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Small BodiesStories, updates, insights, and original analysis from The Planetary Society.
Old becomes new
A star will become visible in the night sky, and old data from Venus yield new discoveries.
What are competed planetary missions?
A critical part of a balanced exploration program, competed missions are scientist-led projects that cost less and occur more frequently than large, flagship-class missions.
How to see the nova (“new star”) in Corona Borealis
A giant stellar explosion is going to be visible from Earth. Here's how to see it.
Mars rovers, helicopters, and sunsets
This week brings updates on the next missions to rove — and maybe even fly — over the surface of Mars.
Earth’s quasi-moons, minimoons, and ghost moons
They may not be real moons, but they're worth exploring and studying.
A certain flair for solar activity
The Sun was in the spotlight this week, with a huge solar storm and the biggest solar flare in over a decade.
What is the Outer Space Treaty?
An overview of one of international space law’s foundational documents.
Can you imagine?
From visionary technologies to unusual planetary views, this week’s Downlink will challenge your imagination.
Meet the Habitable Worlds Observatory, NASA’s life-seeking telescope
The observatory will directly image Earth-size exoplanets circling other stars.
Wow! But also, yikes!
Photos and news from space to inspire, amaze, and even scare you a little.
What is the difference between astronomy and astrology?
The words may be similar, but astronomy (a science) and astrology (a divinatory practice) are very different things.
Science on the docket: The 2024 Congressional Day of Action
A recap of The Planetary Society's 2024 Day of Action in Washington, D.C.
Chang’e-6 launch: What to expect
China will attempt to return the first-ever samples from the far side of the Moon.
Volcanoes are so hot right now
From Mars to Io, volcanoes top the list of hottest things in space right now — both literally and figuratively.
What are planets made of?
A look at the compositions of terrestrial planets, gas giants, and ice giants in our Solar System.
The hottest and coldest places in the Solar System
The worlds of our Solar System run the gamut of temperatures. Here are some of the hottest and coldest places we know of.
Scratching the surface
The latest news on missions to search for ice and water beneath planetary surfaces.
At Eclipse-O-Rama, cosmic beauty and community
On a ranch in the Texas hill country, members of The Planetary Society gathered to marvel at the 2024 total solar eclipse as a community.
Is space science worth the money?
Space science costs money. Here's why it's worth the investment.
A sight to remember
For hundreds of millions of people, the Sun and Moon put on an astonishing show this week. Here are our eclipse highlights and more.