In this week’s episode we’re chasing mysteries in all directions — from the icy edges of our solar system to the fiery hearts of dying stars.

First, we explore the renewed buzz around Planet Nine, the theoretical ninth planet that may be lurking far beyond Pluto. New infrared data from decades-old space telescopes has astronomers wondering if we’ve finally glimpsed this long-suspected giant — or perhaps something even stranger.

Then, it’s time to bask in the glow of May’s Flower Moon and spot a planetary conjunction in the early morning sky. We’ll also check in on the last few stragglers from the Eta Aquariid meteor shower and take a guided tour of Corona Borealis, the Northern Crown — a small but mythically rich constellation that just might be harboring a nova-in-waiting.

Finally, we explore one of the wildest stellar phenomena ever proposed: the Thorne–Żytkow object — a red supergiant with a neutron star trapped inside its core. It’s cosmic horror meets astrophysics, and it just might be real.

For more episodes and resources for backyard astronomers, visit www.startrails.show. Share the wonder of the stars with friends and continue your cosmic journey with us. Also, connect with us on Mastodon @star_trails, on Bluesky @startrails.bsky.social, or YouTube @TheStarTrailsPodcast.

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