Three Weeks of Space: Melanin Shields, Iron Rain, Lunar Bases and More

07/06/23 • 60 min

Ready to embark on a cosmic journey that will reshape your understanding of the universe? Prepare to be captivated by our latest Space Week episode where we're exploring some of the most recent and eye-opening developments in our solar system and beyond. From SpaceX's record-breaking launches and the Hack-a-Sat 4 event, to the mind-boggling concept of using melanin as a radiation shield in space, we've got it all covered.
Picture this: A lunar base in the 2030s. Sounds like a science fiction novel, right? But, it's a real ambition of the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS). We'll navigate through the labyrinth of challenges and requirements that this mission entails, and unpack the potential of nuclear reactors and small modular reactors (SMRs) in powering this endeavor. Transitioning, we'll discuss a fascinating startup called AstroScale, whose mission is aimed at solving the Kessler Syndrome - a potential threat to space orbits.
But, our cosmic journey wouldn't end there. We'll traverse through the mysteries of the gas giant WASP 76B, the infant protostar Fu-Ori, and six speed-racing stars that are rewriting our knowledge of the Milky Way. Wrapping up, we'll discuss the need for innovative propulsion systems to further our cosmic explorations, and revisit the life cycle of galaxies. Get ready, fellow space enthusiasts, for a thrilling ride across the cosmos!

Previous Episode

Ups & Downs: China's Lunar Quest, AI in Astronomy, and Industry Mishaps

What if you could get an inside look at the future of space exploration, packed with exciting updates on recent space launches, the risks of cutting-edge technology, and the potential AI holds for astronomical discoveries? Brace for liftoff as we delve into the Tropics mission's storm-observing capabilities, South Korea's first fully domestic rocket, the Nuri, and Arabsat's Bader 8 satellite, along with Airbus' ambitious goals for data advancement. We'll also explore potential issues with Boeing wiring harnesses and what this means for the industry's quality assurance process.
In this riveting discussion, we also turn our gaze to China's space exploration program and the Tiangong 2 project, mirroring the International Space Station. We dissect China's three-step space program and their quest to put astronauts on the moon by 2030, while envisioning the development of commuting systems and short-term day systems for crews. Plus, don't miss our analysis of the iSpace lunar lander mission crash and how a single software error brought it down.
Finally, we ponder the power of AI in revolutionizing astronomy and the exciting possibilities it holds for amateur astronomers. We marvel at the James Webb Space Telescope's latest reveal of a supernova in the pinwheel galaxy and debate which space event we'd most like to witness without the risk of death. Don't miss this extraordinary journey through the cosmos and the future of space exploration.

Next Episode

From Brown Dwarfs to Virgin Galactic: The Enthralling World of Space

Ever wonder what's really happening in the cosmos? Yearning to unravel the mysteries of the universe? Brace yourself for an exhilarating exploration of space as we discuss rocket launches, space exploration, and jaw-dropping revelations from deep space. From SpaceX's Falcon 9 launch to the mystery of dark matter, we'll guide you through some of the most fascinating missions. We'll also discuss Ariane 5's historic launch and its successor, Ariane 6.
Ready to explore the commercial side of space flight? Let's take a closer look at Virgin Galactic's historic Galactic 01 flight and discover the incredible work of the Italy's researchers. We'll also delve into the latest spaceflight updates including the Orion update, the lawsuit against SpaceX, and NASA's X-59 supersonic jet. We'll also get into the nitty-gritty of NASA's recycled water and reusable rockets, and how these groundbreaking innovations are reshaping the future of space exploration.
As if that's not enough, we have some shocking revelations from deep space that will leave you astounded! From a brown dwarf orbiting a distant star at ludicrous speed to the discovery of a Kilonova - the birth site for heavy elements. You're in for a real treat. We'll also explore theories surrounding wormholes and gravitational waves as potential gateways to interstellar travel. This Space Week episode promises to be an unforgettable journey into the unknown! So strap in, hold tight, and let's blast off into the cosmos!

SpaceWeek - Three Weeks of Space: Melanin Shields, Iron Rain, Lunar Bases and More

Transcript

Paul00:00:01.804

Welcome to Space Week , the podcast that brings you weekly space for everyday people . We're your hosts , Paul And Blake . Join us each week as we take you on a journey through the cosmos to bring the wonders of space down to Earth . So sit back , buckle up and get ready for another exciting episode .

Paul00:00:31.199

Hey , everyone , we're finally back . Sorry