Blog Archive

A Bittersweet Day for Planetary Exploration

Posted by Casey Dreier on 2012/08/20 06:17 CDT | 7 comments

A new Mars mission was announced today, which is cause for celebration. But two other exciting missions where not selected, why? Money, or lack thereof. All we need is a little bit more, and we could be exploring the solar system, not just Mars.

Curiosity artist's concept EDL 00 approach

Bill Nye on CNN Says US Risks Losing Its Space Edge

Posted by Jennifer Vaughn on 2012/07/05 10:26 CDT

Watch the Planetary Society CEO tell CNN why a reduction in NASA's planetary science funding is a mistake.

NRO gives NASA two hand-me-down telescopes

Posted by Jason Davis on 2012/06/07 08:28 CDT | 4 comments

The National Reconnaissance Office has donated two, partially-completed space telescopes to NASA, revealed at a National Academies' Committee on Astronomy and Astrophysics meeting this week.

Speak out for Planetary Exploration

Posted by David Paige on 2012/06/04 03:46 CDT

On June 9, UCLA faculty and students will join institutions across the country in voicing their support for continued funding of NASA's planetary science program through the National Planetary Science Bake Sale and Car Wash. If you aren’t able to make it to an event, be sure to make your voice heard by contacting your local representatives.

Customary International Law: Herding Cats in Zero Gravity

Posted by Andrew Rush on 2012/05/24 11:14 CDT

When it comes to emerging industries like extraterrestrial resource mining, customary international law can seem like attempting to herd cats in zero gravity. Pinning down what is “fair” and “customary” in areas where no man has gone before can seem daunting but it also presents the unique opportunity to shape international custom by establishing them.

Bringing a little star power to Capitol Hill

Posted by Jennifer Vaughn on 2012/05/09 08:11 CDT | 5 comments

On May 8, 2012, Bill Nye and Neil deGrasse Tyson brought their unique brand of motivational speaking to Capitol Hill. In a standing-room-only lunch discussion in one of the meeting rooms for the Committee on Space, Science, Technology, these two space superstars, along with planetary scientist Louise Prockter, explained to members of Congress, staffers, and media why we must continue to invest in planetary exploration.