Russia’s Space Program Is in Big Trouble
A set of Soyuz spacecraft coolant leaks hints that Roscosmos is struggling as the space agency loses international partnerships and funding.
How a Beam of Pellets Could Blast a Probe Into Deep Space
Researchers seek to develop advanced propulsion systems that can transform long-distance space exploration.
The World’s First 3D-Printed Rocket Is About to Launch
Relativity Space’s attempt to reach orbit heralds the increasing use of 3D printing in the space sector.
What Will Ethical Space Exploration Look Like?
Astrophysicist and ‘Off-Earth’ author Erika Nesvold maps out the questions we need to ask before living on other planets.
A Tiny Sun in a Jar Is Shedding Light on Solar Flares
This new lab experiment explores the physics involved in our star’s tumultuous interior regions—by creating a sphere of plasma.
Citizen Scientists Show Light Pollution Erases Stars From the Sky
More than a decade of eyewitness data shows that fainter stars disappear as artificial light brightens the night sky.
A Bold Plan to Beam Solar Energy Down From Space
The European Space Agency is exploring a unique way to dramatically cut carbon emissions by tapping sunlight closer to the source.