The Universe's Surprising Expiration Date

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In this episode of SpaceTime, we explore some mind-bending revelations about the universe, including a new estimate for its ultimate fate, the peculiar gravity of the asteroid Bennu, and India's ambitious plans for its first manned spaceflight.
The Universe's Unexpected Expiration Date
A groundbreaking study suggests that the universe could meet its end in a mere 10^78 years, significantly sooner than the previously estimated 10^1100 years. This revelation, based on calculations involving Hawking radiation, sheds light on how black holes and other celestial bodies lose mass over time. We discuss the implications of this research and the fascinating mechanics behind black hole evaporation, including the surprising equivalence in decay rates between neutron stars and black holes.
Gravity's Quirks on Asteroid Bennu
Astronomers have uncovered bizarre gravitational dynamics at play on the near-Earth asteroid Bennu, based on data from NASA's Osiris Rex mission. This small celestial body exists in a delicate balance between gravity and centrifugal forces, creating a unique environment that could lead to its eventual disintegration. We delve into how Bennu's increasing rotation might impact its structural integrity and potential future interactions with Earth.
India's Manned Spaceflight Ambitions
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has announced plans for its first manned spaceflight, set to launch in early 2027. This historic mission will follow an unmanned test flight of the Gaganyan spacecraft, which is designed to carry a crew into low Earth orbit. We discuss the training and preparations of the selected Indian Air Force pilots and the technical challenges ISRO faces as it embarks on this new frontier in space exploration.
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✍️ Episode References
Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics
https://www.cosmos.esa.int/cosmology
Nature Astronomy
https://www.nature.com/natastronomy/
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00:00 This is Space Time Series 28, Episode 63 for broadcast on 26 May 2025
01:00 New estimates on the universe's end
12:30 The strange gravity of asteroid Bennu
22:45 India's plans for its first manned spaceflight
30:00 Science report: Herpes virus linked to Alzheimer's disease