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SpaceTime with Stuart Gary Gary - Series 29 Episode 25
In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore the intriguing mysteries of Mars' gullies, uncover a unique inside-out planetary system, and witness the inaugural launch of Europe's most powerful rocket.
Mysterious Martian Gullies Explained
Scientists have made significant strides in understanding the enigmatic gullies on Mars, previously thought to be shaped by unknown forces. A new study published in Geophysical Research Letters reveals that blocks of frozen carbon dioxide are the culprits behind these formations. When the Martian winter sets in, CO2 ice accumulates and, upon warming, sublimates, creating gas pressure that carves deep gullies in the Martian surface. This groundbreaking phenomenon, likened to the sandworms of Dune, showcases a unique geological process not observed on Earth.
Inside-Out Planetary System Discovery
Astronomers have identified a remarkable new planetary system, catalogued as LHS 1903, that defies conventional models of planetary formation. Unlike our solar system, which features rocky planets close to the star and gas giants further out, LHS 1903 has a small rocky planet orbiting outside of two gas giants. This discovery, detailed in Science, suggests that this rocky world may have formed in a gas-depleted environment, challenging existing theories about how planets evolve and raising questions about the nature of planetary systems.
Europe's Powerful Rocket Launch
The European Space Agency has successfully launched the Ariane 64, its most powerful rocket to date, from the Kourou Spaceport in French Guiana. This inaugural mission, VA267, carried 32 satellites into orbit for Amazon's LEO network, marking a significant milestone as the largest number of satellites ever launched by an Ariane rocket. With plans for an average of 10 launches per year, the Ariane 64 is set to play a crucial role in the future of satellite deployment.
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✍️ Episode References
Geophysical Research Letters, Science
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Martian Gullies and Inside-Out Planets: Discoveries from the Cosmos