The Wild Duck cluster, M11, a lovely open cluster in Scutum

The Wild Duck cluster, also known as M11, is an open star cluster in the constellation Scutum that appears best through binoculars or a telescope.

Deep partial lunar eclipse overnight

A deep partial lunar eclipse of the full Sturgeon Moon takes place on August 27-28, 2026. Will you be able to see it? Maps and details here.

Nepal flash flood nightmare: What caused it?

On August 26, 2026, a glacier collapse and landslide triggered a huge release of water. The Nepal flash flood wiped out villages and took untold lives.

Fastest star in the galaxy could unlock black hole secrets

Astronomers have discovered the fastest star in the galaxy. It orbits the supermassive black hole at the center of our galaxy and could reveal its spin.

Delphinus the Dolphin has a graceful kite shape

Delphinus the Dolphin is a tiny dolphin-shaped constellation that leaps out of dark skies near the iconic Summer Triangle.

The Winter Circle: Catch in the morning before dawn

The majestic Winter Circle isn't a constellation. This giant circle - or hexagon - is an asterism, or a pattern made up of stars from several constellations.

Could there be life in helium atmospheres on exoplanets?

Is life in helium atmospheres on exoplanets possible? A new study says that there are no barriers to life on worlds with helium-dominated atmospheres.

National parks from space: How many can you name?

Take the quiz to see how many national parks from space you can name. And don't forget to celebrate National Park Week, from August 22 to 30!

The return of Sirius in the morning signals seasonal change

A sign of the changing season is the return of Sirius before sunup. Want to make sure you've spotted Sirius? The 3 stars in Orion's Belt point to it.

How earthly microbes on the moon might survive in the shade

Microbes on the moon that hitch a ride on human astronauts could survive by using little nooks and crannies for protection from the harsh environment.