
Astronomy Daily: Space News Updates
Join host Anna (and Steve, Hallie) for daily space & astronomy news, insights, and discoveries at Astronomy Daily!There's a lot going on 'out there ,' and we endeavour to bring it all to you.For more visit, our website and sign up for the free daily newsletter and check out our continually updated newsfeed. www.astronomydaily.io.Follow us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, YouTube and TikTok ...just search for AstroDailyPod. Enjoy!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support.
Latest episodes

Nov 27, 2023 • 18min
Supernova Spotted by New Indian Telescope | S02E57
This episode of Astronomy Daily covers a range of space news, including adaptive optics to sharpen images from ground telescopes, the successful engine test for the new European Ariane 6 rocket, and NASA's PACE mission to study ocean-atmosphere interactions. Co-host Hallie shares updates on the Indian Liquid Mirror Telescope's discovery of its first supernova, and the Ingenuity helicopter's recent flights and challenges on Mars. Listen in for the latest details on these stories and insightful commentary from hosts Steve and Hallie.(00:00) Welcome to the 27 November 2023 astronomy Daily podcast with Steve Dunkley(02:01) ESA's new Ariane Six rocket passed a major full scale rehearsal on November 23(07:49) NASA's Pace spacecraft arrives in Florida ahead of 2024 launch on SpaceX Falcon(09:11) A newly built international liquid mirror telescope in India has its first supernova(12:47) NASA's Ingenuity helicopter has been having a rough few monthsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support.

Nov 20, 2023 • 21min
SpaceX Triumphs, Mars Conjunction, and Russia's Sirius Mission: Exploring New Frontiers in Space | S02E56
In this episode of "Astronomy Daily," hosts Steve Dunkley and his AI sidekick Hallie delve into the latest astronomical news and discoveries. The episode kicks off with a light-hearted exchange between Steve and Hallie, followed by updates from the Astronomy Daily newsletter.Key highlights include:1. SpaceX's latest achievements in lighting up the sky, showcasing their advancements in space exploration.2. The Australian Space Agency's moon rover naming competition, reflecting Australia's enthusiasm for space and public participation.3. The conjunction of Mars, an astronomical event causing several spacecraft to temporarily lose communication with Earth, highlighting the challenges in space missions.4. A groundbreaking Russian experiment, Sirius, involving six participants in a simulated space voyage for a year, aiming to understand the effects of long-term space travel on humans.5. A significant discovery by astronomers using a network of radio telescopes: capturing detailed views of a plasma jet from a supermassive black hole in a distant galaxy. This finding challenges existing theories about the formation and evolution of such jets.6. The Starship Test launch by SpaceX, which ended in an unexpected disintegration, underscoring the complexities and ongoing challenges in space technology development.7. The Australian Space Agency's shortlist of names for the country's first moon rover, with a public vote to decide the final name.The episode also features a special video on the SpaceNuts podcast group Facebook page, showcasing the journey of Artemis One's launch and Orion's moon orbit. Additionally, Steve shares insights into the latest SpaceX Starship test launch and its implications for future space missions.Listeners are encouraged to participate in the moon rover naming vote and to join the SpaceNuts podcast group on Facebook for more engaging space-related content. The episode concludes with a reminder to check out previous episodes of Astronomy Daily and to subscribe to the newsletter for regular updates on astronomical events and discoveries.#astronomy #space #news #podcast #astronomydaily #science #spacexBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support.

Nov 9, 2023 • 13min
Exploring Space News: Vibrotactors for Astronauts, Dinkinesh Asteroid's Mini-Moon, and Farewell to Ken Mattingly | S02E55
Introduction: Steve and Hallie introduce the episode and discuss the Astronomy Daily newsletter, encouraging listeners to sign up.- Vibrotactors: Scientists have developed vibrotactors to aid astronauts in combating spatial disorientation in space. These devices, combined with training, improve balance and orientation control.- Dinkinesh and Its Mini-Moon: A spacecraft captured an image of asteroid dinkiness and its small moon during a flyby. Dinkinesh is part of NASA's Lucy mission.- Farewell to Ken Mattingly: Astronaut Ken Mattingly, known for his role in the Apollo program, passed away at the age of 87. He was a key figure in space exploration.- November Sky-Watching Highlights: The hosts provide a list of celestial events and highlights for November, including meteor showers and planet sightings.- Europa Clipper Mission: NASA's Europa Clipper mission to study Jupiter's moon Europa is introduced, and listeners are encouraged to send their names to be etched on the spacecraft.- Conclusion: Steve and Hallie wrap up the episode, mentioning where listeners can find previous episodes and related content.#astronomy #space #science #news #podcast #astronomydaily #newsletter #dinkinesh #nasaBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support.

Nov 6, 2023 • 11min
Exploring the Night Sky and Beyond | S02E54
Join host Tim Gibbs and his AI Newsreader sidekick, Hallie, for an enlightening episode of the Astronomy Daily Podcast. In today's show, we uncover the wonders of the night sky with the opening of a new dark sky discovery hub at Somerset's Wimbled Lake. Nestled within Europe's first International Dark Sky Reserve, this hub promises an immersive stargazing experience, complete with low seating and a telescope-friendly patio platform. Celebrate the magic of the cosmos with us, as we delve into the hub's debut during the Exmoor Dark Skies Festival.**Highlights of this episode include:**- **The New Dark Sky Discovery Hub:** Discover the latest addition to Somerset's stargazing landscape, offering a serene view over Wimbled Lake and the starry expanse above.- **Astrophotography and Wildlife:** Learn about the hub's dual purpose as a haven for astrophotography enthusiasts and nocturnal wildlife education.- **Exmoor's Dark Sky Delights:** Explore the Exmoor National Park Authority's efforts to enhance dark sky appreciation through unique hubs and the annual Dark Skies Festival.- **Cosmic Revelations with NASA:** Hallie brings us the latest astronomical insights from NASA's James Webb Space Telescope, revealing distant galaxies and the universe's early days.- **Euclid Space Telescope's First Images:** Anticipate the European Space Agency's unveiling of the Euclid Space Telescope's first full-color images, set to expand our understanding of dark matter and dark energy.- **Miss England's Astronaut Training:** Hear about Jessica Goggen's experience with Boeing's Starliner Simulator, and what this means for future space missions.- **NASA's Challenges Ahead:** A look into NASA's Office of the Inspector General's annual report, highlighting the trials and triumphs of space exploration.- **Hot Jupiter's and Star Age:** Discover the intriguing link between the age of stars and the presence of hot Jupiter exoplanets.**Join the Conversation:**Don't miss out on the ongoing space dialogue. Connect with fellow astronomy enthusiasts on our Facebook page, Space Nuts podcast group.**Tune In:**Catch all past, current, and future episodes on [spaceduts.io](https://example.com) and [bytes.com](https://example.com). With special segments from Steve in New South Wales and Tim Gibbs in Somerset, the Astronomy Daily Podcast is your gateway to the stars.---Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support.

Nov 1, 2023 • 15min
Asteroid Close Calls, US-Australia Space Pacts, and the Quest to Clean Up Cosmic Clutter | S02E53
**Astronomy Daily Podcast Show Notes - Episode Date: November 1, 2023****Hosted by:** Steve Dunkley and AI Newsreader, Hallie1. **Introduction:**- Warm welcome to another episode of Astronomy Daily.- Steve shares his personal experiences from the weekend, including attending a wedding and a funeral on the same day.2. **Asteroid News:**- Discussion on a recent near-miss asteroid event.- The asteroid, measuring between 30 to 60 meters, passed Earth at a quarter of the distance to the moon.- The potential dangers of undetected asteroids and the importance of early detection.- Exploration of the "pulverize" method as a potential solution to imminent asteroid threats.3. **US-Australia Tech Agreement:**- Announcement of a bilateral tech agreement between the US and Australia.- The agreement facilitates the launch of US commercial space vehicles from Australia.- Emphasis on the benefits of the agreement, including increased launch sites, fuel efficiency, and collaboration opportunities.4. **Asteroid Mining:**- The feasibility and potential benefits of asteroid mining.- Discussion on the environmental and economic implications of space-based mining.- Challenges and technological advancements required for successful asteroid mining.5. **Space Junk Dilemma:**- The growing concern of space debris and its potential dangers.- Review of potential solutions, including pulsed laser ablation, harpoon and net method, claw capture mechanism, and magnetic capture.- The need for research and development in space cleanup technology.6. **Closing Remarks:**- Steve wraps up the episode and provides information on where listeners can find previous episodes and other related podcasts.- Mention of the Astronomy Daily newsletter and an invitation to join the Space Nuts Facebook group.**Links Mentioned:**- [Space Nuts Podcast](https://spacenuts.io)- [Astronomy Daily with Tim Gibbs](https://bitesz.com)Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support.

Oct 27, 2023 • 11min
Cosmic Revelations: Laser Tech, Star Secrets, and Earth's Climate Quest | S02E52
Welcome, stargazers, to another enlightening episode of Astronomy Daily! Your host, Tim Gibbs, and his AI co-host, Hallie, are here to navigate the cosmic news.**Quick Announcements:**- Catch all episodes, past, present, and future, on [spacenuts.io](http://spacenuts.io) and [bitesz.com](http://bitesz.com).- Don't miss "Space Nuts" with Professor Fred Watson and Andrew Dunkley.- Subscribe to our daily newsletter for hand-picked stories. Details on our websites. - Join our Facebook group, "Space Nuts podcast group," to discuss all things space.**This Week’s Cosmic Highlights:**1. **NASA's Illumity Payload Heads to ISS:** - A groundbreaking venture to enhance space-to-Earth communications. - Laser technology promises faster data transmission, revolutionizing space communication. - The mission showcases the potential of infrared light in transmitting crucial scientific data.2. **Mysteries Unraveled with the James Webb Space Telescope:** - Recent study reveals the presence of rare elements in a Gamma Ray Burst (GRB 230307A). - The discovery, highlighting elements like allureum and possibly iodine, marks a significant step in understanding cosmic phenomena. - The event, one of the brightest ever recorded, provides insights into the creation of elements in the universe.3. **ESA and JAXA's EarthCare Mission:** - A forthcoming launch set to deepen our understanding of Earth’s climate system. - The mission focuses on the critical role of clouds and aerosols in climate change. - EarthCare aims to enhance climate models and predictions through advanced technology.**Special Mention:**- "Deep Sky," a must-watch iMax movie by Nathaniel Khan, brings the marvels of the James Webb Space Telescope to the big screen.**Hallie’s Fun Segment:**- Ending with a spark of humor, Hallie shares some quirky science jokes to lighten the mood.Thank you for joining us in exploring the universe’s wonders. Tune in next week for more cosmic insights. Until then, keep looking up!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support.

Oct 23, 2023 • 22min
Space Innovations and Cosmic Mysteries: From Ultrafast Bursts to Orbital Tensions | S02E51
**Date:** October 23, 2023**Host:** Steve Dunkley**Co-Host:** AI Newsreader Hallie**Episode Highlights:**- Personal Reflections: Steve recounts his heartwarming family celebration in Sydney.- NASA's Technological Leap: Discussion on NASA's new reactive additive manufacturing process, Ramfire, and its groundbreaking implications for space exploration.- SpaceX's Starlink Expansion: Overview of SpaceX's successful double satellite launch, a critical advancement in the Starlink Global Broadband Service.- Artemis Program Updates: Insights into the RS-25 engine tests, underscoring progress in NASA's lunar exploration under the Artemis program.- Cosmic Mysteries Unveiled: Exploration of the discovery of ultrafast radio bursts (FRBs) and their potential implications for understanding the universe.- Space Security Concerns: Examination of recent unsettling maneuvers by Russian satellites and the global apprehensions surrounding space debris and satellite warfare.**Key Discussions:**1. **Innovations in Space Technology:** - NASA's cost-effective and efficient Ramfire process for rocket nozzle manufacturing. - Expansion of technology applications in the aerospace industry.2. **Milestones in Satellite Deployment:** - Recap of SpaceX's ambitious simultaneous satellite launches. - Future plans for Starlink and its impact on global connectivity.3. **Advancing Lunar Missions:** - Details of the RS-25 engine hot fire tests. - The role of advanced manufacturing in the Artemis program's progress.4. **Deciphering Cosmic Signals:** - The phenomenon of ultrafast radio bursts (FRBs) and what they reveal about the cosmos. - Reflections on the oldest and farthest FRB recorded.5. **Orbital Tensions:** - Analysis of Russia's controversial satellite maneuvers. - The potential risks and global security implications of space debris and satellite conflicts.**Additional Resources:**- Link to the Space Nuts podcast episodes with Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson.- Access to current and previous episodes of Astronomy Daily.- Invitation to join the Space Nuts Facebook group for further discussion and updates.**Sign-Off:**- Reminder for listeners to sign up for the Astronomy Daily newsletter for more space, science, and astronomy news.- A warm goodbye from Steve and Hallie, inviting listeners to stay curious and engaged with the mysteries of the universe.Listeners are encouraged to join the conversation and share their thoughts on the exciting developments and discoveries shaping our understanding of space.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support.

Oct 16, 2023 • 17min
Exploring Cosmic Wonders: From Ring of Fire Eclipse to the Psyche Mission | S02E50
Show Notes for Astronomy Daily with Steve Dunkley and AI Sidekick Hallie - October 16, 2023Welcome to another episode of Astronomy Daily, your go-to podcast for all celestial happenings and space exploration updates. Join host Steve Dunkley and his AI co-host Hallie as they delve into the latest news from the cosmos!Episode Highlights:1. **Ring of Fire Eclipse: ** Hallie shares her experience watching the spectacular annular eclipse, known as the "Ring of Fire." Millions marveled as the moon created a heavenly spectacle, leaving a bright, blazing border around the sun. Dive into the history with insights on how ancient Maya astronomers studied these celestial events.2. **Mission to Asteroid Sanky:** We discuss the exciting launch of the spacecraft heading to the metal asteroid Sanky. What makes this asteroid unique, and why is it a significant focus for space exploration? Stay tuned for more updates on this mission in future episodes.3. **Understanding Space's Vastness:** A reflection on public perception of space distances, influenced by Hollywood, and an invitation for our sky watchers to contribute their photographs and experiences on the Space Nuts Podcast Group on Facebook.4. **Astronomy Daily's Short Takes: **- **Artemis 2 Update: ** Progress on NASA's Artemis 2 mission is ramping up. The core stage of the SLS rocket is ready, and engineers are in the final testing phases. The mission promises to be a significant leap towards returning astronauts to the Moon.- **ESA's Moonlight Program: ** The European Space Agency is fostering innovation with its call for ideas on how to use lunar communication and navigation satellites. The initiative aims to support upcoming lunar missions and stimulate new businesses both on the Moon and Earth.- **SpaceX Starship Developments: ** Get the latest on SpaceX's preparations for upcoming tests and launches. With hardware advancements and rigorous testing schedules, the journey towards the next Starship launch is more tangible than ever.5. **Deep Dive into NASA's Psyche Mission: ** We're following the launch of NASA's Psyche mission, in collaboration with MIT, targeting a metal-rich asteroid in the asteroid belt. Discover the mission's goals, the scientific mysteries surrounding asteroid Psyche, and the MIT researchers' pivotal roles.6. **Community Engagement: ** Don't forget to join our vibrant community of space enthusiasts! Share your insights, photos, and experiences with us on the Space Nuts Facebook group.7. **Upcoming Episodes: ** Look forward to more fascinating space discussions with Steve Dunkley and special segments from Tim Gibbs, reporting from Bath, England.Join us again next week for more updates on astronomical discoveries, mission progress, and insights from the world of space exploration. Subscribe to our newsletter for an all-encompassing journey through the cosmos and interact with us and fellow astronomy aficionados. Visit [spacenuts.io] (http://spacenuts.io) or [bitesz.com] (http://bitesz.com) for more content.Thank you for tuning in to Astronomy Daily. Keep looking up, and clear skies!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support.

Oct 13, 2023 • 10min
S02E49: Stellar Mysteries: Luminous Spots, Solar Eclipses, and Cosmic Showers
**Show Notes: Astronomy Daily Podcast - Series 02, Episode 49***Host:* Tim Gibbs *AI Newsreader:* Hallie**Highlights:**1. **Introduction:** - Date: Friday, 13th October 2023. - Tim Gibbs addresses recent technical issues and missed episodes.2. **Astronomical Phenomenon - Luminous Spots:** - The Swicky Transient Facility in California detected a transient event. - Observations were made using the Gemini soft telescope, a very large array in New Mexico, the Chandra telescope, and the Hubble Space Telescope. - The event was identified as a luminous fast blue optical transient (luminous spot) named "The Finch". - Luminous spots are bright, short-lived, and their nature remains a mystery. - The Finch's location is unique, being distant from two nearby galaxies.3. **Upcoming Solar Eclipses:** - Two solar eclipses are expected: October 14, 2023 (annular) and April 8, 2024 (total). - Explanation of the three types of solar eclipses: total, annular, and partial. - Midsy Adams from NASA shares her experiences of total eclipses. - Safety reminder: Use solar viewing glasses during the eclipse. - The "Ring of Fire" will be visible in multiple countries, starting in Oregon at 9:13 AM PT on October 14th. - NASA's interactive map can help track the eclipse.4. **Cosmic Ray Extensive Air Showers:** - Osaka Metropolitan University scientists have developed a method to observe cosmic ray extensive air showers with precision. - The Subaru telescope in Hawaii can capture these showers in high resolution. - The team analyzed images from 2014-2020 and identified 13 with extensive air showers. - This method can help in understanding dark matter and the universe's transition.5. **Safety Reminder:** - Always use proper glasses when viewing a solar eclipse.6. **Jokes by Hallie:** - "Why did the sun go to school? To get a little brighter." - "Why are chemists excellent for solving problems? Because they have all the solutions."7. **Closing Notes:** - Episodes available on spacenuts.io, bytes.com, and Space Nuts podcast. - Join the conversation on the Space Nuts podcast group on Facebook.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support.

Oct 9, 2023 • 21min
Starry Nights, AstroBee Returns, and Mount Wilson's Legacy | S02E48
**Show Notes: Astronomy Daily Podcast, Series 2 Episode 48 - October 9, 2023***Hosted by Steve Dunkley, live from Australia, with AI Newsreader Hallie.*1. **Introduction:**- Steve welcomes listeners and introduces Hallie, his digital counterpart.- Hallie shares a story about the AstroBee robots on the International Space Station (ISS). One of them, the yellow AstroBee, has returned to work.- Steve expresses his fondness for the AstroBee robots and their utility on the ISS.2. **Upcoming Space Missions:**- A mission to examine asteroid Syke is set to launch on October 12. The mission will utilize data from the retired observatory, Sophia.- NASA's Syke Mission, launching on October 12, aims to research asteroid 16 Syke, believed to be metal-rich and one of the largest asteroids in the asteroid belt. The mission will use data from the retired Sophia Telescope and NASA's Ames Research Center.3. **SpaceX Launch:**- SpaceX is set to launch 22 Starlink Broadband satellites on October 9 from California's Vandenberg Space Force Base. The launch can be viewed live on SpaceX's account on X (formerly Twitter).4. **AstroBee Robots on ISS:**- The yellow AstroBee robot, named Honey, has returned to the ISS after maintenance. It can perform tasks autonomously, aiding astronauts and serving as a platform for research and STEM outreach.5. **Mount Wilson Observatory:**- The observatory, once a prime location for astronomical discoveries, faces challenges due to light pollution from Los Angeles.- Despite its historical significance, funding challenges persist. The observatory relies heavily on volunteers for maintenance and operations.- The observatory marks the hundredth anniversary of a significant discovery, shedding light on its rich history and contributions to astronomy.6. **Closing Remarks:**- Steve encourages listeners to visit the Mount Wilson Observatory website (mtwilson.edu) for more information.- He also promotes the Space Nuts podcast and the Astronomy Daily podcast, available at spacenuts.io and bitesz.com.- Steve invites listeners to join the Space Nuts Facebook group and sign up for the Astronomy Daily newsletter.*End of episode. Thank you for tuning in!*Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support.