Space

Physics

Scientists Say: Magnetosphere

This magnetic field encapsulates our planet, sheltering us from damaging energetic threats posed by the cosmos and our own sun.

Space

Here’s why some shooting stars have long-lasting afterglows

Atmospheric chemistry is the most important factor in determining which meteors leave behind these persistent trails.

Space

Summer ‘space hurricanes’ are emerging high above Earth’s magnetic poles

A separation — and later recombining — of Earth’s magnetic field lines may be what churns up these super-high-altitude storms of plasma.

Space

Scientists Say: Cosmic rays

These energy-packed particles come to us from the farthest reaches of outer space.

Planets

Here are 5 exoplanet mysteries the James Webb telescope could help solve

This space telescope could reveal much about the formation, makeup and evolution of distant exoplanets.

Space

A cosmic explosion this summer may add a ‘new star‘ to the night sky

Some 3,000 light-years away, this white dwarf undergoes a nova eruption every 80 years or so — throwing off light that can be seen with the unaided eye.

Space

Sci-fi inspired spacesuit recycles pee into drinking water

A spacesuit that collects and filters urine could prove a boon to future remote workers — even on Earth. Like the idea? Thank Dune.

Space

Astronomers caught a supermassive black hole turning on for the first time

The black hole at the center of a not-too-distant galaxy switched from being dim and quiet to bright and active.

Space

Space tourists could face out-of-this-world health risks

As commercial spaceflight starts to take off, a new project — the Space Omics and Medical Atlas — documents potential health impacts to travelers.

Planets

Active volcanoes may be common on Venus

Researchers took a new look at decades-old images from NASA’s Magellan spacecraft. These now suggest volcanic activity is widespread on the planet.

Physics

Forget moon walking, lunar visitors. Try horizontal running

Researchers took over the Wall of Death, an amusement park attraction, to test out how astronauts might keep their strength up on the moon.

Space

Scientists Say: Astronomical interferometry

This technique links up many telescopes to see the universe in finer detail than any single telescope could alone.