Pluto-Charon Impact Insights, BepiColombo's Final Flyby, and the Year in Astronomy: S28E06

SpaceTime Series 28 Episode 06Formation of Pluto-Charon Binary SystemA new study reveals that the formation of the Pluto-Charon dwarf planet binary system may mirror that of the Earth-Moon system. The research, published in Nature Geoscience, suggests that both systems feature a secondary body significantly large in comparison to the primary, unlike other moons in our solar system. The findings could explain Pluto's active geology and potential subsurface ocean, highlighting the significance of giant impacts in shaping planetary bodies.BepiColombo's Final Mercury FlybyThe BepiColombo spacecraft has completed its final close flyby of Mercury, passing just 295 kilometres above the planet's surface. This manoeuvre marks the last gravity assist required for the joint ESA and JAXA mission before it enters Mercury's orbit in late 2026. The mission aims to study Mercury's magnetic field, surface composition, and interaction with the solar wind, enhancing our understanding of planets close to their host stars.Astronomy Highlights for 20252025 promises exciting astronomical events, with the Sun's solar cycle nearing its peak. Highlights include a rare edge-on view of Saturn's rings, potential brightening of comet G3 Atlas, and two lunar eclipses. The year also features significant planetary alignments, meteor showers, and opportunities to observe the Southern Cross and the centre of the Milky Way. Dr. Nick Glom provides insights into these celestial events and more.00:00 This is space Time Series 28, Episode 6 for broadcast on 13 January 202500:27 A new study suggests the formation of the Pluto Charon dwarf planet binary system04:35 BepiColombo spacecraft makes its final flyby of Mercury09:27 This is space time. We take a look at the year ahead in astronomy10:47 Mid January will be a very interesting time to look at the night sky13:05 There are two big highlights in March with the eclipse of the moon and Saturn13:46 The other big event of course is the crossing of the rings of Saturn17:03 The Southern Cross is well positioned during the month of June18:38 Venus and Jupiter are the two brightest planets in the night sky19:16 Also in August, it's a great time to have a look at Sagittarius20:35 Total eclipse of the Moon occurs when Moon moves into Earth's shadow23:06 The Australasian Sky Guide has just released its 30th edition25:05 World Meteorological Organisation confirms that 2024 was the warmest year on record29:34 It's claimed that two allegedly Celtic heads could turn you into a werewolfwww.spacetimewithstuartgary.comwww.bitesz.com🌏 Get Our Exclusive NordVPN deal here ➼ www.bitesz.com/nordvpn. Enjoy incredible discounts and bonuses! Plus, it’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! ✌Check out our newest sponsor - Old Glory - Iconic Music and Sports Merch and now with official NASA merchandise. Well worth a look...Become a supporter of this Podcast for as little as $3 per month and access commercial-free episodes plus bonuses: https://www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com/about✍️ Episode ReferencesUniversity of Arizona[https://www.arizona.edu](https://www.arizona.edu)Nature Geoscience[https://www.nature.com/ngeo/](https://www.nature.com/ngeo/)European Space Agency (ESA)[https://www.esa.int](https://www.esa.int)Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)[https://global.jaxa.jp/](https://global.jaxa.jp/)Ariane 5 rocket[https://www.arianespace.com/vehicle/ariane-5/](https://www.arianespace.com/vehicle/ariane-5/)Kourou Spaceport[https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Spaceport](https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Spaceport)Australasian Sky Guide[https://www.powerhouse.com.au/publication/australasian-sky-guide/](https://www.powerhouse.com.au/publication/australasian-sky-guide/)Powerhouse Museum[https://www.maas.museum/powerhouse-museum/](https://www.maas.museum/powerhouse-museum/)European Heart Journal[https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj](https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj)Journal of Advances in Atmospheric Sciences[https://www.springer.com/journal/376](https://www.springer.com/journal/376)Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/spacetime-with-stuart-gary--2458531/support.