### Summary of Spacetime Series 26, Episode 139 (Broadcast on 20 November 2023)
**Host:** Stuart Gary
**1. Discovery of Ancient Galaxies:**
- Scientists discovered two of the most distant galaxies ever seen, dating back 13.4 billion years.
- These galaxies, observed by NASA's Webb Space Telescope, provide insights into the early universe.
- The galaxies, located in Pandora's Cluster Abel 27 44, differ significantly in size and shape.
- This discovery challenges existing theories about early galaxy formation and growth.
**2. Earth's Surface Water Reaching the Core:**
- A new study suggests that Earth's surface water reaches down to the core-mantle boundary.
- This process, occurring over billions of years, involves water being transported deep into the Earth by subducting tectonic plates.
- The interaction at the core-mantle boundary alters the composition of the outermost region of the core.
- This finding has significant implications for understanding Earth's internal processes and global water cycle.
**3. NASA's Mars Spacecraft Communication Pause:**
- NASA's Martian spacecraft, including rovers and orbiters, experienced a communication pause due to Mars solar conjunction.
- During this period, Mars is positioned behind the sun from Earth's perspective, disrupting radio signals.
- The spacecraft continued collecting data but paused new commands to avoid potential communication issues.
- This event occurs every two years and is a regular operational necessity.
**4. Record-Breaking Global Heat:**
- Earth experienced its hottest year on record, with average global surface temperatures 1.32°C above preindustrial levels.
- A quarter of the world's population faced extreme heat levels.
- The increase in temperature is primarily attributed to human actions, with natural variations playing a minor role.
**5. Creation of a Chimeric Monkey:**
- Scientists created a chimeric monkey by injecting an embryo with stem cells from a genetically distinct donor.
- This research could aid in studying human diseases but raises ethical concerns.
**6. Narcissistic Traits and Eating Disorders:**
- A study found a correlation between narcissistic traits and the likelihood of having body image concerns and eating disorders.
**7. Skepticon Conference and Bent Spoon Award:**
- The annual Skepticon Conference in Melbourne will feature the Bent Spoon Award, recognizing the most preposterous paranormal or pseudoscientific claims.
- Past winners include media organizations, public figures, and institutions promoting dubious claims.
This episode of Spacetime covers a range of scientific topics, from astronomical discoveries to Earth's deep water cycle, Martian exploration, climate change, and psychological studies, reflecting the diverse and evolving nature of science and exploration.
