LUNAR SURFACE
SpaceX's Starship returns from orbit and is captured by launch pad arms in a dramatic first
SpaceX's Starship made a significant return to Earth after completing its mission in space. The spacecraft was caught midair by mechanical arms, marking a historic achievement for the team. Despite this success, the first-stage booster experienced an explosion shortly after liftoff from Texas. SpaceX is preparing for future Starship launches from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASA plans to utilize Starship for upcoming Artemis missions, focusing on lunar exploration.
SpaceX launches 15th Starship flight with hopes of achieving first round trip
SpaceX successfully launched its Starship spacecraft on a mission that aimed for both orbit and return. Unfortunately, the lower-stage Super Heavy booster rocket failed to complete its return flight. Starship's upper-stage vessel reached orbit and deployed 26 satellites into space. This launch marks SpaceX's 15th Starship test flight, contributing to their satellite connectivity business. The company hopes to achieve a fully reusable rocket system for future missions.
Why SpaceX needs just two successful catches to change the future of rocket launches
SpaceX is preparing for its Starship Flight 15 mission which aims to recover both rocket stages after launch. This mission will test the reusability of rockets and the efficiency of SpaceX's recovery systems. Starship is set to deploy 26 next-generation Starlink V3 satellites into low Earth orbit during this flight. Successfully catching both stages could lead to reduced launch costs and increased satellite deployment.
Help NASA build a home on the Moon and get $1 million prize: Check competition rules, key dates, how and where to apply
NASA has announced a $1 million Moon Base Student Challenge, inviting eligible high school and college students in the US to develop innovative solutions for building a permanent human settlement near the Moon's South Pole. The competition will focus on six areas, including power generation, construction, life-support systems and astronaut safety.
Vrishchika Sankranti 2026: November 16 Date, Sun Transit Into Scorpio, Significance and Rituals
Vrishchika Sankranti 2026 will take place on November 16, when the Sun moves from Tula (Libra) into Vrishchika (Scorpio) at approximately 7:40 PM IST. The occasion marks an important transition in the Hindu solar calendar and is associated with Surya worship, holy bathing, charity and spiritual practices. Since the Sankranti moment occurs after sunset, some Panchang traditions observe the associated Punya Kaal on November 17.
Mars and Jupiter converge this weekend, but fireballs after dark could steal the show first
Mars and Jupiter converge in the eastern sky before sunrise on November 15 and appear especially close the following morning. Both events are visible without a telescope, but they call for different viewing times.
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NASA job applications: $164,395 salary for astronaut posts as selected candidates can live on Moon and Mars; check direct link, eligibility and deadline
NASA astronaut applications: NASA has opened applications for its next astronaut class, with selected candidates potentially getting the opportunity to live and work on a future Moon base and participate in missions to Mars. Here's a look at the $164,395 annual salary, eligibility criteria, application requirements and December 3 deadline.
Scorpio New Moon 2026 Today, November 9: What to Manifest, What to Release and Which Zodiac Signs Will Feel Its Impact
The Scorpio New Moon takes place today, November 9, 2026, encouraging emotional healing, inner transformation and meaningful new beginnings. Discover what to manifest, what to release, powerful New Moon rituals and which zodiac signs may feel its astrological impact most strongly.
NASA's Artemis II rocket punched 3,100-mile-long holes in Earth's atmosphere, disrupted GPS signals: Study
NASA's Artemis II mission created large disturbances in the ionosphere that disrupted GPS signals across the United States. These disturbances were significantly more intense than those from prior rocket launches, causing potential issues for technologies reliant on precise positioning. Researchers noted that even minor positioning errors could impact autonomous vehicles, which rely on GPS data. The mission set new records for human distance from Earth during a lunar flyby.
13 Diyas of Dhanteras: Which Lamp Goes at the Entrance, Tulsi Plant and Home Temple and What It Symbolises?
Dhanteras is a cherished celebration where families illuminate their homes with 13 diyas, each representing different blessings such as health and prosperity. The placement of each diya carries cultural significance, especially the first, which honors Lord Yama. Families often tailor this arrangement to fit their traditions and living spaces. With Dhanteras 2026 falling on November 6, excitement builds as households prepare for this sacred occasion.
November 2026 Moon Phases: New Moon and Full Moon Dates, Timings, Rituals and Zodiac Effects
As November 2026 begins, two major lunar events are approaching: the New Moon on November 9 and the Full Moon, traditionally known as the Beaver Moon, on November 24. These celestial events carry astronomical, cultural and astrological significance, with the New Moon associated with fresh beginnings and the Beaver Moon linked to seasonal traditions and reflection. Explore the exact dates and global timings, the significance of the Beaver Moon, simple New Moon and Full Moon rituals, and astrological interpretations for all 12 zodiac signs. The article also explains how to observe November’s lunar phases, their spiritual symbolism and the cultural traditions behind the Full Moon’s name.
The Moon is shrinking. What happens when its surface can’t take the pressure?
The Moon may look the same from one evening to the next, but its surface records a slow transformation. Multiple researches reveal a different kind of reasons to explain the shrinking and this findings impact not the skywatchers but those who planning a future on the moon.
NASA sent two wooden capsules to the Moon in 1962, but they missed and may still be orbiting the Sun today
NASA’s Ranger 3 and Ranger 5 carried seismometer capsules inside 65-centimetre balsa-wood spheres meant to survive a Moon impact. Both missed the Moon in 1962 and entered solar orbit. The missions reveal an unusual piece of early space race engineering, and show how failed spacecraft can still return useful scientific data.
A Full Moon Before Halloween 2026: Will the Hunter’s Moon Make October’s Spooky Nights Brighter?
The Hunter’s Moon will reach peak illumination on October 26, 2026, just days before Halloween. Discover why October’s Full Moon has its traditional name, how its seasonal history connects to hunting and winter preparations, and why the Moon can appear orange or golden near the horizon. This guide also explains whether Halloween will have a Full Moon and offers practical skywatching tips.
October 2026 Full Moon: Hunter’s Moon in Taurus on October 26 – Date, Time, Meaning and Zodiac Sign Effects
The October 2026 Full Moon, traditionally known as the Hunter’s Moon, will occur on October 26 in Taurus, bringing themes of stability, financial security, relationships and emotional balance in astrology. The article explores the Full Moon’s date and time, the origin and spiritual meaning of the Hunter’s Moon, its astrological significance and potential effects on all 12 zodiac signs. It also covers simple Full Moon rituals, reflection practices and what science says about lunar phases and sleep or mood, offering readers a complete guide to October’s major lunar event.
ISRO to have four functional launch pads by 2029: Chairman Narayanan
ISRO plans to expand its operations with four launch pads by 2029 to meet global satellite demands. A dedicated 2,000-acre Small Satellite Launch Vehicle complex is set to be built in Tuticorin. The agency will collaborate with private firms and startups to enhance technological capabilities and job creation. Upcoming uncrewed Gaganyaan tests will evaluate critical mission parameters ahead of a crewed mission.
India has its own moon-like landscape hidden in Ladakh. What makes this Himalayan place so unusual?
Lamayuru in Ladakh is famous for its moon-like landscape, featuring bright yellow, clay-textured formations believed by some studies to have developed from ancient lake and river deposits. Filmmaker Kanishk Gupta recently highlighted its unusual beauty on social media. The village is also home to an 11th-century monastery with beautiful frescoes and a meditation cave associated with Lama Naropa.
NASA adopting Apollo's urgency to build a moon base and land astronauts within two years
NASA plans to return astronauts to the moon with the Artemis III mission set for next summer. Following that, Artemis IV aims to accomplish a historic moon landing by 2028, marking the first since the Apollo missions. Administrator Jared Isaacman emphasized the importance of efficiency and a fast-paced approach similar to Apollo's playbook. Docking exercises with SpaceX and Blue Origin's landers will occur before the moon base establishment.
NASA may make a big announcement on Moon mission today. Here's what we know
NASA is preparing for a press conference to share important updates on the Artemis program. The focus will be on the upcoming Artemis III mission and its objectives. Additionally, details regarding future lunar landings under Artemis IV are expected to be unveiled. NASA aims to return astronauts to the Moon by 2028, exploring the lunar south pole for scientific research.
October Full Moon 2026: When to See the Hunter’s Moon Around the World and Is It a Supermoon?
The Hunter’s Moon lights up the sky on October 26, 2026, bringing October’s Full Moon into view. Find out when it reaches its peak, check global timings and discover the best time to watch it. Learn why it is called the Hunter’s Moon, whether it is a supermoon, what causes its orange glow and what it means in astrology.
Forget the Moon’s south pole: 4 other lunar sites could help humans build a base and prepare for Mars, new report suggests
The southernmost region of the Moon has emerged as a crucial focus for contemporary lunar exploration, particularly in the quest for water ice. Other notable sites, such as Bhabha Crater and Orientale Basin, are also under consideration for study. These areas promise to offer vital information about the Moon's past and feasible locations for human settlement.
Full Moon October 25, 2026: Best Time to Watch in India, Moonrise Timings, Direction and Photography Tips
On the evening of October 25, the Moon will make a stunning appearance over numerous Indian cities, providing exceptional opportunities for sky gazers. Especially in New Delhi, where moonrise is anticipated around 5 PM IST, the nearly full Moon will be beautifully illuminated by nightfall. To enjoy the best views, observers should find clear eastern horizons and stay informed about local weather, as conditions can significantly affect visibility.
India-Pakistan Moon race: With China's help, Pakistan wants to send humans to Moon five years before India
Pakistani astronaut on Moon: Pakistan has set a target of landing on the Moon by 2035 as it expands its space programme through cooperation with China. Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal announced that Pakistan’s first astronaut is scheduled to embark on a space mission from China on November 25. The partnership also includes a lunar rover project, while India is pursuing its own human spaceflight and Moon exploration goals.
NASA’s Perseverance Rover sets new driving record on Mars, reaching 45.2 kilometres
NASA’s Perseverance rover has travelled 45.2 kilometres in Mars, setting a fresh record for the farthest distance driven by a vehicle on the surface of another world. The six-wheeled robotic explorer reached the milestone after arriving on Mars in 2021 and surpassing the earlier record held by NASA’s Opportunity rover.
NASA's Perseverance becomes longest-travelling rover beyond Earth after 45.2 km on Mars
NASA's Perseverance rover has covered 28.1 miles on Mars, breaking the previous driving record. For over 5-1/2 years, it has actively investigated Jezero Crater, showcasing its autonomous navigation for optimal exploration efficiency. The mission's extension until approximately the end of 2028 aims to deepen our understanding of the planet's geology and its potential for ancient microbial life, making it a crucial part of Mars exploration.
What happens when a rocket crashes into the Moon? Scientists are watching for clues about lunar impacts
The Moon has a new man-made crater. A discarded SpaceX Falcon 9 stage struck the lunar surface on August 5, 2026, near Einstein Crater. NASA, South Korea’s Danuri orbiter and Earth-based telescopes tracked the impact. Scientists are now studying the debris and chemical clues to better understand lunar impacts.
NASA releases 800GB of moon data: What did Artemis II astronauts see around the moon?
NASA has released more than 800GB of Artemis II Moon data, including 11,000-plus images and videos, 8.5 hours of astronaut audio and crew annotations. The release also documents five faint flashes spotted on the Moon as the astronauts observed its surface during their lunar flyby.
A US spacecraft accidently found evidence of ice on moon while taking a complete look at lunar surface in 1994
A US spacecraft known as Clementine was the first to get a complete view of the Moon and its pole regions. The ice on the bottom of a shadowed crater near the south pole of the Moon was found during the spacecraft's lunar survey mission. It was managed by the Ballistic Missile Defense Organization and NASA.
Israel's first lunar mission put spacecraft Beresheet into orbit in 2019. Here's what happened next
Beresheet was Israel’s first lunar mission and the first attempt by a private company to land a spacecraft on the Moon. The mission did not complete a landing, but it reached the Moon and provided a milestone for Israel’s space program and private lunar exploration.
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