Did NASA's Perseverance Mars rover just see interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS in the Martian night sky?

A new coffee-table photo book by Andy Saunders brings to life the pioneering days of NASA's Gemini and Mercury programs. By meticulously mining NASA's archives, Saunders has created a stunning visual record that not only showcases the early achievements in space exploration but also highlights the importance of these missions in shaping America's space history. This book is a must-have for space enthusiasts and serves as a reminder of the incredible journey humanity has taken into the cosmos.

A new study suggests that the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS originates from a distant part of the Milky Way, potentially acting as a time capsule from the early galaxy. This discovery is significant as it could provide insights into the formation and evolution of our galaxy, helping scientists understand more about the universe's history and the processes that shaped it.

NASA's Juno probe, which has been orbiting Jupiter, finds itself in a state of uncertainty as the U.S. government shutdown coincided with the expiration of its last mission extension. This situation leaves the future of the mission unclear, raising questions about the continuation of valuable scientific research on the gas giant. The implications of this shutdown could affect ongoing and future space exploration efforts, highlighting the challenges faced by scientific missions reliant on government funding.

The Draconids meteor shower is set to light up the early evening skies this October, offering a unique viewing opportunity for stargazers. Unlike most meteor showers that peak in the early morning, the Draconids are best observed in the evening, making it more accessible for those who want to enjoy the celestial display. This year's shower is particularly exciting as the comet responsible for it passed close to the sun earlier this year, increasing the chances of a meteor storm. It's a perfect time for families and friends to gather outside and witness this beautiful natural phenomenon.

In the latest episode of This Week In Space, hosts Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik delve into the significant implications of NASA's shutdown and the precarious dismantling of the space shuttle Discovery, driven by Texas's insistence. This matters because NASA's operations are crucial for space exploration and scientific advancement, and the shutdown raises concerns about the future of space missions and research.

Recent discoveries on Saturn's moon Enceladus, including a variety of carbon-based substances, have sparked excitement in the scientific community about the potential for extraterrestrial life in our solar system. This finding is significant as it suggests that Enceladus could be a fertile ground for life, making it a prime target for future exploration. As we continue to uncover the mysteries of our cosmic neighborhood, the hope of finding life beyond Earth becomes more tangible, igniting curiosity and inspiring further research.

This week, skywatchers can look forward to the Draconid meteor shower, which promises a modest yet convenient display of shooting stars after sunset. What makes this event particularly exciting is the potential for bright fireballs, adding a dramatic flair to the celestial show. It's a great opportunity for both seasoned astronomers and casual stargazers to enjoy a beautiful night sky, making it a perfect reason to step outside and appreciate the wonders of the universe.

A remarkable archaeological discovery in Turkey has unveiled a 2,700-year-old temple that may have been dedicated to a mother goddess revered by various ancient cultures, including the Greeks and Romans. This finding is significant as it sheds light on the religious practices of the time and highlights the cultural connections between different civilizations. Such discoveries not only enrich our understanding of history but also spark interest in the ancient world, reminding us of the diverse beliefs that shaped human civilization.

The rugby community is coming together to support former England captain Lewis Moody after he announced his diagnosis of motor neurone disease. At 47, the 2003 World Cup winner is facing a challenging future but remains optimistic. His former Leicester teammates have even set up a fundraising page to help him during this difficult time. This outpouring of support highlights the strong bonds within the rugby world and the importance of community in times of need.

Archaeologists have finally dated the Karnak Temple to the Old Kingdom, a significant breakthrough that sheds light on ancient Egyptian history. This discovery is crucial as it helps us understand the timeline of one of the world's most remarkable civilizations and the architectural advancements they achieved. The Karnak Temple, a site that has puzzled experts for years, now offers new insights into the cultural and historical context of ancient Egypt.

Darleane Hoffman, a pioneering figure in nuclear chemistry, has passed away at the age of 98. Recognized as one of the 50 most important women in science, her groundbreaking work on rare radioactive isotopes significantly advanced our understanding of nuclear fission. Hoffman's contributions not only enriched the scientific community but also inspired future generations of scientists, particularly women, to pursue careers in STEM fields. Her legacy will continue to influence research and education in nuclear science.

Did you ever wonder why we can't feel the Earth moving? Our planet is in constant motion, spinning on its axis and orbiting the sun, yet we remain blissfully unaware of this grand dance. Understanding this phenomenon not only sparks curiosity about our place in the universe but also highlights the intricate dynamics of nature that keep life thriving on Earth.