How one scientist's wide-eyed dream of giant space cities was crushed by reality

As World Space Week 2025 approaches, it highlights the unique challenges faced not only by astronauts living in space but also by their families back on Earth. The emotional and psychological impacts of long-duration space missions can ripple through families, affecting relationships and daily life. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as we continue to explore beyond our planet, ensuring that both astronauts and their loved ones receive the support they need.

A stunning new photo of a nebula has captured the imagination of many, with some viewers playfully noting that it resembles a cosmic baboon. This whimsical interpretation highlights the beauty and wonder of space, reminding us of the creativity that can arise from observing the universe. Such images not only inspire awe but also encourage interest in astronomy and the exploration of deep space.

Join 'Space Gal' Emily Calandrelli as she celebrates Baking Soda Rocket Day with Arm and Hammer, engaging 14,000 participants nationwide. This fun event during World Space Week highlights the excitement of science and space exploration, inspiring young minds to explore the wonders of the universe.

Australia's SpIRIT nanosatellite has achieved a remarkable milestone by capturing its first selfie in space, signaling a successful launch and the beginning of its mission to track cosmic gamma-ray bursts. This achievement not only showcases Australia's advancements in space technology but also contributes to our understanding of the universe, making it a significant step for both science and exploration.

In a creative collaboration, a veteran NASA astronaut and a talented photographer have come together to produce five stunning images in honor of World Space Week. This initiative not only showcases the beauty of space but also highlights the importance of space exploration and education. Celebrating World Space Week helps inspire future generations to appreciate and engage with science and technology, making this project a significant contribution to the ongoing conversation about our universe.

After 30 years of groundbreaking discoveries, astronomers reflect on their top five exoplanets, showcasing the incredible diversity of worlds beyond our solar system. This matters because understanding these distant planets can help us learn more about the universe and the potential for life elsewhere, sparking curiosity and inspiring future generations of scientists.

Recent discussions in astrophysics suggest that the universe might be akin to a giant black hole, based on the principles governing these cosmic entities. This idea stems from the observation that larger black holes have lower average densities, which raises intriguing questions about the nature of our universe and its vast, seemingly empty spaces. Understanding this concept could reshape our perspective on cosmic structures and the fundamental laws of physics.

The annual Bridges conference showcased the intersection of art and mathematics, highlighting how artists draw inspiration from mathematical concepts. This event is significant as it not only celebrates creativity but also emphasizes the importance of mathematics in artistic expression, encouraging a broader appreciation for both fields.

A fascinating discovery has been made about Europe's largest bat, which has been observed capturing and consuming birds mid-flight. This remarkable behavior highlights the adaptability and hunting skills of these creatures, showcasing their role in the ecosystem. Understanding such interactions is crucial as it sheds light on the complex relationships between species and their environments.

The final season of Hulu's popular animated sci-fi series 'Solar Opposites' is set to launch on October 13, and fans are buzzing with excitement. A new clip reveals the intriguing and somewhat horrifying concept of Beta Nuts, hinting at the show's unique blend of humor and horror. This season promises to deliver more of the quirky storytelling and character dynamics that have made it a favorite among viewers, making it a significant moment for fans as they prepare to say goodbye to the series.

This weekend, skywatchers are in for a treat as the sun's returning coronal hole is expected to trigger geomagnetic storms, leading to stunning auroras. With clear, dark skies, this natural light show could be one of the most impressive in recent times, making it a perfect opportunity for both amateur and seasoned astronomers to witness the beauty of our universe.

Recently, ZooTampa celebrated the birth of endangered baby Komodo dragons, which are set to become the largest lizards on Earth. This event is significant not only for the zoo but also for conservation efforts, as these hatchlings represent a crucial step in preserving a species that faces threats in the wild. Their growth and development will be closely monitored, highlighting the importance of wildlife protection and education.

NASA astronaut Don Pettit has shared a stunning video showcasing a train of SpaceX Starlink satellites gliding above a vibrant green aurora. This captivating footage not only highlights the beauty of our planet's natural phenomena but also underscores the advancements in satellite technology and space exploration. It's a reminder of how far we've come in understanding and observing our universe.