Your next chance to see Saturn is tonight, low in the western sky just after sunset, and you don't need a telescope. But while the rings are what everyone pictures, the real story is a moon that's larger than Mercury, has an atmosphere almost as thick as Earth's, and is considered more habitable in some senses than Mars.

Scientists have been arguing for years about how Saturn's rings and moons actually formed. The new theory: a collision so massive it created both Titan and Hyperion at once, two moons still tidally locked to each other billions of years later. Titan's atmosphere resembles what Earth looked like in its earliest history, which is why the Dragonfly mission is expected to launch within the next few years. The rings are tilted thin right now, making moons easier to spot than usual.

What makes this moment specific: the rings are at their thinnest, and the window closes as February ends. The moon worth looking for is bigger than a planet, has weather, and is possibly the most scientifically interesting object in the solar system that most people can't name.

Topics: Saturn planet parade, Titan moon atmosphere, Dragonfly mission, Saturn rings, space science Canada

GUEST: Elaina Hyde | Director, Alan I. Carswell Observatory, York University

Originally aired on 2026-02-24

Your next chance to see Saturn is tonight, low in the western sky just after sunset, and you don't need a telescope. But while the rings are what everyone pictures, the real story is a moon that's larger than Mercury, has an atmosphere almost as thick as Earth's, and is considered more habitable in some senses than Mars.
Scientists have been arguing for years about how Saturn's rings and moons actually formed. The new theory: a collision so massive it created both Titan and Hyperion at once, two moons still tidally locked to each other billions of years later. Titan's atmosphere resembles what Earth looked like in its earliest history, which is why the Dragonfly mission is expected to launch within the next few years. The rings are tilted thin right now, making moons easier to spot than usual.
What makes this moment specific: the rings are at their thinnest, and the window closes as February ends. The moon worth looking for is bigger than a planet, has weather, and is possibly the most scientifically interesting object in the solar system that most people can't name.
Topics: Saturn planet parade, Titan moon atmosphere, Dragonfly mission, Saturn rings, space science Canada
GUEST: Elaina Hyde | Director, Alan I. Carswell Observatory, York University
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-02-24

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.