Space exploration and travel

Six decades ago, the Soviets launched a cosmonaut into orbit, shaking up the Cold War in ways that still reverberate.
Peter Gwynne, Contributor
Greek mythology says Icarus fell because he flew too close to the sun. What does science say?
Yuen Yiu, Staff Writer
This month in pictures
Abigail Malate, Staff Illustrator
There's a research station in Hawaii being used as a long-duration Mars and moon exploration project.
Inside Science Contributor
This month brought unusual weather to many spots around the world.
Abigail Malate, Staff Illustrator
Scientists are working on projects to see if humans can make the trip to Mars and live there.
Inside Science Contributor
The space shuttle Columbia disintegrated as it reentered the atmosphere Feb. 1, 2003.
Inside Science Contributor
Scientists want to mine the moon for ice to use in rocket fuel for a future refueling station.
Inside Science Contributor
The lunar surface offers advantages for infrared and radio astronomy, despite the challenges.
Ramin Skibba, Contributor
This month in disquieting science.
Abigail Malate, Staff Illustrator
To researchers' surprise, Comet 67P/Churyumov–Gerasimenko has ice that's fluffier than freshly fallen snow.
Rebecca Boyle, Contributor
Learn what NASA has been doing for more than 60 years.
Inside Science Contributor