#405: Martian Mysteries & Moon-Sized Marvels: Unveiling Mars’ Ancient Atmosphere & The Tiniest Exoplanet

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Prepare to traverse the Martian landscapes and cosmic frontiers in this intriguing episode of Space Nuts, where Andrew Dunkley and Professor Fred Watson uncover the secrets of the Red Planet and the tiniest worlds beyond our solar system. In this episode, we're dusting off the Martian surface to reveal new evidence that hints at the planet's potential past life. A recent study from Japan brings to light ancient atmospheric conditions that could have fostered the formation of life-essential molecules. Dive into the science of how formaldehyde, a chemical you wouldn't typically associate with life, may have been a critical ingredient in Mars' primordial soup.
Then, we shrink our focus to the smallest exoplanet ever discovered, Kepler 37b. Is it a planet, an asteroid, or something in between? This celestial object, roughly the size of our Moon, challenges our definitions and understanding of planetary bodies. The team discusses the criteria that separate planets from dwarf planets and the exciting prospect of future discoveries with the upcoming Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope.
From Martian mysteries to minuscule exoplanets, this episode is a cosmic cocktail of astrophysical wonder and discovery. So, fasten your seatbelts, and let's embark on another Space Nuts adventure. Don't forget to hit the subscribe button on YouTube, and join us as we continue to explore the vast expanse of our universe. For more Space Nuts content, visit our website or tune in for the next episode. Until then, keep your eyes on the skies and your mind open to the endless possibilities of space.
📋 Episode Chapters
(00:00) This episode of Space nuts features Professor Fred Watson, astronomer at large
(01:33) Fred Koteman has just returned from a trip to Egypt
(06:58) There were issues with language and translation on our Egypt trip
(08:43) New research suggests ancient Mars could have harboured life
(15:56) Professor Fred Watson says Kepler 37 b is the smallest exoplanet ever found
(26:57) Fred Watson: Kepler 37 b is the smallest exoplanet thus found



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