Dark Matter’s Role and Lunar Mysteries: Unraveling the Secrets of Our Galaxy and Moon’s Interior

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SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 18

In this episode of SpaceTime , we explore groundbreaking theories about the nature of dark matter, the thermal differences between the lunar far and near sides, and new revelations regarding Jupiter's dimensions.

Dark Matter's Role in the Milky Way

A new study suggests that dark matter could be the driving force behind the gravitational dynamics of our Milky Way galaxy. Researchers propose that a clump of fermionic dark matter might exert similar gravitational influence as the supermassive black hole at the galaxy's center, Sagittarius A. This theory challenges conventional understanding and is supported by data from the European Space Agency's Gaia mission, which mapped the galaxy's outer halo and rotational curve, indicating a potential new model for understanding galactic structures.

Lunar Far Side's Cooler Interior

Recent findings published in Nature Geoscience indicate that the lunar far side may be significantly cooler than the near side. Analyzing samples collected by China's Chang'e 6 mission, scientists discovered that the far side's regolith formed from lava at temperatures approximately 100 degrees Celsius lower than those from the near side. This study provides insight into the Moon's geological history and the uneven distribution of heat-producing elements, which may have resulted from ancient impacts or tidal forces from Earth.

Jupiter's Slimmer Profile

New measurements from NASA's Juno mission reveal that Jupiter is actually slimmer than previously thought, being about 8 kilometers narrower at the equator and 24 kilometers flatter at the poles. These findings refine our understanding of the gas giant's shape and have implications for models of planetary formation and evolution. The data also sheds light on Jupiter's atmospheric dynamics, including its powerful winds and cyclones, enhancing our knowledge of gas giants both within our solar system and beyond.

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✍️ Episode References

Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, Nature Geoscience, Nature Astronomy

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(00:00:00) New study claims that mysterious substance called dark matter could be powering our Milky Way

(00:08:01) New study suggests lunar far side may be a little bit colder than near side

(00:12:52) Space Time is brought to you by Squarespace. com spacetime

(00:14:23) New measurements based on NASA's Juno mission reveal Jupiter is much smaller than previously thought

(00:18:16) People with depressive personalities far more likely to have sexual fantasies, study finds

(00:20:34) New test shows artificial intelligence chatbot admitting it would kill to save itself

(00:27:09) Already we have security companies treating AI chatbots like humans

Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31613940?utm_source=youtube