ISS astronauts spy airglow and dwarf galaxy | Space photo of the day for Jan. 13, 2026

A recent study has identified a unique white dwarf star, RXJ0528+2838, which is producing a rainbow-like shockwave as it travels through the Milky Way, while simultaneously disrupting its companion star. This phenomenon is described as a rare and astonishing occurrence in the field of astrophysics.

Newly discovered stars in the small galaxy Sextans A are forming without some of the typical ingredients, prompting scientists to reconsider theories about star formation and the evolution of the early universe. This finding challenges existing models that rely on conventional elements for star creation.

NASA is returning four astronauts from the International Space Station (ISS) earlier than planned due to a medical concern affecting one of the Crew-11 astronauts. This decision marks the first-ever medical evacuation from the ISS, highlighting the agency's commitment to crew safety. The astronauts are expected to return to Earth soon, following the agency's protocols for such emergencies.

SpaceX's Crew-11 astronauts are set to undock from the International Space Station (ISS) today, marking the first-ever medical evacuation from the orbiting laboratory due to an undisclosed medical issue affecting one of the crew members. This unprecedented event will be broadcast live, allowing viewers to witness the historic moment.

On January 14, 2026, SpaceX's Crew-11 mission will conduct the first-ever medical evacuation from the International Space Station (ISS), returning four astronauts to Earth due to a medical concern affecting one of the crew members. This unprecedented event highlights the challenges faced by astronauts in space and the importance of health monitoring in such extreme environments.

Research indicates that viruses may exhibit enhanced capabilities in the microgravity environment of the International Space Station (ISS), suggesting that microgravity influences viral evolution in ways that remain largely unexplored.

New research indicates that the x-ray emissions from Sagittarius A*, the supermassive black hole at the center of the Milky Way, have undergone significant changes over the past few hundred years, suggesting it may have once been 10,000 times brighter than it is today.

A stunning photograph of the Orion Nebula, the closest large star-forming region located 1,500 light-years from Earth, has captured the attention of astronomy enthusiasts and is encouraging many to explore the night sky with telescopes this week.