'If it's possible, it must be done': Rocket Lab CEO Peter Beck has his eyes on missions to Mars and Venus

On September 23, SpaceX is set to launch NASA's IMAP mission along with two additional space weather probes, marking an exciting moment for space exploration enthusiasts. This launch is significant as it aims to enhance our understanding of space weather, which can impact satellite operations and communications on Earth. You can catch the live action of this ambitious mission early Tuesday morning.

NASA's Artemis 2 mission is gearing up for its 2026 launch, and the four astronauts are already getting hands-on experience by practicing moonwatching in a mockup Orion capsule. This preparation is crucial as it not only helps the astronauts familiarize themselves with the mission's objectives but also builds excitement for humanity's return to the moon. The Artemis program aims to pave the way for future exploration and potential colonization, making this practice session a significant step forward in space exploration.

This week, NASA is set to unveil its new astronaut class, a significant step in its ongoing space exploration efforts. The announcement on September 22 will be followed by discussions about the Artemis 2 moon mission, scheduled for September 23 and 24. These events are crucial as they highlight NASA's commitment to returning humans to the moon and advancing our understanding of space, making it an exciting time for space enthusiasts and the scientific community alike.

Critics are raising alarms about the U.S. falling behind in the race to return to the Moon, particularly pointing fingers at SpaceX and its Starship rocket. Recent test failures, with three out of four tests resulting in explosions, have left many questioning the rocket's readiness for future missions. Former NASA executives emphasize that the current version of Starship can only carry a small fraction of its intended payload, which could hinder the U.S.'s lunar ambitions. This situation is concerning as it highlights potential delays in critical space exploration efforts.

Exciting news for space enthusiasts! NASA's VIPER moon rover, which was thought to be shelved, is set to be launched by Blue Origin in 2027. This mission aims to hunt for ice on the moon, which could be crucial for future lunar exploration and even for potential human colonization. The collaboration between NASA and Jeff Bezos' company highlights a significant step forward in our quest to understand the moon's resources and pave the way for deeper space missions.

Recent findings from NASA's Perseverance rover suggest that Jezero Crater on Mars may have once been a habitable environment due to evidence of repeated water activity. This discovery not only enhances our understanding of Mars' geological history but also raises excitement for future missions, particularly the Mars Sample Return, which aims to bring back samples for detailed analysis. The implications of finding past life on Mars could reshape our understanding of life beyond Earth.

Exciting news for Mars exploration! The landing site for the Rosalind Franklin rover, located at Oxia Planum, shows promising signs that natural geological processes could enhance its ability to find organic compounds. This discovery is significant because it could provide vital clues about the potential for ancient life on Mars, making the upcoming mission even more crucial for understanding our neighboring planet.

On September 23, SpaceX is set to launch NASA's IMAP mission along with two additional space weather probes, marking an exciting moment for space exploration enthusiasts. This launch is significant as it aims to enhance our understanding of space weather, which can impact satellite operations and communications on Earth. You can catch the live action of this ambitious mission early Tuesday morning.

A new deal for TikTok has resulted in the creation of a U.S. joint venture, which is significant because it allows the U.S. to access TikTok's valuable content recommendation algorithm while ensuring that the government will not hold any stake in the company. This partnership with Oracle, which will oversee security, highlights a positive step towards addressing concerns about data privacy and national security, making it a noteworthy development in the tech landscape.

Former President Trump is reportedly set to make an announcement that will highlight an unproven connection between Tylenol and autism. This claim raises concerns as it could mislead the public and undermine trust in established medical research. It's crucial to rely on scientifically validated information, especially when it comes to health issues that affect families.

Exciting new footage has captured the first-ever glimpse of leopard shark mating, revealing an unexpected trio in the process. This discovery is significant as it sheds light on the reproductive behaviors of these fascinating creatures, enhancing our understanding of marine biology and the complexities of underwater life.

In a groundbreaking move, the US military has repositioned one of its satellites to inspect a UK spacecraft located 22,000 miles above Earth. This operation marks a significant step in international cooperation in space, showcasing the US's commitment to supporting its allies and ensuring the safety and functionality of satellites in orbit. Such collaborative efforts are crucial as they enhance security and foster trust among nations in an increasingly crowded space environment.

Louise Vincent, a pivotal figure in the harm reduction movement, has passed away at the age of 49. Her efforts were crucial in promoting the use of needle exchanges and naloxone, which have saved countless lives by helping drug users identify dangerous substances. Her legacy will continue to influence drug policy and public health initiatives, highlighting the importance of compassionate approaches to addiction.