Scientists found a potential sign of life on a distant planet – an astronomer explains why many are still skeptical
The exoplanet K2-18b could harbor a massive ocean, but scientists will need to study the planet more to see if it’s really likely to host life.
Daniel Apai, Associate Dean for Research and Professor of Astronomy and Planetary Sciences, University of Arizona •
conversation
April 18, 2025 • ~9 min
April 18, 2025 • ~9 min
Mysterious objects from other stars are passing through our solar system. Scientists are planning missions to study them up close
Learning about these interstellar objects could give us insights into other star systems.
Theodora Ogden, Senior Analyst, Defence and Security Team, RAND Europe •
conversation
April 15, 2025 • ~9 min
April 15, 2025 • ~9 min
Why the meteorites that hit Earth have less water than the asteroid bits brought back by space probes – a planetary scientist explains new research
Water-rich meteorites contain key ingredients for life, yet they barely appear in meteorite collections. Recent research using shooting stars may explain why.
Patrick M. Shober, Postdoctoral Fellow in Planetary Sciences, NASA
• conversation
April 14, 2025 • ~8 min
April 14, 2025 • ~8 min
Trump’s nomination for NASA leader boasts business and commercial spaceflight experience during a period of uncertainty for the agency
Billionaire CEO Jared Isaacman has worked closely with SpaceX. He expressed an interest in sending missions to both the Moon and Mars if confirmed.
Wendy Whitman Cobb, Professor of Strategy and Security Studies, Air University •
conversation
April 10, 2025 • ~9 min
April 10, 2025 • ~9 min
Nasa and Esa want to bring Martian rocks to Earth. Here’s what will happen to the samples once they get here
Scientists will have to check whether the samples contain living microbes before they can be safely studied.
John Bridges, Professor of Planetary Science, University of Leicester •
conversation
April 7, 2025 • ~8 min
April 7, 2025 • ~8 min
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