Category: space-news

Title: SpaceX Set to Deliver 5,000 lbs Of Cargo to ISS on August 24

The early hours of Sunday, August 24, will witness the 33rd Dragon cargo mission of SpaceX, with its Falcon 9 rocket set to launch 5,000 pounds of cargo to the International Space Station (ISS). The mission, which is open for public viewing, will take place from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, providing an exciting spectacle for space enthusiasts around the globe.

The Dragon cargo spacecraft, a reusable unmanned spacecraft developed by SpaceX, is designed to deliver both cargo and people to orbiting destinations. The upcoming mission, known as CRS-33, is part of a series of resupply missions for NASA to the ISS. It will carry scientific research, crew supplies, and hardware to the orbiting laboratory.

The Falcon 9 rocket, which is the two-stage vehicle carrying the Dragon spacecraft, is known for its reliability and reusability. The rocket’s first stage is capable of re-entering the atmosphere and landing vertically after separating from the second stage, a feature that has revolutionized space travel by reducing costs and waste.

The CRS-33 mission is a testament to the ongoing collaboration between NASA and SpaceX. The partnership, which has been instrumental in maintaining the continuous human presence on the ISS for the past 20 years, is a model for future public-private partnerships in space exploration.

SpaceX, founded by entrepreneur Elon Musk, has been a game-changer in the space industry. Its ambitious projects, such as the Dragon spacecraft and Falcon 9 rocket, have significantly advanced the capabilities of commercial space travel. The company’s missions have not only provided valuable supply services to the ISS but have also ignited public interest and enthusiasm in space exploration.

As always, safety remains a top priority. The launch is contingent on weather conditions and technical factors, and mission controllers will be monitoring the situation closely. If the launch does not proceed as scheduled, a backup launch opportunity is available on Tuesday, August 26.

The launch will be broadcast live on NASA Television and the agency’s website, allowing space aficionados worldwide to witness the event in real-time. The webcast typically begins around 15 minutes before liftoff, providing viewers with expert commentary and insights into the mission’s objectives and processes.

The 33rd Dragon cargo mission is a significant event in the ongoing journey of space exploration. As SpaceX continues to push boundaries and innovate, the world watches with anticipation and excitement. Whether you’re an avid space enthusiast or a curious observer, the early morning launch on August 24 is a spectacle not to be missed.

Read more from the original source here: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/spacex-crs-33-cargo-launch-international-space-station.

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Title: New Moon of August 2025 Ushers in Rare Black Moon and Proximate Mars Encounter

The celestial ballet won’t cease to amaze, as the new moon of August 2025 promises a rare astronomical spectacle: a black moon on August 23, followed by a close encounter between the young crescent and Mars just days later.

A black moon, despite its ominous name, holds a rather simple meaning. It refers to the second new moon occurring within a single calendar month. This unique lunar phenomenon is a result of the moon’s approximately 29.5-day-long cycle, which is slightly shorter than our typical calendar month. The first new moon of August 2025 is set to occur on the 1st, with the black moon following on the 23rd. Astronomers and sky-watchers alike eagerly anticipate this event, as black moons are relatively rare, happening approximately every two and a half years.

During a new moon, our celestial companion is positioned between the Earth and the Sun. As a result, it appears dark from our vantage point, blending seamlessly into the night sky. During a black moon, this darkness is even more profound, creating an ideal backdrop for stargazing and the observation of celestial bodies usually overshadowed by the moon’s brilliance.

But the celestial marvels of August 2025 are not limited to the black moon. Just days later, the young crescent moon and Mars will share a close encounter that will be visible to the naked eye. This celestial rendezvous, known as a conjunction, will see Mars and the moon within a hair’s breadth of each other in our night sky.

On August 27, 2025, when the moon has moved into waxing crescent phase, it will appear to slide right past Mars in the western sky just after sunset. This striking spectacle, with Mars glowing a distinct reddish hue against the moon’s silver crescent, promises to be a sight to behold.

Even with the naked eye, watchers should be able to distinguish Mars’ reddish tint. However, for a closer look at the Red Planet’s features, a small telescope would come in handy. For stargazers in the western hemisphere, this visual treat will be all the more enchanting as the pair will stay visible for several hours after sunset, gradually setting in the west.

The August 2025 black moon and the subsequent Mars and moon conjunction offer an unmissable feast for the eyes of both casual sky-watchers and seasoned astronomers. Whether you’re an avid stargazer or just an occasional appreciator of the night sky’s beauty, mark your calendars and prepare for a celestial spectacle that will leave you starstruck.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/stargazing/new-moon-of-august-2025-brings-a-rare-black-moon-and-a-close-mars-encounter](https://www.space.com/stargazing/new-moon-of-august-2025-brings-a-rare-black-moon-and-a-close-mars-encounter).

Title: Pragmata: A Game-Changing Sci-Fi Shooter That Borrows From The Classics

Five years in the making, Pragmata is no ordinary sci-fi video game. Instead of being content with the status quo, the creators have taken a bold step forward, delivering a unique and innovative experience that brims with potential. This game, set in an intriguing dystopian future, brings a new flavor to the world of sci-fi shooter combat, with a surprising twist: it draws inspiration from one of the most iconic games of the past, Snake.

Pragmata stands out from the crowd due to its unique approach to gameplay. A far cry from the predictable combat systems of many contemporary sci-fi shooters, Pragmata reimagines its combat system with a daring new approach. It’s an audacious move that could have been overly ambitious. Yet, the creators have elegantly managed to pull it off, making Pragmata a game worth waiting for.

The game’s combat system owes a lot to Snake, a classic game that took the world by storm in the late 70s and 80s. The influence of Snake is evident in Pragmata’s design, which prompts players to think strategically about their movements and actions, much like the simple yet addictive gameplay of Snake.

However, Pragmata isn’t just a rehash of old ideas. The game takes the strategic movement and planning of Snake and combines it with immersive, high-stakes combat, creating a fresh experience for players. Additionally, the game’s stunning visuals and captivating storyline set in a dystopian future further elevate the playing experience.

Pragmata’s fascinating setting is another of its strengths. The game takes place in a beautifully rendered, dystopian future where players are encouraged to explore and interact with their surroundings. This setting not only provides a visually stunning backdrop for the combat but also adds a layer of depth to the gameplay. It’s a world that invites exploration and discovery, adding a touch of adventure to the sci-fi shooter combat.

The creators of Pragmata have taken a risk by straying from the traditional path of sci-fi shooter combat games. They’ve dared to innovate and breathe new life into a genre that was in danger of becoming stale. With its strategic combat system, stunning visuals, and immersive setting, Pragmata promises to be an exciting addition to the sci-fi gaming world.

Five years might seem like a long time to wait for a game, but if Pragmata’s innovative approach to sci-fi shooter combat is anything to go by, it will be worth the wait. This game offers a fresh and engaging experience that does more than just pay homage to the classics—it brings something entirely new to the table.

Whether you’re a fan of the classic game Snake, a sci-fi aficionado, or someone who appreciates innovative gameplay, Pragmata is a game to watch out for. It’s a testament to the exciting potential that lies within the intersection of creativity, technology, and a passion for gaming.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-games/pragmata-rethinks-sci-fi-shooter-combat-and-it-owes-a-lot-to-snake-preview](https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-games/pragmata-rethinks-sci-fi-shooter-combat-and-it-owes-a-lot-to-snake-preview).

Title: A Black Moon Rises in a Rare Celestial Show: What You Need to Know

The cosmos never fails to astonish us with its celestial ballet. On August 23, sky-watchers will be in for a treat, albeit an invisible one — the rise of a Black Moon. This elusive lunar event, owing to its unique timing, is one of the rarer phenomena in astronomy.

What is intriguing about the Black Moon is that while it will rise, you won’t be able to see it. This is because a Black Moon is essentially a second new moon in a single calendar month, an occurrence that happens only once every couple of years. The new moon phase is the first phase of the lunar cycle when the moon is in conjunction with the sun and invisible to the naked eye.

This upcoming Black Moon’s notoriety lies in the fact that it will rise in the morning, alongside the sun, an event that makes it even rarer. Usually, new moons rise at sunset, reach their highest point at midnight, and set at sunrise. However, this Black Moon will deviate from the norm, ascending with the daytime star, and will stay in the sky throughout the day, hidden in the sun’s blinding light.

While the moon won’t be visible, its astronomical impact will be felt. The Black Moon’s gravitational pull will cause “spring tides,” a phenomenon where both the high and low tides are more extreme than usual. This is due to the alignment of the sun, moon, and Earth, which results in a more significant gravitational effect on our planet’s oceans.

Even though the Black Moon will remain hidden, it does not mean that the celestial event is devoid of excitement. The invisible moon still provides a perfect backdrop for viewing stars and celestial bodies usually outshone by the moon’s glow in the nighttime sky.

Without the moon’s usual glare, the sky will be darker, and the stars will appear more vibrant. It’s an opportune time for stargazing, as the absence of moonlight allows for better visibility of distant galaxies, star clusters, and meteor showers.

Astrophotographers, too, can seize the opportunity to capture clear images of deep-space objects without the moon’s light interfering.

So, while you may not be able to witness the Black Moon directly, its effects will provide a spectacle in their own right. It’s yet another reminder of how the cosmos continues to intrigue, surprise, and inspire awe in us.

Remember to mark your calendars for August 23 to witness the invisible influence of this rare Black Moon. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just a casual sky-watcher, this celestial event promises a unique stargazing experience, reminding us all of the endless mysteries and wonders the universe holds.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/stargazing/a-rare-black-moon-rises-with-the-sun-on-aug-23-2025-heres-what-to-expect](https://www.space.com/stargazing/a-rare-black-moon-rises-with-the-sun-on-aug-23-2025-heres-what-to-expect).

Title: Think You Know Our Solar System’s Dwarf Planets? Test Your Skills with Our New Quiz!

If the name ‘Pluto’ rings a bell, you’re likely familiar with the term ‘dwarf planet.’ Once classified as our solar system’s ninth planet, Pluto’s demotion to dwarf planet status in 2006 sparked wide interest and debate among space enthusiasts. However, there’s more to the dwarf planet category than just Pluto! How well can you name the other dwarf planets that share our solar system? It’s time to put your cosmic knowledge to the test with a new engaging quiz!

Dwarf planets, as defined by the International Astronomical Union (IAU), are celestial bodies that orbit the sun, have enough mass to assume a nearly round shape, but have not cleared their orbit of other debris. In simpler terms, they are like smaller siblings to the eight fully fledged planets we learned to name in school.

Pluto, the most famous among these, resides in the Kuiper Belt, a region beyond Neptune teeming with icy bodies. But did you know that there are other intriguing dwarf planets in our own backyard of space? Some of them have moons of their own, others have unique and eccentric orbits, and all contribute to the rich tapestry of our solar system.

Eris, the largest known dwarf planet, is one of these captivating celestial bodies. Named after the Greek goddess of discord and strife, Eris is famous for its highly elliptical orbit and its solitary moon, Dysnomia. Then there’s Haumea, a peculiar dwarf planet with an incredibly fast rotation and an elongated shape, not to mention its two moons!

There’s also Makemake, another inhabitant of the distant Kuiper Belt, and Ceres, the closest dwarf planet to Earth located in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. Both are fascinating in their own right, with Makemake’s lack of atmosphere and Ceres’ signs of seasonal change and water-ice.

Now, you may be wondering, how well do I really know these celestial underdogs? This is where our brand-new quiz comes in. Designed to challenge both novice stargazers and seasoned astronomers, this quiz will test your knowledge on the often-overlooked members of our solar system. From their names and locations to intriguing facts about their composition and orbit, this quiz covers it all.

So, are you ready to venture beyond the familiar eight planets? The universe is a vast, fascinating place, and our solar system’s dwarf planets offer a glimpse into the diversity of celestial bodies that populate it. Whether you’re a space enthusiast or just a curious learner, this quiz is a fun, engaging way to test your knowledge and learn something new.

Ready to take the challenge? Join us in exploring the lesser-known residents of our solar system. You might surprise yourself with how much you know – or how much you have yet to discover!

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/astronomy/dwarf-planets/think-you-know-our-solar-systems-dwarf-planets-test-your-skills-with-our-new-quiz](https://www.space.com/astronomy/dwarf-planets/think-you-know-our-solar-systems-dwarf-planets-test-your-skills-with-our-new-quiz).

Title: Mercury’s Incredible Shrinking Act: New Study Sheds Light

Mercury, the smallest planet in our solar system and the closest to the sun, is still shrinking. A new study has offered a more precise estimate on just how much the planet has contracted as it cools from its molten state following its formation.

The contraction of Mercury is a fascinating process that has been happening over billions of years. The cooling core of the planet has caused it to shrink, creating wrinkles on its surface known as lobate scarps. These cliff-like landforms are a visual record of the planet’s history and its continuous cooling.

Previously, estimates of Mercury’s contraction were broad, ranging from 1 to 10 kilometers in radius reduction over the last 4 billion years. However, new research has significantly narrowed down this estimate, providing a more definitive picture of the planet’s transformation.

The study, conducted by an international team of scientists, used thousands of images of Mercury’s surface captured by NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft, which orbited the planet from 2011 to 2015. By analyzing these images and using a new global topographic map, the researchers were able to measure the surface area lost as the planet contracted.

The results of their analysis reveal that Mercury has shrunk by approximately 14 kilometers in radius since its formation 4.5 billion years ago. This is significantly more than previous estimates for the last 4 billion years and suggests that the planet may have contracted more rapidly in its early history.

This discovery is not only a milestone in our understanding of Mercury’s evolution but also provides valuable insight into the processes that shape the planets in our solar system.

“The new estimate of Mercury’s contraction is significant because it tells us about the planet’s thermal history, the material it’s made of, and how its interior has cooled,” explained Paul Byrne, associate professor of planetary science at North Carolina State University and one of the study’s authors.

The findings also have implications for our understanding of other rocky planets, including Earth. “Mercury provides an example of how planets cool and contract,” Byrne added. “So the more we learn about Mercury, the more we learn about the evolution of our planet and others like it.”

In the grand scheme of the universe, Mercury’s shrinkage might seem like small change. But for scientists studying the intricacies of planetary formation and evolution, it’s a big deal. As we continue to explore the cosmos, every piece of knowledge we gain brings us one step closer to understanding our place in the universe.

Read more from the original source here: [How Much Has Mercury Shrunk?](https://www.space.com/astronomy/mercury/how-much-has-mercury-shrunk)

In a groundbreaking achievement, scientists have successfully replicated the formation of the universe’s earliest molecules, providing fresh insights into the origins of star formation and challenging our understanding of the early cosmos.

The universe as we know it began approximately 13.8 billion years ago with the Big Bang. After this tumultuous event, the cosmos cooled down, paving the way for the formation of the first molecules. These molecules, primarily composed of helium and hydrogen, played a critical role in the creation of the first stars.

In an effort to understand more about the early universe and the birth of stars, scientists have been striving to recreate this process under laboratory conditions. Now, for the first time, they have succeeded.

Scientists have managed to simulate the conditions that led to the formation of these primary molecules. Through this simulation, they have been able to observe the process of early star formation in a way that has not been possible until now.

Their findings, however, have thrown a curveball at existing theories about the early universe. The results have shown that the first ever molecules of the universe could have formed far more quickly than we previously believed. This challenges our understanding of the early cosmos, suggesting that star formation might have begun sooner than what is currently hypothesized.

“This is an exciting discovery as it not only helps us comprehend how stars were formed in the early universe, but it also pushes us to rethink our current understanding of cosmological history,” said one of the scientists involved in the research.

The process to recreate this scenario involved creating a cloud of supercool helium in a laboratory setting. Scientists then introduced hydrogen into this helium cloud, causing the two elements to combine and form helium hydride, the universe’s first molecule.

The successful recreation of the universe’s first molecules under laboratory conditions is a significant achievement in the field of astrophysics. It opens up new avenues for research and understanding about the early universe and star formation. This research could have profound implications for our understanding of the universe and could potentially reshape our theories about its origins and development.

This groundbreaking scientific achievement serves as a reminder of the wonders of the universe that are yet to be discovered and understood. As scientists continue to delve deeper into the mysteries of the cosmos, who knows what other surprises the universe might have in store for us?

The universe is a vast, complex entity that continues to astound us with its mysteries. This latest discovery is a testament to human ingenuity and our relentless pursuit of knowledge. It underscores our constant endeavor to understand our place in the cosmos, reminding us that we are but a small part of a grand, unfolding cosmic story.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/astronomy/scientists-just-recreated-the-universes-first-ever-molecules-and-the-results-challenge-our-understanding-of-the-early-cosmos](https://www.space.com/astronomy/scientists-just-recreated-the-universes-first-ever-molecules-and-the-results-challenge-our-understanding-of-the-early-cosmos).

Title: Blue Origin Breaks New Ground with ‘Mars Telecommunications Orbiter’

Blue Origin, the innovative space exploration company founded by Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos, is making waves in the industry with its latest proposal. The company plans to utilize its Blue Ring spacecraft platform to develop an innovative project, the Mars Telecommunications Orbiter. The new orbiter, the company says, will provide vital support for future NASA missions to the Red Planet.

The Mars Telecommunications Orbiter represents a significant leap forward in space communication technology. Traditionally, communication between Mars and Earth has been a complex and challenging process due to the vast distances involved. The introduction of this new orbiter would enable faster, more reliable communication between the two planets, enhancing the scientific community’s ability to conduct research and discovery missions.

The proposed orbiter, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, will serve as a communication relay between Mars and Earth. It will collect data from Mars rovers and other spacecraft, then transmit this information back to Earth. This would significantly improve the speed and efficiency of data transmission, greatly aiding in the exploration and study of the Red Planet.

Blue Origin’s Mars Telecommunications Orbiter could also prove crucial in paving the way for manned Mars missions. The system would provide a reliable communication link, ensuring the safety and success of future explorers. As we set our sights on sending humans to Mars, such technologies are more important than ever.

The proposal for a new Mars orbiter comes as interest in Mars exploration is at an all-time high. NASA’s Perseverance rover is currently trudging across the Martian surface, seeking signs of past microbial life and collecting samples of rock and regolith (broken rock and soil) for future return to Earth. The European Space Agency’s ExoMars rover, set for launch in 2022, is also set to join the exploration efforts.

These missions underscore the importance of reliable, efficient communication with Mars. The Mars Telecommunications Orbiter could be instrumental in this endeavor, enhancing our ability to explore, understand, and eventually colonize the Red Planet.

Blue Origin’s proposal is a testament to the company’s commitment to advancing space exploration. From its inception, the company has been dedicated to developing technologies that reduce the cost and increase the reliability of access to space. The Mars Telecommunications Orbiter is another bold step in this direction.

As we look forward to the future of Mars exploration, the potential contributions of private space companies like Blue Origin cannot be overlooked. Their innovations are reshaping the landscape of space exploration, and the Mars Telecommunications Orbiter is a shining example of their forward-thinking approach.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/astronomy/mars/blue-origin-pitches-new-mars-telecommunications-orbiter-for-red-planet-missions-video](https://www.space.com/astronomy/mars/blue-origin-pitches-new-mars-telecommunications-orbiter-for-red-planet-missions-video).

Title: NASA’s Perseverance Rover Discovers Helmet-Like Rock on Martian Surface

NASA’s Perseverance rover has added a new, intriguing item to its Martian catalog – a rock formation bearing a striking resemblance to a medieval helmet. This peculiar discovery is the latest addition to an ever-growing collection of oddly shaped rocks the rover has come across on the Red Planet.

Since its February 2021 landing in the Jezero Crater, the Perseverance rover has been busy exploring Mars’ geology, climate, and potential for past life. In the process, it has stumbled upon a variety of fascinating rock formations, each contributing to our understanding of Mars’ geological history, and occasionally, providing a source of amusement for scientists and observers alike.

The rover’s latest find, quickly dubbed the “Mars Helmet” due to its uncanny resemblance to a medieval headgear, has sparked interest and speculation among the space exploration community. However, despite its fantastical appearance, the explanation for its shape is likely down to perfectly ordinary geological processes.

Scientists suggest that the “helmet” is likely the result of a type of weathering process known as “differential erosion.” This occurs when various parts of a rock erode at different rates due to differences in hardness and exposure to wind and other elements. Over time, this can lead to the creation of unusual shapes, such as the helmet-like structure spotted by Perseverance.

While the “Mars Helmet” provides a fun visual for space enthusiasts, it is also a valuable piece of the puzzle for scientists studying Mars’ geology. The rate and manner in which Mars’ rocks erode provide crucial insights into the planet’s past climates and conditions, information that could help scientists determine if Mars ever had the right conditions to support life.

NASA’s Perseverance rover continues its mission, equipped with an array of scientific instruments designed to study Mars’ geology and climate in unprecedented detail. Among its tasks is the collection of rock and soil samples for a possible future return mission to Earth, a feat that could provide us with even more detailed information about the Red Planet’s history.

The “Mars Helmet” is yet another testament to the intriguing mysteries that Mars continues to offer. As Perseverance carries on with its exploration, who knows what other wondrous formations and clues about the Red Planet’s past it will uncover?

As we continue to explore Mars and the rest of our vast universe, discoveries like these remind us of the beauty and mystery that lie beyond our world. The helmet-like rock on Mars is not just a curiosity, but a symbol of the spirit of exploration that drives us to uncover the secrets of the cosmos.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/astronomy/mars/nasas-perseverance-rover-spies-mysterious-helmet-on-mars-photo](https://www.space.com/astronomy/mars/nasas-perseverance-rover-spies-mysterious-helmet-on-mars-photo).

Title: A Glimpse into the Underworld: Proposed Pluto Mission Awaits Green Light

The mysteries of the distant dwarf planet, Pluto, may soon be unveiled. A burgeoning mission, intriguingly named “Persephone” — after the Greek queen of the underworld — is drawing attention for its promise to explore Pluto and its moons. However, this ambitious project remains in the conceptual stage, awaiting necessary funding and approval.

Persephone is envisioned to be a long-duration mission, extending for a staggering 50 years. The primary purpose of the mission is to investigate the possibility of a hidden ocean beneath Pluto’s icy facade. The existence of such an ocean could significantly enhance our understanding of the tiny, frigid world, and the broader cosmos.

Pluto, once considered the ninth planet in our solar system before its reclassification as a dwarf planet in 2006, has been a subject of fascination for astronomers and space enthusiasts alike. The most recent mission to Pluto, NASA’s New Horizons, captured stunning images and collected invaluable data during its 2015 flyby. However, due to the rapid nature of the flyby, New Horizons left many questions unanswered.

The Persephone mission aims to fill in those gaps. According to scientists, the proposed mission would enable a comprehensive exploration of the dwarf planet and its five known moons. By spending an extended period in the Plutonian system, it would have the opportunity to probe deeper into Pluto’s mysterious features.

One such feature is the possibility of a hidden ocean beneath Pluto’s icy surface. In recent years, scientists have hypothesized that beneath Pluto’s heart-shaped glacier, known as Sputnik Planitia, there may lie a subsurface ocean of liquid water. If this is confirmed, it could revolutionize our understanding of the conditions necessary for life and reshape future astrobiology research.

However, mounting a mission like Persephone is not without its challenges. The most significant hurdles are securing the necessary funding and obtaining approval from governing bodies. Given the scale of the mission and the distance to Pluto, it would require a substantial financial commitment. Moreover, the lengthy duration of the proposed mission raises new logistical and technical issues that will need to be addressed.

Despite these hurdles, the excitement surrounding the Persephone mission is palpable. If it gets the green light, it could offer unprecedented insights into Pluto’s intriguing geology and potentially, its hidden ocean. As we await the fate of the queen of the underworld’s flight, the potential discoveries are already sparking our imaginations and fueling our curiosity about the cosmos.

As the world of space exploration continues to evolve and expand, missions like Persephone bring us closer to understanding our place in the universe. They remind us that even in the farthest corners of our solar system, there may be secrets waiting to be discovered.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/astronomy/pluto/new-pluto-mission-could-uncover-dwarf-planets-hidden-ocean-if-the-queen-of-the-underworld-gets-to-fly](https://www.space.com/astronomy/pluto/new-pluto-mission-could-uncover-dwarf-planets-hidden-ocean-if-the-queen-of-the-underworld-gets-to-fly).