Astronomy Essentials
Saturn at opposition – brightest for 2026 – on October 4
Don't miss Saturn at opposition on and around the night of October 4, 2026. That's when our planet Earth passes between the sun and Saturn.
Space
Life on Enceladus? Chances get big boost in 2 new studies
Is there life on Enceladus? Two new studies show that the chances for life in the ocean of this Saturn moon are even greater than once thought.
Earth

And the Fat Bear Week winner is … Backpack!

Congrats to Backpack, the winner of Fat Bear Week 2026! Take a look at the final brackets and see where your favorite fatties fell.
Earth

What are the world’s loudest birds? Here are 2 contenders

Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst said the bare-throated bellbird and red-legged seriema are 2 contenders for world's loudest birds.
Astronomy Essentials
Tonight

Visible planets and night sky guide for October

Visible planets and night sky guide. Venus is disappearing! Watch a video here. And look for the moon near two bright stars, Capella and Aldebaran.
Sun

Sun news: Two blobs of solar stuff heading our way at Earth

Sun news October 2, 2026: A blob of solar stuff is anticipated to arrive later on today. It may bring conditions for auroral displays in northern latitudes.
Astronomy Essentials

Stargazing tips! 10 great tips for beginning astronomers

If you're new to observing the night sky, check out our top 10 stargazing tips for beginners. We'll help you explore and expand your love for astronomy.
Space

JUICE mission completes flyby of Earth: New pics!

The JUICE mission made a successful flyby of Earth on September 28. See new images of Earth and the moon here. The spacecraft will reach Jupiter in 2031.
Space

Water systems on early Mars were complex and hot

NASA's Perseverance rover has found evidence of ancient complex water systems on early Mars, including hot hydrothermal activity.
Space

Mars calendar year begins September 30: Happy New Year, Mars!

Mars calendar year 39 begins on September 30, 2026. If you’re looking for a reason to celebrate, here’s to a Happy New Year ... on Mars.