'We're really on a different trajectory': How NASA's Artemis moon missions aim to prepare us for Mars

Supporters rallied outside NASA headquarters in Washington, D.C., demanding full funding for the agency. The event featured chants of 'Save NASA!' as employees joined lawmakers in the protest.

Editor’s Note: This protest highlights the ongoing concerns about NASA's funding and its impact on space exploration. With increasing public interest in space, ensuring adequate funding is crucial for the agency's future projects and missions.

Elon Musk believes humanity can establish a self-sustaining settlement on Mars by 2055, contingent on advancements in heavy-lift launch technology.

Editor’s Note: This vision for Mars settlement is significant as it represents a major step in human exploration and colonization of other planets, potentially transforming our future.

The asteroid 2025 FA22, once thought to pose a risk to Earth in 2089, will safely pass by our planet on September 18 at over 24,000 mph. This event can be viewed live.

Editor’s Note: This is significant because it highlights the advancements in tracking potentially hazardous asteroids. The fact that 2025 FA22 will not impact Earth reassures the public and showcases the effectiveness of space monitoring.

Astronauts aboard the International Space Station maintain their routines, including regular haircuts, even while in space. This highlights the human aspect of life in orbit.

Editor’s Note: This matters because it shows that astronauts lead normal lives despite being in a unique environment. It helps the public connect with space missions on a personal level.

Pam Melroy, a former NASA deputy chief and space shuttle commander, has joined the board of Venus Aerospace following their revolutionary RDRE flight. This move is significant as Melroy brings her extensive experience to the startup, which is poised to transform propulsion technology in the aerospace industry. Her involvement could accelerate the development and scaling of innovative solutions that may redefine space travel.

Recent experiments have shown that certain bacteria and fungi from Earth could survive on the moon's surface for several days. This discovery raises important questions about the potential for contamination during lunar missions. As space exploration continues to advance, ensuring that we do not introduce Earth microbes to the moon is crucial for preserving its natural state and for the integrity of future scientific research.

Scientists have developed a method to predict when Mars will experience glowing green auroras. Their recent success in capturing these phenomena confirms the effectiveness of their approach.

Editor’s Note: This breakthrough is significant as it enhances our understanding of Martian weather and atmospheric conditions. Predicting auroras could also aid future missions to Mars, providing insights into the planet's environment.

On September 16, the crescent moon will shine alongside Jupiter in the early morning sky, joining the stars of Gemini.

Editor’s Note: This celestial event is a great opportunity for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts to witness a beautiful alignment of the moon and Jupiter, enhancing our appreciation of the night sky.

Mars may have once had a much thicker atmosphere than it does today, potentially hundreds of times denser with a pressure three times that of Earth.

Editor’s Note: Understanding Mars' past atmosphere is crucial for scientists studying the planet's climate history and its potential for supporting life.

Fifty years ago, NASA launched the Viking missions to explore Mars and search for signs of life. The findings from these missions continue to spark discussions and research today.

Editor’s Note: The Viking missions were groundbreaking in the quest to understand Mars and the potential for life beyond Earth. Their legacy influences current and future Mars exploration efforts, making this anniversary a significant moment in space history.

This week, the moon and Venus will align near the 'Heart of the Lion' constellation, creating a beautiful sight for stargazers. It's a great opportunity to observe this celestial event with the naked eye or binoculars.

Editor’s Note: This celestial event is significant as it offers a chance for people to connect with astronomy and appreciate the beauty of the night sky. Observing such alignments can inspire interest in space and science.

NASA satellites have discovered a new island in Alaska's Alsek Lake, created by melting glaciers. This finding highlights the ongoing changes in the region's landscape due to climate change.

Editor’s Note: This discovery is significant as it showcases the impact of climate change on our environment. The formation of new landmasses can affect local ecosystems and provide insights into how glaciers are retreating.

Casey Means, the nominee for Surgeon General, has committed to divesting from wellness-related interests, including companies that sell personal devices and supplements. This move is significant as it reflects a growing trend towards transparency and accountability in public health positions, ensuring that officials prioritize public health over personal financial interests. Her decision could inspire confidence in her leadership and set a precedent for future nominees.

Northrop Grumman's 'Cygnus XL' cargo spacecraft has encountered a thruster issue while en route to the International Space Station, causing a delay in its scheduled arrival on September 17. This setback is significant as it affects the timely delivery of supplies and equipment to the ISS, which is crucial for ongoing scientific research and operations in space.

Recent research has revealed that some tektites in an Australian museum, previously thought to be from an 800,000-year-old asteroid strike, are actually much older. This discovery not only challenges long-held beliefs about the origins of these cosmic fragments but also enhances our understanding of Earth's geological history. By uncovering the true age of these tektites, scientists can gain insights into past cosmic events and their impact on our planet, making this finding significant for both researchers and enthusiasts of space science.

A recent trial has shown that a daily weight loss pill, orforglipron, can help individuals lose up to 20% of their body weight. Conducted by Eli Lilly, the study involved over 3,000 adults and revealed that one in five participants achieved significant weight loss over 72 weeks. This breakthrough could provide a new option for millions struggling with obesity, offering a convenient alternative to injections like Mounjaro and Wegovy. As obesity rates continue to rise, the potential impact of this medication on public health is substantial.

NASA's Artemis moon missions are paving the way for future Mars exploration by identifying potential landing sites for astronauts on the moon. This initiative is crucial as it not only prepares astronauts for lunar missions but also lays the groundwork for the eventual journey to Mars. The advancements made through Artemis will enhance our understanding of space travel and ensure that we are ready for the challenges of interplanetary exploration.

Amazon is kicking off its Prime Big Deal Days early with significant discounts on TP-Link routers and mesh WiFi systems. This is exciting news for tech enthusiasts and anyone looking to upgrade their home internet setup, as these deals provide an excellent opportunity to save on high-quality networking gear before the official sale starts on October 7th.