After almost 20 helping to operate rovers on Mars, NASA geologist and astronaut candidate Lauren Edgar says stepping foot on the Red Planet 'would be a dream'

In the latest episode of This Week In Space, hosts Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik, along with guest Josh Dinner, dive into the exciting news about NASA's new class of astronauts and the upcoming Artemis II mission to the moon. This mission is significant as it marks a crucial step in humanity's return to lunar exploration, aiming to pave the way for future missions to Mars. The discussion highlights the importance of these astronauts in advancing space exploration and the technological innovations that will come from this endeavor.

NASA has officially confirmed the discovery of 6,000 exoplanets beyond our solar system, marking a significant milestone in astronomy just two decades after the first exoplanet was found. This exciting development highlights the rapid advancements in space exploration technology, particularly with next-generation telescopes set to launch soon, which will likely increase this number even further. Understanding these alien worlds could reshape our knowledge of the universe and the potential for life beyond Earth.

A small moon rock from the Apollo 17 mission, collected over 50 years ago, is shedding light on the early history of the Moon. Researchers have linked this rock to the formation of the Sea of Serenity, suggesting it may have formed hundreds of millions of years earlier than previously believed. This discovery is significant as it could reshape our understanding of lunar geology and the Moon's evolution, providing insights into the early solar system.

Blue Origin is making significant progress with its New Glenn rocket, now set to launch NASA's ESCAPADE Mars mission by mid-October. This mission is crucial as it represents a step forward in our exploration of Mars, aiming to gather valuable data about the planet's atmosphere and surface. The successful launch of this mission could enhance our understanding of Mars and pave the way for future exploration.

Experts suggest that if a space race is underway, China is currently in the lead, particularly in the quest to return Mars samples to Earth. This is significant because it highlights the growing competition in space exploration, where technological advancements and achievements could shift global power dynamics. As nations strive for supremacy in space, the implications for international relations and scientific collaboration could be profound.

NASA has launched the Carruthers Geocorona Observatory on a special mission to study Earth's enigmatic 'halo'. This two-year project aims to uncover the mysteries surrounding this phenomenon, which could enhance our understanding of the planet's atmosphere and its interactions with space. Such research is crucial as it may provide insights into climate change and the protection of our environment.

The crew of NASA's Artemis II mission, featuring three Americans and a Canadian, is gearing up to make space exploration more inclusive and accessible. In a recent preview, they emphasized a collaborative spirit, steering clear of current political debates. This mission not only represents a significant step in human spaceflight but also aims to inspire future generations to engage with space science and exploration.

The European Space Agency's Trace Gas Orbiter has captured stunning new images of Mars' atmosphere, showcasing its intricate layers of dust and ice. These visuals not only highlight the beauty of the Red Planet but also provide valuable insights into its atmospheric evolution, helping scientists understand more about Mars' history and potential for life. This discovery is significant as it enhances our knowledge of planetary atmospheres and the processes that shape them.

On September 26, 2022, NASA's DART mission successfully collided with the asteroid Dimorphos, marking a historic moment in space exploration. This groundbreaking test demonstrates humanity's ability to alter the trajectory of potentially hazardous asteroids, raising hopes for planetary defense against future threats. The success of this mission not only showcases technological advancements but also emphasizes the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding Earth from cosmic dangers.

The future of the Dream Chaser space plane visiting the International Space Station (ISS) looks uncertain as modifications to a cargo deal between Sierra Space and NASA could prevent it from ever making the trip. This matters because the ISS has been a hub for scientific research and international collaboration in space, and losing the Dream Chaser would mean fewer opportunities for cargo delivery and experiments, impacting ongoing projects and the future of space exploration.

In an exciting development for space exploration, Katalyst Space Technologies has secured a contract to elevate NASA's Swift Observatory in 2026. This mission is significant as it marks the first time a private spacecraft will assist in boosting the altitude of a NASA telescope, which has been actively searching for gamma-ray bursts from low Earth orbit for over 20 years. This collaboration not only enhances the capabilities of the Swift Observatory but also highlights the growing role of private companies in space missions.

The Artemis 2 astronauts have named their spacecraft 'Integrity,' marking an exciting milestone as they prepare for their lunar mission. Set to launch as early as February 5, this mission represents a significant step in NASA's efforts to return humans to the moon and pave the way for future exploration. The name reflects the mission's commitment to safety and excellence, resonating with the spirit of exploration.

Sea Otter Awareness Week is here, and it's a great time to celebrate these adorable creatures that play a crucial role in maintaining healthy kelp forests. By keeping sea urchin populations in check, sea otters help preserve the underwater ecosystem. This week, enjoy six fun photos that highlight their charm and importance, reminding us why we should protect them and their habitat.

Get ready to test your knowledge with an exciting quiz about meteor showers! This fun challenge not only checks your mastery of these celestial events but also dives into their fascinating origins. It's a great way to engage with astronomy and learn more about the wonders of the night sky.

On September 27, 1822, Jean-François Champollion made a groundbreaking announcement that he had deciphered ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics using the Rosetta Stone. This monumental achievement not only opened the door to understanding ancient Egyptian civilization but also sparked a widespread interest in Egyptology, allowing us to explore the rich history and culture of one of the world's oldest civilizations.

The Lego Duplo 3-in-1 Space Shuttle Adventure set is a fantastic option for young children fascinated by outer space. This set not only encourages imaginative play but also helps develop creativity and fine motor skills. It's a great way for kids to explore their interests while having fun, making it a valuable addition to any playroom.

YouTuber Mark Rumsey takes to the skies in a barebones Mirocopter SCH-2A, showcasing the thrill and challenges of flying an open-air, single-seat helicopter. This adventure not only highlights the excitement of aviation but also serves as a reminder of the courage it takes to embrace such daring experiences. It's a fascinating glimpse into the world of experimental flight that can inspire others to explore their own limits.

In a fun exploration of the extraterrestrial beings from the 'Alien' franchise, three experts weigh in on how realistic these creatures are based on scientific principles. This analysis not only entertains fans but also sparks curiosity about the possibilities of life beyond Earth, making it a relevant discussion in both science and pop culture.