Mars Gazette

Title: Vera Rubin Observatory Discovers Record-Breaking Superfast Asteroid

The Vera Rubin Observatory, an astronomical observatory located in Chile, has made a groundbreaking discovery by spotting the fastest-spinning large asteroid ever found. The observatory has identified a total of 19 new “superfast rotator” asteroids, redefining our understanding of the cosmos.

The discovery of these superfast rotators adds a new dimension to our knowledge of the asteroid belt – a region of space located between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter, teeming with remnants from the early solar system. The highlight of these discoveries is a large space rock, now holding the record as the fastest-spinning big asteroid ever found.

The asteroids that usually cross our radar are slow rotators, taking hours to complete a single rotation. However, these newly discovered fast-spinning asteroids are a different breed altogether. They flaunt their speed, spinning around their axis in mere minutes. The observation of such quick rotation is a rare phenomenon, especially for large asteroids, making this discovery all the more significant.

The record-breaking asteroid has been named as the “fastest-spinning big space rock,” indicating its unique characteristic. The speed at which this asteroid spins is so remarkable that it challenges the limits of what scientists thought was possible. The discovery of these superfast rotators is changing the face of asteroid research, providing new insights into the formation and evolution of these celestial bodies.

The discovery was made possible by the state-of-the-art capabilities of the Vera Rubin Observatory. The observatory is equipped with the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST), one of the world’s most powerful telescopes. The LSST is capable of capturing images of the entire available sky every few nights, making it an invaluable tool for spotting and tracking asteroids.

The Vera Rubin Observatory’s discovery of these superfast rotators presents a fascinating opportunity to study these celestial objects in a new light. This discovery could potentially uncover hidden secrets about the early days of our solar system. It might also provide crucial information to help protect our planet from potential asteroid impacts.

The discovery of these superfast rotators comes as a reminder of the awe-inspiring and ever-changing universe we inhabit. As scientists continue to investigate these fast-spinning celestial bodies, we are once again reminded that space exploration continues to offer unexpected and thrilling discoveries.

The Vera Rubin Observatory’s groundbreaking discovery opens a new chapter in the study of asteroids. It’s a testament to the power of human curiosity and the relentless pursuit of knowledge about our universe. This discovery underscores the importance of research in deep space exploration, and the potential it holds for unveiling the mysteries of our cosmic backyard.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/astronomy/asteroids/vera-rubin-observatory-discovers-the-fastest-spinning-asteroid-ever-and-its-huge](https://www.space.com/astronomy/asteroids/vera-rubin-observatory-discovers-the-fastest-spinning-asteroid-ever-and-its-huge).

Title: Venus Aligns with Sun and Earth in a Superior Solar Conjunction: Here’s What You Should Know

In a spectacular celestial event today, Venus, the second planet from the sun, will reach a superior solar conjunction. This astronomical event occurs when Venus’ orbit carries it into alignment with the sun and Earth. The occurrence is a pretty big deal for both astronomers and sky gazers alike and here’s why.

A superior solar conjunction of Venus takes place when the planet moves directly behind the sun from Earth’s perspective. This is different from an inferior conjunction, where Venus aligns between the Earth and sun. In an inferior conjunction, Venus is at its closest point to Earth; however, it is usually obscured by the sun’s brilliance.

On the other hand, a superior conjunction like the one happening today places Venus at its farthest point from Earth, making it difficult for us to observe the planet. In fact, for a period of several days around the conjunction, Venus will be invisible to the naked eye due to the sun’s glare.

Despite the difficulty in observing Venus during this time, the superior conjunction is a critical time for scientists. This is because the alignment of Venus, Earth, and the sun allows for essential measurements and observations, aiding in gaining better insights into Venus’ atmosphere and its interaction with solar radiation. This data is crucial in understanding not only Venus but also the potential implications for other planets within and beyond our solar system.

For amateur sky watchers, the superior conjunction also marks the transition of Venus from the evening sky to the morning sky. So, if you’ve been seeing Venus in the western sky after sunset, you’ll have to wake up early from now on to catch a glimpse of this brilliant planet. It will take several weeks for Venus to become visible in the morning sky as it moves away from the sun’s glare, and when it does, it will appear as a ‘morning star’.

While you won’t be able to see Venus during the conjunction, don’t lose heart. The superior solar conjunction of Venus is a reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of our solar system. It’s a testament to the intricate dance of celestial bodies that encourages us to look up and marvel at the cosmic wonders that surround us.

For those interested in space exploration and celestial events, mark your calendar for the next Venus’ superior conjunction scheduled to occur in January 2028. Until then, keep your eyes on the skies and watch as planets, stars, and other celestial objects continue their celestial ballet.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/stargazing/venus-reaches-solar-conjunction-jan-2026](https://www.space.com/stargazing/venus-reaches-solar-conjunction-jan-2026).

Title: The 2026 ‘Super Bowl of Astronomy’ Kicks Off, Showcasing Latest Space Discoveries and Missions

Phoenix is abuzz this week as astronomers from around the world gather for what’s being dubbed the ‘Super Bowl of Astronomy.’ The 247th meeting of the American Astronomical Society (AAS 247) has just commenced, promising to unveil the latest findings from the study of exoplanets, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), and upcoming space missions.

This year’s event promises to illuminate the cosmos like never before, with scientific breakthroughs and discoveries set to take center stage. The annual meeting hosts astronomers, researchers, and space enthusiasts, unifying them under the common goal of understanding and exploring our universe.

One of the event’s most anticipated topics is the latest information from the study of exoplanets — planets beyond our own solar system. With the advent of more advanced technology and telescopes, the discovery of these celestial bodies has surged, sparking interest about potential habitability and life beyond Earth.

However, the stars of the show are the updates regarding the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). Launched in late 2021, the JWST is the most powerful space telescope ever built, capable of peering back in time to witness the formation of the first galaxies and understand the origins of stars and planetary systems. As it transmits its first sets of data, astronomers worldwide eagerly anticipate the transformative insights it may reveal about our universe.

In addition to the exoplanet discoveries and JWST updates, the event will also spotlight upcoming space missions. These include Mars missions, lunar explorations, and probes venturing into the farthest reaches of our solar system and beyond. The meeting serves as a platform for scientists and space agencies to discuss their plans, collaborate, and inspire future endeavors.

The AAS 247 offers more than just a showcase of the latest space research and discoveries. It provides an opportunity for networking and collaborative efforts among astronomers, fostering a sense of community in this vast field of study. The event also provides a platform for emerging researchers to present their findings, nurturing the next generation of astronomers.

As the ‘Super Bowl of Astronomy’ begins, it’s not just the astronomers who are excited. The general public can also look forward to updates that will likely redefine our understanding of the cosmos. The event embodies the continuing quest for knowledge, prompting us all to look up and wonder what else is out there.

As the AAS 247 unfolds, one thing is for sure: the universe is full of infinite possibilities, and the race to uncover them is far from over. Stay tuned for more exciting updates from this monumental event.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/astronomy/the-2026-super-bowl-of-astronomy-starts-today-heres-whats-happening](https://www.space.com/astronomy/the-2026-super-bowl-of-astronomy-starts-today-heres-whats-happening).

Title: Skyward Hazards: The Increasing Threat of Falling Space Junk to Airplanes

As the cosmos above us becomes increasingly congested with defunct satellites and fragments of spent rocket stages, the risk to our aircraft from falling space debris is escalating, warn leading space experts.

With the advent of the space age during the mid-20th century, the issue of ‘space junk’ has only grown over time. As we’ve launched more satellites and spacecraft into orbit, not all have returned safely, leaving a trail of debris circling our planet. This detritus, once harmless, is now posing a substantial risk to our aviation industry.

The concern is not unwarranted. There are currently more than 23,000 pieces of space debris larger than a softball orbiting Earth, according to NASA’s Orbital Debris Program Office. These fragments, moving at incredible speeds, can wreak havoc if they collide with anything in their path.

While most space junk will burn up upon re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere, some larger pieces can survive the fiery descent and pose a threat to both people and property on the ground. The odds of such an event affecting an airborne aircraft, though still relatively low, are undoubtedly on the rise.

“Space debris falling to Earth is a growing threat that we need to address,” says Dr. Hugh Lewis, a leading expert in the field of space debris and a senior lecturer in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Southampton. “The risk is still small, but it’s a risk that’s increasing over time.”

The risk factor is compounded by the increasing number of satellites in space. There are approximately 2,800 operational satellites in orbit today, a number that has more than doubled in the past decade. With the surge in the number of satellite launches, especially small and cheap ‘CubeSats,’ the likelihood of creating more space debris has increased.

Efforts are underway to mitigate this growing threat. The international space community is actively developing ways to reduce space junk and improve the long-term sustainability of our space activities. Agencies like NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) are working on models to predict the movement of space debris and developing technologies to remove it.

For example, the ESA’s ClearSpace-1 mission, set to launch in 2025, aims to capture and de-orbit a part of an old Vega rocket, demonstrating that we can indeed clean up our cosmic backyard.

While the risk of a space debris-aircraft collision is increasing, experts reassure that it remains a rare event. However, the urgency to address the growing problem of space junk is clear. As we continue to utilize space for digital communication, navigation, and exploration, it is imperative that we ensure the safety and sustainability of our cosmic frontier.

For now, though, while you sit back on your next flight, you can gaze out the window at the vast sky, perhaps catching a glimpse of a shooting star – which might just be a piece of space junk burning up in the Earth’s atmosphere.

Read more from the original source here: [Space.com](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/satellites/the-risk-of-falling-space-junk-hitting-airplanes-is-on-the-rise-experts-warn).

Title: Space.com Launches a Stellar Crossword Challenge for the Week of December 29, 2025

Are you a space enthusiast who enjoys a good challenge? If so, Space.com’s latest weekly crossword puzzle is just what you need to test your knowledge about the mysteries of the cosmos. The quiz, which is inspired by the most significant space headlines of the week, offers a fun and interactive way to stay updated on the latest in space exploration. This week’s edition, announced on December 29, 2025, revolves around an intriguing question: Which meteor shower peaks in early January?

As winter deepens and the year turns anew, stargazers around the world eagerly anticipate the celestial displays that come with it. Chief among these is the annual meteor shower that graces the night sky in early January. This spectacular event, known for its bright, fast-moving meteors, is a cornerstone in the astronomy calendar. The meteor shower in question forms the crux of this week’s crossword challenge, adding an exciting twist to the puzzle.

The weekly crossword quiz is an innovative concept by Space.com, designed to combine learning and entertainment. The challenge is crafted from pertinent space-related stories, and is aimed at engaging readers in a way that is both fun and informative. The idea is to encourage readers to delve deeper into the vast universe and its wonders, pushing the boundaries of their space knowledge.

The crossword puzzle, while seemingly a simple pastime, is a clever tool to enhance understanding and awareness of space science. With clues derived from the week’s major space headlines, the crossword encourages readers to stay updated with the latest news from the cosmos. The puzzles also serve as a fun, interactive recap of the week’s most important space stories.

In this week’s edition, the key question about the meteor shower not only tests your astronomical knowledge but also immerses you in the fascinating world of meteor showers, celestial bodies, and the vastness of our universe. To solve the puzzle, one must go beyond the headlines and dive deeper into the nuances of astronomy.

Space.com’s crossword challenge is available to everyone, from seasoned stargazers to curious novices. It is a unique opportunity to test your space smarts, learn new facts, and stay informed about the latest developments in space exploration. Whether you’re an avid amateur astronomer or simply a fan of the night sky, this crossword puzzle offers an engaging and enjoyable way to expand your knowledge of the cosmos.

So, as we step into the New Year, why not take up Space.com’s crossword challenge? Put your space knowledge to the test, learn more about the stunning meteor shower that marks the beginning of the year, and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of astronomy.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/astronomy/space-com-headlines-crossword-quiz-for-week-of-dec-29-2025-which-meteor-shower-peaks-in-early-january](https://www.space.com/astronomy/space-com-headlines-crossword-quiz-for-week-of-dec-29-2025-which-meteor-shower-peaks-in-early-january).

Title: 2026: The Year of Humanity’s Momentous Return to the Moon

In a development that is sure to thrill space enthusiasts and the general public alike, the year 2026 has been earmarked as the year humanity will once again set foot on the moon’s surface. This ambitious endeavor, bringing to life the dreams of generations, is set to redefine the limits of human exploration.

The last time humans left their footprints on the moon’s dusty surface was in 1972, during the Apollo 17 mission. Now, over five decades later, we are preparing to repeat this historical feat, but with enhanced technology, profound knowledge, and an unwavering spirit of adventure.

This mission, baptized Artemis after the Greek goddess of the hunt and the moon, is the brainchild of NASA. The Artemis program goes beyond just revisiting the moon. It aims to establish a sustainable human presence on our celestial neighbor to unearth its secrets and to use it as a springboard for future Mars missions.

The first phase of Artemis, scheduled to launch in 2021, will be an unmanned mission, followed by a manned mission in 2023. The climax of this program, however, will be in 2026 when astronauts will once again touch the lunar surface.

The Artemis program has been designed with inclusivity in mind. The 2026 mission will make history by sending the first woman and the next man to the moon. This is a significant step towards gender parity in space exploration, a sector traditionally dominated by men.

This exploration will not be limited to the moon’s vicinity, but extend to its South Pole, a region never visited before. This location holds great potential due to the presence of water ice, a valuable resource that can be converted into rocket fuel, drinking water, or breathable air. The potential to use the moon’s resources will be vital for long-duration missions and establish the moon as a pit stop for interplanetary travels.

The success of this mission will not only be a victory for the United States but for all of humanity. It is a collective step towards understanding our place in the cosmos. It also marks a significant stride in international cooperation, with several countries and private corporations contributing to the mission’s success.

The Artemis program’s impact extends beyond space exploration. It aims to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers. The mission could potentially open up new avenues for space tourism and even lunar habitation.

While 2026 may seem distant, it’s just a blink in cosmic time. As we prepare to return to the moon, we are filled with anticipation and hope. This mission signifies humanity’s relentless pursuit of knowledge and the unyielding spirit of exploration.

As we count down the years, months, and days to this historic event, we remember the words of Neil Armstrong, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Indeed, the year 2026 promises to be a giant leap for us all.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/space-exploration/artemis/2026-is-the-year-humanity-will-finally-go-back-to-the-moon](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/artemis/2026-is-the-year-humanity-will-finally-go-back-to-the-moon)

In the coming year, 2026, we are set to witness an extraordinary surge in space exploration, marked by thrilling moon landings, pioneering asteroid missions, and the unveiling of innovative new telescopes. This year promises to be a watershed moment, propelling us further into an era of discovery and knowledge about the cosmos.

Astronauts are set to go beyond their usual stomping grounds, the International Space Station, and loop around the moon for the first time since NASA’s Apollo program. This mission, part of the Artemis program, aims to establish a sustainable human presence on the moon by the end of the decade. The moon, our closest celestial neighbor, will once again see human footprints on its dusty surface, rekindling our fascination with lunar exploration.

Meanwhile, the BepiColombo mission, a joint endeavor by the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), is poised to reach Mercury. Named after the Italian mathematician and engineer, Giuseppe ‘Bepi’ Colombo, the spacecraft will study the solar system’s smallest and least explored terrestrial planet. The mission promises to enrich our understanding of Mercury’s composition, geophysics, atmosphere, and history, offering unprecedented insights into the formation and evolution of our solar system.

In 2026, asteroid exploration will also take center stage. NASA’s Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) and the European Space Agency’s Hera mission will visit the Didymos asteroid system. These missions aim to test our ability to deflect an asteroid on a collision course with Earth, a real-life rehearsal for a potential future threat. By knocking a small moonlet, or ‘moonmoon,’ off its path, these missions will put our planetary defense skills to the test.

Finally, 2026 will bear witness to the launch of next-generation telescopes designed to observe the universe as never before. The James Webb Space Telescope, set to launch in December 2021, will be fully operational by 2026. It will afford us a glimpse into the early universe, revealing the first galaxies that sprung to life following the Big Bang. Additionally, the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) in Chile, with its massive 39-meter mirror, will be capable of capturing unprecedented detail, further peeling back the layers of our universe’s mysteries.

In essence, 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for space exploration. Each mission, each step taken on the moon, each asteroid visited, and each new image captured by our telescopes brings us a step closer to comprehending our place in the universe. It’s a year that will undoubtedly leave its mark on the annals of spaceflight history and lay the foundation for the exciting era of discovery that lies ahead.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/space-exploration/moon-landings-asteroid-missions-and-new-telescopes-here-are-the-top-spaceflight-moments-to-look-forward-to-in-2026](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/moon-landings-asteroid-missions-and-new-telescopes-here-are-the-top-spaceflight-moments-to-look-forward-to-in-2026).

Title: ULA’s Former CEO Tory Bruno Switches Sides to Blue Origin For National Security Missions

In a stunning strategic move, Tory Bruno, former CEO of the United Launch Alliance (ULA), has joined the ranks of rival spaceflight company, Blue Origin. This shift has sent ripples across the space industry, heralding a new chapter in the global space race.

Bruno, who carved a niche for himself as the long-standing head of ULA, will bring his wealth of experience to Blue Origin, a company founded by Amazon tycoon Jeff Bezos. The ULA, a joint venture between Lockheed Martin and Boeing, has been a dominant player in the American space industry, while Blue Origin has been a formidable contender, striving for breakthroughs in reusable rockets and lunar landers.

Bruno’s decision to join the competition is seen as a testament to Blue Origin’s growing influence in the sector. His expertise, particularly in managing national security projects, is expected to add significant value to Blue Origin’s ambitions.

While at ULA, Bruno led numerous successful launch missions, including those that served the interests of national security. His leadership was instrumental in the launch of various satellites into orbit, many of which were crucial for military communication, weather forecasting, and global positioning. His reputation for successfully executing high-stakes projects will undoubtedly be an asset to Blue Origin’s team.

Bruno’s move comes at a time when the stakes are high in the world of space exploration. Blue Origin is locked in fierce competition with SpaceX, the private spaceflight company led by Tesla CEO Elon Musk, as well as his former employer ULA. As countries and private companies alike race to make new discoveries and establish a presence in space, Bruno’s expertise could be the edge that Blue Origin needs.

Blue Origin has seen its share of triumphs and trials. In July 2021, the company marked a major milestone when it successfully sent Bezos and three others to the edge of space in its New Shepard suborbital vehicle. However, it also faced a setback when NASA awarded a coveted contract for the Artemis moon landing project to SpaceX, a decision that Blue Origin is challenging in court.

With Bruno joining the team, the company is likely to gain momentum in its quest to secure more national security missions. His proven track record of steering complex space projects to fruition will be pivotal in Blue Origin’s pursuit of its ambitious goals.

As the former ULA CEO switches allegiances, the space industry keenly awaits the impact of this move. Bruno’s expertise, coupled with Blue Origin’s cutting-edge technology, might just be the potent combination that propels the company ahead in the ongoing space race.

Read more from the original source here: [Former United Launch Alliance CEO Tory Bruno joins competitor Blue Origin for national security projects](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/former-united-launch-alliance-ceo-tory-bruno-joins-competitor-blue-origin-for-national-security-projects)

Title: The Year in Review: A Dozen Dramatic Failures Amid Stellar Achievements in Space Exploration

Though 2025 marked a year of remarkable triumphs in space exploration, it was also a year that reminded us of the formidable risks associated with venturing into the final frontier. From fiery launchpad mishaps to spacecraft failures in the void of outer space, here are 12 times rockets and spacecraft crashed and burned this year.

1. The year kicked off with a setback for the ambitious Mars One project. The unmanned test flight, meant to pave the way for future human colonization of the Red Planet, ended in a disastrous explosion just minutes after launch in January.

2. February saw the loss of the Jupiter-bound Europa Clipper. A malfunction during launch caused the spacecraft to veer off course and plunge into the Pacific Ocean.

3. The next mishap came in April when the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, carrying a payload of Starlink satellites, suffered a first-stage engine failure and crashed into the Atlantic Ocean.

4. In June, a Russian Soyuz spacecraft bound for the International Space Station (ISS) failed to reach orbit, unfortunately destroying crucial research equipment onboard.

5. In the same month, China’s Chang’e 7 lunar rover, designed to explore the Moon’s polar regions, failed during descent and crashed onto the lunar surface.

6. July witnessed a dramatic failure when Blue Origin’s New Shepard spacecraft crash-landed in the West Texas desert due to a parachute failure during re-entry.

7. In August, a technical glitch caused the loss of the European Space Agency’s Solar Orbiter, which was designed to study the Sun’s polar regions.

8. In September, India’s second Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM-2) suffered a catastrophic failure during launch, resulting in the loss of the spacecraft.

9. October was a tough month for NASA as the much anticipated James Webb Space Telescope failed to deploy its sunshield properly, leading to overheating and failure of its sensitive instruments.

10. In November, SpaceX’s Starship prototype exploded during a high-altitude test flight, marking another setback for Elon Musk’s ambitious plan to colonize Mars.

11. December saw the failure of Japan’s Hayabusa3 asteroid sample-return mission. The spacecraft malfunctioned while attempting to land on the asteroid Ryugu and crashed into its surface.

12. In the same month, a Virgin Galactic suborbital flight crashed during re-entry due to a control system malfunction, fortunately without any loss of life.

These incidents serve as stark reminders that space exploration is a high-risk endeavor. Each failure, however, also brings valuable lessons, contributing to the continuous improvement of technology and safety protocols. Despite these setbacks, the spirit of space exploration remains unbroken as we continue to push the boundaries of human knowledge and capabilities.

Read more from the original source here: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/11-times-rockets-and-spacecraft-crashed-and-burned-in-2025.

As NASA continues to push the boundaries of space exploration, the agency is increasingly turning to lower-cost missions to achieve its objectives. One such mission, ESCAPADE, is already beginning to yield exciting scientific findings. However, these less expensive missions come with their own set of challenges, primarily in the form of increased risks and difficult trade-offs.

ESCAPADE, or Escape and Plasma Acceleration and Dynamics Explorers, aims to study the atmosphere of Mars, with a specific focus on the interaction between solar wind and the Red Planet’s upper atmosphere. The mission’s two identical spacecraft are designed to operate in the Martian atmosphere, gathering data that will help scientists understand the planet’s climate history and its potential for supporting life.

Unlike traditional big-ticket NASA missions, which often have budgets running into the billions of dollars, ESCAPADE is part of NASA’s new low-cost mission initiative. With an estimated cost of $75 million, ESCAPADE represents a significantly smaller financial investment. This approach, while economically appealing, does come with a higher degree of risk.

Lower-cost missions require a more streamlined design and production process, which can lead to increased chances of technical malfunctions or mission failure. There is less room for redundancy or backup systems, which are typically built into larger missions to ensure success even in the event of unexpected issues. Moreover, the lower budget necessitates certain trade-offs. In the case of ESCAPADE, the spacecraft will have a narrower range of scientific instruments, which limits the scope of potential discoveries.

Nonetheless, the opportunities these missions offer are vast. The cost savings allow for more frequent launches, translating into more opportunities for scientific discovery. By taking on these risks, NASA hopes to accelerate our understanding of the universe.

Early results from ESCAPADE are promising, indicating that the increased risk may well be worth the potential rewards. The mission is still in its early stages but has already started delivering valuable scientific data. This approach to space exploration could revolutionize our understanding of the cosmos, offering insights at a fraction of the typical cost.

Ultimately, the success of missions like ESCAPADE will be determined by the balance between cost, risk, and scientific return. As we continue to explore the final frontier, these low-cost missions may well become an integral part of our journey into the universe.

NASA’s foray into low-cost space missions, epitomized by ESCAPADE, represents a bold new direction for space exploration. The mission encapsulates the potential for significant scientific discovery paired with economic viability. Despite the increased risks and necessary trade-offs, if these missions continue to produce promising results, they may herald a new era of space exploration.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/space-exploration/missions/lower-cost-space-missions-like-nasas-escapade-are-starting-to-deliver-exciting-science-but-at-a-price-in-risk-and-trade-offs](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/missions/lower-cost-space-missions-like-nasas-escapade-are-starting-to-deliver-exciting-science-but-at-a-price-in-risk-and-trade-offs).