Stellar Mysteries: Unravelling Betelgeuse’s Companion and Mars’ Rock Enigmas

In this episode of SpaceTime , we dive into the depths of cosmic mysteries and groundbreaking discoveries, including the enigmatic Long Period Transient and the stellar companion of Betelgeuse, alongside exciting findings from Mars.

Unraveling the Long Period Transient

Astronomers have uncovered a new cosmic phenomenon, ASCAP J1832-0911, which emits both radio and X-ray pulses every 44 minutes for just two minutes at a time. This first-ever detection of a Long Period Transient has left scientists puzzled about its nature and origins. Lead author Dr Andy Wang from Curtin University discusses the potential theories, including the possibility of a magnetar or a binary star system, while emphasizing the need for further observations to unravel this cosmic mystery.

Betelgeuse's Stellar Companion

In a remarkable discovery, astronomers have identified a stellar companion orbiting the red supergiant Betelgeuse. This pre-main sequence star, approximately one and a half times the mass of the Sun, resides within Betelgeuse's outer atmosphere. As Betelgeuse approaches the end of its life, this companion is also on a collision course with destiny, likely spiraling into Betelgeuse within the next 10,000 years. This finding could shed light on the periodic brightness changes observed in similar red supergiant stars.

Mars Perseverance Rover's New Discoveries

NASA's Perseverance Rover continues its exploration of Jezero Crater, uncovering unusual rock formations that may reveal significant geological history. The rover is investigating an intriguing contact area where clay-bearing units meet olivine-rich rocks, potentially preserving evidence of ancient intrusive processes. Despite challenges in studying these formations, mission managers remain determined to unlock the secrets they hold about Mars' past.

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✍️ Episode References

Astrophysical Journal Letters

https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/1538-4357 (https://iopscience.iop.org/journal/1538-4357)

NASA's Perseverance Rover Mission

https://mars.nasa.gov/mars2020/ (https://mars.nasa.gov/mars2020/)

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00:00 Space Time series 28 episode 90 for broadcast on 28 July 2025

00:47 Long Period Transient emitting radio and X ray pulses every 44 minutes

07:48 Astronomers have discovered what appears to be a companion star in binary orbit

12:30 NASA's Mars Perseverance Rover is continuing its exploration of Jetro Crater

15:00 New study links early smartphone use to poorer mental health later in life

17:39 There are new reports of Bigfoot activity in the Pacific Northwest state of Washington

Episode link: https://play.headliner.app/episode/28307295?utm_source=youtube