In the past week, planetary science developments in the United States and worldwide have offered both new discoveries and forward-looking perspectives. At NASA, the push for planetary exploration continues despite ongoing challenges, including internal leadership uncertainties and the need for increased public and political advocacy. The nomination for the incoming NASA administrator was recently pulled by the Senate, which is now focusing on the reconciliation bill, according to the American Astronomical Society. This development could have implications for how planetary science missions are prioritized and funded in the near term.
Meanwhile, in Florida, preparations for the Axiom Mission 4 launch to the International Space Station are under scrutiny. NASA, Axiom Space, and SpaceX have postponed the launch previously set for June 22 to ensure the readiness of the International Space Station after recent repair work in the Zvezda service module. The mission, which will carry astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary, is considered historic for international cooperation and human spaceflight, with former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson commanding the crew. The team remains in quarantine, awaiting a new launch date once all safety checks are complete, as reported directly by NASA.
On the science front, researchers are making steady progress in understanding our solar system and beyond. A recent highlight from the Planetary Society notes that 2025 has been a banner year for space advocacy, with the Save NASA Science Campaign mobilizing tens of thousands of supporters to protect and advance planetary science. The campaign, which emerged in response to concerns about possible cuts to NASA’s science budget, has brought together academia, industry, and the international community to champion scientific discovery.
As we enter summer, skywatchers in the United States have been treated to clear views of planets: Venus shines brightly in the eastern morning sky, while Mars is visible in the west after sunset and will soon pass close to Regulus in Leo, according to NASA’s monthly skywatching guide. Jupiter, low in the west early in June, will return to morning skies in July, and Saturn is now rising earlier each night, making for excellent planetary observation opportunities.
Globally, the search for new worlds continues. Astronomers have confirmed a new gas giant exoplanet and are investigating the mysterious outer reaches of our solar system, where the elusive hypothetical "Planet Nine" may still be lurking. There is also ongoing research into so-called hycean worlds—planets with thick hydrogen atmospheres and deep oceans—which may have smaller, more challenging habitable zones than previously thought, according to recent scientific news from Phys.org. Additionally, planetary scientists are exploring new strategies for future Mars landings, with recent studies from the University of Mississippi suggesting that identifying the right landing site is critical for the success of long-term human exploration.
In summary, this week in planetary science has seen a mix of mission readiness checks, continued advocacy for research funding, and scientific advances that deepen our understanding of planets both near and far. The field remains vibrant and collaborative, with ongoing contributions from both the United States and international partners.
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