a faster and more cost-effective alternative to other proposed strategies.- NASA Astronauts Return: In a triumphant return from the cosmos, NASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson and her two crewmates have safely touched down on Earth after an incredible 184-day journey in space. The Soyuz MS-25 spacecraft made a picture-perfect landing on the steppes of Kazakhstan. Cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko set an all-time record with a cumulative 1011 Daily in space across five missions. This mission exemplifies ongoing international cooperation in space exploration.- SpaceX Crew-9 Mission: NASA and SpaceX are gearing up for an exciting milestone in their ongoing partnership. The Crew-9 mission to the International Space Station is set to launch this Thursday from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. Featuring booster B085 on its second flight, the Falcon 9 rocket will carry the Crew Dragon spacecraft named Freedom. NASA's Tyler Nick Haig and Roscosmos cosmonaut Alexander Gorbunov will be the only two astronauts on board. Weather permitting, liftoff is targeted for 02:05 p.m. Eastern time on Thursday.- Perseverance Rover's Martian Discovery: NASA's Perseverance rover has made an intriguing discovery on Mars, spotting a rock nicknamed Freya Castle with striking black and white stripes. This rock's texture is completely different from anything previously observed in Jezero Crater, suggesting it may have rolled down from a higher location. This discovery could provide new information about Mars' geological history and processes.- MAVEN's Decade of Exploration: NASA's MAVEN spacecraft has reached an incredible milestone, celebrating a decade of exploration in Mars' upper atmosphere. MAVEN has revealed how solar storms increase atmospheric erosion, transforming Mars from a potentially habitable world to the cold, arid planet we see today. The spacecraft has also identified a new type of aurora on Mars and provided invaluable insights into Mars' climate history.- Earth's Journey Through Interstellar Clouds: Researchers have calculated that Earth and our entire solar system may have passed through two dense interstellar clouds approximately two and seven million years ago. These cosmic encounters could have compressed our heliosphere, exposing Earth more directly to the interstellar medium and potentially altering our planet's climate. Such events could have led to an increase in hydrogen levels and the formation of global noctilucent clouds, possibly plunging Earth into an ice age.For more space news, be sure to visit our website at astronomydaily.io. There you can sign up for our free Daily newsletter, catch up on all the latest space and Astronomy news with our constantly updating newsfeed, and listen to all our back episodes.Don't forget to follow us on social media, too. Just search for #AstroDailyPod on Facebook, X, YouTubeMusic, and TikTok to stay connected with us between episodes.Thank you so much for tuning in today. Keep your eyes on the stars, and we'll see you next time on Astronomy Daily.Sponsor Links:NordVPNNordPassMalwarebytesProton MailOld Glory - Iconic Music and Sports Fan MerchBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support.

Astronomy AstroDailyPod - The Podcast: 23rd September 2024Welcome to another episode of Astronomy AstroDailyPod, your ultimate source for the latest Space and Astronomy news. I'm your host, Steve Dunkley, and today we have a fascinating lineup of stories from the Astronomy AstroDailyPod newsletter. From insights into Jupiter's Great Red Spot and moonquakes, to China's latest satellite launch and discoveries at the edge of the solar system, we've got it all covered. Let's dive in!Highlights:- Jupiter's Great Red Spot: A new study suggests that Jupiter's iconic Great Red Spot, visible for at least 190 years, is not the same one observed by astronomer Giovanni Domenico Cassini in 1665. The current spot likely formed from an instability in Jupiter's atmospheric winds, creating a persistent atmospheric cell. This research, published in Geophysical Research Letters, used historical observations and numerical models to explore the longevity and nature of this massive atmospheric vortex.- China's Satellite Launch: China successfully launched two new satellites as part of its Buddy navigation satellite system. Carried by a Long March 3B rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre, these satellites are equipped with upgraded atomic clock systems and new inter-satellite data links. The Buddy network, China's largest civilian satellite system, now has over 50 active satellites, providing global positioning and navigation services.- Moonquakes and Lunar Exploration: As NASA prepares for more missions to the lunar surface, new research indicates that potential landing sites at the moon's south pole might be susceptible to quakes and landslides. The study, based on data from Apollo-era seismometers, highlights the need for lunar design criteria to address these seismic hazards. The findings could influence the planning and construction of habitats and infrastructure on the moon.- Kuiper Belt Discoveries: NASA's New Horizons Kuiper Belt search Timms reports the detection of an unexpected population of distant bodies in the Kuiper Belt, stretching almost 90 times as far from the sun as Earth. This discovery suggests that the Kuiper Belt may be larger than previously thought or that there is a second Kuiper Belt beyond the one discovered in the 1990s. The findings could challenge current models of the solar system's formation.- NASA's Lunar Navigation Challenge: NASA is seeking innovative solutions to help Artemis astronauts navigate the lunar south pole. The Lunar Navigation Challenge invites individuals and teams to design a low-tech backup navigational device for astronauts and creative solutions for mapping the bottom of Shackleton Crater. The challenge aims to address the unique orienteering difficulties posed by the lunar south pole's extreme light and shadows.For more Space news, be sure to visit our website at astronomydaily.io. There you can sign up for our free AstroDailyPod newsletter and explore our constantly updating news feed. Don't forget to check out all our previous episodes on the website as well.And if you want even more Astronomy AstroDailyPod content, find us on social media. Just search for #AstroDailyPod on facebook, X, YouTubeMusic, and TikTok.Thanks for listening, and remember to keep looking up.Sponsor Links:NordVPNNordPassMalwarebytesProton MailOld Glory - Iconic Music & Sports Fand MerchBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support.

Astronomy Daily - The Podcast: 21st September 2024Welcome to Astronomy Daily, your go-to source for the latest space and Astronomy news. I'm your host, Anna, and today we have an episode packed with groundbreaking stories. From India's ambitious new space projects and SpaceX's plans to catch Starship, to exciting discoveries about water on the moon, groundbreaking observations from a new X-ray telescope, and concerns about satellite interference with radio Astronomy. Let's dive right in!Highlights:- India's Space Ambitions: India has greenlit an ambitious slate of space projects, allocating a substantial $2.7 billion to push the boundaries of its space capabilities. At the forefront is the Chandrayaan IV mission, a bold lunar sample return effort targeting the moon's south pole. Equally exciting is the Shukrayan mission, India's first Venus orbiter, now targeted for 2028. Perhaps most ambitious is the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), India's first space station module, slated for launch by the end of 2028 with full operational status expected by 2035. These projects highlight India's growing expertise and determination to become a key player in the global space arena.- SpaceX's Starship Catching Plans: SpaceX is gearing up for another groundbreaking achievement with its upcoming Starship test flight. The company plans to catch the massive Super Heavy first stage booster using the chopstick arms of the launch tower at their Starbase facility in Texas. This ambitious maneuver, if successful, would take rocket reusability to the next level, dramatically reducing turnaround time between flights. Regulatory reviews have delayed the launch, but the FAA is expected to complete its assessment by late November.- Chinese Reusable Rocket Technology: Chinese private space companies, Deep Blue Aerospace and Landspace, are making significant strides in developing reusable rocket technology. Both firms have conducted impressive high-altitude hop tests with their prototype vehicles, aiming to develop fully reusable orbital launchers. These tests represent significant progress for China's commercial space sector, working towards cost-effective reusable launch capabilities.- Abundant Water on the Moon: New research reveals that water is far more abundant on the moon than previously thought. Data from NASA's Moon Mineralogy Mapper shows that water and hydroxyl molecules are widespread across the lunar surface, not just confined to the poles. This discovery opens up possibilities for more flexible mission planning and could reduce the need to transport water from Earth, making long-term lunar missions more sustainable.- XRISM's Groundbreaking Observations: Japan's X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy Mission (XRISM) has unveiled its first results, capturing stunning observations of a supermassive black hole in galaxy NGC 4151 and a supernova remnant in the Large Magellanic Cloud. These observations are revolutionizing our understanding of the X-ray universe, with over 3000 proposals submitted for future studies.- Satellite Interference with Radio Astronomy: New research reveals that SpaceX's second-generation V2 mini Starlink satellites are emitting up to 32 times more radio waves than their predecessors, posing a significant threat to radio Astronomy. This underscores the urgent need for dialogue between the Astronomy community and satellite companies to find solutions that allow both Internet access and scientific research to coexist.For more space news, be sure to visit our website at astronomydaily.io. There you can sign up for our free Daily newsletter, catch up on all the latest stories with our constantly updating newsfeed, and listen to all our past episodes.Don't forget to follow us on social media. Just search for #AstroDailyPod on Facebook, X, YouTubeMusic, and TikTok.Thank you for tuning in. This is Anna signing off. Until next time, keep looking up.Sponsor Links:NordVPNNordPassMalwarebytesProton MailOld Glory - Iconic Music & Sports Fan Merch Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support.

Astronomy Daily - The Podcast: 20th September 2024Welcome to Astronomy Daily, your source for the latest space and Astronomy news. I'm your host, Anna, and today we'll be covering a range of exciting topics, from SpaceX's clash with the FAA to new discoveries in galaxy clusters. Plus, I have a couple of stories on how you can help contribute to science projects in progress. Get ready for a cosmic journey through the headlines that are shaping our understanding of the universe.Highlights:- SpaceX vs. FAA: In a bold move, SpaceX is vehemently rejecting the Federal Aviation Administration's recent allegations of launch requirement violations. The FAA has slapped the company with a hefty $633,000 fine. But SpaceX isn't taking this lying down. The space giant argues that the FAA is falling behind the rapidly evolving commercial spaceflight industry. They claim the agency is struggling to keep up with the pace of innovation and is misallocating its limited resources. SpaceX's vice president for legal affairs, David Harris, sent a strongly worded letter to congressional committees overseeing the FAA. In it, he asserted that the company forcefully rejects the FAA's assertion that it violated any regulations. This clash highlights the growing tensions between traditional regulatory bodies and the new wave of private space companies pushing the boundaries of exploration. As the commercial space race heats up, it seems the rulebook might need some updating to match the speed of progress.- NASA's Next-Gen Eclipse Mapping: NASA has taken eclipse mapping to a whole new level. With their latest development, they've created a process that generates incredibly accurate eclipse maps by incorporating lunar topography data from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. This is a game changer for both astronomers and eclipse enthusiasts. Traditionally, eclipse calculations assumed a smooth, symmetrical moon and didn't account for Earth's varying elevations. But now NASA's new method factors in the moon's actual cratered and uneven surface, as well as the true altitude of locations on Earth. The result? We can now see the real-time varying shape of the moon's shadow as it passes over our planet. It turns out the shadow isn't a smooth oval as previously thought. It's more like a potato. This irregularity is caused by the mountains and valleys along the edge of the moon's disk, which can affect the timing and duration of totality by several seconds. This level of detail is unprecedented and provides valuable information for scientific studies and eclipse predictions. It's a testament to how far our understanding and technology have come, allowing us to map these celestial events with extraordinary precision.- Chandra X-ray Observatory Discovery: In a cosmic dance of hot gas and galaxies, NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory has made a fascinating discovery in the Zwicky 8338 galaxy cluster. Located about 670 million light years from Earth, this cluster is home to an extraordinary phenomenon: two streams of superheated gas crossing each other. This celestial spectacle involves a comet-like tail of hot gas trailing behind a galaxy, spanning an impressive 1.6 million light years. As the galaxy plows through the cluster, it's leaving behind this enormous tail, which has split into two distinct streams. What makes this discovery particularly intriguing is that it's not the only set of tails in the cluster. Astronomers had previously observed a shorter pair of tails from a different galaxy nearby. The crossing of these gas streams is providing valuable insights into how cosmic collisions can shape the structure of galaxy clusters and potentially trigger the formation of new stars. This chaotic landscape of galaxies, superheated gas, and shock waves is a result of two galaxy clusters colliding to create Zwicky 8338. It's a cosmic laboratory that's helping astronomers understand the complex dynamics at play in these massive celestial structures.- Citizen Science and Light Pollution: In an effort to combat the growing issue of light pollution, researchers have developed an innovative and cost-effective solution. They've created an inexpensive sensor designed to track light pollution on a global scale. This project isn't just about scientific data collection; it's a call to action for citizen scientists worldwide. The sensors, which can be built using readily available components for under $65, are capable of measuring night sky brightness caused by artificial light. By encouraging people around the world to construct and install these devices, the researchers hope to create a comprehensive, real-time map of light pollution. This grassroots approach serves a dual purpose. Not only will it provide valuable data for scientists, but it also aims to raise public awareness about the detrimental effects of light pollution, from disrupting ecosystems and wildlife behavior to interfering with astronomical observations. The impact of excessive artificial light is far-reaching. By participating in this project, citizen scientists can contribute to our understanding of light pollution spread and help inform strategies to mitigate its effects. It's a powerful example of how technology and community engagement can come together to address a global environmental challenge. To find out more about the project visit https://gaia4sustainability.eu/gaia-4-sustainability/ and find the instructions to build your own sensor here: https://gitlab.citic.udc.es/lia2-publico/g4s/-/wikis/FreeDSM/Components - The Hunt for Arrokoth: One of the most exciting astronomical hunts of the past decade, the search for Arrokoth, is a testament to human perseverance and ingenuity. After New Horizons' successful flyby of Pluto in 2015, scientists were eager to extend the mission but faced the challenge of finding a suitable target in the vast, unexplored Kuiper Belt. For nearly ten years, astronomers scoured the outer solar system, developing new tools and techniques along the way. They used ground-based telescopes, citizen science efforts, and even the Hubble Space Telescope in their quest. Finally, in 2014, they struck gold with the discovery of Arrokoth. This small, oddly shaped world became New Horizons' second flyby target, visited on New Year's Day 2019. The hunt for Arrokoth not only gave us unprecedented views of a distant Kuiper Belt object but also revolutionized our methods for studying this frontier region of our solar system.- Exoplanet Research and Citizen Science: In an exciting development for exoplanet research, amateur astronomers and citizen scientists have made significant contributions to our understanding of distant worlds. Their efforts have helped refine the orbital parameters of an exoplanet known as WASP-77 ab. This collaborative project, led by researcher Federico R. Noger from Arizona State University, along with teams from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Goddard Space Flight Center, has produced the most precise physical and orbital parameters to date for WASP-77 ab. The study combined data from various citizen science projects, including Exoplanet Watch and ExoClock, as well as professional observations from space telescopes like Spitzer, Hubble, and James Webb. WASP-77 ab is a gas giant exoplanet, slightly larger than Jupiter but orbiting incredibly close to its star. These refined parameters will help astronomers better predict future transit events, crucial for planning spacecraft observations and improving atmospheric models. This success story highlights the power of citizen science in advancing our knowledge of the cosmos. It shows that anyone with a passion for Astronomy can contribute meaningfully to cutting-edge research, bridging the gap between amateur enthusiasts and professional scientists. Want a piece of the action? Join the Exoplanet Watch project and help contribute to cutting-edge exoplanet science. Anyone can participate. Participation does not require citizenship in any particular country. https://exoplanets.nasa.gov/exoplanet-watch/about-exoplanet-watch/overview/For more space news, be sure to visit our website at astronomydaily.io. There you can sign up for our free Daily newsletter, catch up on all the latest space and Astronomy news with our constantly updating newsfeed, and listen to all our back episodes.Don't forget to follow us on social media, too. Just search for #AstroDailyPod on Facebook, X, YouTubeMusic, and TikTok to stay connected with us between episodes.Thank you so much for tuning in today. Keep your eyes on the stars, and we'll see you next time on Astronomy Daily.Sponsor Links:NordVPNNordPassMalwarebytesProton MailOld Glory - Our newest sponsor - Iconic Music and Sports Fan Merch. Check them out - you'll be glad you did.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support.

Astronomy Daily - The Podcast: 19th September 2024Welcome to Astronomy Daily, your go-to Podcast for the latest and most exciting developments in space and Astronomy. I'm your host, Anna, and I'm thrilled to bring you another episode packed with cosmic wonders and scientific breakthroughs. Today, we've got a stellar lineup of stories that will take us from the farthest reaches of the universe to our own cosmic backyard. We'll explore record-setting jets from a distant black hole, witness a dramatic rocket launch abort, celebrate the hidden figures of NASA's past, ponder the possibility of ancient Earth sporting Saturn-like rings, and even discuss the potential for space lasers in planetary defense. So buckle up and prepare for liftoff as we embark on this cosmic journey together.Highlights:- Record-Setting Black Hole Jets: In a groundbreaking discovery, astronomers have detected the largest known jets of energy shooting from a supermassive black hole. These colossal beams extend an astonishing 23 million light years from end to end, dwarfing our entire Milky Way galaxy. The black hole responsible for this cosmic spectacle is located in a galaxy about 7.5 billion light years from Earth. These jets, nicknamed Porphyrion, are made up of subatomic particles and magnetic fields, all moving at nearly the speed of light. This discovery provides valuable insights into how black holes influence their surroundings on a truly enormous scale.- Rocket Lab Launch Abort: Rocket Lab experienced a last-second abort during their latest mission attempt. The company's Electron Rocket was poised to lift off from New Zealand carrying five Internet of Things satellites for the French company Kinéis. However, as the countdown reached zero and the first stage engines ignited, they immediately shut down, resulting in a launch abort. Rocket Lab's team is now assessing options for the next launch attempt within their 14-day launch window.- Honoring NASA's Hidden Figures: In a moving ceremony at the US Capitol, four trailblazing women of NASA were honored with Congressional Gold Medals for their groundbreaking contributions to space exploration. Kathryn Johnson, Dorothy Vaughn, Mary Jackson, and Christine Darden, the hidden figures behind America's space race success, were finally given their well-deserved recognition. This ceremony not only celebrated these four women but also acknowledged the countless others who worked behind the scenes at NASA performing critical calculations before the advent of electronic computers.- Ancient Earth with Rings: A new study suggests that our planet may have once sported a ring system similar to Saturn's about 466 million years ago. Researchers believe that Earth may have captured and destroyed a passing asteroid, creating a debris ring that lasted for tens of millions of years. This ring could have had a major impact on Earth's climate, potentially contributing to the Hernantean Ice Age, the coldest period Earth has experienced in the past 500 million years.- Space Lasers for Planetary Defense: A recent study has explored the idea of deploying laser arrays in space for deflecting potentially hazardous asteroids. The concept, known as Directed Energy Systems for Targeting of Asteroids and Exploration (DE-STAR), involves creating a modular array of lasers powered by solar cells. These space-based lasers could heat the surface of incoming asteroids to about 3000 Kelvin, hot enough to alter their course. While no one is building a DE-STAR array just yet, it's crucial to start thinking about the implications and potential uses of such technology.For more space news, be sure to visit our website at astronomydaily.io. There you can sign up for our free Daily newsletter and explore our constantly updating news feed. Don't forget to check out all our previous episodes on the website as well.And if you want even more Astronomy Daily content, find us on social media. Just search for #AstroDailyPod on Facebook, X, YouTubeMusic, and TikTok.Thanks for listening, and remember to keep looking up.Sponsor Links:NordVPNNordPassMalwarebytesProton MailBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support.

Astronomy Daily - The Podcast: 18th September 2024Welcome to Astronomy Daily, your source for the latest space and Astronomy news. I'm your host, Anna, and we've got an exciting lineup for you today. We'll be diving into recent developments in asteroid detection, exploring NASA's ambitious Europa mission, discussing Earth's upcoming mini moon, recapping the first-ever private spacewalk, and examining the potential for servicing spacecraft at the L2 Lagrange point. Get ready for a cosmic journey as we explore these fascinating topics from across the solar system and beyond.Highlights:- Asteroid Detection Breakthrough: On September 4, astronomers spotted a small asteroid, RW1, just 1 meter in diameter, heading towards Earth. It harmlessly burned up in the atmosphere near the Philippines, creating a spectacular fireball. This event marks only the 9th asteroid ever detected before impact, showcasing our improving ability to spot even small objects. Scientists are working tirelessly to enhance early warning systems, with projects like NASA's Neo Surveyor Infrared Telescope mission and advanced AI algorithms playing crucial roles. Currently, we know of about 36,000 near-Earth objects, but new telescopes like the US Vera Rubin 8.5 meters telescope aim to significantly increase detection rates by 2027.- NASA's Europa Clipper Mission: NASA's upcoming Europa Clipper mission aims to investigate Jupiter's moon Europa, which harbors a vast, salty ocean beneath its icy crust. The mission's primary objective is to determine if Europa possesses the necessary ingredients for life. Scheduled to launch in October 2024, the spacecraft will perform 49 close flybys of Europa, collecting crucial data with its suite of nine advanced scientific instruments. This mission promises to revolutionize our understanding of icy worlds and expand our search for life beyond Earth.- Earth's New Mini Moon: A tiny asteroid known as 2024 PT5 will become Earth's second moon for about two months. Unlike our familiar lunar companion, this mini moon is just passing through, belonging to the Arjuna asteroid belt. It will come within about 2.8 million miles of Earth, traveling at 2200 mph. This celestial visitor represents an interesting astronomical phenomenon, reminding us of the dynamic nature of our solar system.- First Private Spacewalk: The SpaceX Polaris Dawn mission recently achieved the first-ever spacewalk by private astronauts. Mission Commentaor Jared Isaacman and SpaceX engineer Sara Gillis ventured outside their Dragon spacecraft, marking a significant milestone in the private space industry. This groundbreaking spacewalk not only pushes the boundaries of commercial space activities but also contributes to the development of SpaceX's next-generation space suit, paving the way for future advancements in space exploration.- Servicing Spacecraft at L2 Lagrange Point: NASA researchers have published a study exploring the potential for servicing and refueling spacecraft at the Sun-Earth Lagrange point L2, where important observatories like the James Webb Space Telescope operate. The study investigates the feasibility of sending robotic missions to L2 to extend the operational lifespans of these valuable assets. This approach could transform how we think about the lifespan of our space-based observatories, potentially allowing us to keep these incredible scientific instruments operational for much longer.For more space news, be sure to visit our website at astronomydaily.io. There you can sign up for our free Daily newsletter, catch up on all the latest space and Astronomy news with our constantly updating news feed, and listen to all our previous episodes.Don't forget to follow us on social media. Just search for #AstroDailyPod on Facebook, X, YouTubeMusic, and TikTok to stay connected with our community and never miss an update.This is Anna signing off. Keep looking up and I'll see you next time for more incredible stories from the cosmos.Sponsor Links:NordVPNNordPassMalwarebytesProton MailBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support.

Astronomy Daily - The Podcast: 17th September 2024Welcome to Astronomy Daily, your go-to Podcast for the latest and most exciting developments in space and Astronomy. I'm your host, Anna, and I'm thrilled to bring you another episode packed with fascinating stories from the cosmos. Today, we've got a stellar lineup of topics that span from Earth to the far reaches of our galaxy. So strap in and prepare for liftoff as we journey through the universe's latest mysteries and marvels.Highlights:- Ariane 6 Rocket Update: Europe's newest rocket, the Ariane 6, made its inaugural launch on July 9th this year. Despite a successful series of trials, the mission ended with the upper stage coasting in orbit, unable to complete its final planned maneuver. ArianeSpace has traced this issue to a fixable software fault and is committed to staging a second mission before the end of the year. This rocket, developed at an estimated cost of €4 billion, aims to maintain Europe's competitiveness in the global launch market.- James Webb Space Telescope Discovery: The James Webb Space Telescope has identified a supermassive black hole that's starving its host galaxy, nicknamed Pablo's galaxy. Located 12 billion light-years away, this galaxy is in a quenched state, expelling gas at speeds of about 1000 km/second, effectively cutting off the galaxy's fuel for star formation. This discovery is a crucial piece of evidence in understanding how galaxies evolve over cosmic time.- US-Australia Spaceport Collaboration: The recent ratification of the US-Australia Technology Safeguards Agreement (TSA) opens up new possibilities for US companies to use Australian spaceports for launches and payload returns. Australia's vast uninhabited landscapes and less congested air and sea traffic offer unique advantages for launch and reentry. This collaboration could further strengthen strategic capabilities between the two nations.- New Mars Revelations: Recent gravity data studies have uncovered dense, large-scale features beneath Mars' surface, shedding light on the planet's geological history and volcanic activity. These findings suggest that Mars might still have active internal movements. Scientists are proposing the Martian Quantum Gravity (MaQis) mission to map Mars' gravity field in unprecedented detail.- This Week's Rocket Launches: SpaceX is gearing up for two Falcon 9 missions this week. The first launch from Cape Canaveral will carry a pair of Galileo global positioning satellites, while the second from Vandenberg Space Force Base will launch another batch of Starlink satellites, pushing the number of operational Starlink satellites past the 6000 mark. Rocket Lab is also preparing for an Electron launch from New Zealand, carrying the second batch of nanosatellites for Kinéis.For more space news, be sure to visit our website at astronomydaily.io. There you can sign up for our free Daily newsletter, catch up on all the latest space and Astronomy news with our constantly updating news feed, and listen to all our previous episodes.Don't forget to follow us on social media. Just search for #AstroDailyPod on Facebook, X, YouTubeMusic, and TikTok to stay connected with our community and never miss an update.And today's listener shout-out goes to EricG., a listener and commenter on Spotify. Thank you, Eric. Your kind words are much appreciated.This is Anna signing off. Keep looking up and I'll see you next time on Astronomy Daily.Sponsor Links:NordVPNNordPassMalwarebytesProton MailBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support.

Astronomy AstroDailyPod - The Podcast: 16th September 2024Welcome to Astronomy AstroDailyPod, your ultimate source for the latest in Space and astronomy news. I'm your host, Steve, and today we've got a stellar lineup of stories straight from the Astronomy AstroDailyPod newsletter. Joining us is Hallie, who will share some fascinating updates from Adelaide, South Australia, where hypersonic technology is taking off. So, buckle up as we explore hypersonic testbeds, lunar eclipses, and much more.Highlights:- Hypersonic Technology in South Australia: South Australia is set to become a global aerospace hub, thanks to a new memorandum of understanding between Southern Launch and Hypersonics Launch Systems. The collaboration aims to develop a hypersonic testbed service, utilising Southern Launch's spaceports for testing. Hypersonic vehicles, travelling at speeds exceeding Mach 5, will be launched on rockets and ignite their scramjet engines to achieve speeds up to Mach 12. This technology could revolutionise air travel, potentially reducing flight times from Adelaide to London to just 2 hours.- Partial Lunar Eclipse and Super Moon: Get ready for a celestial treat! A partial lunar eclipse and a super moon are on the horizon. Visible across North and South America on Tuesday night, and in Africa and Europe on Wednesday morning, this event will feature the moon appearing larger and slightly dimmer. No special eye protection is needed, so grab your binoculars and enjoy the show.- Iran's Satellite Launch: Iran successfully launched the Shamron-1 research satellite into orbit using the Game 100 carrier. This satellite aims to test hardware and software systems for orbital manoeuvre technology. Despite western criticism, Iran insists its aerospace activities are peaceful and in accordance with UN resolutions.- Boeing's Starliner Returns: Boeing's Starliner capsule returned to Earth without its two-person crew, marking the end of a challenging test flight to the ISS. Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams will remain on the ISS until February 2025, returning on a SpaceX Dragon capsule. NASA continues to support Boeing, emphasising the importance of having multiple crew launch systems.- SpaceX's Polaris Dawn Mission: The Polaris Dawn mission made history with the first spacewalk by non-government astronauts. The crew, led by Jared Isaacman, ventured into the Van Allen radiation belt, reaching a peak altitude of 870 miles. The mission also featured connectivity tests with SpaceX's Starlink Internet satellite constellation.- Martian Spiders Recreated: Scientists have recreated the spider-like geologic features found on Mars in a lab. These formations, known as arachniform terrain, are believed to be created by processes involving carbon dioxide ice. This breakthrough helps us understand the unique geological processes on Mars.For more Space news, be sure to visit our website at astronomydaily.io. There you can sign up for our free AstroDailyPod newsletter, catch up on all the latest Space and astronomy news with our constantly updating news feed, and listen to all our previous episodes.Don't forget to follow us on social media. Just search for #AstroDailyPod on facebook, X, YouTubeMusic, and TikTok to stay connected with our community and never miss an update.Thank you for tuning in, and remember to keep your eyes on the skies. Until next time, keep looking up.Sponsor Links:NordVPNNordPassMalwarebytesProton MailBecome a supporter of this Podcast for commercial-free editions: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support

Astronomy Daily - The Podcast: 14th September 2024Welcome to Astronomy Daily, your source for the latest space and Astronomy news. I'm your host, Anna, and today we'll be covering a range of exciting topics, from FCC's call for more competition in satellite Internet to the discovery of a mysterious black hole. We've got a packed episode ahead, so let's dive right in.Highlights:- FCC Push for Satellite Internet Competition: Federal Communications Commission chair Jessica Rosenwursel is advocating for increased competition in the satellite Internet market, taking aim at SpaceX's Starlink dominance. Starlink, Elon Musk's ambitious project, currently controls nearly two-thirds of all active satellites and has launched an impressive 7000 satellites since 2018. Rosenwursel argues that monopolies do not benefit the economy and emphasizes the need for more space actors and companies to develop innovative constellations. This push for diversity could reshape the landscape, potentially leading to more affordable and innovative services for consumers worldwide.- Discovery of a Low-Mass Black Hole: In a groundbreaking discovery, Chinese researchers have uncovered a low-mass black hole that's breaking all the rules. The team, led by Dr. Zdeněk Sekanina Song Wang from the National Astronomical Observatories of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, used a combination of radial velocity and astrometry methods to identify this elusive object. This black hole, found in the binary system G 3425, has a mass of about 3.6 solar masses and is challenging our understanding of binary evolution and supernova explosions.- Partial Lunar Eclipse of the Super Harvest Moon: Get ready for a celestial spectacle, stargazers—a partial lunar eclipse of the super harvest moon is on its way. Mark your calendars for Tuesday, September 17, when the moon will put on quite a show. This eclipse will be visible across most of North and South America, Europe, Africa, and parts of western Asia and Antarctica. Don't miss this super harvest moon lunar eclipse, whether you're watching in person or via online live streams.- Challenges Facing NASA: A recent report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has highlighted significant challenges facing NASA. One of the main issues is aging infrastructure, with 83% of NASA's facilities having exceeded their design lifespan. Another major concern is underfunding, which has led to a focus on near-term missions at the expense of long-term investments. The report's authors present a stark choice: either increase NASA's funding significantly or cut some of its missions.- Discovery of a New Giant Planet: Astronomers from the Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń have discovered a new planet in the Great Bear constellation. This giant planet, boasting a mass eleven times that of Jupiter, orbits a star known as HD 118203. Its orbit takes 14 years to complete, and its surface temperature is estimated to be a frigid -100 degrees Celsius or lower. This discovery challenges our understanding of planetary formation and evolution.For more space news, be sure to visit our website at astronomydaily.io. There you can sign up for our free Daily newsletter, catch up on all the latest space and Astronomy news with our constantly updating news feed, and listen to all our previous episodes.Don't forget to follow us on social media. Just search for #AstroDailyPod on Facebook, X, YouTubeMusic, and TikTok to stay connected with our community and never miss an update.Thank you for tuning in, and remember to keep your eyes on the skies. Until next time, keep looking up.Sponsor Links:NordVPNNordPassMalwarebytesProton MailBecome a supporter of this Podcast for commercial-free editions: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-the-podcast--5648921/support