Space Exploration

SpaceX has begun counting down to the New Year, with the launch of the first of three rockets planned to close out 2024.

Follow Space.com's rocket launch blog for the latest on when the next rocket launch will be and how to follow it live.

Liftoff is set for 12 a.m. EST (0500 GMT) on Sunday, Dec. 29.

Blue Origin fired up its new heavy-lift orbital rocket for the first time just hours after receiving federal clearance to conduct its maiden launch.

On Dec. 28, 2000, NASA's Galileo spacecraft discovered auroras on Ganymede, Jupiter's largest moon.

From SpaceX plucking its huge Super Heavy rocket out of the sky to the launch of NASA's $5 billion Europa Clipper mission, this year held many amazing advances.

SpaceX launched more than 130 missions this year and made significant progress with its new Starship vehicle, the biggest and most powerful rocket ever built.

Surrounded by candy canes and a makeshift snowman made out of stowage bags, the astronauts on the International Space Station gathered together to wish a Merry Christmas to everyone back on Earth.

For better or for worse, a small part of the Apollo 11 spacecraft will now be Jon Mesick's to have and to hold for all the days of his life. The tape is the centerpiece of Mesick's wedding band.

NASA administrators play a vital role in deciding what NASA does and how it does it, and they also help build political support for space exploration.