Glitching Neutron Star Mysteries & SpaceX Launch Countdown: Astronomy Discoveries of the Day | S02E22

Welcome to our Wednesday edition of the Astronomy Daily podcast, where we cover one exciting story each from host Tim Gibbs and AI assistant Hallie. **1. Hallie's Story: A Glitching Neutron Star** Halle discusses the discovery of a neutron star, SGR 1935+2154, that displayed a "glitch" after obliterating an asteroid. This "glitch" involved a change in the star's rotational speed while simultaneously releasing a powerful radio wave blast, a fast radio burst (FRB). This study has enabled astronomers to connect the mysterious radio energy bursts to magnetars, an extreme type of neutron star. These celestial objects are born from the remnant cores of massive stars after they undergo supernovas. With masses equivalent to the sun squeezed into city-sized volumes, magnetars possess the universe's most powerful magnetic fields. **2. SpaceX Launch Update** Our discussion then shifts to a SpaceX launch this week that was called off with just 5 seconds remaining on the countdown clock. The planned launch involved a Falcon 9 rocket topped with 54 Starlink satellites from Florida's Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. While the specific issue causing the delay wasn't disclosed during the webcast, SpaceX assured that both the rocket and satellites were in good health, with plans to try for a launch again soon. **3. Wrapping Up** The podcast ends with Tim reminding you to catch his and Steve's full shows on Fridays and Mondays, respectively. You can download all episodes from SpaceNuts.io or Bitesz.com. **4. Upcoming** SpaceX is targeting Wednesday, July 19 for the next lift-off, meaning a potential 24-hour delay. This could mean a launch Wednesday night, California time, or early Thursday morning, July 20. Thank you for tuning in to Astronomy Daily! We'll see you next time.