SpaceX is encapsulating three NASA-supported small spacecraft, along with commercial payloads, in a Falcon 9 ahead of launch on October 1, 2026. This launch is exciting for sky-watchers because it will demonstrate new propulsion technologies and advance our understanding of galaxies. The ASCENT, SPRITE, and SSPICY missions will contribute to significant scientific discoveries, making this a notable event for those interested in space exploration. Sky-watchers can look forward to learning more about the results of these missions after the launch.
Read the source: NASA (all news) (opens in new tab)
Astrophysicists are reevaluating the existence of hypernovae, the supposedly most powerful stellar explosions in the universe. This development is significant for sky-watchers because it challenges our understanding of the most extreme events in the cosmos. If hypernovae do not exist, it could change how astronomers predict and prepare for observing supernovae, potentially altering the way they plan for and study these events.
Read the source: Universe Today (opens in new tab)
A relatively quiet week in launches is expected, with SpaceX's Falcon 9 leading the schedule and a Chinese ZhuQue-2E also set to launch. This is good news for sky-watchers, as the Falcon 9 launches may be visible to those in the vicinity of the launch sites, offering a thrilling sight. Sky-watchers on the west coast may want to look up to catch a glimpse of the Falcon 9 launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
Read the source: NASASpaceflight.com (opens in new tab)