S03E26: Hopping Robots & Lunar Flybys: Post-Eclipse Eye Safety & Space Force's International Summit

**Host:** Steve Dunkley with co-host AI Hallie
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**Episode Summary:**
Buckle up, space enthusiasts! Steve Dunkley and his AI co-host Hallie are back with another intriguing episode of Astronomy Daily - The Podcast. This time, we're diving into the aftermath of an eclipse that left many disregarding expert advice, resulting in a spike in "my eyes hurt" Google searches. We'll explore the cautionary tales from eclipse viewers of the past and the lasting impact on their vision. In a lighter vein, we'll hop aboard with a tiny robot designed to leap across asteroids, and unravel the mystery of the "surfboard-like object" orbiting the moon. Plus, we'll get the latest scoop on SpaceX's ever-growing Starship and its ambitious plans for lunar missions. And don't miss our discussion on the Space Chiefs Forum, where global military space leaders unite to navigate the challenges of space debris and militarization. Finally, we'll peek into the world of science fiction with the "Three-Body Problem" and its scientific roots, before catching up with the Artemis II Orion spacecraft as it gears up for a moon mission with astronauts. Join us for these stellar stories and more on today's episode of Astronomy Daily.
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**Featured Topics:**
1. **Eclipse Aftermath:** The dangers of ignoring eclipse viewing safety and the real-life consequences for those who learned the hard way.
2. **Spacehopper's Leaps:** The innovative hopping robot from ETH Zurich University, destined to explore asteroids and moons with agility.
3. **Moon's Mysterious Orbiter:** Solving the enigma of the object photographed by the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter and its implications for lunar exploration.
4. **SpaceX's Starship Expansion:** Elon Musk's vision for a larger Starship and the future of cost-effective space travel.
5. **Space Chiefs Forum:** The significance of international collaboration among military space leaders to ensure a peaceful and sustainable outer space.
6. **The Science Behind "Three-Body Problem":** How the Netflix series ties into the complex physics of celestial mechanics.
7. **Artemis II Orion Prepares:** The rigorous testing of the Orion spacecraft in anticipation of a historic crewed lunar orbit.
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**Additional Information:**
For the full cosmic experience, visit astronomydaily.io to subscribe to our renowned newsletter, delivering the freshest space science and astronomy news straight to your inbox. Join the conversation with us on Facebook at Space Nuts Podcast Group and on X (formerly Twitter) @AstroDailyPod. Don't miss a single celestial update!

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**Closing Remarks:**
As we bring this episode to a close, we thank you for joining Steve and Hallie on this cosmic journey. Whether it's the cautionary tales of eclipse viewers or the boundless potential of space exploration, we hope to ignite your curiosity and passion for the stars. Until next time, keep your eyes safe and your spirits high as we continue to explore the wonders of the universe together.
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**Host Sign-off:** Steve: "That's a wrap for today's episode, folks. Thanks for tuning in, and remember, the universe is vast and full of mysteries waiting to be uncovered. Keep your gaze fixed on the stars and join us again next week for more astronomical adventures. Clear skies and happy stargazing!"
For more visit www.astronomydaily.io
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