Astronomy

NASA has selected California-based space habitation company Vast to conduct a private astronaut mission to the International Space Station in 2027, marking another step in the agency’s transition toward a commercially driven low Earth orbit economy. The decision underscores NASA’s strategy to stimulate private-sector participation in human spaceflight while gradually shifting operational responsibilities to commercial partners. Vast will coordinate mission logistics, crew selection, and in-orbit activities under NASA oversight.

NASA has selected Vast to conduct the sixth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station, reinforcing the agency’s strategy of expanding commercial participation in low-Earth orbit. The decision highlights NASA’s continued shift from sole operator to facilitator, enabling private companies to access orbital infrastructure for research, technology demonstration, and commercial activity.

Astronomers have identified a new comet, designated C/2026 A1 (MAPS), following observations made in January, adding another object of scientific interest to the solar system’s dynamic landscape. The discovery highlights the increasing effectiveness of modern sky-survey programs and automated detection systems in tracking transient celestial bodies. Early data suggest the comet is long-period in nature, originating from the outer reaches of the solar system.

Astronomers have identified a promising Earth-sized exoplanet candidate, HD 137010 b, orbiting a sun-like star roughly 230 light-years from Earth. Using advanced spectroscopic and photometric methods, the research team detected subtle stellar wobbles and light fluctuations indicative of a terrestrial planet. While further observations are needed to confirm its composition and atmosphere, preliminary data suggest a rocky world potentially within the star’s habitable zone.

Eminent astrophysicist Shrinivas Kulkarni has been awarded the Royal Astronomical Society’s Gold Medal, one of the most prestigious global honors in astronomy, recognizing decades of transformative contributions to the field. The award highlights his seminal work in time-domain astronomy, including discoveries that reshaped understanding of cosmic explosions and transient celestial events. Widely regarded as a scientist who bridged theory, observation, and instrumentation, Kulkarni’s influence extends beyond research into mentorship and institution-building.

In an unprecedented event, an astronaut aboard the International Space Station (ISS) was compelled to cut short their mission due to a medical issue, prompting an early return to Earth. The rapid evacuation, coordinated between NASA, Roscosmos, and other international space agencies, underscores the complexities of human spaceflight and the critical importance of onboard medical readiness. While the astronaut’s condition is reported as stable, the incident highlights both the inherent risks of extended space missions and the robustness of emergency response protocols.

Astronomers have potentially identified the universe’s first superkilonova, an extraordinarily energetic cosmic event surpassing standard kilonovae in brightness and intensity. Kilonovae typically arise from neutron star mergers, producing heavy elements like gold and platinum, but a superkilonova could indicate a rare astrophysical phenomenon with unprecedented energy output. Using multi-wavelength telescopes and rapid detection networks, researchers observed distinctive light signatures and ejecta patterns suggesting a scale previously unseen.

The construction of NASA’s Roman Space Telescope has been officially completed, marking a milestone in space observation and astronomical research. Completed ahead of schedule, the project exemplifies efficient project management and technological innovation. Equipped with a wide-field instrument and advanced imaging capabilities, the telescope is designed to explore dark energy, map exoplanets, and survey the cosmos with unprecedented precision.

In a groundbreaking discovery, Indian astronomers have identified an ancient spiral galaxy, now named ‘Alaknanda’, located billions of light-years from Earth. The galaxy’s unique structure and composition provide critical insights into early cosmic evolution, shedding light on star formation, galactic morphology, and interstellar dynamics in the young universe. Using advanced telescopes and spectroscopic analysis, scientists have mapped its spiral arms, estimated its stellar population, and traced its chemical makeup.

In a groundbreaking astronomical discovery, scientists have identified a ring system encircling the exoplanet Jabal Arkanū, marking a significant advancement in exoplanetary studies. Observed from a network of Sahara-based telescopes, the planet exhibits a complex ring structure reminiscent of Saturn, providing unprecedented insights into planetary formation beyond our solar system.