Mapping the Milky Way: New Insights, Martian Mysteries, and Psyche's Thruster Troubles

SpaceTime: Your Guide to Space & Astronomy

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In this episode of SpaceTime, we unveil a stunning new ultraviolet map of the Milky Way galaxy, thanks to NASA's New Horizons spacecraft. This groundbreaking observation, published in the Astronomical Journal, provides astronomers with unprecedented insights into the galactic environment surrounding our solar system. We discuss how these findings challenge existing theories about interstellar hydrogen emissions and reveal the complex structures of hot interstellar gas bubbles.
Exploring Mars with Perseverance
Next, we follow NASA's Perseverance Rover as it investigates the intriguing rock formations at the Jezero crater rim. Discover how the rover is analyzing the contrasting layers of rock, searching for clues about Mars's geological history and the processes that shaped its surface.
Psyche Spacecraft Troubles
Finally, we address the ongoing investigation into a significant issue with the electric propulsion system of NASA's Psyche spacecraft. Launched in 2023, this mission aims to explore the metallic asteroid 16 Psyche. We delve into the challenges faced by mission managers and discuss potential solutions to ensure the spacecraft continues on its path to unravel the mysteries of planetary cores.
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✍️ Episode References
Astronomical Journal
https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/0004-637X
NASA Perseverance Rover
https://mars.nasa.gov/mars2020/
NASA Psyche Mission
https://www.nasa.gov/psyche
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00:00 This is Space Time Series 28, episode 56 for broadcast on 9 May 2025
00:45 NASA's New Horizons spacecraft reveals a new ultraviolet map of the Milky Way
12:30 Mars Perseverance Rover continues its exploration of Jezero crater
18:15 NASA investigates issues with the Psyche spacecraft's electric propulsion system
22:00 Skywatch: May night skies and celestial events