SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 4

In this episode of SpaceTime , we explore the latest revelations about supermassive black holes, the enigmatic interstellar comet 3I Atlas, and NASA's innovative tests on lunar surface interactions.

Do All Galaxies Host Supermassive Black Holes?

A groundbreaking study utilizing NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory challenges the long-held belief that all galaxies harbor supermassive black holes at their centers. Analyzing data from over 1,600 galaxies, researchers discovered that only about 30% of dwarf galaxies contain these cosmic giants. The findings, published in the Astrophysical Journal, provide crucial insights into the formation of supermassive black holes and suggest that smaller galaxies may have significantly fewer black holes than their massive counterparts.

No Evidence of Alien Intelligence from Comet 3I Atlas

Despite sensational claims, a thorough investigation into the interstellar comet 3I Atlas has yielded no signs of extraterrestrial technology. Observations from the Green Bank Radio Telescope during the comet's closest approach revealed only radio frequency interference, dismissing earlier speculations of alien signals. The analysis reinforces the understanding that the comet's behavior aligns with natural phenomena, rather than advanced civilizations.

NASA's Rocket Plume Studies on Lunar Regolith

NASA is conducting new experiments to understand how rocket plumes interact with the lunar surface, crucial for future lunar landings. Using a sophisticated camera system, scientists are simulating rocket engine behavior in a vacuum chamber to analyze the impact of exhaust on lunar dust and rocks. The data collected will inform the design of landing systems for the Artemis missions and future Mars explorations, ensuring crew safety and mission success.

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✍️ Episode References

Astrophysical Journal

NASA Reports

Journal of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry

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(00:00:00) This is Space Time Series 29, Episode 4 for broadcast on 9 January 2026

(00:00:47) Study reveals fewer supermassive black holes in smaller galaxies

(00:12:30) No signs of alien technology from comet 3I Atlas

(00:20:10) NASA's lunar regolith plume interaction tests

(00:25:00) Science report: Microplastics and neurodegenerative diseases, dog ownership and community ties

Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/31032264?utm_source=youtube

In this episode, we explore a remarkable array of developments in space exploration and astronomy that are making headlines. We begin with a historic moment as NASA orders its first controlled medical evacuation from the International Space Station, bringing home the entire Crew 11 team due to a medical issue affecting one astronaut. This unprecedented decision underscores the importance of crew safety and the challenges of long-duration spaceflight.Next, we look forward to the upcoming February full moon, known as the Snow Moon, which promises a stunning display in the night sky. With peak illumination set for February 1st, we provide tips for the best viewing experience across various regions.Shifting our focus to the ongoing advancements at SpaceX's Starbase, we discuss significant upgrades to Pad 1, preparing for the next generation of Starship launches. These enhancements aim to facilitate rapid reusability and increase launch frequency, crucial for the ambitious goals of the Starship programme.We also address the unfortunate news regarding NASA's Mars Sample Return mission, which has effectively been shelved due to budget cuts. This opens the door for China's simpler and potentially quicker plans to return Martian samples, marking a significant shift in the landscape of Mars exploration.In a thrilling discovery, the Vera Rubin Observatory has identified the fastest spinning large asteroid ever recorded, prompting discussions on the implications for asteroid deflection strategies.Finally, we unveil a new map detailing the origins of billions of ghostly neutrinos that pass through us daily, offering insights into stellar processes and the mysteries of our galaxy.Join us as we unpack these fascinating stories and more in this episode of Astronomy Daily!00:00 – **Astronomy Daily brings you the latest news from space and astronomy

00:57 – **NASA orders medical evacuation of entire ISS crew due to medical issue

03:43 – **February full moon is coming up soon. Peak illumination at 5:09pm Eastern on February 1st

05:29 – **NASA's Mars sample return mission effectively dead after budget cuts

06:31 – **The Vera Rubin Observatory has spotted the fastest spinning large asteroid ever discovered

07:47 – **From ISS drama to neutrino maps. What a day in space news### Sources & Further Reading1. NASA (https://www.nasa.gov/) 2. SpaceX (https://www.spacex.com/) 3. European Space Agency (https://www.esa.int/) 4. Galactic Neutrinos (https://www.galacticneutrinos.org/) ### Follow & ContactX/Twitter: @AstroDailyPod

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Email: hello@astronomydaily.io

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Clear skies and see you next time! 🌟

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New Year, New Discoveries: Expandable Space Stations, Martian Caves, and Rogue Planets

In this exciting New Year edition of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson kick off 2026 with a bang, discussing groundbreaking developments in space exploration and astronomy. From innovative proposals for expandable space stations to intriguing discoveries on Mars, this episode is packed with cosmic insights.

Episode Highlights:

- Expandable Space Stations: Andrew and Fred dive into a fascinating proposal for an inflatable space station that could expand to be larger than the International Space Station. They explore the technology behind this concept and its potential implications for future space tourism and research.

- Strange Caves on Mars: The duo discusses recent findings of unique caves on Mars that may have formed through water-driven processes. These caves could provide a habitat for microbial life, sparking interest in future rover missions to investigate their potential.

- Observations of Rogue Planets: Andrew and Fred delve into the elusive nature of rogue planets, discussing how recent observations using gravitational microlensing have shed light on a planet 22 times the mass of Jupiter, located approximately 10,000 light years from Earth. They reflect on the significance of these findings and the advancements in technology that facilitate such discoveries.

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, X, YouTube Music Music, Tumblr, Instagram, and TikTok. We love engaging with our community, so be sure to drop us a message or comment on your favorite platform.

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Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing.

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