S03E127: Planetary Forces and Solar Cycles, Triton Hopper Mission, and Redefining Planets

Astronomy Daily - The Podcast

Welcome to Astronomy Daily, your friendly and engaging source for all things space and Astronomy. I'm your host, Anna, here to guide you through the latest cosmic headlines. Whether you're a casual stargazer or an astrophysics enthusiast, we've got news that will spark your curiosity and keep you informed about the universe.
- **Planetary Influences on the Sun's Magnetic Cycles**: Researchers at the Helmholtz Zentrum Dresden, Rossendorf, and the University of Latvia have unveiled a groundbreaking physical model supporting the planetary hypothesis. This model proposes that vortex-shaped currents on the sun, named Rossby waves, act as intermediaries between the gravitational influences of planets like Venus, Earth, and Jupiter, and the sun's magnetic activities. By revealing how Rossby waves mediate the planet's tidal forces, researchers can now predict and understand even longer-term solar cycles, offering new insights into the sun's behavior and its interactions with the rest of our solar system.
- **Exploring Neptune's Moon Triton**: Steve Olson and Jeffrey Landis have proposed the Triton Hopper mission to explore Neptune's largest moon, Triton. The innovative mission aims to use a cryogenic pump to extract propellant directly from Triton's icy surface, enabling the hopper to cover significant distances by hopping across the moon. Loaded with scientific instruments, this mission could unlock a wealth of data about Triton's geology and potential for biological activity.
- **Redefining What Makes a Planet**: The definition of what constitutes a planet is back up for debate. Researchers like Jean-Luc Margot of UCLA have proposed new criteria focusing on dynamical dominance and mass. This refined classification aims to provide clarity and consistency, aiding both the astronomical community and the public's understanding of what exactly constitutes a planet. The IAU is expected to discuss these proposals further at their next general assembly in Rome in 2027.
- **Space Sustainability Collaboration**: Airbus Defense and Space and Astroscale Limited have partnered to advance in-orbit servicing and space debris removal. Their collaboration focuses on space debris removal, in-orbit servicing, precise navigation and docking technologies, in-orbit space assembly and manufacturing, and satellite refueling and life extension. This partnership aims to enhance the longevity and efficiency of space assets, contributing significantly to building a circular economy in space.
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