Space and Astronomy

Missions to Venus: Highlights From History, and When We May Go Back

Much visited in an earlier era of space exploration, the planet has been overlooked in recent decades.

Trilobites

How Do You Solve a Moon Mystery? Fire a Laser at It

Researchers have used reflective prisms left on the moon’s surface for decades, but had increasingly seen problems with their effectiveness.

Perseid Meteor Shower: Watch It Peak in Night Skies

Meteor showers can light up night skies from dusk to dawn, and if you’re lucky you might be able to catch a glimpse.

Out There

A Star Went Supernova in 1987. Where Is It Now?

Astronomers might have found the ultradense remnant of an explosion that wracked a nearby galaxy.

Private Boats Enter SpaceX Splashdown Area, Raising Concerns

“We need to do a better job next time” of securing the area, the NASA administrator, Jim Bridenstine, said.

NASA Astronauts in SpaceX Capsule Make First Water Landing Since 1975

Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley splashed down on Sunday in the Gulf of Mexico in the Crew Dragon spacecraft.

SpaceX Crew Dragon Departs, Carrying NASA Astronauts Toward Home

Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley are getting ready to splash down after two months in orbit.

Virgin Galactic Unveils Comfy Cabin for Jet-Setting to the Edge of Space

Passengers able to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars for a seat can escape gravity for a few minutes.

Rene Carpenter, Astronaut’s Wife Who Broke NASA Mold, Dies at 92

The last living member of the Mercury 7 couples who helped define America’s early space program, she went on to become a writer and television host.

The Doctor From Nazi Germany and the Search for Life on Mars

Astrobiologists have used Mars Jars for decades. Many didn’t know about the controversial Air Force scientist who started them.