Study: Rocks from Mars’ Jezero Crater, which likely predate life on Earth, contain signs of water
The presence of organic matter is inconclusive, but the rocks could be scientists’ best chance at finding remnants of ancient Martian life.
Scientists pin down the origins of the moon’s tenuous atmosphere
The barely-there lunar atmosphere is likely the product of meteorite impacts over billions of years, a new study finds.
MIT ARCLab announces winners of inaugural Prize for AI Innovation in Space
The challenge asked teams to develop AI algorithms to track and predict satellites’ patterns of life in orbit using passively collected data
Designing for outer space
With NASA planning permanent bases in space and on the moon, MIT students develop prototypes for habitats far from planet Earth.
Study: Titan’s lakes may be shaped by waves
MIT researchers find wave activity on Saturn’s largest moon may be strong enough to erode the coastlines of lakes and seas.
Turning up the heat on next-generation semiconductors
Research sheds light on the properties of novel materials that could be used in electronics operating in extremely hot environments.
Using wobbling stellar material, astronomers measure the spin of a supermassive black hole for the first time
The results offer a new way to probe supermassive black holes and their evolution across the universe.
Newly discovered Earth-sized planet may lack an atmosphere
Circling a cold, Jupiter-sized star, the new world could offer an unobstructed view of its surface composition and history.
Robotic “SuperLimbs” could help moonwalkers recover from falls
A new MIT system could help astronauts conserve energy and extend missions on the lunar surface.
Astronomers spot a giant planet that is as light as cotton candy
The new world is the second-lightest planet discovered to date.
Erin Kara named Edgerton Award winner
The award recognizes exceptional distinction in teaching, research, and service at MIT.
Study: Life’s building blocks are surprisingly stable in Venus-like conditions
Results suggest the clouds of Venus could be hospitable for some forms of life.
Life on Mars, together
With Project MADMEN, two MIT students experience the challenges and bonding associated with a Mars analog mission.
Three MIT alumni graduate from NASA astronaut training
Marcos Berríos ’06, Christina Birch PhD ’15, and Christopher Williams PhD ’12, now eligible for spaceflight assignments, encourage MIT students to apply for the next astronaut class.