S03E13: Orbital Odyssey: Splashdowns, Solar Shadows, and Starship's Stellar Leap

**Hosts:** Steve Dunkley and AI Assistant Hallie
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**Episode Summary:**
Join Steve Dunkley and his virtual co-host Hallie for an out-of-this-world episode of Astronomy Daily, recorded on a starry evening, March 18, 2024. In today's cosmic conversation, we celebrate the safe splashdown of SpaceX Crew-7, anticipate a massive solar eclipse, delve into the final assembly stages of Europa Clipper's solar arrays, and marvel at NASA's Roman Telescope's ambitious galactic plane survey. From the charm of vinyl records to the cutting-edge of space exploration, Steve and Hallie guide you through the latest astronomical news with wit and wisdom.
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**Featured Topics:**
1. **SpaceX Crew-7's Ocean Landing:** Revisiting the successful end of a historic mission as Crew-7 returns to Earth, with a spotlight on the crew's diverse and accomplished backgrounds.
2. **Starship's High-Stakes Test:** Analyzing SpaceX's latest Starship test flight, its triumphs, the lessons learned, and what it means for the future of space travel.
3. **Eclipse Watch 2024:** Preparing for the awe-inspiring total solar eclipse set to sweep across North America, with tips on how to experience this celestial spectacle.
4. **Europa Clipper's Progress:** Examining the critical steps towards launching NASA's mission to Jupiter's icy moon, including the testing of its expansive solar arrays.
5. **Roman Telescope's Galactic Mission:** Exploring the revolutionary survey that will rewrite our understanding of the Milky Way, with over 100 billion cosmic objects expected to be mapped.
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**Notable Quotes:**
- "Digital may be convenient, but there's something about the nostalgia of a vinyl record that's out of this world." - Steve Dunkley
- "Running is for the birds. I'm content soaring through data and bringing you the universe's latest." - Hallie
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**Additional Information:**
For your daily space fix, head over to astronomydaily.io, where you can find all past and present episodes and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates. Dive deeper into the universe with our curated news from the best sources around the world, and join the conversation with fellow astronomy enthusiasts.
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**Next Episode Preview:**
Next episode, Steve and Hallie will return with more celestial news and discoveries. Expect to hear about the latest advancements in space technology, the ongoing saga of our cosmic explorations, and the stories that connect us to the stars.
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**Closing Remarks:**
As we sign off from this cosmic journey, we're reminded that the universe's wonders are as constant as the spinning of vinyl on a turntable. Thank you for joining us on this voyage through the stars. Until we meet again, this is Steve Dunkley and AI Assistant Hallie, wishing you clear nights and enlightening sights.
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**Host Sign-off:** Steve Dunkley: "Until our next celestial rendezvous, keep your telescopes polished and your minds open." Hallie: "Farewell, dear listeners. May your curiosity always be as boundless as the universe.
📋 Episode Chapters
(00:00) Steve Dunclub returns with another episode of Astronomy Daily
(01:59) International crew flew aboard SpaceX Dragon spacecraft named Endurance
(09:01) You can receive the now famous astronomy daily newsletter in your email each day
(09:58) SpaceX's Starship rocket successfully launched on Thursday morning; FAA investigating mishap