Space News Today

In this episode, we embark on an exciting journey through the cosmos, uncovering the latest developments that are shaping our understanding of the universe. We begin with a significant update from low Earth orbit, where Starlink plans to lower its satellite constellation altitude to enhance space safety. This proactive measure aims to mitigate risks associated with space debris, showcasing responsibility in managing our crowded orbital environment. Next, we turn our attention to the Gaia Space Telescope, which has provided unprecedented insights into the formation of planets, detecting compelling evidence of planetary birth in 31 young stellar systems. This groundbreaking observation marks a shift from theoretical models to direct evidence of how solar systems like ours may have formed. We also discuss a remarkable achievement in the study of rogue planets, as astronomers successfully weighed one for the first time using microlensing techniques. This innovative approach not only measures the mass of the rogue planet but also reveals its distance from us, opening new avenues for understanding these elusive celestial bodies. Moving on to interstellar visitors, we explore the fascinating behavior of Comet 3I ATLAS, which has been releasing substantial amounts of water as it moves through space. This discovery indicates that the building blocks of planetary systems might be more common across the galaxy than previously thought. Looking ahead, we highlight the exciting prospects for 2026, with NASA's Artemis 2 mission set to return astronauts to the Moon, alongside advancements from the commercial sector, including new space stations and lunar landers. The upcoming Nancy Chris Roman Space Telescope and China's Soontian telescope promise to revolutionize our view of the universe. Finally, we celebrate a major upgrade to the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile, which will enhance its sensitivity and allow for clearer observations of the cold universe, paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries in cosmic history. Join us as we navigate these captivating stories and more in this episode of Astronomy Daily!00:00 – **Astronomy Daily brings you the latest happenings from across the cosmos 00:33 – **Starlink plans to adjust its satellite constellation in 2026 for space safety reasons 02:49 – **Astronomers have successfully weighed a rogue planet for the first time 03:52 – **Comet 3I ATLs is behaving similar to comets from our solar system 05:03 – **2026 is shaping up to be an absolutely massive year for space exploration 06:08 – **The Atacama Large Millimeter Submillimeter Array in Chile recently upgraded 07:25 – **Astronomy Daily thanks you for listening to today's show### Sources & Further Reading1. NASA (https://www.nasa.gov/) 2. European Space Agency (https://www.esa.int/) 3. Space.com (https://www.space.com/) ### Follow & ContactX/Twitter: @AstroDailyPod Instagram: @astrodailypod Email: [email protected] Website: astronomydaily.io (http://astronomydaily.io/) Clear skies and see you next time! 🌟Become a supporter of this podcast: Support Us (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Sponsor Details: Ensure your online privacy by using NordVPN . To get our special listener deal and save a lot of money, visit You'll be glad you did! Sponsor Details: Ensure your online privacy by using NordVPN . To get our special listener deal and save a lot of money, visit You'll be glad you did! Become a supporter of Astronomy Daily by joining our Supporters Club. Commercial free episodes daily are only a click way... Click Here (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/30929324?utm_source=youtube

SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 1 In this episode of SpaceTime , we delve into extraordinary cosmic phenomena and the ongoing exploration of our solar system. Cosmic Matter Ejected at 20% the Speed of Light Astronomers have made a groundbreaking observation of matter being ejected from a supermassive black hole at the center of the barred spiral galaxy NGC 3783, located 135 million light years away. This matter, propelled at an astonishing 20% the speed of light, challenges previously held notions about how such superluminal jets are powered. The findings suggest that a sudden change in the magnetic field, rather than radiation, may be responsible for this high-speed outburst, providing new insights into the mechanisms of black hole dynamics and their impact on galactic evolution. Wind-Sculpted Landscapes on Mars NASA's Perseverance Rover continues its exploration of Mars, focusing on megaripples—large sand formations shaped by wind. These megaripples, some reaching up to 2 meters in height, offer scientists a unique opportunity to study current Martian atmospheric processes. As the rover investigates the Honeyguide region, researchers hope to gain insights into the planet's wind patterns and surface chemistry, which will be crucial for future human missions to Mars. Potential Ocean Beneath Uranus's Moon Ariel New research suggests that Uranus's moon Ariel may harbor a vast subsurface ocean, potentially more than 170 kilometers deep. This discovery, reported in the journal Icarus, highlights Ariel's unique geological features and raises questions about its past interior structure and orbital dynamics. The study indicates that understanding Ariel's ocean could provide crucial context for the moon's surface fractures and cryovolcanic activity, emphasizing the need for future missions to the Uranian system to confirm these findings. www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com (https://www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com/) ✍️ Episode References Astronomy and Astrophysics Icarus NASA Reports Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-your-guide-to-space-astronomy--2458531/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . (00:00:00) This is Space Time Series 29, Episode 1 for broadcast on 2 January 2026 (00:00:47) Cosmic matter ejected from supermassive black hole (00:12:30) Perseverance Rover studies wind-sculpted megaripples on Mars (00:20:10) Evidence of a subsurface ocean beneath Uranus's moon Ariel (00:25:00) Skywatch: January night sky highlights and celestial events Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/30923864?utm_source=youtube

In this episode, we delve into the latest astronomical marvels and groundbreaking developments that are shaping our understanding of the cosmos. We kick off with an astonishing achievement by SpaceX, which has shattered its own launch record with 165 orbital flights in 2025, averaging a launch every 2.2 days. The Falcon 9 rocket has been the backbone of this success, while the next-generation Starship is also making strides towards becoming a fully reusable heavy-lift vehicle.Next, we explore an innovative solution for cleaning up space junk, inspired by science fiction. Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder are developing a tractor beam that uses a focused electrostatic beam to attract and maneuver debris without physical contact, promising a safer method of orbital debris removal.Shifting our gaze beyond Earth, we discuss a recent search for alien signals from the interstellar object 3i Atlas. Despite initial excitement over potential technosignatures, the search yielded no definitive evidence of extraterrestrial technology, but it set a new standard for future investigations.We then dive into the burgeoning lunar resource race, where countries and companies are vying to mine the Moon for valuable resources like water ice and helium-3. However, outdated international laws complicate this endeavor, prompting calls for a clearer framework to ensure responsible mining practices.As we look to the night sky, we highlight celestial events to watch for, including the brightest star, Sirius, and an upcoming total lunar eclipse on March 3rd. Jupiter will also be at opposition, shining brightly throughout the night, while Venus returns as the evening star.Finally, we unravel a cosmic mystery nearly a thousand years in the making regarding the supernova remnant PA30. Recent findings reveal it to be a failed type 1ax supernova, with a surviving white dwarf at its center emitting powerful winds that shape the nebula's unique structure.Join us for these captivating stories and more in this episode of Astronomy Daily!00:00 – **This podcast features the latest in astronomy news from around the world 00:32 – **In 2025, SpaceX successfully completed 165 orbital flights 01:39 – **Researchers at Colorado Boulder are developing a tractor beam to clean up space junk 02:54 – **Astronomers conducted a highly sensitive radio search on an interstellar visitor 04:09 – **There's a growing and increasingly urgent international race to mine the moon 05:36 – **There's plenty to see in the night sky as we head into 2019 06:43 – **Astronomers finally solve puzzle of supernova remnant known as PA30 08:42 – **Until tomorrow, this has been Avery and Anna telling stories### Sources & Further Reading1. SpaceX (https://www.spacex.com/) 2. University of Colorado Boulder (https://www.colorado.edu/) 3. NASA (https://www.nasa.gov/) 4. Space.com (https://www.space.com/) ### Follow & ContactX/Twitter: @AstroDailyPod Instagram: @astrodailypod Email: [email protected] Website: astronomydaily.io (http://astronomydaily.io/) Clear skies and see you next time! 🌟Become a supporter of this podcast: Support Us (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Sponsor Details: Ensure your online privacy by using NordVPN . To get our special listener deal and save a lot of money, visit You'll be glad you did! Sponsor Details: Ensure your online privacy by using NordVPN . To get our special listener deal and save a lot of money, visit You'll be glad you did! Become a supporter of Astronomy Daily by joining our Supporters Club. Commercial free episodes daily are only a click way... Click Here (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/30918389?utm_source=youtube

This episode of Space Nuts is brought to you with the support of Antigravity A1 . Experience the future of flight with the world’s first all-in-one 8K 360 drone . With intuitive controls and immersive goggles, the Antigravity A1 redefines what it means to fly. Check it out at AntigravityA1. (https://www.antigravity.tech/drone/antigravity-a1/buy?utm_term=spacenuts) Archived Insights: Europa Clipper, Gravitational Waves, and Black Hole Mysteries In this special episode of Space Nuts , hosts Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson take a fascinating journey through some of the most compelling questions and discoveries in astronomy. As they explore the Europa Clipper mission, the nature of gravitational waves, and the enigmatic world of black holes, listeners are treated to a rich tapestry of cosmic knowledge. This episode originally aired in 2019. Episode Highlights: - Europa Clipper Mission: Andrew and Fred discuss NASA's exciting approval for the Europa Clipper mission, aimed at exploring Jupiter's icy moon Europa. They delve into the spacecraft's objectives, including investigating the moon's potential subsurface ocean and the challenges posed by Jupiter's intense radiation. - Gravitational Waves Explained: The hosts explore the recent detection of gravitational waves, speculating on their origins, including a possible black hole-neutron star merger. They discuss the significance of these findings and the ongoing efforts of astronomers to understand the universe's most violent events. - Black Hole Chris: Listener questions about the nature of black holes spark a lively discussion on topics such as infinite density, event horizons, and the complexities of capturing images of these cosmic phenomena. Andrew and Fred clarify misconceptions and provide insightful explanations. - Space Travel and Relativity: The episode wraps up with an intriguing listener question about the effects of traveling near the speed of light. Andrew and Fred clarify how relativistic mass works and dispel myths surrounding the transformation of spaceships into black holes. 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. If you’d like to help support Space Nuts and join our growing family of insiders for commercial-free episodes and more, visit spacenutspodcast.com/about (https://www.spacenutspodcast.com/about) . Stay curious, keep looking up, and join us next time for more stellar insights and cosmic wonders. Until then, clear skies and happy stargazing. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/space-nuts-astronomy-insights-cosmic-discoveries--2631155/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/30915703?utm_source=youtube

In this episode, we embark on an exhilarating journey through the cosmos, exploring groundbreaking discoveries and developments that could reshape our understanding of the universe. We begin with a revelation about red giant stars, challenging long-held beliefs about how they spread life's essential elements across galaxies. New research on the star R Doradus suggests that powerful forces, rather than simple starlight pressure, are responsible for driving stellar winds, prompting a reconsideration of how galaxies are enriched.Next, we delve into the enigmatic world of hot Jupiters—gas giants that orbit perilously close to their stars. Recent studies indicate that many of these planets may have formed through a calmer process known as disk migration, providing insight into the evolution of planetary systems.Transitioning back to Earth, we provide a roundup of recent rocket launches, highlighting China's active role in space exploration and SpaceX's successful deployment of the CSG 3 satellite. As we shift our focus to Mars, we uncover the discovery of potential karst caves, which could harbor signs of ancient life, preserved from the planet's harsh surface conditions.We also celebrate the fourth anniversary of the James Webb Space Telescope, showcasing a stunning new video that offers an immersive tour of the cosmos, highlighting its remarkable contributions to astronomy. ( https://youtu.be/lFiOZqyymUY?si=lOCkdIoMU5aRKuIB (https://youtu.be/lFiOZqyymUY?si=lOCkdIoMU5aRKuIB) ) Finally, we report on Iran's significant advancements in its space program, with the successful launch of three domestically built Earth observation satellites, marking a strategic collaboration with Russia.Join us as we traverse these captivating stories and more in this episode of Astronomy Daily!00:00 – **This week's podcast features a look at how giant stars might spread life 00:38 – **New study could rewrite our understanding of how stars seed the cosmos 02:04 – **New research suggests 30 hot Jupiters likely formed through disk migration 03:23 – **China has been particularly active with two recent launches 04:12 – **Chinese researchers have identified eight potential karst caves on Mars 05:27 – **The James Webb Space Telescope recently celebrated its fourth anniversary 06:20 – **Iran successfully launched three of its domestically built earth observation satellites 07:11 – **This is the last Astronomy Daily podcast of 2017### Sources & Further Reading1. NASA (https://www.nasa.gov/) 2. European Space Agency (https://www.esa.int/) 3. Space.com (https://www.space.com/) ### Follow & ContactX/Twitter: @AstroDailyPod Instagram: @astrodailypod Email: [email protected] Website: astronomydaily.io (http://astronomydaily.io/) Clear skies and see you next time! 🌟Become a supporter of this podcast: Support Us (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss) . Sponsor Details: Ensure your online privacy by using NordVPN . To get our special listener deal and save a lot of money, visit You'll be glad you did! Sponsor Details: Ensure your online privacy by using NordVPN . To get our special listener deal and save a lot of money, visit You'll be glad you did! Become a supporter of Astronomy Daily by joining our Supporters Club. Commercial free episodes daily are only a click way... Click Here (https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/astronomy-daily-space-news-updates--5648921/support) This episode includes AI-generated content. Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/30904053?utm_source=youtube