For the first time in more than half a century, humans will leave low Earth orbit and fly close to the Moon—without landing. Artemis II is meant to be the next step toward returning astronauts to the lunar surface, but major – and costly – challenges still lie ahead.

NASA’s new chief promises to land humans on the Moon within three years; mice that returned from space have produced healthy offspring; European Space Agency’s computer systems have been breached; and rare documentation of planet formation. Space Highlights.

The U.S. President reintroduces a previously rejected candidate to head the space agency, a first step toward a private space station, delays aboard China’s space station, and a debate over the expansion of the universe. This Week in Space

The FAA is investigating recent SpaceX and Blue Origin accidents, UNASA is facing leadership changes under the new U.S. administration, China has demonstrated oxygen production in space, and discussions on preserving the Moon’s heritage. This Week in Space

From a private spacewalk to Starship’s milestones and Boeing’s setbacks, 2024 was a landmark year in space. What’s in store for 2025?

A groundbreaking private mission, a Chinese spacecraft orbiting the Moon, and a maneuver on the way to Jupiter.

First Polaris mission underway, NASA faces delays on its way to the Moon, and a Chinese rocket launches unexpectedly.

Black holes, Negev Space Accelerator, space suits, lunar training, and stellar archaeology.