Galactic Giants, Ancient Microbes, and Vulcan’s Triumphant Flight

Space News Today

SpaceTime Series 27 Episode 124

*Galaxies: Bigger Than We Ever Imagined

Recent findings suggest that galaxies are far larger than previously thought, with gaseous halos extending much further into intergalactic space. This study, published in Nature Astronomy, focuses on the circumgalactic medium of a starburst galaxy 270 million light-years away. These halos, accounting for about 70% of a galaxy's mass excluding dark matter, may already be interacting with neighboring galaxies like Andromeda and the Milky Way. The research offers fresh insights into galaxy evolution, gas cycling, and the cosmic web.

*Ancient Microbes Found in Billion-Year-Old Rocks

Scientists have discovered living microbes in 2 billion-year-old rocks from South Africa's Bushveld Igneous Complex. This groundbreaking find, published in Microbial Ecology, represents the oldest known living microorganisms. The study utilized advanced imaging techniques to confirm the microbes were native to the ancient rock, offering a glimpse into early life on Earth and potential clues for extraterrestrial life on Mars.

*Vulcan Centaur Rocket's Successful Launch

The United Launch Alliance's new Vulcan Centaur rocket overcame a faulty booster to successfully place its payload into orbit. Despite the anomaly, the mission proceeded from Cape Canaveral, marking an important step towards using Vulcan for high-priority payloads. This launch follows Vulcan's maiden voyage and highlights the transition from older Atlas V and Delta IV rockets.

The Science Report

00:00:00 - This is spacetime series 27, episode 124 for broadcast on the 14 October 2024

00:00:48 - New study finds that galaxies are much larger than previously thought

00:06:25 - Galaxy is 270 million light years away and is a star bursting galaxy

00:17:18 - United Launch Alliance's Vulcan rocket has overcome a faulty strap on booster

00:22:12 - The 2024 Nobel Prizes for Science were awarded this week

00:24:56 - A new study finds two diametrically opposed personalities enjoy magic the most

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