James Webb Telescope Peers Through Dust Cloud of Nearby Galaxy
It is a very active and relatively close galaxy to us, but which remains mysterious to our eyes. The Compass Galaxy, 13 million light-years from Earth, is sometimes visible, even with an amateur telescope, but it is also challenging to find because it is located very close to the galactic plane, which makes any terrestrial observation delicate.
However, from its unparalleled vantage point in space, 1.5 million kilometers from us, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has a much better view and has recently provided magnificent images of this notably active star cluster. These new observations are the subject of a study published in the journal Nature Communications.
Infrared radiation that questions
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It must be said that the Compass Galaxy was a source of questions for many scientists. Previous observations from hubble highlighted the presence of infrared radiation in a region near the black hole at the center of the galaxy. According to theoretical models, it could be matter.
The Artemis Program: Status as of January 17, 2026
The Artemis Program, NASA’s effort to return humans to the Moon, is currently preparing for Artemis III, targeted for a September 2026 launch, following delays attributed to challenges with the SpaceX Starship Human Landing System (HLS). This represents a shift from the previously planned December 2025 launch date.
Artemis I & II: Completed Missions
The Artemis program began with uncrewed test flights, and one crewed flyby. Artemis I successfully launched on November 16, 2022, and concluded on December 11, 2022, testing the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion spacecraft. NASA’s Artemis I mission overview details the objectives and results of this initial flight. Artemis II, a crewed flyby of the Moon, launched November 21, 2024, and returned to Earth on December 11, 2024, successfully demonstrating the life support systems and capabilities for deep space travel. NASA’s Artemis II mission overview provides details on the crew and mission objectives.
Artemis III: Landing Preparations & Delays
Artemis III aims to land astronauts near the lunar south pole. The mission’s success hinges on the progress and testing of SpaceX’s Starship HLS,which will transport astronauts from lunar orbit to the surface and back. As of January 17, 2026, the launch date has been adjusted to September 2026 due to ongoing development challenges with Starship, specifically related to its landing system and refueling capabilities in lunar orbit. NASA’s press release on the Artemis III launch date update confirms this change.NASA is working closely with spacex to address these issues and ensure the safety and success of the mission.
The planned landing site remains the Shackleton Crater region, chosen for its potential access to water ice, a crucial resource for future lunar operations. NASA’s announcement of the Artemis III landing site details the scientific rationale for this location.
- NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration): NASA Official Website - The lead agency for the Artemis Program.
- SpaceX: SpaceX Official Website – Developing the Starship human Landing System.
- Space Launch System (SLS): NASA’s SLS Program Page – The heavy-lift rocket used for Artemis missions.
- Orion Spacecraft: NASA’s Orion Program Page – The crew capsule for Artemis missions.
- Lunar South Pole: The target landing region for Artemis III, chosen for its potential water ice resources.
Future Artemis Missions (IV & beyond)
Following Artemis III, NASA plans to establish a sustained presence on the Moon with Artemis IV and subsequent missions. Artemis IV, currently planned for 2028, will deliver the first elements of the lunar Surface Access Habitat. NASA’s overview of the Artemis Base Camp outlines the long-term vision for lunar habitation. These missions will focus on scientific research, resource utilization, and preparing for future missions to Mars.