Why Do We Have Leap Years

Leap years keep our calendar and seasons in sync with the Earth’s orbit around the Sun The Earth takes about 365.25 days to complete a full orbit around the Sun. If we kept it at exactly 365 days every year, our seasons would slowly drift off course because of the extra 6 hours it takes …

A close-up view of Mars’ surface showcasing its iconic red dust and vast craters, set against the dark expanse of space.

NASA Is Looking for Volunteers for a One-Year Simulated Mars Surface Mission

Wanna be a Martian? In preparation for IRL Mars exploration, the simulated mission involves a four-person volunteer crew living and working inside a 1,700-square-foot, 3D-printed habitat based at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. Starting in Spring 2025, crew tasks include simulated spacewalks, robotic operations, habitat maintenance, exercise, and crop growth. The habitat, called the …

Beginner’s Guide to Stargazing: Pro Tips and Tricks

Are you a lover of the night sky? Do you find yourself constantly looking up at the stars in wonder and awe?  Stargazing is like a magical portal to the universe, where you can escape everyday life and embark on a cosmic journey from anywhere. Not only is stargazing a peaceful and relaxing activity, but it …

image of the earth from space

The Earth Spins At About 1,000 Miles Per Hour

 The actual speed of Earth’s spin depends on where you are because the planet moves fastest around the equator. At Earth’s equator, the speed of Earth’s spin is about 1,000 miles per hour (1,600 km per hour). For places in higher latitudes like NYC, the Earth spins at around 789 mph. This is because the …

The Zodiac

The zodiac is a ring-shaped region in the sky that is divided by the 12 constellations that are known as the signs of the zodiac. The Sun, Moon, and all the planets always stay within the zodiac. In astronomy and astrology, a sign of the zodiac refers to one of 12 specific constellations of the …