#417: Solar Flares & Speedy Spacecraft: Revolutionizing Our Cosmic Commute

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Join Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson as they embark on another fascinating journey through the cosmos in the latest episode of Space Nuts. In this installment, the duo delves into a myriad of space phenomena, starting with the most significant solar flare in nearly a decade. They discuss the stunning auroral displays that resulted from this solar outburst and the potential impacts such events can have on our technology.Next, they celebrate a milestone for the Mars rover Perseverance, which has spent over 1000 days (or sols) on the Red Planet. The conversation explores the significance of the samples collected by Perseverance, including those that may contain ancient signs of life, and the future plans for their retrieval.The episode then propels into the future of space travel with NASA's innovative plasma rocket concept, which promises to cut travel time to Mars significantly. Andrew and Fred unpack the potential of this high-efficiency propulsion system and what it could mean for human exploration of the Red Planet.Finally, the pair examines a colossal protoplanetary disc discovery, the largest ever observed, which could herald the formation of some of the most massive planets we've ever seen. They ponder the possibilities of planet formation, the emergence of life, and the long-term evolution of these cosmic systems.From solar spectacles and Martian milestones to revolutionary rockets and planetary potential, this episode of Space Nuts is a cosmic cornucopia of astronomical insights. Tune in and let your imagination soar as we continue to uncover the secrets of the universe.
00:00:00 Andrew Dunkley talks about budgets and dog issues on this week's Space Nuts
00:02:31 The biggest solar flare in nearly a decade has just passed over the earth
00:06:58 Perseverance mission to look for signs of past life on Mars
00:14:22 Andrew Freedman says he could rerelease World War One audio under Australian copyright
00:16:49 A proposed plasma rocket would cut the travel time to Mars to two months
00:24:09 Fred: Have you seen a house before they build it
00:25:47 New infrared observations show giant edge on protoplanetary disc
00:32:10 Space Nuts podcast available at Apple Podcasts, Spotify and iHeartRadio

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