Space
Complex carbon in Mars rocks: Another clue to past life?
Scientists have found complex carbon in Mars rocks that the Perseverance rover has studied. They're the same rocks found in 2024 to contain hints of life.
Space
Huge magma systems on Mars existed below the surface
Scientists have found evidence of enormous ancient magma systems on Mars. They show that Mars' volcanic systems were once more complex than 1st thought.
Sun

Sun news: Confirmed! X flare sun-stuff on its way to Earth

Sun news for July 2, 2026: Solar material from Tuesday's X1.1 flare is on its way to Earth. G2 storms are possible July 3 or 4. Prepare for auroras!
Astronomy Essentials
Tonight

Visible planets and night sky guide for July

EarthSky's visible planets and night sky guide. This evening, the moon shines within the constellation Capricornus. And see a video about July's sky sights!
Brightest Stars

Exquisite Albireo, a beloved and colorful double star

Albireo, in the constellation Cygnus, is a favorite for stargazers. Through a small telescope, it appears as a beautiful gold star with a dimmer blue companion.
Astronomy Essentials

Earth farthest from sun – at aphelion – July 6, 2026

Earth farthest from sun - aka aphelion - on July 6. That's despite the fact that it's summer in the Northern Hemisphere.
Space

Rubin Observatory begins 10-year timelapse of the universe

The Rubin Observatory has now begun its Legacy Survey of Space and Time. This 10-year survey will create a timelapse record of the universe.
Astronomy Essentials
Brightest Stars

Epsilon Lyrae is the famous Double Double star

To the unaided eye, Epsilon Lyrae appears as 1 star. But it’s actually a system with at least 5 stars. Learn how to find them here.
Human World

July birthstone: The rare and precious ruby

The July birthstone is the ruby, one of the most prized precious stones. It is also one of the hardest gemstones, and is chemically related to the sapphire.
Space

A passing star may have unleashed a comet deluge

Scientists think a passing star 2.5 million years ago might have sent a wave of comets in toward the sun. Some of those comets could still be arriving today.

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