Space Exploration

A new theory tested on Apollo-era data suggests that high-speed moon dust could pose engineering hazards—and diplomatic headaches

The radioactive unit will help to deliver Europe’s first Mars rover to the planet’s surface

The 90-year-old finally realized his dreams of spaceflight aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard vehicle, which also carried five other crew members on a short suborbital voyage

Debris from spacecraft threatens the burgeoning space economy. We need a global agreement to keep space clean

Veteran spacefarer Don Pettit is set to launch this summer on a half-year mission to the International Space Station to perform novel science experiments, snap unique orbital photos, and much more

Sierra Space’s Dream Chaser is set to make its inaugural trip to orbit to deliver supplies to the International Space Station

Alien worlds that glow like lightbulbs or harbor molten-rock rain are revealing planets’ profound cosmic diversity—and pointing the way toward finding those that truly resemble our own familiar Earth

The far side of the moon holds the keys to the future of radio astronomy. We must maintain its pristine silence to benefit everyone

After the spectacular success of the first-ever “Marscopter,” mission planners have soaring ambitions for follow-up flying machines

Starliner’s first crewed launch will mark just the sixth time ever that NASA astronauts have flown in a brand-new spacecraft

The solar system’s outer limits aren’t as clear-cut as you might think

NASA scientists spent months coaxing the 46-year-old Voyager 1 spacecraft back into healthy communication