News

James Webb Space Telescope peers into a dying star surrounded by mysterious buckyballs: 'The structures we're seeing now are breathtaking'

By Elizabeth Howell published 23 April 26

The James Webb Space Telescope captured the first detailed images of planetary nebula Tc 1, revealing new details of what happens after a sun-like star dies.

Interstellar invader comet 3I/ATLAS formed in a world much colder than the solar system

By Robert Lea published 23 April 26

"Each interstellar comet brings a little bit of its history, its fossils, from elsewhere."

NASA's TESS spacecraft discovers a weird system of exoplanets unlike anything seen before

By Robert Lea published 23 April 26

"Most planetary systems appear as 'peas in a pod.' This is not the case in the TOI-201 system."

The best telescopes for beginners 2026: From starter models to refractors and smart telescopes

By Gemma Lavender last updated 23 April 26

Buying Guide Ready to start your astronomy journey?

On this day in space! April 23, 1962: Ranger 4 launches on failed moon mission

By Hanneke Weitering last updated 23 April 26

On April 23, 1962, NASA launched the Ranger 4 mission to the moon. After the first three Ranger missions failed, NASA was really happy with the successful launch of Ranger 4. But the fun didn't last long.

Nebula sparkles in new Hubble snapshot | Space photo of the day for April 23, 2026

By Chelsea Gohd published 23 April 26

Hubble revisits the Trifid Nebula in a spectacular image, revealing it's expansive splendor.

Japan's audacious sample-return mission to the Mars moon Phobos has made it to the launch pad

By Andrew Jones published 23 April 26

The complex MMX mission aims to shed light on the origins of Mars' two tiny moons, Phobos and Deimos, bringing Phobos material back to Earth in 2031.

Making contact with ET? Aliens may already know we're here

By Leonard David published 23 April 26

Earth is dotted with many humongous, human-made structures. To an alien eye, they may be tell-tale signs of intelligent goings-on, betraying our existence and hinting at our capabilities.

Our recommended choice as the best beginner mirrorless camera has $400 off, and has just hit its best price of the year at Best Buy

By Paul Brett published 23 April 26

Deals Expert tester Kimberley Lane rated the Sony A7C II as a perfect camera for enthusiasts, which produced impressive astrophotography results without breaking the bank.

'That's just not a winning strategy': Congress objects (again) to Trump's planned NASA budget cuts

By Mike Wall published 23 April 26

Members of Congress from both sides of the aisle objected to President Trump's proposed NASA budget cuts during a House hearing on Wednesday (April 22).