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<title><![CDATA[ Latest from Space.com ]]></title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Space auction: Sally Ride memorabilia collection sells for $145,000 ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>A set of memorabilia chronicling Sally Ride's pioneering path to space just fetched a pretty penny at auction.</p><p>In June 1983, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="Sally Ride">Sally Ride</a> became the first American woman to reach the final frontier, on the STS-7 mission of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16726-space-shuttle.html">space shuttle</a> Challenger.</p><p>She rode <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/18084-space-shuttle-challenger.html">Challenge</a>r to space again in October 1984, on the STS-41-G mission. This flight was groundbreaking as well; it was the first spaceflight ever to feature two female crewmembers. (The other woman in the seven-person crew was NASA astronaut Kathryn Sullivan.)</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_SKnhn7IZ_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="SKnhn7IZ"> <div id="botr_SKnhn7IZ_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>Some mementoes from these flights, and from the path that Ride — a physicist with a doctorate from Stanford University — took to the launch pad came up for auction last Thursday (June 26) in Los Angeles. And there was quite a bit of interest.</p><p>The mementoes — a set of more than 50 pieces called the Sally Ride Estate Collection — sold for a total of $145,666, according to Nate D. Sanders Auctions, which organized the event.</p><p>The 1978 acceptance letter that welcomed Ride as a member of NASA's Astronaut Group 8 — the first one in the agency's history to include women — brought $5,046. Her official astronaut badge sold for $4,915, and the diary she kept during the STS-41-G mission went for $9,694.</p><p>Even more lucrative was Ride's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16758-apollo-11-first-moon-landing.html">Apollo 11</a> Robbins medal, which flew to the moon and back during the iconic first-ever crewed lunar landing mission in 1969; it sold for $17,690. Another <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="http://www.collectspace.com/resources/medallions_robbins.html" target="_blank">Robbins medal</a> that Ride owned, which flew on the first-ever space shuttle mission in April 1981, sold for $13,401.</p><p>You can peruse the collection, and the price that each piece brought, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://natedsanders.com/catalog.aspx" target="_blank">via Nate D. Sanders Auctions</a>.</p><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Related Stories:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16143-women-space-firsts-gallery.html">Pioneering women in space: A gallery of astronaut firsts</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16756-sally-ride-biography.html">Facts about Sally Ride, the 1st American woman in space</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/nasa-astronaut-sally-ride-women-lgbtq-40-years">Astronaut Sally Ride brought women and the LGBTQ+ community to the final frontier 40 years ago</a></p></div></div><p>Ride, who died of pancreatic cancer at the age of 61 <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16712-sally-ride-first-american-woman-in-space-dies.html">in 2012</a>, was a pioneer in more ways than one: She's also the first known LGBTQ+ person to reach the final frontier.</p><p>Ride did not reveal her sexual orientation during her spaceflight career; the revelation came via an obituary published just after her death by Sally Ride Science, the STEM outreach company she launched with <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/sally-ride-tam-oshaughnessy-future-lgbtq-astronauts.html">Tam O'Shaughnessy</a> in 2001. That obituary identified O'Shaughnessy<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/sally-ride-tam-oshaughnessy-future-lgbtq-astronauts.html"> </a>as Ride's life partner and said they had been together for 27 years.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/space-exploration/human-spaceflight/space-auction-sally-ride-memorabilia-collection-sells-for-usd145-000</link>
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<![CDATA[ A collection of more than 50 pieces of memorabilia previously owned by Sally Ride, the first American woman to reach space, sold at auction last week for more than $145,000. ]]>
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<author><![CDATA[ mwall@space.com (Mike Wall) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Mike Wall ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/6QsBVWTjF7TGGbuJCxU5p5.jpg">
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<title><![CDATA[ Why does Mars look purple, yellow and orange in ESA's stunning new satellite image? ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Despite being known as the Red Planet, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.livescience.com/facts-about-mars" target="_blank">Mars</a> shows off its swirling yellows, oranges and browns in a new satellite photo from the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.livescience.com/tag/european-space-agency" target="_blank">European Space Agency</a> (ESA). The <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/54-earth-history-composition-and-atmosphere.html">Earth</a>-toned surface also reveals an <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.livescience.com/largest-asteroids-to-hit-earth" target="_blank">impact crater</a> and four sneaky dust devils making their way across the region.</p><p>The <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.artic.edu/artists/36467/mark-rothko" target="_blank">Rothko-like</a> image was taken by a high-resolution camera on ESA’s <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/18206-mars-express.html" target="_blank">Mars Express</a> orbiter and captures <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/30502-mars-giant-ice-sheet-discovery-mro.html">Arcadia Planitia</a>, an area of Mars critical to research about the planet’s past and its potential to house humans in the future.</p><h2 id="arcadia-planitia-2">Arcadia Planitia</h2><p>Northwest of the tallest volcanoes in the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.livescience.com/tag/solar-system" target="_blank">solar system</a>, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.livescience.com/mars-arcadia-planitia-glaciers.html">Arcadia Planitia</a> is a region of intrigue. It's laden with solidified lava flows that are, at most, 3 billion years old. The area is also thought to host <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.livescience.com/space/mars/2-mile-thick-layer-of-frozen-water-found-buried-at-mars-equator" target="_blank">water ice</a> close to the planet's surface, making it an area of interest when planning future missions to Mars, according to a statement from <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Space_Science/Mars_Express/Earth_tones_on_Mars" target="_blank">ESA</a>.</p><p>Arcadia Planitia is home to visiting "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.livescience.com/space/mars/massive-martian-dust-devil-filmed-by-nasas-perseverance-rover-is-5-times-taller-than-the-empire-state-building" target="_blank">dust devils</a>," short-lived columns of wind akin to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/31106-dust-devils-mars-pack-seismic-punch.html">small tornadoes.</a> Dust devils form when the Martian surface warms the air just above it, leading the air to rise and pulling dust with it. The new image shows four dust devils as they snake their way across the plains of the region. Easy to overlook, you can spot them as whitish puffs of dust near the center of the image, straddling the boundary between the darker brown and lighter red parts of the plain.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1200px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="xkikuokxvhLiJ93k8tt6PV" name="CpYp5zMMK3UAHeaSoQMmAg-1200-80" alt="A satellite "heat map" of Mars, showing Olympus Mons, its largest volcano" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/xkikuokxvhLiJ93k8tt6PV.png" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1200" height="675" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">The new satellite image from the European Space Agency shows Olympus Mons and the Tharsis volcanoes. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: ESA/NASA/USGS/DLR/FU Berlin/MGS/MOLA Science Team)</span></figcaption></figure><p>A large impact crater sits in the bottom right corner of the photo and measures 9 miles (15 kilometers) across, according to ESA. The formation of layered material around the crater is evidence that the ground encompassed notable amounts of water ice during impact, and lack of clear erosion of the crater dates it to relatively recently on the geological timeline.</p><h2 id="is-the-picture-out-of-focus-2">Is the picture out of focus? </h2><p>If you noticed that the image is blurry, you're discerning an effect of the wind on Mars. Gusts of air pick up and carry tiny particles of debris from the planet's surface, which creates a minor visual haze.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:970px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.29%;"><img id="8qvitrhcyVDNEpkwTjvnb" name="wNDCp7FhcNo66pQG3dXKyV-970-80" alt="A series of purple, yellow, and red shapes mix together." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/8qvitrhcyVDNEpkwTjvnb.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="970" height="546" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">A new satellite image of the Arcadia Planitia on Mars. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: ESA/DLR/FU Berlin)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The wind that causes the haze is also responsible for the reddish area at the top of the photo. The red region is covered in ridges called "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.livescience.com/planet-earth/geology/earth-from-space-otherworldly-stripes-and-shadowy-dunes-share-center-stage-in-hottest-place-on-earth" target="_blank">yardangs</a>," which are formed when wind erodes vulnerable rock and leaves the most resistant rock still standing.</p><p>Below the red section is purplish-brown terrain, which has a high concentration of silicates and a low concentration of iron, the statement notes. The difference in colors also stems from properties of the sand, like density and size, which affect how the grains accumulate and travel across Mars.</p><p><em>This article was originally published in </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.livescience.com/" target="_blank"><em>Live Science, </em></a><em>read the </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.livescience.com/space/mars/why-does-mars-look-purple-yellow-and-orange-in-esas-stunning-new-satellite-image" target="_blank"><em>original article here. </em></a></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/astronomy/mars/why-does-mars-look-purple-yellow-and-orange-in-esas-stunning-new-satellite-image</link>
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<![CDATA[ Surprising colors and stunning features are captured in a new image of Mars' surface. ]]>
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<pubDate>Sun, 06 Jul 2025 14:01:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Mars]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Astronomy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Solar System]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Perri Thaler ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/8qvitrhcyVDNEpkwTjvnb.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[ESA/DLR/FU Berlin]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A series of purple, yellow, and red shapes mix together.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A series of purple, yellow, and red shapes mix together.]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ US military cuts climate scientists off from vital satellite sea-ice data ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Climate scientists in the United States are to be cut off from satellite data measuring the amount of sea ice — a sensitive barometer of climate change — as the U.S. Department of Defense announces plans to cancel processing of the data for scientific research.</p><p>The changes are the latest attacks by the U.S. government on science and the funding of scientific research in an effort to slash the budget to enable tax cuts elsewhere. Already, these attacks have seen the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/the-universe/earth/trump-administration-cancels-lease-for-nasas-goddard-institute-for-space-studies-lab-in-new-york-city">Goddard Institute for Space Studies</a> and the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/astronomy/earth/more-than-1-800-national-science-foundation-workers-abruptly-kicked-out-of-agency-headquarters">National Science Foundation</a> evicted from their offices, references to climate science removed from websites, funding of data for hurricane forecasts cancelled, and dozens of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/38700-nasa-history.html">NASA</a> missions under threat and their project teams asked to produce close-down plans as the space agency's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/trumps-2026-budget-would-slash-nasa-funding-by-24-percent-and-its-workforce-by-nearly-one-third">budget is slashed</a>.</p><p>Now, scientists at the National Snow and Ice Data Center (NSIDC), based at the University of Colorado, Boulder, who have been using data from the Special Sensor Microwave Imager/Sounder (SSMIS) that is flown on a series of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/24839-satellites.html">satellites</a> that form the United States Air Force Defense Meteorological Satellite Program, have been told they will soon no longer have access to that data. SSMIS is a microwave radiometer that can scan <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/54-earth-history-composition-and-atmosphere.html">Earth</a> for ice coverage on land and sea. The Department of Defense uses this data for planning deployments of its own ships, but it has always made the processed data available to scientists, too — until now.</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_3idTBxL3_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="3idTBxL3"> <div id="botr_3idTBxL3_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>In an <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="http://www.apple.com/uk" target="_blank">announcement</a> on June 24, the Department of Defense declared that the Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center operated by the U.S. Navy would cease the real-time processing and stop supplying scientists with the sea-ice data, although <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.npr.org/2025/06/28/nx-s1-5446120/defense-department-cuts-hurricane-ice-weather-satellite" target="_blank">NPR reports</a> that, following an outcry at the suddenness of this decision, it has been put back to the end of July.</p><p>Politics aside, purely from a scientific point of view, this is madness. The sea-ice index, which charts how much ice is covering the ocean in the Arctic and Antarctic, is strongly dependent upon global warming, with increasing average temperatures both in the ocean and in the atmosphere leading to more <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/the-universe/climate-change/earths-sea-ice-hits-all-time-low-nasa-satellites-reveal">sea-ice melting</a>. Sea ice acts as a buffer to slow or even prevent the melting of large glaciers; remove that buffer and catastrophic melting of glaciers moves one big step closer, threatening dangerous sea level rises. Without the ability to track the sea ice, scientists are blinded to one of the most significant measures of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/what-is-climate-change-explained">climate change</a> and become unable to tell how close we are getting to the brink.</p><p>But there's even a commercial side to knowing how much sea ice is present on our oceans. The fewer icebergs there are, the closer cargo ships can sail around the north pole, allowing them to take shorter, faster routes.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="p2cvMjhrmZ5KZtFcqiCAJg" name="sea_ice_max_2020_w_caption_print" alt="A photo of the Earth's north pole showing its sea ice" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/p2cvMjhrmZ5KZtFcqiCAJg.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">The maximum extent of Arctic sea ice in 2020. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: NASA's Scientific Visualization Studio.)</span></figcaption></figure><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">RELATED STORIES</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/the-universe/climate-change/earths-sea-ice-hits-all-time-low-nasa-satellites-reveal">Earth's sea ice hits all-time low, NASA satellites reveal</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/what-is-climate-change-explained">Climate change: Causes and effects</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/trumps-2026-budget-would-slash-nasa-funding-by-24-percent-and-its-workforce-by-nearly-one-third">Trump's 2026 budget would slash NASA funding by 24% and its workforce by nearly one third</a></p></div></div><p>Of course, the United States is not the only country to operate climate instruments on satellites. For instance, the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/22672-japan-aerospace-exploration-agency.html">JAXA</a>) has a satellite called Shizuku, more formally known as the Global Change Observation Mission-Water (GCOM-W). On board Shizuku is an instrument called the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer 2, or AMSRS-2, which does pretty much the same job as SSMIS.</p><p>Researchers at NSIDC had already been looking to transfer over to AMSRS-2 data, perhaps having got wind that the Department of Defense's decision was coming down the pipeline. But the switch will take time for the calibration of the instrument and data with NSIDC's systems, leading to a gap in scientists' data — a blind spot in our monitoring of the climate that we can ill afford.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/astronomy/earth/us-military-cuts-climate-scientists-off-from-vital-satellite-sea-ice-data</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ In the latest attack on science by the Trump administration, researchers at the National Snow and Ice Data Center will no longer receive data from a fleet of military satellites. ]]>
</description>
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<pubDate>Sun, 06 Jul 2025 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Earth]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Astronomy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Solar System]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Keith Cooper ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/p2cvMjhrmZ5KZtFcqiCAJg.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[NASA's Scientific Visualization Studio.]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A photo of the Earth's north pole showing its sea ice]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A photo of the Earth's north pole showing its sea ice]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ ISS astronaut captures a rare phenomenon from orbit — a giant 'sprite' above a thunderstorm ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>U.S. astronaut Nichole "Vapor" Ayers captured a spectacular view of a phenomenon known as a "sprite" blazing to life above an intense thunderstorm — and she did this while orbiting 250 miles (400 kilometers) above Earth aboard the International Space Station (ISS).</p><p>"Sprites are TLEs or Transient Luminous Events, that happen above the clouds and are triggered by intense electrical activity in the thunderstorms below," <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://x.com/Astro_Ayers/status/1940810789830451563/photo/1" target="_blank">wrote Ayers in an X post</a> showcasing the image. "We have a great view above the clouds, so scientists can use these types of pictures to better understand the formation, characteristics, and relationship of TLEs to thunderstorms."</p><div class="see-more see-more--clipped"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet hawk-ignore" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Just. Wow. As we went over Mexico and the U.S. this morning, I caught this sprite.Sprites are TLEs or Transient Luminous Events, that happen above the clouds and are triggered by intense electrical activity in the thunderstorms below. We have a great view above the clouds, so… pic.twitter.com/dCqIrn3vrA<a href="https://twitter.com/cantworkitout/status/1940810789830451563">July 3, 2025</a></p></blockquote><div class="see-more__filter"></div></div><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/red-lightning">Vivid, multicolored sprites</a> are among the least understood and visually striking electrical phenomena known to manifest in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/54-earth-history-composition-and-atmosphere.html">Earth</a>'s upper atmosphere during intense thunderstorm events. They typically occur roughly 50 miles (80 km) above the planet's surface in the wake of powerful lightning strikes, taking on an array of otherworldly shapes composed of complex, tendril-like features and plumes of red light, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.nasa.gov/general/spritacular-nasas-new-citizen-science-project-to-capture-elusive-upper-atmospheric-electrical-phenomena-on-camera/#:~:text=The%20broader%20goal%20of%20Spritacular,Jia%20Yue." target="_blank">according to NASA</a>.</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="sT3QY0MQ"> <div id="botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>Even so, the gigantic sprite Ayers managed to witness is a particularly impressive specimen, seen rising high above lightning-lit <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/types-of-clouds">clouds</a> and treading into Earth's upper atmosphere above Mexico and the U.S. All the while, the sprite appears to glow brightly alongside artificial light emanating from the cities below.</p><p>Over the past few years, NASA has been working on the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://spritacular.org/" target="_blank">"Spritacular" citizen science project</a>, which asks members of the public to contribute images of TLE sightings in an attempt to provide the scientific community with data that can be used to decode the phenomenon.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="62pHWkVzLXRNyWNbHcFHAk" name="Sprite ISS July 3 Main Body Image" alt="A picture of Earth's surface at night captured from the International Space Station. An electrical phenomenon known as a sprite, featuring a tree-like column and red branch-like tendrils can be seen reaching into the upper atmosphere above lightening illuminated clouds." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/62pHWkVzLXRNyWNbHcFHAk.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">A gigantic sprite caught leaping into the upper atmosphere above an intense thunderstorm by NASA astronaut Nichole Ayers </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Nichole Ayers, NASA)</span></figcaption></figure><p>These efforts are now being bolstered by orbital footage of the spectacular events, including by multiple astronauts aboard the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16748-international-space-station.html">ISS</a>, who — like Ayers — have <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/iss-red-lightning-sprite-thunderstorm-image">embraced photography as a creative outlet</a> during their time on the station.</p><p>Many questions certainly persist surrounding the nature of sprites, how and why they form and how they interact with the surrounding atmosphere — but maybe they'll have some answers soon.</p><p><em><strong>Editor's Note: </strong></em><em>If you capture an image of a sprite or TLE and want to share it with Space.com's readers, then please send your photo(s), comments, and your name and location to spacephotos@space.com. </em></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/stargazing/iss-astronaut-captures-a-rare-phenomenon-from-orbit-a-giant-sprite-above-a-thunderstorm</link>
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<![CDATA[ Sprites have been known to form above intense thunderstorms. ]]>
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<pubDate>Sun, 06 Jul 2025 11:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Stargazing]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Anthony Wood ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/diiZzWmownKy9aRtUZNn3k.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Nichole Ayers, NASA]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A picture of Earth's surface at night captured from the International Space Station. An electrical phenomenon known as a sprite, featuring a tree-like column and red, branch-like tendrils can be seen reaching into the upper atmosphere above lightning-illuminated clouds.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A picture of Earth's surface at night captured from the International Space Station. An electrical phenomenon known as a sprite, featuring a tree-like column and red, branch-like tendrils can be seen reaching into the upper atmosphere above lightning-illuminated clouds.]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ 'Humanity’s time is over!’ Apple TV+ drops release date and intense first teaser for 'Invasion' Season 3 ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <div class="youtube-video" data-nosnippet ><div class="video-aspect-box"><iframe data-lazy-priority="low" data-lazy-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wEMZAtjXNPo" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div><p>Bolstered by a haunting original sci-fi score by Max Richter and unnerving visual effects by<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href=" https://www.space.com/invasion-season-2-alien-hunter-killers-abyss-water-tentacle"> industry veteran Erik Henry</a> ("Black Sails," "Watchmen," "Alien: Resurrection"), Apple TV+'s gripping alien infiltration series, "Invasion," returns for a third season this summer and we've got a first teaser to share with more glimpses of those frightening black hunter-killer creatures.</p><p>It’s been two years since <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/aliens-return-to-conquer-earth-in-invasion-season-2-on-apple-tv">"Invasion's" sophomore outing </a>back in 2023 and its international ensemble cast is still trying to survive a horrific extraterrestrial holocaust with legions of shape-shifting menaces extending their tendrils.</p><p>Created by and executive produced by Academy Award-nominated and two-time Emmy Award-nominated filmmaker Simon Kinberg ("Deadpool," "X-Men: Days of Future Past") and David Weil ("Hunters"), "Invasion" Season 3 descends on Earth for its 10-episode global return starting Friday, August 22 exclusively on Apple TV+, with new episodes each Friday until October 24.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1153px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:55.85%;"><img id="nntdVbvV3cX6pm4QhMrDER" name="invasion-poster" alt="poster art with a mother and children running from a spaceship" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/nntdVbvV3cX6pm4QhMrDER.png" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1153" height="644" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">Key art for Apple TV+'s sci-fi drama, "Invasion" </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Apple TV+)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Per the official Season 3 synopsis, the show's prime characters are now united to form an incursion unit on a critical mission to penetrate the looming alien mothership. The deadly apex aliens have finally revealed themselves, rapidly spreading their deadly spikes across the planet. It will require all our heroes working together, delivering all their experiences and expertise, if there's a sliver of hope to save humanity. As fresh bonds are formed, past relationships are challenged and even fractured, as our international cast of survivors must become a team before certain doom.</p><p>"Invasion" Season 3 features returning cast members Golshifteh Farahani, Shioli Kutsuna, Shamier Anderson, India Brown, Shane Zaza, Enver Gjokaj, and presents new series regular Erika Alexander. Kinberg and Weil share executive producing duties in collaboration with Audrey Chon, David Witz, Alik Sakharov, Dan Dietz, Katie O’Connell Marsh and Nick Nantell.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-movies-shows/humanitys-time-is-over-apple-tv-drops-release-date-and-intense-first-teaser-for-invasion-season-3</link>
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<![CDATA[ A scene from Apple TV+'s "Invasion" Season 3 ]]>
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<pubDate>Sat, 05 Jul 2025 16:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Space Movies & Shows]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ stingrayghost@gmail.com (Jeff Spry) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Jeff Spry ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/mtwETzWEjA8sWimpaJj5bH.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Apple]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A man in a spacesuit stands before a shimmery blue void]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A man in a spacesuit stands before a shimmery blue void]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ For 100 years, we have marveled at planetariums. Here's a brief history of how humans brought the stars indoors ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p><em>This article was originally published at </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="http://theconversation.com/" target="_blank"><em>The Conversation.</em></a><em> The publication contributed the article to Space.com's </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/tag/expert-voices"><em>Expert Voices: Op-Ed & Insights</em></a><em>. </em></p><p>Picture this: a small audience is quietly ushered into a darkened room. They gasp in awe, as a brilliant night sky shines above. They wonder – as many after them will do – what trickery has made the roof above their heads disappear?</p><p>But this is a performance; the stars above an ingenious projection. For the first time a public audience has experienced the spectacle of the opto-mechanical <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/41185-planetarium-opens-on-cruise-ship.html">planetarium</a>. The location is the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.deutsches-museum.de/en/museum/ueber-uns/history" target="_blank">newly opened Deutsches Museum in Munich</a>, built to celebrate science and technology. The date is May 7 1925.</p><h2 id="visualizing-the-heavens-2">Visualizing the heavens</h2><p>Throughout time, cultures around the world have used the stars to help make sense of the world, to understand where we come from and determine our place in the cosmos.</p><p>People have tried to recreate the movements of the stars and planets since antiquity. In the 1700s, the orrery, a clockwork model of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16080-solar-system-planets.html">Solar System</a>, was developed. The word “planetarium” was invented to describe orreries that featured the planets.</p><p>One room-sized orrery example was built by the self-taught Frisian astronomer Eise Eisinga. It’s still operational today in Franeker, Netherlands.</p><p>No human has ever been to the edge of the Solar System to see this view. Orreries, and other mechanical models of the universe like <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://collection.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/objects/co57097/celestial-globe-by-willem-janszoon-blaeu" target="_blank">celestial globes</a>, present views from impossible, external perspectives.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2048px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:75.00%;"><img id="Ginf2VYKZv733jqXTJ7P9J" name="2048px-Planetarium_Eise_Eisinga_in_Franeker" alt="rings of gold sit on a blue background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Ginf2VYKZv733jqXTJ7P9J.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2048" height="1536" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">This clockwork model of the solar system was constructed with the pendulum clock that drives the mechanism in the ceiling. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Erik Zachte)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="the-first-planetariums-2">The first planetariums</h2><p>The desire for a realistic view of the stars and planets, created from a perspective we actually see, gathered pace in the early 20th century as <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/light-pollution-serious-threat-astronomy-skywatching">light pollution</a> from growing cities diminished the view of the night sky.</p><p>People like Oskar von Miller, first director of the Deutsches Museum in Munich, Germany, wanted to return this vision of the stars and planets to everyone. (Ironically, von Miller’s earlier career was as an electrical engineer, rolling out the city lighting that contributed to light pollution.)</p><p>One early attempt to create this view of the night sky was the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.adlerplanetarium.org/blog/history-atwood-sphere/" target="_blank">Atwood Sphere</a>, installed in Chicago in 1913.</p><p>Approximately five metres across, it was made of sheet metal perforated with a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/star-charts.html">star map</a>. When viewed from the inside, the light shining through 692 pinholes replicated the Chicago night sky. The whole structure could even be rotated to simulate the motion of the stars.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2048px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:133.30%;"><img id="GcLRxqUTGA45YLNA3fWjNN" name="2048px-Manitoba_Museum_Planetarium" alt="A cylinder stands on four different legs in front of a blue and white background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/GcLRxqUTGA45YLNA3fWjNN.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2048" height="2730" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">The original projector at the Manitoba Museum Planetarium, colloquially known as 'Marvin,' sits on display. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: TMMCommunications)</span></figcaption></figure><p>A realistic display of the stars is one thing. Representing the planets, whose positions in the sky change from night to night, is a different one. Von Miller and others at the Deutsches Museum knew that fixed holes could not represent the complexity of a moving planet.</p><p>What if the planets were displayed by projection? If so, couldn’t the stars be projected, as well? With this realization, a new kind of planetarium was born, borrowing the name from earlier <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/34761-clocks-and-calendars-cosmic-watch-app.html">orreries</a> but working in a completely different way.</p><p>The task of building such a device was given to the German optical company Carl Zeiss AG. After many setbacks, their first planetarium projector was completed in 1923, with the first performance at the Deutsches Museum a century ago today.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2048px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:34.18%;"><img id="2WNPtKUYCDKXAr9RB4vnze" name="2048px-Jennifer_Chalsty_Planetarium_Panoramic_View" alt="Rows of seats next to a green screen" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/2WNPtKUYCDKXAr9RB4vnze.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2048" height="700" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">A view from the front of the Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium in New Jersey. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Tzim78 via Wikimedia Commons)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Planetariums were a hit with the public. Within decades, they had spread around the world – the first planetarium in the United States <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.adlerplanetarium.org/explore/about-us/history/" target="_blank">opened in Chicago in 1930</a>, while the first one in Asia opened in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://japanculturalexpo.bunka.go.jp/en/hotspots/1138" target="_blank">Osaka, Japan in 1937</a>. The popularity of planetariums particularly accelerated in the US during the space race of the 1960s.</p><p>Australia’s oldest operating planetarium is the Melbourne Planetarium, managed by Museums Victoria since 1965. In Aotearoa New Zealand, Auckland’s Stardome Observatory has been in operation since 1997. The current longest-running planetarium in the southern hemisphere is <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://planetariums-database.org/index.php?menu=sheet_planetarium&filtre=68" target="_blank">in Montevideo, Uruguay</a>, operational since 1955.</p><h2 id="changing-pace-of-technology-2">Changing pace of technology</h2><p>The opto-mechanical planetarium projector remains a technological wonder of the modern world. Individual plates, perforated with pinholes, are illuminated by a bright central light. Separate lenses focus each projection from one of these star maps to fill the entire dome with about 5,000 stars.</p><p>The<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/58-the-sun-formation-facts-and-characteristics.html"> Sun</a>, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/55-earths-moon-formation-composition-and-orbit.html">Moon</a> and planets have separate projectors driven by gears and rods that mechanically calculate the object’s position in the sky for any time or place.</p><p>The opto-mechanical planetarium projector remains a technological wonder of the modern world. Individual plates, perforated with pinholes, are illuminated by a bright central light. Separate lenses focus each projection from one of these star maps to fill the entire dome with about 5,000 stars.</p><p>The Sun, Moon and planets have separate projectors driven by gears and rods that mechanically calculate the object’s position in the sky for any time or place.</p><p>By the 1990s, a digital revolution had begun. With the advent of computers, the positions of the planets could now be calculated digitally. The Melbourne Planetarium became the first digital planetarium in the southern hemisphere when it installed the Digistar II in 1999.</p><p>This system, developed by computer graphics company Evans and Sutherland, replaced the multiple lenses of earlier projectors with a fisheye lens. A single beam of light swept across the whole dome so rapidly that it seemed to create a single image – albeit in a bizarre green color, rendering a starfield of fuzzy green blobs.</p><p>The trade-off for a less crisp starfield was a 3D database with more than 9,000 stars. For the first time, planetarium audiences could fly through space, far beyond the edge of the Solar System.</p><p>Planetarium technology continues to develop. Today, most planetariums operate through video projection. Known as fulldome, the output from multiple projectors is blended together to create a seamless video, transforming the planetarium into a sophisticated 360-degree theatre.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2048px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:66.50%;"><img id="yT65oGSsRESCA3MuXMyQ7i" name="2048px-Adler_Planetarium_Full_Snow_Moon" alt="A golden building in front of gray skies" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/yT65oGSsRESCA3MuXMyQ7i.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2048" height="1362" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">The Adler Planetarium is a popular hotspot for space fans across the US </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: JJxFile via Wikimedia Commons)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="a-gateway-to-the-stars-2">A gateway to the stars</h2><p>Astronomy has also changed over the last century. Just as Zeiss was completing its first projector, astronomer <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://theconversation.com/one-large-milky-way-galaxy-or-many-galaxies-100-years-ago-a-young-edwin-hubble-settled-astronomys-great-debate-246759" target="_blank">Edwin Hubble discovered that other galaxies exist beyond our Milky Way galaxy</a>.</p><p>The stars shown on the dome in Munich in 1925 turned out to be just a tiny part of the universe that we know today.</p><p>Planetariums’ digital systems now incorporate data from telescopes and space agencies around the world. Audiences can fly off Earth, orbit the planets and moons of the Solar System, and explore the billions of known galaxies.</p><p>Yet some things have not changed. From <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://collections.museumsvictoria.com.au/articles/10217" target="_blank">orreries</a> and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://collections.museumsvictoria.com.au/items/1724468" target="_blank">lantern slides</a> to opto-mechanical and digital planetariums, the communication of astronomy has always been about more than just the latest results of science.</p><p>The power of the planetarium over the last 100 years has been its ability to evoke wonder and awe. It taps into our enduring fascination with the vast mystery of the night sky.</p><p><em>This article is republished from </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="http://theconversation.com/" target="_blank"><em>The Conversation</em></a><em> under a Creative Commons license. Read the </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://theconversation.com/for-100-years-we-have-marvelled-at-planetariums-heres-a-brief-history-of-how-humans-brought-the-stars-indoors-255228" target="_blank"><em>original article</em></a><em>.</em></p><iframe allow="" height="1" width="1" id="" style="" data-lazy-priority="low" data-lazy-src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/243022/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-advanced"></iframe> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/astronomy/earth/for-100-years-we-have-marveled-at-planetariums-heres-a-brief-history-of-how-humans-brought-the-stars-indoors</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Humans have used the stars to navigate, keep time, and understand our place in the universe. ]]>
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<pubDate>Sat, 05 Jul 2025 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Earth]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Astronomy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Solar System]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Martin Bush ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/P7EE5fA4KF8vJ9WKsNxxSJ.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Erik Zachte]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[rings of gold sit on a blue background]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[rings of gold sit on a blue background]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Devour a cosmic-sized chunk of Marvel lore ahead of 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps', with the 'The Coming of Galactus' novel ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>There are moments in comic books’ illustrious past that act as seismic shifts for the industry, and Marvel Comics' "Fantastic Four #48" and its "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/entertainment/who-is-galactus-the-devourer-of-worlds-exploring-the-big-bad-guy-for-marvels-the-fantastic-four-first-steps">The Coming of Galactus</a>" story arc in 1965 was one of these rare occasions.</p><p>Global audiences will shortly see its dramatic influences revealed in the ambitious narrative that screenwriters wove into next month's Marvel Studios' "Fantastic Four" flick. Galactus, aka the Devourer of Worlds, arrived on the scene in 1965 in a 3-issue event that ran from "Fantastic Four #48" to "Fantastic Four #50" and is referred to as "The Galactus Trilogy."</p><p>Now as "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/fantastic-four-everything-we-know">The Fantastic Four: First Steps</a>" is inching ever closer to its July 25 release date, like our humongous harbinger of doom, a new novelization of that monumental 60-year-old storyline which introduced the mighty cosmic foe and his Silver Surfer herald to Marvel's First Family is being published on July 8, 2025.</p><div class="product"><a data-dimension112="c82d72c6-c168-4ca3-b32b-93b51e11d5ea" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Pre-order now:" data-dimension48="Pre-order now:" data-dimension25="$18.99" href="https://www.amazon.com/Fantastic-Four-Coming-Galactus-Prose/dp/1803369043/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1006px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:149.11%;"><img id="RU7zPstz6zKVV6anfjKTSM" name="ffbook" caption="" alt="" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/RU7zPstz6zKVV6anfjKTSM.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1006" height="1500" attribution="" endorsement="" credit="" class=""></p></div></div></figure></a><p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Fantastic-Four-Coming-Galactus-Prose/dp/1803369043/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-dimension112="c82d72c6-c168-4ca3-b32b-93b51e11d5ea" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Pre-order now:" data-dimension48="Pre-order now:" data-dimension25="$18.99"><strong>Pre-order now:</strong></a><strong> </strong>When the Silver Surfer appears, all is lost: Galactus is coming. The Fantastic Four - Mr Fantastic, Invisible Woman, Human Torch, and the Thing - must take on a desperate mission, risking everything to stop the apocalypse.</p><p>A pulse-pounding apocalyptic tale based on the work of Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. Perfect for fans of Marvel comics.<a class="view-deal button" href="https://www.amazon.com/Fantastic-Four-Coming-Galactus-Prose/dp/1803369043/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-dimension112="c82d72c6-c168-4ca3-b32b-93b51e11d5ea" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Pre-order now:" data-dimension48="Pre-order now:" data-dimension25="$18.99">View Deal</a></p></div><p>"<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.com/Fantastic-Four-Coming-Galactus-Prose/dp/1803369043" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Fantastic Four: The Coming of Galactus</a>" is a 336-page expanded prose telling of the planet-eating Galactus and the Sentinel of the Spaceways' splashy debut in the Marvel Universe, written by New York Times bestselling author <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.jameslovegrove.com/" target="_blank">James Lovegrove</a>.</p><p>Lovegrove is a fan favorite writer based in the UK, known fondly for his colorful in-universe genre work, including such titles as "Firefly: The Ghost Machine," "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href=" https://www.space.com/firefly-life-signs-novel">Firefly: Life Signs</a>," and the upcoming "Conan: Cult of the Obsidian Moon."</p><p>His expanded storyline takes from that seminal core tale from Lee and Kirby, where a hungry Galactus is coming and The Fantastic Four (Mister Fantastic, Invisible Woman, Human Torch, and the Thing) must defend Earth against the immense godlike destructor and his sleek, shimmery servant. Will our planet suffer the same fate as countless other worlds or somehow be spared?</p><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1006px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:149.11%;"><img id="RU7zPstz6zKVV6anfjKTSM" name="ffbook" alt="A sci-fi superhero book cover with a helmet-headed space god and a fleeing superhero team" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/RU7zPstz6zKVV6anfjKTSM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="1006" height="1500" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The cover for the Fantastic Four: The Coming of Galactus Prose Novel. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Titan Books)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:924px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:151.08%;"><img id="wUHCFMTisrmitTwVd6JWNf" name="ff48" alt="A bald-headed entity and a cowering superhero team on a comic book cover" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wUHCFMTisrmitTwVd6JWNf.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="924" height="1396" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The classic cover for Marvel Comics' "Fantastic Four #48" </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Marvel Comics)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><p>Carrying a cover date of March 1966 but landing in newsstands on Dec. 9, 1965, that special vintage issue of "Fantastic Four," billed as The World’s Greatest Comic Magazine!, was written by the dynamic duo of writer Stan Lee and artist Jack "King" Kirby during their absolute heyday of creativity.</p><p>Crisp Mint and Near-Mint collector copies of those three issues, especially "#48," can command prices in excess of $100,000 on the secondary market. This new literary adaptation of that classic piece of comics history is the ideal primer for those interested in the source of Marvel's big baddie, who'll soon be featured in the latest <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/marvel-movies-in-order#section-marvel-movies-in-release-order">Marvel movie</a>, "The Fantastic Four: First Steps."</p><p><strong>Titan Books' "Fantastic Four: The Coming of Galactus" lands on July 8, 2025.</strong></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-books/devour-a-cosmic-sized-chunk-of-marvel-lore-ahead-of-the-fantastic-four-first-steps-with-the-the-coming-of-galactus-novel</link>
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<![CDATA[ Titan Books' new novelization of Stan Lee and Jack Kirby's 'Galactus Trilogy' heralds the coming of July’s 'Fantastic Four' blockbuster. ]]>
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<pubDate>Sat, 05 Jul 2025 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Space Books]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ stingrayghost@gmail.com (Jeff Spry) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Jeff Spry ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/CzWU67JX2m2M4cJD97CaTd.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Marvel]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[a giant cosmic god and a silver alien loom over a superhero team]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[a giant cosmic god and a silver alien loom over a superhero team]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Rare snowfall in Atacama Desert forces the world's most powerful radio telescope into 'survival mode' ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>A rare snowfall in the driest place on Earth has halted operations of one of the world's premier telescope arrays, and climate change may mean the observatory will face more extreme weather events like this in the future.</p><p>The snow has blanketed part of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/lost-world-of-lagoons-atacama-desert-mars">Atacama Desert, </a>which gets less than an inch of rainfall per year and is home to home the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/25534-alma.html">ALMA</a>), a large network of radio telescopes in northern Chile.</p><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://x.com/ALMAObs_esp/status/1938228720927490108" target="_blank">The snowfall occurred over ALMA's Operations Support Facility</a>, located at an altitude of 9,500 feet (2,900 meters) and about 1,050 miles (1,700 kilometers) north of Santiago. Scientific operations have been suspended since Thursday (June 26).</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_sW35qkAM_ANn1bv7q_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="ANn1bv7q" data-playlist-id="sW35qkAM"> <div id="botr_sW35qkAM_ANn1bv7q_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>"There hasn't been a record of snowfall at the base camp for over 10 years. It doesn't snow every day at ALMA!" ALMA representatives told Live Science via WhatsApp.</p><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://public.nrao.edu/gallery/chajnantor-plateau/" target="_blank">ALMA's radio telescope array</a> is perched high on the Chajnantor Plateau — a desert plain at 16,800 feet (5,104 m) in Chile's Antofagasta region — typically sees three snowfalls a year. The high plateau shared by Chile, Bolivia and Peru typically experiences snowstorms during two seasons: in February, during the "Altiplanic Winter," driven by moist air masses from the Amazon; and from June to July, during the Southern Hemisphere's winter, said <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://fisica.usach.cl/en/academicos/raul-cordero-carrasco" target="_blank">Raúl Cordero</a>, a climatologist at the University of Santiago.</p><p>"In winter, some storms are fueled by moisture from the Pacific, which can extend precipitation even to the Atacama Desert's coastal areas," Cordero told Live Science. At elevations above 16,400 feet (5,000 m), annual snowfall ranges from 8 to 31 inches (20 to 80 centimeters).</p><p>However, snowfall at 3,000 meters (9,840 feet), where ALMA's base camp is located, "is much less frequent," Cordero noted.</p><p>This week's snowfall was triggered by unusual atmospheric instability affecting northern Chile. The <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.meteochile.gob.cl/PortalDMC-web/index.xhtml" target="_blank">Chilean Meteorological Directorate</a> issued a snow and wind alert due to the passage of a "cold core" through the region, said meteorologist Elio Brufort. "We issued a wind alert for the Antofagasta region and areas further north, with gusts reaching 80 to 100 km/h [50-62 mph]," Brufort said to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.latercera.com/nacional/noticia/desierto-de-atacama-amanece-nevado-observatorio-alma-dice-que-fenomeno-no-se-registraba-hace-mas-de-10-anos/" target="_blank">local press</a>.</p><p>The phenomenon was accompanied by heavy rainfall that occurred farther north, causing a stream to swell and damage several properties. <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.adnradio.cl/2025/06/25/suspenden-clases-en-dos-comunas-de-chile-por-intenso-temporal-que-deja-lluvias-y-nieve-en-el-norte/" target="_blank">Schools were ordered to close</a>, and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://x.com/RedGeoChile/status/1938225902938427466?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1938225902938427466%7Ctwgr%5E5115cddc31a3c5d9f124d12d43283cd0a50da375%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.t13.cl%2Fnoticia%2Fel-tiempo%2Fnacional%2Fautos-atrapados-barro-las-consecuencias-dejo-aluvion-26-6-2025" target="_blank">power outages and landslides were reported</a>. So far, no casualties have been reported. A weather event of this magnitude has not been seen in nearly a decade.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="VG92zUXcYHUCu62PPmdQk4" name="YiCjRPsR4MtRdo6Gq6egcR-1200-80 (1)" alt="Snow covers the desert in Chile" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/VG92zUXcYHUCu62PPmdQk4.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">A recent snowfall covers the Atacama desert in Chile. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: M. Aguirre, S. Donaire, ALMA (ESO/NOAJ/NRAO))</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="extreme-conditions-paralyze-alma-2">Extreme conditions paralyze ALMA</h2><p>As of Friday, ALMA reported to Live Science that the snowstorm remained active over the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/18057-iconic-licancabur-watches-over-chajnantor.html">Chajnantor Plateau,</a> so scientific operations continued to be suspended to protect the antennas from extreme weather conditions. Early Thursday morning, the observatory activated its "survival mode" safety protocol: In addition to the snowfall, temperatures had plummeted to 10 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 12  degrees Celsius) — with a wind chill of minus 18 F (minus 28 C) — making work at the high-altitude camp extremely difficult.</p><p>As part of this protocol, all of ALMA's large antennae have been reoriented downwind, helping to minimize potential damage from snow buildup or strong gusts.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:65.40%;"><img id="SuLfXf5KkXEAYtWP3ygAkF" name="alma-telescope-array-chile.jpg" alt="A series of antenna dishes in a row in the middle of a desert." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/SuLfXf5KkXEAYtWP3ygAkF.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1000" height="654" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">This picture of the ALMA radio antennas on the Chajnantor Plateau in Chile, 16,500 feet above sea level, was taken a few days before the start of ALMA Early Science operations. Nineteen antennas are on the plateau. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: ALMA (ESO/NAOJ/NRAO)/W. Garnier (ALMA))</span></figcaption></figure><p>"Once the storm passes, snow-clearing teams are immediately activated to visually inspect each antenna before resuming observations," ALMA representatives said. "This has to happen fast, as some of the best observing conditions occur just after a snowfall: the cold helps lower air humidity, which is what most interferes with our measurements."</p><p>ALMA, which consists of 66 high-precision antennae spread across the Chajnantor Plateau, is an international collaboration that forms the most powerful <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/20984-arecibo-observatory.html">radio telescope</a> on the planet — and one designed to handle extreme weather events like this.</p><p>The fact that the snow halted operations raises questions about the array's operations as the climate warms.</p><p>The Atacama Desert typically receives only 0.04 to 0.6 inch (1 to 15 millimeters)of precipitation per year, and many areas can go years without recording any measurable rain or snow.</p><p>Could events like this become more frequent? "That's a good question," Cordero replied.</p><p>While it's still too early to link lower-altitude snowfalls in the desert directly to climate change, "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://journals.ametsoc.org/view/journals/mwre/149/1/mwr-d-20-0038.1.xml" target="_blank">climate models</a> predict a potential <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=92X1590019&xcust=livescience_us_4569515784201161371&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Flink.springer.com%2Farticle%2F10.1007%2Fs00382-023-07034-9&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.livescience.com%2Fplanet-earth%2Fweather%2Frare-snowfall-in-atacama-desert-forced-the-worlds-most-powerful-radio-telescope-into-survival-mode" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">increase in precipitation</a> even in this hyper-arid region," he concluded. "We still can't say with certainty whether that increase is already underway."</p><p><em>This article was originally published in </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.livescience.com/" target="_blank"><em>Live Science. </em></a><em>You can read the original article here. </em></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/astronomy/rare-snowfall-in-atacama-desert-forces-the-worlds-most-powerful-radio-telescope-into-survival-mode</link>
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<![CDATA[ The ALMA radio telescope array in the Atacama Desert temporarily halted operations after a rare snowfall blanketed the base camp last week. ]]>
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<pubDate>Sat, 05 Jul 2025 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Astronomy]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ María de los Ángeles Orfila ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/KF5ZdXdWAPhSLERAxkfa3D.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[ELT: ESO / Imagen ALMA: Clem & Adri Bacri-Normier (wingsforscience.com) / Montaje: David Fernández - ALMA (ESO/NAOJ/NRAO).]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A large observatory sits on the hill next to an array of satellite dishes.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A large observatory sits on the hill next to an array of satellite dishes.]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ A 'Golden Handle' will appear on the moon tonight. Here's how to see it ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Saturday night presents a perfect opportunity to spot a "Golden Handle" shining brightly on the moon's surface. It is a fleeting sight that appears when sunlight catches the peaks of a mountain range on the moon.</p><p>On July 5, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/55-earths-moon-formation-composition-and-orbit.html">the moon</a>'s terminator, the line that separates lunar night from day, falls slightly to the west of the great circular plain Sinus Iridum (Latin for the 'Bay of Rainbows') in the northwest region of the lunar surface. At this time the sun is perfectly positioned to illuminate the eastern peaks of the vast Montes Jura mountain range bordering Sinus Iridum's northernmost edge, giving rise to a spectacular golden arc that has since become known as the "Golden Handle".</p><p>To find the Golden Handle, look for the waxing gibbous moon hanging above the southern horizon as <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/58-the-sun-formation-facts-and-characteristics.html">the sun</a> sets on June 5, shining among the stars of the constellation <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/21597-libra-constellation.html">Libra</a>. Then find the Montes Jura mountain range close to the terminator, above the dark expanse of Mare Imbrium (the Sea of Showers) — a colossal lunar plain formed from solidified lava flows. There you will see a crescent-shaped curve near the terminator — the Golden Handle.</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="sT3QY0MQ"> <div id="botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>A pair of 15x70 binoculars mounted on a tripod will help reveal the sweeping profile of the Golden Handle, while a telescope with an aperture of 6 inches or greater will give you a more detailed view of Montes Jura and the nearby Bianchini Crater.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="xUtPuUkHH4cPz5jW2eDFna" name="Copernicus (1)" alt="graphic showing the locations of key lunar targets around near to the moon's golden handle." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/xUtPuUkHH4cPz5jW2eDFna.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">A graphic showing the location of Sinus Iridum and the Montes Jura mountain range. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Starry Night/Annotated by Daisy Dobrijevic in Canva. )</span></figcaption></figure><p>While you're exploring the moon, be sure to swing your scope over to Copernicus Crater. At about 57 miles (93 kilometers) wide, it makes for a striking lunar target. On July 5, the low angle of the sun will cast prominent shadows along the eastern rim of the impact crater, while highlighting reflective debris streaks known as ejecta rays that were cast out during its creation some 800 million years ago.</p><p>Stargazers looking to understand Earth’s natural satellite better should check out our <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/ultimate-moon-observation-guide">ultimate guide to exploring the lunar surface</a>, along with our guides to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/15693-telescopes-beginners-telescope-reviews-buying-guide.html">best telescopes</a> and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/binoculars-deals-sale-discount">binoculars for exploring the solar system</a>. Those interested in immortalizing their stargazing sessions should also read our roundup of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-cameras-for-astrophotography">best cameras</a> and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-lenses-for-astrophotography">lenses for astrophotography</a>.</p><p><em><strong>Editor's Note: </strong></em><em>If you capture an image of the 'Golden Handle' and want to share it with Space.com's readers, then please send your photo or video, along with your name, location and comments to spacephotos@space.com. </em></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/stargazing/a-golden-handle-will-appear-on-the-moon-tonight-heres-how-to-see-it</link>
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<![CDATA[ The "Golden Handle" appears each month when the sun illuminates a mountain range lining a vast impact crater. ]]>
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<pubDate>Sat, 05 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Stargazing]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Anthony Wood ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/9dEZJAnvi88nP5qDeGBubV.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Photo by Lorenzo Di Cola/NurPhoto via Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A dark lunar plain is seen bordered by a sickle-like mountain range, which is catching the sun's light close to the terminator separating day from night.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A dark lunar plain is seen bordered by a sickle-like mountain range, which is catching the sun's light close to the terminator separating day from night.]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Trump's signing of 'One Big Beautiful Bill' includes $85 million to move space shuttle Discovery from Smithsonian to Texas ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>On July 4, 2006, NASA's space shuttle Discovery launched on a "return to flight" mission that paved the way for it and its sister ships to fly for another five years. Now, a sprawling budget enacted on Independence Day will seemingly lead to Discovery lifting off again — though this time not into space, but rather from its place in the national collection.</p><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/trump-administration-proposes-slashing-nasa-budget-by-24-percent">President Donald Trump</a> signed into law the so-called "One Big Beautiful Bill" today (July 4), a day after the legislation was narrowly passed out of Congress with only Republican support. Deep within the 900-page bill is a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/space-shuttle/texas-senators-move-space-shuttle-discovery-from-smithsonian-to-houston">provision added by Texas' senators</a> to transfer a "space vehicle" to a NASA center "involved in the administration of the Commercial Crew Program" and "placed on public exhibition at an entity within the Metropolitan Statistical Area where such center is located."</p><p>The vague language, written in such a way to skirt Senate restrictions on reconciliation bills, was aimed at achieving the "Bring the Space Shuttle Home Act" introduced by Senators Ted Cruz and John Cornyn in April.</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_WR2pHYek_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="WR2pHYek"> <div id="botr_WR2pHYek_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>"It's long overdue for Space City to receive the recognition it deserves by bringing the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/18187-space-shuttle-discovery.html">space shuttle Discovery</a> home," said Cornyn <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/news/cornyn-provision-to-bring-space-shuttle-discovery-to-houston-passed-in-senates-one-big-beautiful-bill/" target="_blank">in a statement</a> released after the Senate passed its version of the bill in a vote of 50 to 50, with Vice President J.D. Vance breaking the tie.</p><p>"Houston has long stood at the heart of America's human spaceflight program, and this legislation rightly honors that legacy," said Cruz, who chairs the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, & Transportation. "It ensures that any future transfer of a flown, crewed space vehicle will prioritize locations that have played a direct and vital role in our nation's manned space program, making Houston, Texas, a leading candidate."</p><p>"Bringing such a historic space vehicle to the region would underscore the city's indispensable contributions to our space missions, highlight the strength of America's commercial space partnerships, and inspire future generations of engineers, scientists, and pioneers who will carry our legacy of American leadership in space," he said.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="38i58PLjpVtVz5NZ9gSAG5" name="bring-space-shuttle-home-act-press-conference" alt="four men in business suits and one man in a NASA astronaut blue flight jacket sit in front of a large model of a space shuttle with U.S. and Texas flags flanking them." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/38i58PLjpVtVz5NZ9gSAG5.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">Senator John Cornyn (at center) speaks about the "Bring the Space Shuttle Home Act," an effort to move the space shuttle Discovery, at a press conference at Space Center Houston on June 20, 2025. Joining Cornyn at the event were former astronaut Tim Kopra (at far), Rep. Randy Weber (TX-14), Space Center Houston CEO William Harris and Brian Freedman, president of the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: collectSPACE.com)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The bill allocates $85 million to move Discovery from the its display home of the past 13 years, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia, to Space Center Houston, the official visitor center for NASA's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/17216-nasa-johnson-space-center.html">Johnson Space Center</a> in Texas. "No less than $5 million" is earmarked for the transportation of the winged orbiter, with the remainder going towards the "construction of a facility to house the space vehicle."</p><p>Per the bill, the move of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16726-space-shuttle.html">space shuttle</a> Discovery must be completed by Jan. 4, 2027. It does not stipulate how the orbiter should be moved. It is not clear if the $85 million will be enough to cover the transfer and display, given that the first time the retired shuttles were <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/21804-nasa-space-shuttles-where-are-they.html">brought to their museum homes</a> in 2012, the cost for just the preparation and delivery of each vehicle was $28.8 million, which did not include ground transportation to the museum.</p><p>Discovery is the United States' most flown spacecraft in history, with 39 missions between 1984 and 2011. In the process of retiring the shuttle fleet, Discovery was identified by NASA as the "vehicle of record," such that it was kept more intact than <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/18162-space-shuttle-atlantis.html">Atlantis</a> or <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/18123-space-shuttle-endeavour.html">Endeavour</a> for the purpose of serving as engineering example at the Smithsonian.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="rTU8MAGWMhMC7vGZHd6iX5" name="independence-plaza-space-center-houston" alt="a white and black winged spacecraft mounted atop a white and blue 747 jetliner on outside museum display" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/rTU8MAGWMhMC7vGZHd6iX5.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">NASA's first Shuttle Carrier Aircraft NASA 905 and the mock orbiter Independence at Space Center Houston. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Space Center Houston)</span></figcaption></figure><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Related Stories:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/space-shuttle/texas-senators-move-space-shuttle-discovery-from-smithsonian-to-houston">Texas senators: Move space shuttle Discovery from Smithsonian to Houston</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16726-space-shuttle.html">NASA's space shuttle: The first reusable spacecraft</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/18187-space-shuttle-discovery.html">Discovery: NASA's busiest shuttle</a></p></div></div><p>Space Center Houston has not released any details as of yet about how or where it will display Discovery, other than to say it fits into its strategic plans moving forward. The center already exhibits a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/31703-houston-space-shuttle-747-exhibit-first-look.html">mock, walkthrough space shuttle, "Independence,"</a> mounted atop NASA''s original modified Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, "NASA 905."</p><p>A <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/12747-nasa-picked-space-shuttle-museums-report.html">2011 investigation</a> by the NASA Office of the Inspector General found "no evidence that the White House, politics or any other outside force improperly influenced the selection decision" of where the space shuttles were originally awarded by the space agency. It is unclear if there are any further actions the Smithsonian or other entities could take to halt Discovery's transfer.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/space-exploration/space-shuttle/trumps-signing-of-one-big-beautiful-bill-includes-usd85-million-to-move-space-shuttle-discovery-from-smithsonian-to-texas</link>
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<![CDATA[ The "One Big Beautiful Bill," now enacted, directs that space shuttle Discovery be removed from the Smithsonian and placed on display at Space Center Houston by January 2027. ]]>
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<pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2025 22:07:55 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Space Shuttle]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Space Exploration]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Missions]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ robert@collectspace.com (Robert Z. Pearlman) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Robert Z. Pearlman ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/qzMStETVt8Y8Zfw9UjSQWS.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[collectSPACE.com]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[a white and black winged spacecraft is seen on display within a museum hangar]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[a white and black winged spacecraft is seen on display within a museum hangar]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ 10 fun tours and adventures for the ultimate total solar eclipse 2026 experience ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>There is no better excuse to travel than to see a total solar eclipse, and the next one happens on Aug. 12, 2026. Although a total solar eclipse is an unforgettable experience, totality lasts only a few minutes. So what do you do before and after the eclipse?</p><p>Boredom won't be a problem for the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/total-solar-eclipse-2026-a-complete-guide">2026 total solar eclipse</a>, with some truly spectacular locations and popular vacation areas in or close to the path of totality. From Greenland to Spain, there are myriad unique experiences and off-the-beaten-track itineraries that offer much more than nature's greatest spectacle.</p><p><strong>Related: </strong><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/eclipses/eclipse-at-sea-best-cruises-for-the-total-solar-eclipse-2026">Best total solar eclipse 2026 cruises for the ultimate adventure</a></p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-1-astrophotography-and-an-eclipse-chase"><span>1. Astrophotography and an eclipse chase</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1954px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.24%;"><img id="vrBiDEwEXvVJDEjc5PHqn" name="GettyImages-1283174114" alt="milky way streaking over a rock formation against a background of stars." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/vrBiDEwEXvVJDEjc5PHqn.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1954" height="1099" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">The Picos de Europa within the Cantabrian Mountains of northern Spain. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Carlos Fernandez via Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><p>With a total <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/15584-solar-eclipses.html">solar eclipse</a> and the peak of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/32868-perseid-meteor-shower-guide.html">Perseid meteor shower</a> happening the same night, Aug. 12, 2026, is poised to be a significant day for astrophotographers. The core of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.ollietaylorphotography.com/shop/solar-eclipse-2026-tour/" target="_blank">this tour, led by British astrophotographer Ollie Taylor</a>, is centered around astrophotography, with expert tuition provided where needed — and beginners are welcome. Taking place from Aug. 10 to Aug. 19, 2026, the tour will view the eclipse between Madrid and Zaragoza — wherever there is a clear sky — before visiting the Cantabrian Mountains and the coast for sunset shoots, more astrophotography and, once at the northern coast, seascapes and lighthouses.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-2-totality-from-a-geothermal-pool"><span>2. Totality from a geothermal pool</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:3264px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="34FokezeV6VskS2chXEiPH" name="GettyImages-1309761915" alt="A public thermal pool with towels hanging on rails and light blue water with dramatic cloudscape in Mývatn, northern Iceland." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/34FokezeV6VskS2chXEiPH.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="3264" height="1836" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">Iceland's Blue Lagoon will hold an eclipse-viewing event. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Alex Walker via Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><p>With an eclipse, the peak of the Perseid meteor shower and the possibility of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/15139-northern-lights-auroras-earth-facts-sdcmp.html">northern lights</a>, Aug. 12, 2026, is all about the sky in Iceland, where warm geothermal waters and volcanic landscapes could provide the ideal backdrop. Guided by Canadian astronomer and astrophotographer Stéphane Picard at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.cliffvalleyastronomy.com/" target="_blank">Cliff Valley Astronomy</a>, this <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.cliffvalleyastronomy.com/cliff-valley-astronomy-adventures/i-c-e-l-a-n-d-solar-eclipse-2026" target="_blank">small-group tour</a> from Aug. 10 to 16, 2026, explores southwestern Iceland, offering the opportunity to witness the eclipse from the Blue Lagoon on the Reykjanes Peninsula, followed by the Perseids from the countryside near Vík.</p><p>Evenings feature stargazing sessions and expert-led astronomy briefings, accompanied by day trips to classic Icelandic landmarks, including Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the black-sand beaches of Reynisfjara.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-3-a-sunset-eclipse-with-bill-nye-the-science-guy"><span>3. A sunset eclipse with Bill Nye "The Science Guy" </span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2121px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="DCvtWeHkm5LNP4Q3CtKHUQ" name="GettyImages-1161249686" alt="View of the dragon island Sa Dragonera and the coast near Sant Elm, Majorca, Balearic Islands, Spain - stock photo" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DCvtWeHkm5LNP4Q3CtKHUQ.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="2121" height="1193" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">A sunset eclipse will grace Sant Elm in Mallorca, Spain. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: imageBROKER/Harry Laub via Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The eclipse in Spain happens close to sunset, which makes mountainous terrain risky, unless an astronomer has checked out the sight lines in advance. However, from Spain's Balearic Islands (Ibiza, Mallorca, Menorca, Formentera and some smaller islands) in the Mediterranean Sea, there's something else on offer: a sunset eclipse. Yes, there could be <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/types-of-clouds">clouds</a> on the horizon, as seen from the west coasts of these popular vacation islands, but a rare golden corona is the prize.</p><p>Relatively few tours visit these islands, but Betchart Expeditions is an exception. The company is offering an <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://betchartexpeditions.com/pdf_files/1779-MajorcaECL26.pdf" target="_blank">adventure from Aug. 3 to 13, 2026</a>, with The Planetary Society's Bill Nye ("The Science Guy"). It starts off on mainland Spain, with visits to Madrid's historic Royal Observatory, the Castile La Mancha Science Museum in Cuenca, and the City of Arts and Science Center in Valencia, before transferring to Mallorca (also spelled Majorca) to target a total solar eclipse at sunset.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-4-whales-and-rare-wildlife-in-northern-spain"><span>4. Whales and rare wildlife in northern Spain</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2877px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.24%;"><img id="jGZD4YUsqKNkKUtmZCXTCC" name="GettyImages-2153294410" alt="A single Common Dolphin (Delphinus delphis) breaks the ocean surface in the clear waters of the Bay of Biscay off the northern coast of Spain, near Bilbao" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/jGZD4YUsqKNkKUtmZCXTCC.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="2877" height="1618" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">A dolphin in the clear waters of the Bay of Biscay off the northern coast of Spain, near Bilbao. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Dr John A Horsfall via Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Starting from Plymouth in the U.K., <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.naturetrek.co.uk/tours/spain-total-eclipse-august-2026" target="_blank">Naturetrek's 10-day journey</a> from Aug. 9 to 18, 2026, offers a unique blend of astronomy and wildlife watching. After sailing across the Bay of Biscay to Santander — with opportunities to spot fin and minke whales, dolphins and shearwaters — the group will travel inland to the Cantabrian Mountains to visit Las Loras Geopark and Palentina Mountain Natural Park.</p><p>On Aug. 12, totality will be experienced from a carefully selected site near Peña Ulaña, with 1 minute, 42 seconds of totality visible just before sunset, followed by post-eclipse stargazing under dark mountain skies during the peak of the Perseid meteor shower. The trip will then reach the dramatic limestone peaks of the Picos de Europa, home to Alpine choughs, griffon vultures, and elusive wall creepers.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-5-iceland-s-remote-westfjords"><span>5. Iceland's remote Westfjords</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2149px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="ieLXTWxoVEpkt8T7WWbvtK" name="GettyImages-2218121155" alt="Dramatic Latrabjarg landscape with majestic Breidavik church standing alone by the beach under a golden sky with beautiful sunset colors in Breidavik, Latrabjarg, Westfjords, Iceland" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ieLXTWxoVEpkt8T7WWbvtK.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="2149" height="1209" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">Látrabjarg in the Westfjords, Iceland. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Smartshots International via Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><p>With Greenland the preserve of cruise ships for this eclipse, the first people on land to experience totality will be in Iceland's lonely Westfjords region. Organized by Betchart Expeditions and led by astronomer Joe Llama of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/20855-lowell-observatory.html">Lowell Observatory</a>, a special <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.betchartexpeditions.com/pdf_files/1775-WildIceland-Eclipse-26.pdf" target="_blank">expedition to Iceland</a> from Aug. 8 to 16, 2026, will observe totality near Ísafjörður, weather permitting, with preparations and photography set up on-site. On each side, there will be an in-depth look at Iceland's volcanic geology and mid-Atlantic tectonic setting, with the itinerary also including Lake Mývatn's lava fields and the rift between the Eurasian and North American plates.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-6-totality-from-the-plains-of-spain"><span>6. Totality from the plains of Spain</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2121px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="mmDN4G9cxQ52qj2znidgYT" name="GettyImages-148342122" alt="Cathedral. Burgos. Castilla y Leon. Camino de Santiago (The way of St. James.). Spain." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/mmDN4G9cxQ52qj2znidgYT.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="2121" height="1193" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">The cathedral in Burgos, Spain, is close to the centerline of the path of totality. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Gonzalo Azumendi via Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><p>It's one of the least-visited areas of Spain — at least for international travelers — but the north central plains of Spain are the highest and driest of the entire eclipse track. <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.newscientist.com/tours/spain-solar-eclipse-2026" target="_blank">This short trip</a> from New Scientist Discovery Tours, from Aug. 10 to 14, 2026, is based entirely in Burgos, a medieval city that's home to Burgos Cathedral and the Museum of Human Evolution. Expect talks from astronomers John Mason and Martin Griffiths, as well as private eclipse viewing from a secluded site west of Burgos, near the centerline of the path of totality. The eclipse will be followed by a celebratory dinner before the peak of the Perseid meteor shower.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-7-a-journey-through-the-basque-country"><span>7. A journey through the Basque Country</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2121px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="poNngfeqGLzNUJYvnH5bhc" name="GettyImages-1475558516" alt="a light stone building with many windows and cars parked out front." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/poNngfeqGLzNUJYvnH5bhc.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="2121" height="1193" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">Parador de Lerma in Lerma, Spain. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: <a href="https://www.gettyimages.co.uk/search/photographer?photographer=Rachel%20Carbonell" rel="nofollow">Rachel Carbonell via </a>Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Straddling the border between France and Spain in the western Pyrenees, the Basque Country is the focus of this Aug. 9-13, 2026, journey with <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.wildernesstravel.com/trip/total-solar-eclipse-2026-northern-spain/" target="_blank">Wilderness Travel</a> through culture, gastronomy and astronomy. The tour begins in Bilbao, with visits to the iconic Guggenheim Museum and a cruise on the Nervión River, followed by a drive south to Burgos (which is not in the Basque Country but rather the autonomous community of Castile-Leon) for a tour of the city's Gothic cathedral.</p><p>Totality will be experienced at the 17th-century Parador de Lerma, directly on the centerline, with astronomy talks and guided viewing from veteran astronomer and eclipse chaser Alex Filippenko, a professor of astronomy at the University of California, Berkeley. A plethora of hiking add-ons are possible, including across the French-Spanish border along the Camino de Santiago, visits to prehistoric dolmens, and time to explore San Sebastián.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-8-valencia-and-an-inland-eclipse"><span>8. Valencia and an inland eclipse</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2121px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="yrjMxrt5FkiocpqYtqGBik" name="GettyImages-1673524881" alt="Beautiful view of Valencia from the tower Torre del Miguelete with sun setting in the background on the horizon." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/yrjMxrt5FkiocpqYtqGBik.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="2121" height="1193" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">Valencia, Spain. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Anton Petrus via Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><p>This affordable <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.astro-trails.com/2026-sunshine-coast-tour-madrid-stay-siguenza-castle-eclipse" target="_blank">week-long tour</a>, from Aug. 7 to 13, 2026, with eclipse tour specialist Astro Trails begins with four nights in coastal Valencia before a train journey to Madrid and a trip to the medieval town of Sigüenza to witness totality for 1 minute, 38 seconds from the ramparts of the 12th-century Sigüenza Castle.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-9-hiking-and-astronomy-in-the-picos-de-europa"><span>9. Hiking and astronomy in the Picos de Europa</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2122px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.27%;"><img id="jzzSQjn9y79kbx76GziJz7" name="GettyImages-589219104" alt="Landscape near Sotres in the Picos de Europa National Park northern Spain. Rocky mountainous landscape." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/jzzSQjn9y79kbx76GziJz7.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="2122" height="1194" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">The landscape near Sotres in Picos de Europa National Park. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: <a href="https://www.gettyimages.co.uk/search/photographer?photographer=Ashley%20Cooper" rel="nofollow">Ashley Cooper via </a>Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><p>If daily walks to explore glacial valleys, high plateaus, shepherd trails and limestone gorges — with a few cheese and cured-meat tastings along the way — sounds like your thing, consider this eight-day hiking and astronomy-focused <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.exploreworldwide.com/%2Fholidays%2Ftrekking-in-spain-picos-de-europa-and-eclipse" target="_blank">tour from Explore</a> based in the heart of the Picos de Europa. Participants stay at the family-run Casa Cipriano, known for its hearty local cuisine and mountain hospitality, in the remote village of Sotres. The highlight is a guided hike to Pico de la Tabla for a high-altitude view of the total solar eclipse on Aug. 12, with nearly two minutes of totality as <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/58-the-sun-formation-facts-and-characteristics.html">the sun</a> sets over the rugged peaks. Astronomer Rebecca Fernández will be on hand for eclipse interpretation and night-sky viewing with a telescope.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-10-madrid-toledo-and-valladolid"><span>10. Madrid, Toledo and Valladolid</span></h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2241px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.27%;"><img id="tEbVeoA8pzr8xXGH6WJgLN" name="GettyImages-1059076792" alt="Madrid city skyline gran via street twilight , Spain" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/tEbVeoA8pzr8xXGH6WJgLN.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="2241" height="1261" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">Madrid is not in the path of totality but would make a good base. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: basiczto via Getty Images)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Just south of the eclipse track, Madrid — with its international connectivity — is a great base for independent travelers. This <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://specialinteresttours.com/tour-item/2026-solar-eclipse-in-spain/" target="_blank">Special Interest Tour</a> is based for four nights in Madrid (including a walking tour, a flamenco show and an Ibérico ham-carving workshop), takes day trips to Toledo and Ávila, and spends two nights in Abadía Retuerta Le Domaine vineyard close to Valladolid. This region has an excellent chance of clear skies for a totality of 1 minute, 35 seconds. The group will be accompanied by astronomer Bob Berman, who will give lectures and serve as a guide to the night sky.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/stargazing/solar-eclipses/10-fun-tours-and-adventures-for-the-ultimate-total-solar-eclipse-2026-experience</link>
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<![CDATA[ The total solar eclipse on Aug. 12, 2026, will offer some fabulous travel options. Here are some adventures to consider. ]]>
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<pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2025 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Solar Eclipses]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Stargazing]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Eclipses]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Jamie Carter ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/KVp5RBEktrDYqiSx9q6gRm.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Background images via Getty left to right Smartshots International, Ashley Cooper, imageBROKER/Harry Laub and Carlos Fernandez. Graphic made in Canva by Daisy Dobrijevic.]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[4 panel image showing some of the locations for the upcoming 2026 total solar eclipse trip with a graphic of an eclipse in the center with the text eclipse 2026 written in the middle.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[4 panel image showing some of the locations for the upcoming 2026 total solar eclipse trip with a graphic of an eclipse in the center with the text eclipse 2026 written in the middle.]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Don't miss the Pleiades shine with Venus in the predawn sky on July 5 ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Early risers are in for a celestial treat on July 5, when Venus appears as a bright 'morning star' alongside the magnificent Pleiades open star cluster in the eastern sky just before dawn.</p><p>Stargazers in the U.S. can see <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/44-venus-second-planet-from-the-sun-brightest-planet-in-solar-system.html">Venus</a> rising around 3 a.m. local time, with the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/pleiades.html">Pleiades</a> star cluster visible as a smudge of light under dark sky conditions less than 7 degrees to Venus' upper left. To estimate that distance, hold a clenched fist at arm's length; it spans roughly 10 degrees of sky.</p><p>The cosmic duo will be visible for around two and a half hours before the glare of the rising sun hides the Pleiades from view.<strong> </strong>While the cluster is known to contain a multitude of blue-white stars, our naked-eye view of the Pleiades from <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/54-earth-history-composition-and-atmosphere.html">Earth</a> is largely dominated by its seven brightest members : Alcyone, Asterope, Celaeno, Electra, Taygete, Merope and Maia. The light from these stars is best viewed away from city lights and becomes easier to detect when the star cluster is in the periphery of your vision, where the cells that excel at night vision are at their densest.</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="sT3QY0MQ"> <div id="botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>The seven brightest stars can be picked out using a pair of 10x50 binoculars, while a telescope with an aperture of 4 inches or greater will reveal more of the cluster's thousand-strong stellar population.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="5dhYWVFNsQQWuLtibdZfS" name="Jul04-2025 at 4 am - Venus Passes Uranus (1)" alt="A map of the night sky with Venus and Uranus" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/5dhYWVFNsQQWuLtibdZfS.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">See Venus close to the Pleiades in the predawn hours. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Chris Vaughn)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Venus, meanwhile, is stunning to view with the naked eye alone, shining at magnitude -3.9. However, pointing a telescope with an aperture of 2.4 inches or greater with a magnification of 50x or more will allow you to pick out its moon-like phases, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.celestron.com/blogs/knowledgebase/the-ultimate-guide-to-observing-venus#:~:text=Your%20eyes%20are%20all%20you,telescopes%20will%20work%20just%20fine." target="_blank">according to telescope-maker Celestron.</a><em></em></p><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">TOP TELESCOPE PICK:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' ><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="wPYYYSkjGjgEznJCgsbuvC" name="Celestron - NexStar 4SE Telescope" caption="" alt="Celestron - NexStar 4SE Telescope" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wPYYYSkjGjgEznJCgsbuvC.png" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="" height="" attribution="" endorsement="" class="pinterest-pin-exclude"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Amazon)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="fancy-box__body-text">Want to see the planets of our solar system for yourself? The<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://amazon.com/dp/B000GUFOBO/ref=asc_df_B000GUFOBO1706720400000?tag=hawk-future-20&ascsubtag=space-us-1269214074237629933-20" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"> Celestron NexStar 4SE</a> is ideal for beginners wanting quality, reliable and quick views of celestial objects. For a more in-depth look at our<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/celestron-nexstar-4se-telescope-review" target="_blank"> Celestron NexStar 4SE review</a>.</p></div></div><p>But wait, there's more! The ice giant <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/45-uranus-seventh-planet-in-earths-solar-system-was-first-discovered-planet.html">Uranus</a> is also present in the sky on July 5, positioned almost directly between Venus and the Pleiades. However, its relatively dim magnitude of +5.8 makes it incredibly challenging to spot with the naked eye. Remember, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/21640-star-luminosity-and-magnitude.html">magnitude</a> is the system astronomers use to keep track of how bright an object appears in our night sky. The lower the number is, the brighter the object. The human eye is capable of spotting objects brighter than magnitude +6.5 in dark sky conditions.</p><p>To see Uranus' tiny aqua disk you'll need a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.celestron.com/blogs/knowledgebase/the-ultimate-guide-to-observing-uranus-neptune-and-pluto?srsltid=AfmBOoo-0Ur3jh7FZPOKHXBpYFr6F0Vwbg9lvlw7J-XGzhlc99wZvtnD">telescope with an 8-inch aperture</a>. However, even then it will appear as little more than a blue point of light hanging against the starfield beyond.</p><p><em><strong>Editor's Note: </strong></em><em>If you capture a picture of Venus with the Pleiades and want to share it with Space.com's readers, then please send your photo(s), comments, name and location to spacephotos@space.com. </em></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/stargazing/dont-miss-the-pleiades-shine-with-venus-in-the-predawn-sky-on-july-5</link>
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<![CDATA[ Uranus will also be on show, if you fancy a more challenging target. ]]>
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<pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2025 15:07:46 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Stargazing]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Anthony Wood ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/cevGXkfnjK7Xgh6e7TY9Zh.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Alan Dyer/VW Pics/UIG via Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[a bright point of light center left and a small cluster of stars to the right, in a clear sky]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[a bright point of light center left and a small cluster of stars to the right, in a clear sky]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Get Paramount Plus for just 99 cents a month and stream season three of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Paramount Plus is just 99 cents a month for two months, meaning you can stream season three of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds with a massive discount.</p><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.paramountplus.com/account/signup/pickplan/"><em><strong>Get two months of Paramount Plus for just 99 cents a month</strong></em></a><em><strong> when you sign up via their site.</strong></em></p><p>We think Paramount Plus is one of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/entertainment/best-streaming-platforms-for-sci-fi-fans">best streaming services</a> around and if you're looking for the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/streaming-deals-guide">best streaming deals</a> available, this is right up there. Paramount Plus is the home of all Star Trek content, so whether you want to relive classic episodes and movies, or stream all of the recent content, including the upcoming season of Strange New Worlds, this is a deal worth getting. After the two months are up, the price will revert to the usual monthly price.</p><div class="product"><a data-dimension112="e4ab0448-e44a-4c36-ba7d-0b14fda15831" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Get two months of Paramount Plus for just 99 cents a month. This deal is available for both the Premium and Essential plans and Paramount Plus is the home of all Star Trek content as well as the Transformers and Halo TV franchises." data-dimension48="Get two months of Paramount Plus for just 99 cents a month. This deal is available for both the Premium and Essential plans and Paramount Plus is the home of all Star Trek content as well as the Transformers and Halo TV franchises." data-dimension25="$0.99" href="https://www.paramountplus.com/account/signup/pickplan/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:800px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:100.00%;"><img id="DPNpJqokGZesFzripsmnef" name="ParamountPlus logo" caption="" alt="" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DPNpJqokGZesFzripsmnef.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="800" height="800" attribution="" endorsement="" credit="" class=""></p></div></div></figure></a><p><em></em></p><p><strong>Get two months of Paramount Plus for just 99 cents a month. </strong>This deal is available for both the Premium and Essential plans and Paramount Plus is the home of all Star Trek content as well as the Transformers and Halo TV franchises. <a class="view-deal button" href="https://www.paramountplus.com/account/signup/pickplan/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-dimension112="e4ab0448-e44a-4c36-ba7d-0b14fda15831" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Get two months of Paramount Plus for just 99 cents a month. This deal is available for both the Premium and Essential plans and Paramount Plus is the home of all Star Trek content as well as the Transformers and Halo TV franchises." data-dimension48="Get two months of Paramount Plus for just 99 cents a month. This deal is available for both the Premium and Essential plans and Paramount Plus is the home of all Star Trek content as well as the Transformers and Halo TV franchises." data-dimension25="$0.99">View Deal</a></p></div><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 3</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="psu2cgNgrDpfbYxvz5kauf" name="Strange New Worlds" alt="Jess Bush as Chapel, Celia Rose Gooding as Shura, Ethan Peck as Spock, Anson Mount as Pike, Rebecca Romijn as Una, Babs Olusanmokun as M’Benga, Christina Chong as La’an, and Melissa Navia as Ortegas of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/psu2cgNgrDpfbYxvz5kauf.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">Star Trek: Strange New Worlds will be streaming on Paramount Plus from July 17. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Paramount)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 3</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="7dtcVbKdv8ELBp98QyvPaE" name="Halo_Microsoft.jpg" alt="Halo TV Show_Microsoft" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7dtcVbKdv8ELBp98QyvPaE.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Halo TV series is available to stream on Paramount Plus </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Microsoft)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 3</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="HgHQc8242uxLJTVrehVSBE" name="Transformers.jpg" alt="A screenshot of the movie Transformers that shows Optimus Prime in action" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/HgHQc8242uxLJTVrehVSBE.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Transformers series is available to stream on Paramount Plus. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Paramount Pictures)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><p>It's worth mentioning that this deal only applies if you select a monthly subscription and not an annual one. But, you can select either the Essential or Premium plans. If you're looking to get two months of streaming for a low price and cancel your subscription, you can make the most of the Premium plan, which offers ad-free streaming, 4K viewing, you can download content and you get access to all of Showtime, which you don't get with the Essential plan. After two months, the price will revert to the usual $7.99 for Essential and $12.99 for Premium.</p><p>Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season three will be available to stream from July 17, and will continue with season four and end with season five. Of course, you can stream all of the Star Trek content as well as the Halo TV series, Transformers movies and some of the Terminator movies too.</p><p><strong>Key features:</strong> Any monthly plan you wish for just 99 cents a month, cancel anytime, all Star Trek content, the Transformers franchise, Terminator movies, Halo TV series, 4K viewing, downloadable content, live TV and much, much more.</p><p><strong>Price history:</strong> Before today's deal, the price of the Essential plan was $7.99 per month and the Premium plan was $12.99. You can get annual plans for as little as $59.99, so this is terrific value.</p><p><strong>consensus:</strong> "This is the absolute go-to if you want Star Trek: The whole franchise is here. But the choice of other content is limited compared to other services. ★★★★½"</p><p><strong>Space: </strong>★★★★½</p><p><strong>Featured in guides: </strong><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/entertainment/best-streaming-platforms-for-sci-fi-fans">Best streaming services.</a></p><p><strong>✅ Buy it if:</strong> You want a very cheap streaming deal, you're a huge fan of Star Trek or you want to watch the new series of Strange New Worlds.</p><p><strong>❌ Don't buy it if: </strong>You already have a Paramount Plus subscription.</p><p><em>Check out our other guides to the </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/15693-telescopes-beginners-telescope-reviews-buying-guide.html"><em>best telescopes</em></a><em>, </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/26021-best-binoculars.html"><em>binoculars</em></a><em>, </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-cameras"><em>cameras</em></a><em>, </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-star-projectors"><em>star projectors</em></a><em>, </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-drones"><em>drones</em></a><em>, </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-lego-space-sets"><em>lego</em></a><em> and much more.</em></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/entertainment/get-paramount-plus-for-just-99-cents-a-month-and-stream-season-three-of-star-trek-strange-new-worlds</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Paramount Plus is now just 99 cents a month for two months, meaning you can stream season three of Strange New Worlds without breaking the bank. ]]>
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<pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2025 14:59:50 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ acox@space.com (Alexander Cox) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Alexander Cox ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/rMZcpmcgfMiQaub6gEWYiV.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Future/Paramount Plus]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[The Paramount Plus logo, in blue, on an orbit circle background with the space.com logo in the top left corner ]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[The Paramount Plus logo, in blue, on an orbit circle background with the space.com logo in the top left corner ]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ The best July 4 camera deals 2025: Top deals we've spotted so far ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>We've scoured the internet for July 4 camera deals ahead of the Amazon Prime Day sales, taking place July 8-11 this year. There are some great offers to be had from top brands such as Canon, Sony and Nikon and more.</p><p>With our experienced reviewers having tested and reviewed these models (or their predecessors or successors), we can say with confidence that these cameras are worth the investment. What's even better, you can grab them now for a reduced price.</p><p>Of course, there are many other cameras available so perhaps our <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-cameras">best cameras</a> guide may help you decide which camera you want to keep an eye on throughout the Amazon Prime Day sales.</p><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-camera-deals-july-4-2025"><span>Best camera deals July 4 2025</span></h2><div class="product"><a data-dimension112="e0623dc3-37fa-4a04-9caf-4ba47f413380" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Z6 II" data-dimension48="Z6 II" data-dimension25="$2197" href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1853975-REG/nikon_z6_iii_mirrorless_camera.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:500px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:100.00%;"><img id="p5pR6kQaZ7HU8Uq7mxD9BT" name="Nikon-Z6-III-1x1" caption="" alt="" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/p5pR6kQaZ7HU8Uq7mxD9BT.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="500" height="500" attribution="" endorsement="" credit="" class=""></p></div></div></figure></a><p><strong>Save $313</strong> on this camera bundle, including the Nikon Z6 III plus a camera bag and a 128gb memory card. We've previously reviewed its predecessor, the <a href="https://www.space.com/nikon-z6-ii-review" data-dimension112="e0623dc3-37fa-4a04-9caf-4ba47f413380" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Z6 II" data-dimension48="Z6 II" data-dimension25="$2197">Z6 II</a>, giving it 4 out of 5 stars in our review. The Z6 III offers a 3.5 x faster sensor readout than its predecessor as well as the latest in-body image stabilization. A great option for advanced amateur photographers.<a class="view-deal button" href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1853975-REG/nikon_z6_iii_mirrorless_camera.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-dimension112="e0623dc3-37fa-4a04-9caf-4ba47f413380" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Z6 II" data-dimension48="Z6 II" data-dimension25="$2197">View Deal</a></p></div><div class="product"><a data-dimension112="9298affd-7cb4-41b8-90bb-1ed2526eed79" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="best crop sensor DSLR" data-dimension48="best crop sensor DSLR" data-dimension25="$1399" href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1502489-REG/canon_3616c016_eos_90d_dslr_camera.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:500px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:100.00%;"><img id="pbV7s6PXh7SL4rV7p5pXvW" name="Canon-EOS-90D-1x1" caption="" alt="" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/pbV7s6PXh7SL4rV7p5pXvW.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="500" height="500" attribution="" endorsement="" credit="" class=""></p></div></div></figure></a><p><strong>Save $200 </strong>on the <a href="https://www.space.com/best-dslr-cameras#section-best-crop-sensor-dslr" data-dimension112="9298affd-7cb4-41b8-90bb-1ed2526eed79" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="best crop sensor DSLR" data-dimension48="best crop sensor DSLR" data-dimension25="$1399">best crop sensor DSLR</a>, the Canon EOS 90D. With its fast burst speed of 10FPS, this camera lends itself well towards sport and action photography. But having a crop sensor means you get close-up stills, making it a good option for those keen to photograph the moon. For this price, not only do you get the camera body but also a 18-135mm lens. We think that's a bargain.<a class="view-deal button" href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1502489-REG/canon_3616c016_eos_90d_dslr_camera.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-dimension112="9298affd-7cb4-41b8-90bb-1ed2526eed79" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="best crop sensor DSLR" data-dimension48="best crop sensor DSLR" data-dimension25="$1399">View Deal</a></p></div><div class="product"><a data-dimension112="12a21881-3f96-47b9-be9d-7dc0e02cffff" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Sony A7C II" data-dimension48="Sony A7C II" data-dimension25="$1398" href="https://www.amazon.com/Sony-Alpha-Full-Frame-Mirrorless-Camera/dp/B08HVZLQ4F" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:500px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:100.00%;"><img id="WA9njrXAe94tc5jDnW7ehZ" name="Sony-A7C-1x1" caption="" alt="" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/WA9njrXAe94tc5jDnW7ehZ.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="500" height="500" attribution="" endorsement="" credit="" class=""></p></div></div></figure></a><p><strong>Save $200 </strong>on the Sony A7C at Amazon now. The Sony A7C is Sony's smallest full-frame camera, offering a 24.2MP full-frame sensor, image stabilization and 4k video recording capabilities. We reviewed its successor, the <a href="https://www.space.com/sony-a7c-ii-review" data-dimension112="12a21881-3f96-47b9-be9d-7dc0e02cffff" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Sony A7C II" data-dimension48="Sony A7C II" data-dimension25="$1398">Sony A7C II</a>, and thought it offered good value for money, suiting enthusiasts and amateurs all-round. Reviews generally compliment this camera's photo quality, compact size and battery life. <a class="view-deal button" href="https://www.amazon.com/Sony-Alpha-Full-Frame-Mirrorless-Camera/dp/B08HVZLQ4F" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-dimension112="12a21881-3f96-47b9-be9d-7dc0e02cffff" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Sony A7C II" data-dimension48="Sony A7C II" data-dimension25="$1398">View Deal</a></p></div> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/stargazing/astrophotography/the-best-july-4-camera-deals-2025-top-deals-weve-spotted-so-far</link>
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<![CDATA[ Ahead of the Amazon Prime Day sales, here are some of the best July 4 camera deals available right now. ]]>
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<pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2025 14:36:44 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Astrophotography]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Stargazing]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Kat Bayly ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DTatKYeaXcNhtWq4PqrrKM.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Future]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Various cameras on a purple background with a Space.com Prime Day badge.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Various cameras on a purple background with a Space.com Prime Day badge.]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Could signs of Mars life be hidden in its thick layers of clay? ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>The thick, mineral-rich layers of clay found on Mars suggest that the Red Planet harbored potentially life-hosting environments for long stretches in the ancient past, a new study suggests.</p><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/the-universe/mars/mysterious-mars-mounds-may-bolster-case-for-ancient-red-planet-ocean">Clays</a> need liquid water to form. These layers are hundreds of feet thick and are thought to have formed roughly 3.7 billion years ago, under warmer and wetter conditions than currently prevail on <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/47-mars-the-red-planet-fourth-planet-from-the-sun.html">Mars</a>.</p><p>"These areas have a lot of water but not a lot of topographic uplift, so they're very stable," study co-author Rhianna Moore, who conducted the research as a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Texas' Jackson School of Geosciences, said in a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="http://jsg.utexas.edu/news/2025/06/thick-clay-layers-on-mars-may-have-been-stable-place-for-ancient-life/" target="_blank">statement</a>.</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_iOxBNZim_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="iOxBNZim"> <div id="botr_iOxBNZim_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>"If you have stable terrain, you're not messing up your potentially habitable environments," Moore added. "Favorable conditions might be able to be sustained for longer periods of time."</p><p>On our home planet, such deposits form under specific landscape and climatic conditions.</p><p>"On Earth, the places where we tend to see the thickest clay mineral sequences are in humid environments, and those with minimal physical erosion that can strip away newly created weathering products," said co-author Tim Goudge, an assistant professor at the Jackson School's Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="mArUghR8v7c8Vf55rMGPEP" name="Moore_Cover_Fig-768x1018 (1)" alt="A photo of Mars landscape, with brown cracks and rock formations" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/mArUghR8v7c8Vf55rMGPEP.png" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">Clays can be seen in the Hellas basin of Mars. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/UArizona)</span></figcaption></figure><p>However, it remains unclear how Mars' local and global topography, along with its past climate activity, influenced surface weathering and the formation of clay layers.</p><p>Using data and images from NASA's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/18320-mars-reconnaissance-orbiter.html">Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter</a> — the second-longest-operating spacecraft around Mars, after the agency's 2001 Mars Odyssey — Moore, Goudge, and their colleagues studied 150 clay deposits, looking at their shapes and locations, and how close they are to other features like <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/mars-rovers/nasas-curiosity-mars-rover-discovers-evidence-of-ripples-from-an-ancient-red-planet-lake-images">ancient lakes</a> or rivers.</p><p>They found that the clays are mostly located in low areas near ancient lakes, but not close to valleys where water once flowed strongly. This mix of gentle chemical changes and less intense physical erosion helped the clays stay preserved over time.</p><p>"[Clay mineral-bearing stratigraphies] tend to occur in areas where chemical weathering was favoured over physical erosion, farther from valley network activity and nearer standing bodies of water," the team wrote in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41550-025-02584-w" target="_blank">the new study</a>, which was published in the journal Nature Astronomy on June 16.</p><p>The findings suggest that intense chemical weathering on Mars may have disrupted the usual balance between weathering and climate.</p><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">RELATED STORIES</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/mars-rovers/nasas-curiosity-mars-rover-discovers-evidence-of-ripples-from-an-ancient-red-planet-lake-images">NASA's Curiosity Mars rover discovers evidence of ripples from an ancient Red Planet lake (images)</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/the-universe/mars/oceans-worth-of-water-may-be-buried-within-mars-but-can-we-get-to-it">Ocean's worth of water may be buried within Mars</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/search-for-life/we-finally-know-where-to-look-for-life-on-mars">We finally know where to look for life on Mars</a></p></div></div><p>On Earth, where tectonic activity constantly exposes fresh rock to the atmosphere, carbonate minerals like limestone form when rock reacts with water and carbon dioxide (CO2). This process helps remove CO2 from the air, storing it in solid form and helping regulate the climate over long periods.</p><p>On Mars, tectonic activity is non-existent, leading to a lack of carbonate minerals and minimal removal of CO2 from <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16903-mars-atmosphere-climate-weather.html">the planet's thin atmosphere</a>. As a result, CO2 released by <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/the-universe/mars/could-mars-volcanoes-have-supported-ancient-life-on-the-red-planet-well-maybe">Martian volcanoes</a> long ago likely stayed in the atmosphere longer, making the planet warmer and wetter in the past — conditions the team believes may have encouraged the clay's formation.</p><p>The researchers also speculate that the clay could have absorbed water and trapped chemical byproducts like cations, preventing them from spreading and reacting with the surrounding rock to form carbonates that remain trapped and unable to leech into the surrounding environment.</p><p>"[The clay is] probably one of many factors that's contributing to this weird lack of predicted carbonates on Mars," said Moore.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/astronomy/mars/could-signs-of-mars-life-be-hidden-in-its-thick-layers-of-clay</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Mineral-rich layers of clay suggest that ancient life could be possible on the Red Planet ]]>
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<pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2025 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Mars]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Astronomy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Solar System]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Victoria Corless ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/png" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/mArUghR8v7c8Vf55rMGPEP.png">
<media:credit><![CDATA[NASA/JPL-Caltech/UArizona]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A photo of Mars landscape, with brown cracks and rock formations]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A photo of Mars landscape, with brown cracks and rock formations]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Satellite spies both ISS and China's Tiangong space station | Space photo of the day for July 4, 2025 ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Since 1998, when the International Space Station (ISS) launched, there has been a place for astronauts around the world to run experiments in space, from growing food to learning how low-Earth orbit affects the human body.</p><p>More recently, the Chinese <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/tiangong-space-station">Tiangong Space Station </a>was fully completed, with its third and final module, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/china-launches-mengtian-module-tiangong-space-station">the Mengtian</a>, added on Oct. 31, 2022. Tiangong sits at the same height as <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16748-international-space-station.html">the ISS</a>.</p><h2 id="what-is-it-2">What is it?</h2><p>The ISS is a joint venture between <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/38700-nasa-history.html">NASA</a>, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/22724-roscosmos.html">Roscosmos</a>, the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/22562-european-space-agency.html">European Space Agency</a> (ESA), the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/22672-japan-aerospace-exploration-agency.html">Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency </a>(JAXA) and other organizations. It's been continuously inhabited since 2000 and serves as a microgravity laboratory for research in biology, physics, medicine and earth sciences. The ISS is significantly larger than the Tiangong Space Station, as the ISS has 16 modules while Tiangong only has three.</p><p>As China was excluded from the ISS program, it created its own space station, Tiangong, which shows the nation's prowess in space exploration. Tiangong, which means "Heavenly Palace" in Chinese, was built by the Chinese Manned Space Agency (CMSA) and provides a platform for scientific research for countries not involved in the ISS program.</p><h2 id="where-is-it-2">Where is it?</h2><p>These two photographs were taken from space, about 250 miles (402 km) from Earth.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="gtoSqBTH9QZiLS2aRmbAvn" name="ISS and CSS" alt="Two space stations side by side for comparison" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/gtoSqBTH9QZiLS2aRmbAvn.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">A comparison of the ISS (left) and the Chinese Tiangong Space Station (right) </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Maxar Technologies)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="why-is-it-amazing-2">Why is it amazing?</h2><p>These two photos were taken by a Maxar WorldView Legion satellite from low-Earth orbit. <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://x.com/Maxar/status/1940122045808878025" target="_blank">In a tweet,</a> Maxar Technologies discussed how their satellites could capture these images with crisp clarity as both space stations continue to move in their respective orbits.</p><p>It's difficult to photograph something moving as quickly as the ISS or the Tiangong Space Station. The ISS orbits Earth every 90 minutes at a speed of about 17,500 mph (28,000 km/h) and the Tiangong moves at a similar rate. Being able to capture the detail on both space stations shows the timing and engineering capabilities of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/spacex-launch-maxar-worldview-legion-5-6-satellites">Maxar satellite. </a></p><h2 id="want-to-learn-more-2">Want to learn more?</h2><p>You can read more about <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16748-international-space-station.html">the ISS</a>, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/how-to-see-chinas-tiangong-space-station-and-the-iss-in-the-predawn-sky-this-week">the Tiangong Space Station</a>, and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/39350-china-launches-superview-earth-satellites.html">observation satellites</a> as companies like Maxar continue to study Earth from space.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/satellite-spies-both-iss-and-chinas-tiangong-space-station-space-photo-of-the-day-for-july-4-2025</link>
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<![CDATA[ Both stations are hubs of scientific research. ]]>
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<pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2025 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Launches & Spacecraft]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Space Exploration]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Kenna Hughes-Castleberry ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/gtoSqBTH9QZiLS2aRmbAvn.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Maxar Technologies]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Two space stations side by side for comparison]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Two space stations side by side for comparison]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Best Canon lenses in 2025: Get the best lens for your Canon camera this Amazon Prime Day ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Looking to upgrade your Canon camera? Changing the lens can give it a new lease of life, but with so many lenses on offer, where do you start? With help from our expert reviewers, we have rounded up the best Canon lenses. It is important to note that Ef lenses are for Canon's DSLR range and RF lenses are for use with Canon's EOS R range of mirrorless cameras. Our guide to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/best-canon-cameras">best Canon cameras</a> can give you a more detailed look at the range of Canon cameras that are available.</p><p>Now is one of the best times to purchase new photography gear with <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/amazon-prime-day-space-deals">Amazon Prime Day</a> coming next week on July 8. We expect many of these models to fall in price, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled!</p><p>You don't have to have a Canon camera either, you can buy lens adapters that will let you use Canon's lenses on the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-cameras-for-astrophotography">best cameras</a>. If you are after a non-Canon lens, we have a guide to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/skywatching-kit/best-camera-lenses-for-photos-and-videos">best lenses for photo and video</a>. Our guide to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-cameras-for-astrophotography">best cameras for astrophotography</a> is the best place to look if you are in the market for a new body.</p><p>There is a huge range of Canon lenses to choose from that are suitable for all kinds of photography, including astro. We have selected lenses that suit a range of purposes and pockets, from <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="#section-best-ultra-wide-angle-lens">wide-angle lenses</a> to ultra-powerful <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="#section-best-telephoto-lens">telephoto lenses</a>. So, whether you are a pro or an enthusiastic amateur, you will find the right Canon lens for your Canon camera.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-the-quick-list"><span>The quick list</span></h3><p>Below you'll find out our picks of the best Canon lenses for astrophotography, with explanation of what or who they're best suited to. Click 'Read more below' for more in-depth specs and reviews for each lens.</p> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="88ddc93e-94b3-49b7-9c7b-607c3ecb10b7"> <a href="#section-best-ultra-wide-angle-lens" data-model-name="Canon RF 10-20mm f/4L IS STM" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/4P3sKU7TSAHwXgfeqJnyfZ.jpg' alt="A Canon RF10-20mm f/4 L IS STM lens"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best ultra wide-angle lens</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Canon RF 10-20mm f/4 L IS STM</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="80" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best ultra wide-angle lens</strong></em></p><p>Looking to capture swathes of landscape or night sky? You won't be disappointed with this, Canon's widest-angle lens. </p><p><a href="#section-best-ultra-wide-angle-lens"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="48cdc333-eec5-4940-8812-399c17234ef2"> <a href="#section-best-RF-wide-angle" data-model-name="Canon RF 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/KkDrF9WAX9T9Cgk6uWWhGe.jpg' alt="A Canon RF 16-28mm F2.8 IS STM lens"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best RF wide-angle lens</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Canon RF 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="80" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best RF wide angle lens<br><br></strong></em>An affordable, excellent quality wide-angle lens with impressive image stabilization.</p><p><a href="#section-best-rf-wide-angle-lens"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="4a90a73e-1b76-4ff3-bac7-3c2bdbcde184"> <a href="#section-best-rf-lens-for-astrophotography" data-model-name="Canon RF 20mm f/1.4L VCM" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/FVgjDymdQANYd3vUYwNgzP.jpg' alt="A Canon RF 20mm F1.4L VCM lens"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best RF lens for astrophotography</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Canon RF 20mm f/1.4L VCM</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="80" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best RF lens for astrophotography</strong></em></p><p>This lens's large, light-gathering aperture, coupled with excellent quality, makes it excellent for astrophotography. </p><p><a href="#section-best-rf-lens-for-astrophotography"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="ce9c0ca8-a8c5-44e6-b60c-2a8255955fb7"> <a href="#section-biggest-aperture-lens" data-model-name="Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/4FYWCiFTEUknVpEyziyD6B.jpg' alt="A Canon RF 85mm F/1.2 L USM lens"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Biggest aperture lens</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title"> Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="90" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Biggest aperture lens</strong></em></p><p>With a massive aperture, this lens excels in low light conditions, though it's not as wide-angle as some. </p><p><a href="#section-biggest-aperture-lens"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="ba3c113c-0001-4676-87fd-f92dd626e8b8"> <a href="#section-best-telephoto-lens" data-model-name="Canon RF 100-300mm F2.8L IS USM" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/CK8ePn6EWuTPKsHgPYXPZZ.jpg' alt="A Canon RF 100-300mm f/2.8 L IS USM lens"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best telephoto lens</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Canon RF 100-300mm f/2.8 L IS USM</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="90" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best telephoto lens</strong></em></p><p>It may not be cheap but this telephoto lens offers stunning results, as if you've walked right up to your subject. </p><p><a href="#section-best-telephoto-lens"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="b0bd3b2d-a793-4044-b237-2be702f55832"> <a href="#section-best-ef-wide-angle-lens" data-model-name="Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Q9qPRnvnXNqLEgHwj82459.jpg' alt="A Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM lens"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best EF wide-angle lens</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="100" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best EF wide-angle lens</strong></em></p><p>Want to shoot wide-field photos of the night sky? This superb lens offers quality, wide-field images in low-light conditions. </p><p><a href="#section-best-ef-wide-angle-lens"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div><div class="collapsible-block-start"></div><div class="collapsible-block-title"load-the-next-product"><p>Load the next product↴</p></div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="bd8de7c1-ce50-4b1b-bf6a-ae1594413d0b"> <a href="#section-best-ef-lens-for-astrophotography" data-model-name="Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/SUKMDgqzPY4fA8wjjpq7yT.jpg' alt=" A Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM camera lens"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best EF lens for astrophotography</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title"> Canon EF 24mm f/1.4 L II USM</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="80" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best EF lens for astrophotography<br><br></strong></em>Make the most of the night sky with this lens's large light-drinking aperture, and it's weather-sealed so you can capture the cosmos in all conditions.</p><p><a href="#section-best-ef-lens-for-astrophotography"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div><ul><li><a href="#main">Back to the top ⤴</a></li></ul><div class="collapsible-block-end"></div><h2 id="best-canon-lenses-we-recommend-in-2025-2">Best Canon lenses we recommend in 2025</h2><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-ultra-wide-angle-lens"><span>Best ultra wide-angle lens</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 1</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="W3GUUTxHhBLVajijpN8kgZ" name="Canon RF10-20mm f/4 L IS STM" alt="A Canon RF10-20mm f/4 L IS STM lens" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/W3GUUTxHhBLVajijpN8kgZ.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Canon RF 10-20mm f/4 L IS STM offers stunning wide-angle capture. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Canon)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="canon-rf-10-20mm-f-4-l-is-stm-2"><span class="title__text">Canon RF 10-20mm f/4 L IS STM</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best ultra wide-angle: Stunning wide-view images of the world</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Full frame zoom | <strong>Mount type: </strong>Canon RF (mirrorless) | <strong>Focal range: </strong>10-20mm | <strong>Aperture range: </strong>f/4 fixed | <strong>Autofocus: </strong>Yes | <strong>Thread size: </strong>N/A | <strong>Weight: </strong>1.3lbs / 570g</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Unmatched wide field of view</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Surprisingly light</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Excellent image quality</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Does not support front filters</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Aperture not ideal for low-light</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You want amazing ultra-wide shots:</strong> This is Canon's best wide-angle lens, great especially for landscapes. <br><br><strong>✅ You want great image stabilization: </strong>This camera's IS means less judder when you're using it handheld. <br></p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You want it for astrophotography only</strong>: This camera's f/4 aperture lets less light in than some. <br><br><strong>❌ You're on a budget: </strong>Its ultra-wide angle performance comes with a price tag.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 As Canon's widest-angle lens, the Canon RF 10-20mm f/4 L IS STM excels at capturing more of the world. ★★★★</p></div></div><p>The Canon RF 10-20mm f/4 L IS STM is Canon's widest sngle lense and, with up to an astonishing 130˚ field of view, it absolutely shows.</p><p>It's weather-sealed, as with the rest of Canon's L range, and is ideally suited to capturing landscapes, architecture, the night sky and more. That said, while it will capture a wide swathe of the cosmos, its f/4 aperture isn't as light-gathering as some of the other models on our list.</p><p>Despite this, it's surprisingly lightweight, light enough to be held in your hand, making its 5 stops of stabilization a real boon.</p><p><strong>User reviews:</strong></p><p>Users are seriously impressed with this lens, in particular its use for landscape photography. They compare it to a fisheye, though with less distortion.</p><div ><table><caption>Canon RF 10-20mm f/4 L IS STM</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Sturdy build, water-sealed</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Amazing wide-angle images</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Built in image stabilization</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-rf-wide-angle-lens"><span>Best RF wide-angle lens</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 1</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="HHuugm5qa5d7guCUj59fTN" name="Canon RF 16-28mm F2.8 IS STM" alt="A Canon RF 16-28mm F2.8 IS STM lens" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/HHuugm5qa5d7guCUj59fTN.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Canon RF 16-28mm F2.8 IS STM is our pick for best RF wide-angle lens. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Canon)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="canon-rf-16-28mm-f-2-8-is-stm-2"><span class="title__text">Canon RF 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best RF wide-angle lens: An excellent quality wide-angle lens that won't weigh you down.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Full frame zoom | <strong>Mount type: </strong>Canon RF (mirrorless) | <strong>Focal range: </strong>16-28mm | <strong>Aperture range: </strong>f/2.8 fixed | <strong>Autofocus: </strong>Yes | <strong>Thread size: </strong>67mm | <strong>Weight: </strong>1.0lbs / 445g</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Excellent viewing angle</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Superb image quality</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Lightweight</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">No weather sealing</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Zoom could be better</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅</strong> <strong>You're want an excellent wide-angle lens</strong>: This lens offers excellent quality and image stabilisation.<br><br><strong>✅ You want a lightweight lens:</strong> At under 500g, it won't add much bulk to your kit. <br></p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">❌ <strong>You'll be using it in damp conditions:</strong> This lens is not weather-sealed.</p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">❌ <strong>You want a high zoom: </strong>At 16-28mm, this lens's zoom is slightly underwhelming. <br><br></p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 If you're not desperate for a high zoom, the <strong>Canon RF 16-28mm F2.8 IS STM</strong> is an excellent wide-angle RF lens, suitable for astrophotography, nature-watching and a range of other purposes. ★★★★</p></div></div><p>This Canon RF 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM lens is pleasingly lightweight, coming in at under 500g. It's dust and moisture resistant, though not specifically weather sealed. It doesn't come with a lens hood, likely a cost-cutting measure, but you can purchase one separately.</p><p>You can count on the Canon RF 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM to deliver excellent quality images. It boasts 5.5-stops of optical image stabilisation to eliminate judder, and its f/2.8 fixed aperture is a boon for low-light shooting, astrophotography included. <br><br><strong>User reviews:</strong></p><p>Users of this lens report being happy with its image quality, praising its image stabilization in particular. They also mention its whisper quiet autofocus is excellent for video and it compares to other cameras at higher price-points.</p><div ><table><caption>Canon RF 16-28mm F2.8 IS STM</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Solid, not weather sealed</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Fast and quiet autofocus</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Constant f/2.8 aperture</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-rf-lens-for-astrophotography"><span>Best RF lens for astrophotography</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 1</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="TzykKAii3hZSC4zBJYh7gW" name="Canon RF 20mm F1.4L VCM" alt="A Canon RF 20mm F1.4L VCM lens" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/TzykKAii3hZSC4zBJYh7gW.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">This Canon RF 20mm F1.4L VCM lens is excellent for night shoots. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Canon)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="canon-rf-20mm-f-1-4-l-vcm-2"><span class="title__text">Canon RF 20mm f/1.4 L VCM </span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best RF for astrophotography: A large aperture makes this ideal for night-time shots. </p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Full frame prime | <strong>Mount type: </strong>Canon RF (mirrorless) | <strong>Focal range: </strong>20mm | <strong>Aperture range: </strong>f/1.4 to f/16 | <strong>Autofocus: </strong>Yes. | <strong>Thread size: </strong>67mm | <strong>Weight: </strong>1.14lb / 519g</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Gathers plenty of light</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Manual iris ring</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Weather sealed</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">No built in optical stabilization</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You're buying for astrophotography:</strong> You'll get clear, sharp images in low-light conditions. <br><br><strong>✅ You want pro-features: </strong>One of Canon's hybrid lenses, it features some pro-features like an iris ring. <br></p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You're using this with a non-IBIS camera</strong>: This lens relies on the camera's own image stabilization.</p><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You want a zoom lens: </strong>As a prime lens, it doesn't have zoom functionality.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 The <strong>Canon RF 20mm f/1.4 L VCM's</strong> aperture makes it excellent for astrophotography and it's impressively flexible all-round. ★★★★</p></div></div><p>The Canon RF 20mm f/1.4 L VCM is part of Canon's hybrid range, designed to offer pro-level features without a top-tier price. As well as its wide aperture it features a manual iris ring as well as a control ring, all astrophotography-friendly features. It's equally capable as still or video camera.</p><p>It doesn't have built-in image stabilization, meaning you'll need to couple it with a camera which does have IS. However, you'll get some impressively sharp images out of this camera whether you're shooting as is or pairing it with one of the best telescopes for astrophotography.</p><p><strong>User reviews:</strong></p><p>Users of the Canon RF 20mm f/1.4 L VCM report being impressed by its build quality, and by the camera in general. However, some have reported edge distortion when shooting to raw.</p><div ><table><caption>Canon RF 20mm f/1.4 L VCM</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Lightweight, hybrid lens</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Excellent image quality</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Manual aperture ring</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-biggest-aperture-lens"><span>Biggest aperture lens</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 1</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="TjGEsbZQ3StqZ7SxapMZ6B" name="Canon RF 85mm F/1.2 L USM" alt="A Canon RF 85mm F/1.2 L USM lens" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/TjGEsbZQ3StqZ7SxapMZ6B.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM's large aperture is a boon for astrophotographers. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Canon)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="canon-rf-85mm-f-1-2-l-usm-2"><span class="title__text"> Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Biggest aperture lens: This massive aperture admits plenty of light</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Full frame prime | <strong>Mount type: </strong>Canon RF (mirrorless) | <strong>Focal range: </strong>85mm | <strong>Aperture range: </strong>f/1.2 – f/16 | <strong>Autofocus: </strong>Yes | <strong>Thread size: </strong>112mm | <strong>Weight: </strong>3lbs / 1,360g</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Huge aperture for low-light conditions</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Excellent image quality</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Weather sealed</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">No image stabilization</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Extremely heavy</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You want to shoot in low light:</strong> This camera's huge aperture drinks in every drop of light.<br><br><strong>✅ You want a pro-level lens</strong>: It's not cheap but this camera delivers fantastic image quality.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You want a lightweight lens: </strong>This lens has real heft and can dwarf a compact DSLR.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 The <strong>Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM's</strong> wide aperture makes it excellent for astro work and, lack of a zoom aside, it offers excellent quality in other areas. ★★★★</p></div></div><p>At a massive f/1.2, this camera's massive aperture drinks in light, making it an excellent option for close-up astrophotography such as photographing planets. However, it's not a wide-angle lens so it's less suitable for capturing the whole cosmos.</p><p>Its quality is superb, offering super sharp images, with the kind of quality optics you'd expect from Canon. Even five years after its release, this remains one of Canon's most impressive lenses. Its manual focus ring and digital control ring give you the power to fine-tune your shots.</p><p>The trade off, apart from it not being cheap, is that it's a huge lens, weight around 3lbs / 1360g. Be prepared for this to add a lot of heft to your camera, particularly if you've got a compatible but compact DSLR.</p><p><strong>User reviews:</strong></p><p>With its 85mm range, it may not be seen as a complete all-rounder, but users report it offering excellent quality for landscapes, portraits and more. A few have stated autofocus makes an audible noise, which could be an issue if recording video.</p><div ><table><caption> Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Heavy, weather-sealed</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Excellent image quality, superb for low-light</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Adjustable control ring, no image stabilization</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-telephoto-lens"><span>Best telephoto lens</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 1</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="wck7TwrGSJjyY6Go6aAiZZ" name="Canon RF 100-300mm f/2.8 L IS USM" alt="A Canon RF 100-300mm f/2.8 L IS USM lens" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wck7TwrGSJjyY6Go6aAiZZ.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">It may not be cheap, but this lens excels at long-distance photography. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Canon)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="canon-rf-100-300mm-f-2-8-l-is-usm-2"><span class="title__text">Canon RF 100-300mm f/2.8 L IS USM</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best telephoto lens: Get closer to your subjects with this amazing zoom lens</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Full frame zoom | <strong>Mount type: </strong>Canon RF (mirrorless) | <strong>Focal range: </strong>100-300mm | <strong>Aperture range: </strong>f/2.8 fixed | <strong>Autofocus: </strong>Yes | <strong>Thread size: </strong>82mm | <strong>Weight: </strong>5.84lbs / 2,650g</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Fantastic zoom range</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Good low-light performance</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Excellent image quality</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Super heavy</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Extremely expensive</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You're a pro-photographer: </strong>This super-expensive lens offers an amazing zoom range but it's not cheap. <br><br><strong>✅ You have a sturdy high-quality tripod: </strong>At nearly 6lbs, you won't be holding this in your hands. <br></p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You're on a budget:</strong> This lens's five-figure price puts it out of the range of amateurs.</p><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You have a bank of filters:</strong> This lens doesn't support drop-in filters.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 The <strong>Canon RF 100-300mm f/2.8 L IS USM</strong> is the ultimate pro-level telephoto lens suitable for astrophotography, long-distance photography and more, but it comes with a price tag to match. ★★★★<strong>½</strong></p></div></div><p>At nearly six pounds, the Canon RF 100-300mm f/2.8 L IS USM requires a sturdy tripod, but the results it'll deliver make it worth the effort. It offers stunning image quality at all zoom levels; it may have a hefty price tag but you're getting what you pay for.</p><p>This lens's excellent low-light performance means it's outstanding for astrophotography and night-time wildlife shoots. Its manual zoom, focus and control rings give offer you price control over your shoot.</p><p>It doesn't support drop-in filters, only screw on-filters, which may be a disappointment to some. But if you're looking for the ultimate Canon telephoto lens, this is it.</p><p><strong>User reviews:</strong></p><p>Users of this lens praise it as one of the best telephoto lenses they've used. They're stunned by with its image quality, mentioning that there's next to no distortion.</p><div ><table><caption>Canon RF 100-300mm f/2.8 L IS USM</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Excellent build quality, water sealed</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Stunning images regardless of zoom</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Flexible zoom, image stabilization</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-ef-wide-angle-lens"><span>Best EF wide-angle lens</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1131px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.23%;"><img id="XG7dD5wjo7yRSYhpzLcmtF" name="Canon EF 16-35mm f2.8L III USM.jpg" alt="Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/XG7dD5wjo7yRSYhpzLcmtF.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="1131" height="636" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">This lens may be expensive, but it delivers on performance and optical quality. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Canon)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="LKjJ9ySpeFDHLREsuTmXQf" name="Canon-EF-16-35mm-f-2.8L-III-USM.jpg" alt="Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM Best Lenses For Astrophotography" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LKjJ9ySpeFDHLREsuTmXQf.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Damian Peach)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="canon-ef-16-35mm-f-2-8-l-iii-usm-2"><span class="title__text"><a href="https://www.space.com/canon-EF-1635mm-lens-review">Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8 L III USM </a></span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best EF for wide-angle: Excellent wide-field images in low-light conditions. </p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Full frame zoom | <strong>Mount type: </strong>Canon EF (DSLR) | <strong>Focal range: </strong>16-35mm | <strong>Aperture range: </strong>F/2.8 fixed | <strong>Autofocus: </strong>Yes | <strong>Thread size: </strong>82mm | <strong>Weight: </strong>790g</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Pin sharp image quality across the entire field</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Superb color correction</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Rapid and accurate autofocus</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Very expensive</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Heavy</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You want wide-angle astrophotography: </strong>This lens is superb for capturing wide swathes of the night sky. <br><br><strong>✅</strong> <strong>You want high-quality pictures:</strong> Even in low-light conditions, this lens offers superb image quality. <br></p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You're on a budget:</strong> This lens is powerful but it's far from cheap. <br><br><strong>❌ You want a large maximum aperture: </strong>While this will take good night sky shots you can get larger than f/2.8.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 The <strong>Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8 L III USM </strong>is aimed at more experienced photographers and, while not cheap, it delivers amazing wide-field images, whether that's astronomical or terrestrial. ★★★★★</p></div></div><p>In our <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/canon-EF-1635mm-lens-review"><strong>review</strong></a> <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/canon-EF-1635mm-lens-review"><strong>of the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8 L III USM </strong></a>we said "It delivers superb results worthy of its price tag", and that still stands. This isn't a cheap lense, but it delivers superb image quality, with fast and accurate autofocus.</p><p>It has the flexibility to capture impressive wide-field images of virtually any subject, low-light shoots included. It lacks image stabilization, but its color correction is hard to beat and we rank it as one of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-cameras-for-astrophotography" target="_blank">best cameras for astrophotography. </a>Its superb build quality is the icing on the cake. <br><br><strong>User reviews:</strong></p><p>Users of the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8 L III USM are similarly positive about this lens, praising not only its image quality and autofocus but also its versatility. The only real complaints relate to its weight.</p><ul><li><strong>Read our </strong><a href="https://www.space.com/canon-EF-1635mm-lens-review"><strong>Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM review</strong></a></li></ul><div ><table><caption>Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8 L III USM</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Heavy but excellent build quality. </p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Superb image quality.</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Autofocus is fast and accurate, though no image stabilization.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-ef-lens-for-astrophotography"><span>Best EF lens for astrophotography</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 1</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="3UKY4nGRuvaemKyTgLWYW" name="Canon EF 24mm f_1.4L II USM" alt="A Canon EF 24mm f/1.4 L II USM lens" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3UKY4nGRuvaemKyTgLWYW.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Canon)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="canon-ef-24mm-f-1-4-l-ii-usm-2"><span class="title__text">Canon EF 24mm f/1.4 L II USM</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best EF for astrophotography: An ideal lens for skywatchers</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Full frame zoom | <strong>Mount type: </strong>Canon EF (DSLR) | <strong>Focal range: </strong>24mm | <strong>Aperture range: </strong>F/1.4L fixed | <strong>Autofocus: </strong>Yes | <strong>Thread size: </strong>77mm | <strong>Weight: </strong>650g</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Excellent low light performance</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Weather sealed</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Near-silent autofocus</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Not cheap</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">No image stabilization</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You're a keen astrophotographer:</strong> This lens is excellent for low-light shooting. <br><br><strong>✅ You want a waterproof lens: </strong>The L series, this lens included, are water sealed<br></p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You're on a budget: </strong>This lens is aimed at top-level enthusiasts and pros, and has a price to match,</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 The<strong> Canon EF 24mm f/1.4 L II USM</strong> is a superb lens for astrophotography and offers pro performance in other areas. ★★★★</p></div></div><p>If you're after a lens that excels at astrophotography and has the quality and performance for general use, the Canon EF 24mm f/1.4 L II USM is for you. Its massive aperture drinks in light, and its has an impressively wide field of view. It doesn't have image stabilization, so you'll need a camera that does have IS. However, astrophotographers will likely be using a tripod anyway.</p><p>Its 24mm focal range means it's not ideal for close up portraits but it's excellent for shots where you want to show a subject in context. And while no-one wants to get rained off, the lens is weather-sealed to prevent water damage.</p><p><strong>User reviews:</strong></p><p>Users are mostly positive about this lens, praising its ability to capture stunning images of the cosmos. Some but not all have mentioned vignetting at full aperture, though going down a couple of stops vastly reduces it.</p><div ><table><caption>EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Sturdy design, water-sealed</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Superb low-light performance</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Manual override via focus ring, no image stabilization</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-canon-lenses-comparison"><span>Best Canon lenses: Comparison</span></h3><div ><table><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Product</p></th><th ><p>Mount type</p></th><th ><p>Focal range</p></th><th ><p>Aperture range</p></th><th ><p>Autofocus</p></th><th ><p>Thread size</p></th><th ><p>Weight</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Canon RF 16-28mm F2.8 IS STM</p></td><td ><p>Canon RF</p></td><td ><p>16-28mm</p></td><td ><p>f/2.8 fixed</p></td><td ><p>Yes</p></td><td ><p>67mm</p></td><td ><p>1.0lbs / 445g</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Canon RF 20mm f/1.4 L VCM </p></td><td ><p>Canon RF</p></td><td ><p>20mm</p></td><td ><p>f/1.4 to f/16</p></td><td ><p>Yes</p></td><td ><p>67mm</p></td><td ><p>519g (1.3 lb)</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L III USM </p></td><td ><p>Canon EF</p></td><td ><p>16-35mm</p></td><td ><p>f/2.8 fixed</p></td><td ><p>Yes</p></td><td ><p>82mm</p></td><td ><p>790g</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM</p></td><td ><p>Canon EF</p></td><td ><p>24mm</p></td><td ><p>f/1.4L fixed</p></td><td ><p>Yes</p></td><td ><p>82mm</p></td><td ><p>650g</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM</p></td><td ><p>Canon RF</p></td><td ><p>85mm</p></td><td ><p>f/1.2 – f/16</p></td><td ><p>Yes</p></td><td ><p>82mm</p></td><td ><p>1360g</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Canon RF 100-300mm f/2.8 L IS USM</p></td><td ><p>Canon RF</p></td><td ><p>100-300mm</p></td><td ><p>f/2.8 fixed</p></td><td ><p>Yes</p></td><td ><p>112mm</p></td><td ><p>5.84lbs / 2,650g</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Canon RF 10-20mm f/4 L IS STM</p></td><td ><p>Canon RF</p></td><td ><p>10-20mm</p></td><td ><p>f/4 fixed</p></td><td ><p>Yes</p></td><td ><p>N/A</p></td><td ><p>1.65lbs / 750g</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-canon-lenses-frequently-asked-questions"><span>Best Canon lenses: Frequently Asked Questions</span></h3><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What's the difference between EF and RF lenses?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>Canon's RF lenses are designed for use with Canon's EOS R range of mirrorless cameras, while EF lenses are designed for Canon DSLR cameras. Canon hasn't abandoned DSLRs, but many manufacturers are leaning towards mirrorless due to their superior quality and imaging technology. RF lenses are typically more powerful, more lightweight and faster. For a more thorough look at Canon's camera range, we have a guide to the <a href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/best-canon-cameras">best Canon cameras</a>. </p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>How many stops of image stabilization does the Canon RF 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM have?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>The <a href="#section-best-RF-wide-angle">Canon RF 16-28mm f/2.8 IS STM lens</a> has an image stabilization value of 5.5 stops but when combined with a Canon EOS R camera like the <a href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/skywatching-kit/canon-eos-r5-mark-ii-review">Canon EOS R5 II</a>, the total level of image stabilization reaches eight stops. This is because the in-body image stabilization (IBIS) from the camera combines with the lens's image stabilization ability.</p><p>Not all lenses have image stabilization but a lot of newer Canon cameras have strong IBIS, which can reduce the need for independent image stabilization on the lens. </p><p>If you primarily shoot telephoto or handheld in low-light conditions, then an image-stabilized lens would be a huge benefit. Large values of image stabilization allow the camera to use longer shutter speeds and lower ISOs to let in more light and create better exposure. It works through a system of gyro sensors that detect movement, which then signal motors to shift floating lens elements and bend the light to counteract hand movement. </p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>Can you use an EF lens on an EOS R camera body?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>Yes, you can use an EF lens on an EOS R camera body if you have a lens adapter like this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Concept-Adapter-Focus-Mount-Cameras/dp/B0CFJCYSKG?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&psc=1&smid=A3JK7NEF4ES3E9&gPromoCode=cpn_us_en_pct_5_2025Q2&gQT=1" target="_blank">K&F Concept EF to EOS R adapter</a>. While we would recommend getting RF lenses to use with your EOS R camera for the best performance, using an EF lens with an adapter can be a great way to save money when buying a new lens so it is worth considering. </p><p>You cannot use an RF lens on a Canon DSLR because there are currently no adapters that make this possible.</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>Can you use a Canon EF lens on a non-Canon camera?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>We highly recommend using a Canon lens with a Canon camera for optimum performance but if you are set on a certain Canon lens and have a different brand camera body, there are ways to make it work.</p><p>We would recommend an adapter like this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/VILTROX-Autofocus-Adapter-Frame-Camera/dp/B08YYD4MTW/ref=sr_1_2?crid=G3IAM82Q4ZYS&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.hfFVNNaFn3HZk-niZpeJ-7qm70AnBzE3Xqtg32O56ZG9T9ecjdJGZ9nIXU17Z-pK_jps6P4Pb9Z5Zi1cnnRHzoCMWYU6L-57B4MFG8MJSbRKZOQRTGm99F5CoIoAgJHLfSzc5MRAtFrdbtLPqWYvCQmvrW5PlmqgqyrNG5Ktd8nePFh-rB_54iStrPrhe4vSE399u12kf7iZYZutjUHs4t1K2dZXxq_GzfeBV9LRZL0.Hgj_TfrDJ1Z8iqghiVNkpBOtKyhOVyFDeLO_GRxRBOs&dib_tag=se&keywords=ef%2Bto%2Bz%2Bmount&qid=1751623592&sprefix=ef%2Bto%2Bz%2Bmoun%2Caps%2C196&sr=8-2&th=1" target="_blank">Viltrox EF-Z Lens adapter</a> that makes EF lenses compatible with Nikon Z-mount cameras. Other models are compatible with different brand mirrorless systems so you will need to check that you can get a compatible filter for your camera first before committing to a Canon lens. </p></article></section><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Related articles</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-cameras"><strong>Best cameras for photos and videos</strong></a><strong><br></strong><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/camera-deals"><strong>Camera deals: discounts on cameras</strong></a><strong><br></strong><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-mirrorless-cameras"><strong>Best mirrorless cameras</strong></a><strong><br></strong><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-dslr-cameras"><strong>Best DSLR cameras</strong></a><strong><br></strong><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/dslr-vs-mirrorless"><strong>DSLR vs Mirrorless cameras</strong></a></p></div></div> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/stargazing/skywatching-kit/best-canon-lenses</link>
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<![CDATA[ Get the best Canon lenses for your Canon camera and there are savings on the horizon with Amazon Prime Day running from July 8 to 11. ]]>
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<pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2025 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Skywatching Kit]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Stargazing]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Chris McMullen ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Xz6D7uXDpmdeggReMvJyVC.jpg">
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<title><![CDATA[ Biting the 'Bullet': Amazing new JWST photo shows titanic collision of galaxy clusters ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has produced a new image of the Bullet Cluster, which is a titanic collision between two individual galaxy clusters.</p><p>The image, produced in conjunction with NASA's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/18669-chandra-x-ray-observatory.html">Chandra X-ray Observatory</a>, reveals not only the location and mass of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/20930-dark-matter.html">dark matter</a> present, but also points the way toward one day figuring out what dark matter is actually made of.</p><p>In the new image, we see the hot gas within the Bullet Cluster in false-color pink, detected by Chandra. The inferred location of dark matter is represented in blue (also false color), as measured by the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/21925-james-webb-space-telescope-jwst.html">JWST</a>. Note that the blue and the pink are separate — what has caused the dark matter and the gas to separate, and how were astronomers able to produce this map of the material within the Bullet Cluster?</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_hphYG6CS_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="hphYG6CS"> <div id="botr_hphYG6CS_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>Located 3.9 billion <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/light-year.html">light-years</a> away, the Bullet Cluster has been an occasionally controversial poster child for dark-matter studies. Back in 2006, the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/15892-hubble-space-telescope.html">Hubble Space Telescope</a> and the Chandra X-ray Observatory worked together to image the Bullet, showing the presence of its dark matter based on how light from more distant <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/15680-galaxies.html">galaxies</a> was being <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/gravitational-lensing-explained">gravitationally lensed</a> by the dark matter's mass.</p><p>Collisions between <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/astronomy/galaxies/astonishing-halo-of-high-energy-particles-around-giant-galaxy-cluster-is-a-glimpse-into-the-early-universe">galaxy clusters</a> are the perfect laboratories for testing our ideas about dark matter, because they are nature's way of throwing together huge amounts of the stuff. This gives us a chance to test how dark matter particles interact with each other, if at all, and the degree of any interaction would be a huge clue as to the properties of the mysterious dark matter particle.</p><p>Yet despite the dramatic Hubble and Chandra images, the Bullet Cluster — and, indeed, other galaxy cluster collisions — haven't always played ball. For instance, the velocities at which the sub-clusters are colliding seem too high for the standard model of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16042-cosmology.html">cosmology</a> to explain.</p><p>Now the JWST has entered into the fray. A team led by Ph.D. student Sangjun Cha of Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea, and professor of astronomy James Jee at both Yonsei and the University of California, Davis, have used the most powerful space telescope ever built to get a best-ever look at the Bullet Cluster.</p><p>Hubble and Chandra had previously shown that, as the two individual galaxy clusters in the Bullet Cluster collided, the galaxies and their surrounding dark matter haloes had passed right through each other. This makes sense for the galaxies — the distances between them are so great that the chance of a head-on collision between any two is slim. It also suggests that the degree with which dark matter particles interact with each other — what we refer to as their collisional cross section — is small; otherwise, the interaction would have slowed the clouds of dark matter down, and we would detect it closer to where Chandra sees the hot, X-ray emitting intracluster gas. In contrast to the dark matter, these huge gas clouds can't get out of each other's way, so they slam into each other and don't progress any further.</p><p>The end result is that the hot gas is found stuck in the middle of the collision, and the galaxies and dark matter belonging to each sub-cluster are found on opposite sides, having glided right through one another.</p><p>"Our JWST measurements support this," Jee told Space.com. "The galaxy distribution closely traces the dark matter."</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_w6udDkS8_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="w6udDkS8"> <div id="botr_w6udDkS8_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>JWST was able to produce a better map of the distribution of matter, both ordinary and dark, in the Bullet Cluster by detecting, for the first time, the combined glow from billions of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/57-stars-formation-classification-and-constellations.html">stars</a> that have been thrown out of their galaxies and are now free-floating in the space between the galaxies in each sub-cluster. Cha and Jee's team were then able to use the light from these "intracluster stars" to trace the presence of dark matter and gain a more accurate map of its distribution in the Bullet Cluster.</p><p>However, this has just raised more mysteries. The more refined map of the dark matter shows that, in the larger sub-cluster, on the left, the dark matter is arranged in an elongated, "hammerhead" shape that, according to Jee, "cannot be easily explained by a single head-on collision."</p><p>This elongated mass of dark matter is resolved into smaller clumps centered on what we call the brightest cluster galaxies — giant <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/22395-elliptical-galaxies.html">elliptical galaxies</a> that are the brightest galaxies in the sub-cluster located at its gravitational core. In contrast, the dark matter halo around the sub-cluster on the opposite side is smaller and more compact.</p><p>Cha and Jee's team suspect that the elongated, clumpy mass of dark matter could only have formed when that particular sub-cluster, which was a galaxy cluster in its own right before the Bullet collision, underwent a similar collision and merger with another galaxy cluster billions of years before the formation of the Bullet.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:41.95%;"><img id="jBwa7us4yZ3vpm9bFqkynZ" name="STScI-01JXZP62C6N6YMVFABFTV8MM4M" alt="Galaxies of blue and purple and pink dust collide into each other in this image" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/jBwa7us4yZ3vpm9bFqkynZ.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="2000" height="839" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">The JWST and Chandra's image of the Bullet Cluster. Pink represents hot gas, while blue is the location of dark matter. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: NASA/ESA/CSA/STScI/CXC)</span></figcaption></figure><p>"Such an event would have stretched and distorted the dark-matter halo over time, resulting in the elongated morphology that we observe," said Jee.</p><p>Despite the new discoveries such as this from JWST's more refined observations of the Bullet cluster, it is still not enough to resolve the issue of the collision velocities of the two sub-clusters.</p><p>"Even with these updates, the required collision velocity remains high relative to expectations from cosmological simulations," said Jee. "The tension persists and remains an active area of research."</p><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">RELATED STORIES</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/20930-dark-matter.html">What is dark matter?</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/21925-james-webb-space-telescope-jwst.html">James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) — A complete guide</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/astronomy/galaxies/astonishing-halo-of-high-energy-particles-around-giant-galaxy-cluster-is-a-glimpse-into-the-early-universe">Astonishing 'halo' of high-energy particles around giant galaxy cluster is a glimpse into the early universe</a></p></div></div><p>Dark matter makes up over a quarter of all the mass and energy in the universe, and roughly 85% of all matter, so figuring out its secrets, in particular its collisional cross-section and the cause of those high velocities, is going to be essential if we want to better understand this <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/52-the-expanding-universe-from-the-big-bang-to-today.html">universe</a> in which we live.</p><p>Alas, the JWST observations of the Bullet Cluster alone are not enough to confirm what the collisional cross-section of dark matter must be. However, they do tighten the estimate of the upper limit for the value of the cross-section, constraining the list of possibilities.</p><p>Astronomers are already in the process of rigorously measuring as many galaxy cluster collisions as possible, seen from all angles and distances, to try and constrain this value further. Gradually, we'll be able to rule out different models for what dark matter could be, until we're left with just a few. Coupled with experimental data from direct dark matter searches from detectors deep underground, such as the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/dark-matter-most-sensitive-detector-first-results">LUX-ZEPLIN</a> experiment at the Sanford Underground Research Facility in South Dakota, we could soon be on the cusp of answering one of science's greatest mysteries: what is dark matter?</p><p>The JWST observations were reported on June 30 in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/2041-8213/add2f0" target="_blank">The Astrophysical Journal Letters</a>.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/astronomy/james-webb-space-telescope/biting-the-bullet-amazing-new-jwst-photo-shows-titanic-collision-of-galaxy-clusters</link>
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<![CDATA[ It's another step on the road to one day discovering what dark matter could be. ]]>
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<pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2025 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[James Webb Space Telescope]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Astronomy]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Keith Cooper ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/SuRXTnjBG3FgNcacVufNhC.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[NASA/ESA/CSA/STScI/CXC]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Clouds of purple and blue gas dust collide in deep space]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Clouds of purple and blue gas dust collide in deep space]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Seeing 'fireworks' on Earth from space | On the ISS this week June 26 - July 4, 2025 ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>The Expedition 73 crew threw out their trash, prepared for the arrival of new cargo and played host to an international team of scientists, all while conducting science and maintaining their home away home during their week aboard the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16748-international-space-station.html">International Space Station</a>.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-orbital-observation"><span>Orbital observation</span></h3><p>On Thursday (July 3), NASA astronaut Nichole Ayers saw a firework, of sorts, in space.</p><p>"Just. Wow. As we went over Mexico and the U.S. this morning, I caught this sprite," wrote the Expedition 73 flight engineer <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://x.com/Astro_Ayers/status/1940810789830451563" target="_blank">on social media</a>. "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/iss-red-lightning-sprite-thunderstorm-image">Sprites</a> are TLEs or Transient Luminous Events, that happen above the clouds and are triggered by intense electrical activity in the thunderstorms below."</p><p>"We have a great view above the clouds, so scientists can use these types of pictures to better understand the formation, characteristics and relationship of TLEs to thunderstorms," she wrote.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="8XhUARBC7DA9hLG5C6d4Ye" name="expedition-73-ayers-sprite" alt="a bright red spark jets up from above the clouds looking down at lightning storms at night from a space station" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/8XhUARBC7DA9hLG5C6d4Ye.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">Expedition 73 flight engineer Nichole Ayers captured this "sprite," a transient luminous event occurring above the clouds while photographing Earth at night from aboard the International Space Station on Thursday, July 3, 2025. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: NASA/Nichole Ayers)</span></figcaption></figure><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-science-status"><span>Science status</span></h3><p>Among the research that was conducted by the Expedition 73 crew aboard the space station this week was:</p><p><strong>Earthshine from ISS</strong> — NASA flight engineer Jonny Kim used a camera to photograph <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/55-earths-moon-formation-composition-and-orbit.html">the moon</a>. More than just a pretty picture, though, his session was timed to coincide with a specific segment of the lunar cycle so scientists could use the resulting imagery to study "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/miguel-claro-earthshine-moon-photo-series">Earthshine</a>," the reflection of our planet's light bouncing off the lunar surface. The research could lead to a better understanding of how the climate and other aspects of our atmosphere affect Earth's albedo (or shine).</p><p><strong>Muscle Stimulation</strong> — If you don't use it, you lose it. Scientists have known for decades that dormancy on and off <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/54-earth-history-composition-and-atmosphere.html">Earth</a> can lead to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/iss-astronauts-microgravity-muscle-loss-esa-experiment">muscle degradation</a>. Astronauts traditionally combat this by exercising every day. This week, Nichole Ayers tested out electrical stimulation as an add on to her workout. Anne McClain assisted Ayers in the activity by operating the equipment to measure the results.</p><p><strong>Drain Brain 2.0</strong> — Expedition 73 commander Takuya Onishi and Ayers took turns wearing electrodes on their necks and chests to measure how their blood flows from their brains to their hearts. The data collected from the trials will help increase our understanding of how blood and its movement throughout our bodies adapts to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/23017-weightlessness.html">weightlessness</a>.</p><p>On the Russian side of the station, Sergey Ryzhikov captured hyperspectral imagery of landmarks in both Mexico and South America. He also tested virtual reality specs to see how his balance and visual perception have adjusted to being in microgravity.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-station-keeping"><span>Station keeping</span></h3><p>The Expedition 73 crew also devoted time to maintaining the space station's systems, including:</p><p><strong>Progress MS-29</strong> — Russia's 91st uncrewed cargo ship dedicated to supplying the ISS departed on Tuesday (July 1), after seven months being docked to the space-facing port on the Poisk module. Cosmonauts Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritskiy completed filling the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/32645-progress-spacecraft.html">Progress</a> with refuse and equipment no longer needed before the spacecraft left the station.</p><p><strong>Progress MS-31</strong> — Ryzhikov and Zubritskiy also used a laptop computer to practice remotely docking the next cargo ship to arrive, should Progress M-31's autonomous system go awry. <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/russian-cargo-ship-progress-92-launch-iss">Launched on Thursday</a>, the space freighter is scheduled to dock to the Poisk module on Saturday (July 5).</p><p><strong>Emergency equipment</strong> — Jonny Kim with NASA spent part of his day on Wednesday conducting a routine checkout of the station's supply of portable emergency hardware, such as fire extinguishers and breathing masks.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-astronaut-activity"><span>Astronaut activity</span></h3><div class="youtube-video" data-nosnippet ><div class="video-aspect-box"><iframe data-lazy-priority="low" data-lazy-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ToWNG76s3sI" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div><p>On Thursday, Colorado-born Nichole Ayers answered reporters' questions from KMGH-TV in Denver.</p><p>"Growing up there right in Colorado, I got to see the Thunderbirds fly over every year, so I knew that the Air Force Academy existed ... and growing up in the shuttle era, as soon as I found out you could fly the shuttle, I was like, 'That's what I want to do!'" Ayers said, explaining what attracted her to becoming a NASA astronaut.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-axiom-mission-4-ax-4"><span>Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4)</span></h3><p>The four members of the Axiom Mission-4 (<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/spacex-launches-historic-private-axiom-4-astronaut-mission-to-the-iss">Ax-4</a>) crew "hit the ground running" when they began their first full week aboard the space station.</p><p>Commander <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/38691-peggy-whitson-astronaut-biography.html">Peggy Whitson</a> worked on cancer research, observing how tumor cells react to microgravity. Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla with the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/indian-space-research-organization.html">Indian Space Research Organisation</a> (ISRO) studied the growth and genetic behavior of algae and how microscopic creatures called <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/the-universe/new-tardigrade-species-reveals-clues-to-surviving-lethal-space-radiation">tardigrades</a> survive and reproduce in space.</p><p>Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/22562-european-space-agency.html">European Space Agency</a> (ESA), one of Ax-4's two mission specialists, tested an acoustic monitoring device designed to improve how sound levels are tracked aboard the space station. At the same time, Tibor Kapu of the Hungarian to Orbit (HUNOR) astronaut program, monitored radiation levels using a dosimeter, while also growing microgreens.</p><p>The four also participated in multiple outreach activities, including speaking with aspiring female astronauts from Mexico, Spain, Germany and the U.K.; addressing the members of Poland's Parliament; and connecting with students in India.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-by-the-numbers"><span>By the numbers</span></h3><p>As of Friday (July 4), there are <strong>11 people</strong> aboard the International Space Station: Expedition 73 commander Takuya Onishi of JAXA, Anne McClain, Nichole Ayers and Jonny Kim of NASA and Kirill Peskov, Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritsky of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/22724-roscosmos.html">Roscosmos</a>, all flight engineers, as well as Ax-4 commander Peggy Whitson, pilot Shubhanshu Shukla of ISRO and mission specialists Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of ESA and Tibor Kapu of HUNOR.</p><p>There are <strong>three docked crew spacecraft</strong>: <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/18853-spacex.html">SpaceX</a>'s Dragon "Endurance" attached to the forward port of the Harmony module, Dragon "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/with-grace-astronauts-name-spacexs-final-dragon-crew-capsule">Grace</a>" on the space-facing port of Harmony and Roscosmos' Soyuz MS-27 attached to the Earth-facing port of the Prichal node.</p><p>There is <strong>one docked cargo spacecraft</strong>: Roscosmos' Progress Progress MS-30 (91P) attached to the aft port of the Zvezda service module. Progress MS-31, launched on Thursday (July 3) is expected to dock to the space-facing port of the Poisk module on Saturday (July 5).</p><p>As of Friday, the space station has been continuously crewed for <strong>24 years, 8 months and 3 days</strong>.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/space-exploration/international-space-station/seeing-fireworks-on-earth-from-space-on-the-iss-this-week-june-26-july-4-2025</link>
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<![CDATA[ The Expedition 73 and Axiom Mission 4 crews spent their first of two weeks together conducting science aboard the International Space Station. ]]>
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<pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2025 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[International Space Station]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Space Exploration]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Missions]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ robert@collectspace.com (Robert Z. Pearlman) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Robert Z. Pearlman ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/FmpZJJVrUEuiqgQmMFHqkE.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[NASA]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[seven men and women wearing blue flights stack hands while floating in a half-circle formation around an airlock hatch aboard a space station.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[seven men and women wearing blue flights stack hands while floating in a half-circle formation around an airlock hatch aboard a space station.]]></media:title>
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<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/FmpZJJVrUEuiqgQmMFHqkE-1200-80.jpg" />
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<title><![CDATA[ Best Canon cameras 2025: Upgrade your photography with these models on Amazon Prime Day. ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>If you're looking to buy one of the best Canon cameras but don't know where to start, you're in the right place. Cameras are not created equal, and they all have different strengths and weaknesses, so it's worth taking the time to figure out what you want from your camera before you decide to purchase one.</p><p>If you're buying for astrophotography, now's a great time to pick up one of the best Canon cameras thanks to potential savings on <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/amazon-prime-day-space-deals">Amazon Prime Day</a>. This is the first four-day Prime Day event and is running from July 8 to 11. We expect a lot of these models to drop in price, so stay tuned!</p><p>When it comes to picking the right camera, we've done the hard work for you and have compiled a list of the best Canon cameras on the market right now, including mirrorless and DSLR options, full-frame and crop sensors, and options for different budgets and experience levels to suit everyone. We've also included some relevant specs of each model, plus the type of photography it would be suitable for. To see these cameras compared to other brands, we have a guide to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-cameras">best cameras for photo and video</a>. For dedicated astrophotographers, we have a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-cameras-for-astrophotography">best cameras for astrophotography guide</a>, or <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-beginner-cameras">best cameras for beginners</a> if you are just starting out.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-the-quick-list"><span>The quick list</span></h3> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="6440ee75-74e4-4751-a8ff-a97d2bd5e3f5"> <a href="#section-best-overall" data-model-name="Canon EOS R6 Mark II" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3wxZrZhrVBP9UTEutonYra.jpg' alt="Canon EOS R6 Mark II"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best overall</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Canon EOS R6 Mark II</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="100" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best overall</strong></em></p><p>An impressively feature-packed mirrorless camera which is superb in low-light conditions and boasts excellent still and video quality. </p><p><a href="#section-best-overall"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="955b14f1-7377-4ffb-80aa-67bf10eb86e8"> <a href="#section-best-for-professionals" data-model-name="Canon EOS R3" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:96.53%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NWXBoyyLceGCFUhKdMe9yf.jpg' alt="Canon EOS R3 on a white background"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best for professionals</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Canon EOS R3</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="90" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best for professionals</strong></em></p><p>This powerhouse can do it all, but its steep price makes it reserved only for the pros with deep pockets.</p><p><a href="#section-best-for-professionals"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="d561d7be-f9f1-42f5-a902-a10c52089797"> <a href="#section-best-for-semi-professionals" data-model-name="Canon EOS 6D Mark II" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/5yB5kRSKhHEprsiByHa4gP.jpeg' alt="Canon EOS 6D Mark II on a white background"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best for semi-pro</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Canon EOS 6D Mark II</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="80" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best for semi-pro</strong></em></p><p>A great choice if you're looking for a reliable all-rounder and a good introduction to full-frame.</p><p><a href="#section-best-for-semi-professionals"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="aaaf4433-b1b5-4c9c-bc56-14895d1b70ed"> <a href="#section-best-beginner-full-frame" data-model-name="Canon EOS R8" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/UUN2SeozdeLhtazEuEVdVP.jpg' alt="Canon EOS R8 on a white background"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best beginner full frame</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Canon EOS R8</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="90" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best beginner full-frame</strong></em></p><p>It's the lightest and second most affordable entry into Canon's full-frame system, making it a great option for your first full-frame camera.</p><p><a href="#section-best-beginner-full-frame"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="d012f1a4-6406-4182-b1fd-a6bbbb5f5b93"> <a href="#section-best-for-portability" data-model-name="Canon EOS R50 V" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/xyaDkasNfKxVLNRvnWguQg.jpg' alt="A Canon EOS R50 V camera, without lens. "><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best for portability</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Canon EOS R50 V</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="80" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best for portability</strong></em></p><p>This compact, viewfinder-less Canon is built for content creators who want to capture high-quality video on the go. </p><p><a href="#section-best-for-portability"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="ab7ddcef-a1c1-451d-9c73-4cfcc7c951dc"> <a href="#section-best-resolution" data-model-name="Canon EOS R5 Mark II" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/iWWNSJFCn5dyGtckrtczg9.jpg' alt="A Canon EOS R5 MKII camera, without a lens. "><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best resolution</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Canon EOS R5 II</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="90" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best resolution</strong></em></p><p>This Canon EOS R5 II may not be cheap but its 45MP resolution means you can take absolutely stunning high-quality images. </p><p><a href="#section-best-resolution"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div><div class="collapsible-block-start"></div><div class="collapsible-block-title"load-the-next-2-products"><p>Load the next 2 products ↴</p></div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="b2fbca6f-6814-42a6-b86c-3e6ce5414586"> <a href="#section-best-dslr" data-model-name="Canon EOS 5D Mark IV" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/HGbxScixg9Kmo5w9qp4udh.jpg' alt="Canon EOS 5D Mark IV on a white background"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best DSLR</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Canon EOS 5D Mark IV</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="90" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best DSLR</strong></em></p><p>Ideal for enthusiasts and pro photographers seeking an all-rounder that handles well — although it's slowly showing its age as time passes.</p><p><a href="#section-best-dslr"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="aa7fd01e-0321-4a79-bce5-d8df8fc1c616"> <a href="#section-best-for-beginners" data-model-name="Canon EOS RP" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/dmaKbHJr8goatVLCcPfbWB.jpeg' alt="Canon EOS RP on a white background"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best for beginners</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Canon EOS RP</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="70" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best for beginners</strong></em></p><p>Small, lightweight and very affordable, this camera will delight beginners who don't need any of the big features of the pro-grade models.</p><p><a href="#section-best-for-beginners"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div><ul><li><a href="#main">Back to the top ⤴</a></li></ul><div class="collapsible-block-end"></div><h2 id="the-best-canon-cameras-we-recommend-in-2025-2">The best Canon cameras we recommend in 2025</h2><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-overall"><span>Best overall</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="56vjxSQpW3EseQgGFGh969" name="Canon-eos-r6-mark-ii-main-image.jpg" alt="Canon eos r6 mark ii on a white background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/56vjxSQpW3EseQgGFGh969.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is an excellent enthusiast-level camera, and a step up from the previous model. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Canon)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="u5d99vau9juTaMpvce5Xse" name="_DSF9211" alt="Canon EOS R6 Mark II articulating LCD closed" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/u5d99vau9juTaMpvce5Xse.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: James Abbott)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="7iaRyhNwphR8D4BWwXZYwe" name="_DSF9214" alt="Canon EOS R6 Mark II rear touchscreen LCD" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7iaRyhNwphR8D4BWwXZYwe.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: James Abbott)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 4 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="QCXPMWDCrW3hDf58Yd9due" name="_DSF9230" alt="Canon EOS R6 Mark II dual SD card slots" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/QCXPMWDCrW3hDf58Yd9due.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: James Abbott)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 5 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="uqzDmkvEWV6XqTji3UY2ye" name="_DSF9233" alt="Canon EOS R6 Mark II ports for connecting accessories" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/uqzDmkvEWV6XqTji3UY2ye.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: James Abbott)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="canon-eos-r6-mark-ii-2"><span class="title__text"><a href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/skywatching-kit/canon-eos-r6-mark-ii-review">Canon EOS R6 Mark II </a></span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best overall: This enthusiast-level camera offers impressive still and video quality, especially in low light. </p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Mirrorless | <strong>Sensor: </strong>24.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor | <strong>Lens mount: </strong>RF/RF-S | <strong>ISO range: </strong>100-102,400 | <strong>Viewfinder resolution: </strong>3.69m dots | <strong>Screen size/resolution: </strong>3.0 inch / 1.62 million dots | <strong>Autofocus detection range: </strong>-6.5 EV | <strong>Video: </strong>4K up to 60 FPS, 4K/FHD Timelapse up to 30 FPS, FHD up to 180 FPS | <strong>Storage: </strong>2x SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II) | <strong>Battery life: </strong>LCD 760 shots / VF 450 shots | <strong>Weight: </strong>1.48 lbs / 670 g with card and battery | <strong>Dimensions: </strong>5.44in x 3.87in x 3.48in</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Excellent low-light autofocus</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">8K video recording</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Fantastic image quality</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Expensive</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Reports of overheating issues</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Overkill for many users</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You're on a budget:</strong> This camera balances excellent image and video quality with affordability. <br><br><strong>✅ You're into astrophotography: </strong>This camera is superb in low light, thanks to its high ISO handling. <br></p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You need super-high resolution: </strong>As impressive as its image quality is, you can get higher resolution cameras.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Canon EOS R6 Mark II:</strong> This a fantastic feature-packed camera with excellent autofocus, and it's competitively priced to boot. ★★★★★</p></div></div><p>Looking for an enthusiast-level Canon camera with the performance, features and image quality you need to go pro? The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is the camera for you, a well-built but lightweight model that punches well above its price bracket.</p><p>In our review of the<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/skywatching-kit/canon-eos-r6-mark-ii-review"> Canon EOS R6 Mark II</a>, we said it was "Undoubtedly one of the best Canon cameras available for astrophotography." It boasts excellent high ISO handling and image stabilization, but don't think this is exclusively for astro use, it's a superb all-rounder too. We liked its potential for capturing a wide range of photographic subjects.</p><p>It's well-built, dust and moisture sealed, yet still relatively lightweight. Its battery life and resolution is also a welcome step above the previous R6 model. It's comfortable to hold, and its autofocus is outstanding, even when subjects move in and out of frame.</p><p>If you are going pro, you'll welcome the two card slots, giving you extra storage or to use as a backup in case one of the cards gets corrupted. And at this price, you'll have enough money to buy some suitably powerful lenses.</p><ul><li><strong>Read our full </strong><a href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/skywatching-kit/canon-eos-r6-mark-ii-review"><strong>Canon EOS R6 Mark II review</strong></a></li></ul><div ><table><caption>Canon EOS R6 Mark II</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Solidly built but lightweight</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Excellent image quality</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Fast, accurate autofocus</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><ul><li><a href="#main">Back to the top ⤴</a></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-for-professionals"><span>Best for professionals</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="wgPxRk7QLwy5jMKgoTKrHX" name="Canon EOS R3.jpg" alt="Canon EOS R3 on a white background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wgPxRk7QLwy5jMKgoTKrHX.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Canon EOS R3 is the best Canon camera for serious professionals. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Stephen Cotterell)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="oQKYhT56i47VYuLdS5seNX" name="Canon-eos-r3-product-image.jpg" alt="Canon EOS R3 on a white background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oQKYhT56i47VYuLdS5seNX.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Canon)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="oEs4ZgdQCwpx7wmP2NbqtD" name="Canon EOS R3 back of body.jpg" alt="back of Canon EOS R3" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oEs4ZgdQCwpx7wmP2NbqtD.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Stephen Cotterell)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 4 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="7B8rwJYaaTS5RfwUAzwWCE" name="Canon EOS R3 front.jpg" alt="front of Canon EOS R3" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7B8rwJYaaTS5RfwUAzwWCE.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Stephen Cotterell)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 5 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="BzuBM5rjxKbMNtbE25gEZE" name="Canon EOS R3 top of body.jpg" alt="top of Canon EOS R3" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BzuBM5rjxKbMNtbE25gEZE.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Stephen Cotterell)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="canon-eos-r3-2"><span class="title__text"><a href="https://www.space.com/canon-eos-r3-review">Canon EOS R3</a></span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best for professionals: This powerhouse can do it all, but it comes at a steep price.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Mirrorless | <strong>Sensor: </strong>BSI stacked 24.1MP full-frame CMOS | <strong>Lens mount: </strong>RF (EF/EF-s with adapter) | <strong>ISO range: </strong>100 – 102,400 (expanded 50 - 204,800) | <strong>Viewfinder resolution: </strong>5.76M dots | <strong>Screen size/resolution: </strong>3-inch vari-angle / 4.15M dots | <strong>Autofocus detection range: </strong>EV -7.5 to 20 | <strong>Video: </strong>6K 60FPS | <strong>Storage: </strong>Two slots: One SD UHS-II / One CFexpress | <strong>Battery life: </strong>LCD: 860 / EVF: 620 | <strong>Weight: </strong>1.81 lbs / 822g | <strong>Dimensions: </strong>5.91 x 5.61 x 3.43-inches / 150 x 142.6 x 87.2mm</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Up to 30FPS with no buffering speed</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Highly customizable</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Fantastic high ISO performance</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Stills resolution isn't the highest</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Very expensive</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Big and heavy</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You earn money from photography:</strong> Unless you're an enthusiast with very deep pockets, this camera is typically reserved for professionals who earn money from the industry and can afford it.<br><br><strong>✅ You want a camera that can do everything: </strong>If you shoot multiple styles of photography, this camera will excel in all of them.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You want to make large prints:</strong> While it no doubt produces stunning images, there are cameras out there with more megapixels that would be better suited for producing large prints.<br><br><strong>❌ You're not a professional:</strong> It's a very expensive bit of kit, so anyone who isn't a professional or doesn't have a big budget would want to consider other options.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Canon EOS R3:</strong> A highly capable, customizable and creative camera that provides a versatile set of options to the serious photographer. In short, it frees you to apply the art and science of photography to create professional images. ★★★★½</p></div></div><p>Looking at the Canon EOS R3, it's obvious that it means business. It's solid, robust and durable with built-in horizontal and vertical grips with duplicated controls — meaning you can switch between shooting landscape and portrait effortlessly. It's a heavy piece of kit, weighing 1.81 lbs / 822g without the cards or battery, but we thought it felt good in the hand. It has a fully articulating touchscreen which we thought was detailed, clear and very versatile when we conducted our full <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/canon-eos-r3-review">Canon EOS R3 review</a>.</p><p>We also liked the amount of customization you can do with this camera. As a one-size-fits-all configuration doesn't work for most photographers, it's useful to be able to customize the buttons and dials to suit your personal setup.</p><p>It excels at tracking animals, cars and people with its AI-derived autofocus features, and the speed of its autofocus is astounding — we found it difficult to describe in words. This proves indescribably useful for weddings, sports or wildlife photography where you want to shoot 30FPS without blackout between shots or having to worry about filling up the buffer. Very impressive by anyone's standards.</p><p>While we didn't test it for astrophotography specifically, its lower megapixel count and impressive high ISO handling would make for stunning astro images. Most cameras would struggle with image noise at around ISO 6400, but we could comfortably use ISOs much higher than that without any problems.</p><p>Another talking point is the Canon EOS R3's impressive video capabilities. The R3 has seemed to resolve the issues found in many mirrorless cameras, like overheating, recording limits and a lack of RAW recording. It's not a video-focused camera, and it can't record 8K (for that, you'll want the Canon EOS R5), but we think it's fantastic all the same.</p><ul><li><strong>Read our full </strong><a href="https://www.space.com/canon-eos-r3-review"><strong>Canon EOS R3 review</strong></a></li></ul><div ><table><caption>Canon EOS R3</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Features built-in horizantal and vertical grips.</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Fantastic high ISO performance.</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Up to 30FPS is great for fast-action.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><ul><li><a href="#main">Back to the top ⤴</a></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-for-semi-professionals"><span>Best for semi professionals</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2800px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:42.86%;"><img id="JhZLYmAhDdTFKyT3FPXop7" name="6DMk2.jpg" alt="The rear of the 6D Mk II" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JhZLYmAhDdTFKyT3FPXop7.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2800" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Canon EOS 6D Mark II is fantastic for enthusiasts and semi-pros. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Tantse Walter)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="ZcXv7NuhHjfXKjRPqhPZnd" name="6DMk2.jpg" alt="The rear of the Canon EOS 6D MK2" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ZcXv7NuhHjfXKjRPqhPZnd.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Tantse Walter)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="canon-eos-6d-mark-ii-2"><span class="title__text"><a href="https://www.space.com/canon-eos-6d-mk2-review">Canon EOS 6D Mark II</a></span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best for semi-pro: A great step up from your first beginner camera when you're looking to advance your skills.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>DSLR | <strong>Sensor: </strong>26.2MP full frame CMOS | <strong>Lens mount: </strong>EF | <strong>ISO range: </strong>100 - 40,000 (expanded 50 - 102,400) | <strong>Viewfinder resolution: </strong>N/A - optical viewfinder | <strong>Screen size/resolution: </strong>3-inch vari-angle, 1.04 million dots | <strong>Autofocus detection range: </strong>EV -3 to 18 | <strong>Video: </strong>1080/60p | <strong>Storage: </strong>One slot: UHS-1 SD card | <strong>Battery life: </strong>OVF: 1200 shots / Live view: 380 | <strong>Weight: </strong>24.16 oz. / 685g | <strong>Dimensions: </strong>5.67 x 4.35 x 2.94-inches / 144.0 x 110.5 x 74.8mm</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Excellent battery life</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Great introduction to full-frame</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Good low-light performance</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">DSLR's are becoming outdated</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Can't shoot 4K video</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">It's nothing exciting</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You shoot for long periods:</strong> The battery life is exceptional, meaning you won't run out of juice when you're out on those long nights of astro shooting.<br><br>✅ <strong>It's your first full-frame or a backup camera:</strong> It would suit both amateurs looking for their first full-frame camera and professionals looking for a competent second camera.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You want to shoot video:</strong> Its video capabilities are seriously limited, so it's not one to recommend to filmmakers.<br><br><strong>❌ You want all the newest tech:</strong> DSLRs are gradually being phased out, so if you want all the newest, fanciest tech, you'll want to go for a mirrorless.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Canon EOS 6D Mark II:</strong> A great choice if you're looking for a reliable all-rounder and a good introduction to full-frame. It's good at most things, great for stationary or slow-moving subjects such as landscapes or portraits, but not so great for capturing fast action. ★★★★</p></div></div><p>In terms of design, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II is noticeably heavier and bulkier than crop sensor or mirrorless cameras, but during our <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/canon-eos-6d-mk2-review">Canon EOS 6D Mark II review</a> we thought it was easy to use, a good fit in the hand and all the controls were easily accessible. The body is waterproofed, but we did think it felt a bit plasticky, which was disappointing. Still, it does the job for a camera at this price point.</p><p>Not only is it easy to use in terms of button placement and ergonomics, but we noticed it's super fast to turn on and get going instantly, meaning you won't miss any of those unexpected 'blink and you'll miss it' shots.</p><p>We liked how the camera performed, although it doesn't do anything special worth writing about. Still, it manages to keep up with the demands of most shooters, although the autofocus is becoming outdated with the recent addition of AI into newer autofocus systems.</p><p>The battery life is excellent, rated at 1200 shots per full charge when using the optical viewfinder. This is great news for astrophotographers who embark on long nights of shooting—even though you won't be able to see anything through the OVF, it's good to know your camera won't run out of juice halfway through the night.</p><p>Its low light performance is good, coupled with its quiet operation and tactile handling, suiting budding astrophotographers who want to make the jump into the full-frame world without breaking the bank.</p><ul><li><strong>Read our full </strong><a href="https://www.space.com/canon-eos-6d-mk2-review"><strong>Canon EOS 6D Mark II review</strong></a></li></ul><div ><table><caption>Canon EOS 6D Mark II</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Body can feel a bit clunky.</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Good low light performance.</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Lacks the dynamic range for pro photographers.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><ul><li><a href="#main">Back to the top ⤴</a></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-beginner-full-frame"><span>Best beginner full frame</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 9</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="MY3GsLbTHybnJ727dwhzsG" name="Canon-eos-r8-main-image-16x9.jpg" alt="The Canon EOS R8 atop a tripod without a lens" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/MY3GsLbTHybnJ727dwhzsG.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Canon EOS R8 is the best beginner full frame Canon camera. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 9</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:4032px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="TaGrTRzqBHyWvu2gDCvFeG" name="Canon-eos-r8-side-view-with-lens.jpg" alt="The Canon EOS R8 with a lens attached" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/TaGrTRzqBHyWvu2gDCvFeG.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="4032" height="2268" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 9</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:4032px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="iuFgXkFwjyWrqVqwW8ByzF" name="Canon-eos-r8-side-view-2.jpg" alt="The Canon EOS R8 three quarter view" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/iuFgXkFwjyWrqVqwW8ByzF.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="4032" height="2268" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 4 of 9</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:4032px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="7HbLChE5CPk7BBsT42DhQF" name="Canon-eos-r8-top-side-view.jpg" alt="Top side view of the Canon EOS R8" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7HbLChE5CPk7BBsT42DhQF.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="4032" height="2268" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 5 of 9</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:4032px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="SEtiTcU7oFF8XTcwU4e5oE" name="Canon-eos-r8-side-view.jpg" alt="side view of the Canon EOS R8" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/SEtiTcU7oFF8XTcwU4e5oE.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="4032" height="2268" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 6 of 9</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:4032px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="xUivxjok3RKepS7YM2SYHE" name="Canon-eos-r8-rear-view-fold-out.jpg" alt="The Canon EOS R8" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/xUivxjok3RKepS7YM2SYHE.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="4032" height="2268" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 7 of 9</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:4032px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="Z8WVvMaBHi2CQUATuvzXmD" name="Canon-eos-r8-rear-view.jpg" alt="Rear view of the Canon EOS R8" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Z8WVvMaBHi2CQUATuvzXmD.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="4032" height="2268" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 8 of 9</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:4032px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="9XPp2EZpHnS8LZCdpeUaGD" name="Canon-eos-r8-exposure-compensation-awkward.jpg" alt="The Canon EOS R8 being used by the reviewer" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/9XPp2EZpHnS8LZCdpeUaGD.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="4032" height="2268" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 9 of 9</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:4032px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="FurpeJZBRZsNosa6ssL9CC" name="Canon-eos-r8-top-view.jpg" alt="Top view of the Canon EOS R8" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/FurpeJZBRZsNosa6ssL9CC.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="4032" height="2268" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="canon-eos-r8-2"><span class="title__text"><a href="https://www.space.com/canon-eos-r8-review">Canon EOS R8</a></span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best beginner full frame: Canon's lightest full-frame camera is a fantastic option for beginners.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Mirrorless | <strong>Sensor: </strong>24.2MP full-frame CMOS | <strong>Lens mount: </strong>RF (EF/EF-s with adapter) | <strong>ISO range: </strong>100 - 102,400 (expanded 50 - 204,800) | <strong>Viewfinder resolution: </strong>2.36M dots | <strong>Screen size/resolution: </strong>3-inch vari-angle / 1.62M dots | <strong>Autofocus detection range: </strong>EV –6.5 to 21 | <strong>Video: </strong>4K UHD 59.94 FPS maximum | <strong>Storage: </strong>One card slot: SD UHS-II compatible | <strong>Battery life: </strong>LCD: 370 / EVF: 220 | <strong>Weight: </strong>0.91 lbs / 414g | <strong>Dimensions: </strong>5.22 x 3.39 x 2.76-inches / 132.5 x 86.1 x 70.0mm</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Small and lightweight</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Great high ISO handling</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Outstanding autofocus</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">No image stabilization</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Disappointing battery life</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Only one card slot</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You want a camera that's easy to travel with:</strong> The R8 is Canon's lightest full-frame camera, so it's perfect for traveling and carrying around your neck for long periods.<br><br><strong>✅ You're on a budget: </strong>It's one of the cheaper Canon models on this list.<br><br></p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You're a professional:</strong> Unless you're in the market for an affordable backup camera, it wouldn't serve a professional as their main setup.<br><br><strong>❌ You want to use it for long shoots:</strong> We found the battery life a little disappointing, so anyone going out on long shoots will need something with a bit more stamina.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Canon EOS R8:</strong> A surprising victor in the astrophotography realm handling high ISO noise extremely well. It's the lightest and second most affordable route into Canon's full-frame system. ★★★★½</p></div></div><p>Not only is the Canon EOS R8 a fantastic beginner full-frame camera, but it's also Canon's lightest full-frame camera to date, making it a fantastic option for traveling where you need to save on weight and space. In our <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/canon-eos-r8-review">Canon EOS R8 review</a>, we praised its small form factor and the fact that it didn't compromise on any of the controls, buttons or dials. Everything was intuitively placed, and we found it a breeze to use in the dark, even without a headlamp.</p><p>Considering its price point and the fact that it's marketed more for beginners first making the jump into full frame, we were really impressed by its astro capabilities — we thought it was astounding. It comfortably handled ISO 5000 and above, producing minimal noise even when zoomed in, and there was hardly any color distortion. If you use this camera with a fast lens, the results you could achieve have the potential to be incredible. The dynamic range left a little to be desired when compared to pricier options, but that's to be expected in a camera of this caliber.</p><p>Unsurprisingly, a few compromises have been made to keep the cost down. First, there's only one card slot, but that's not a massive deal for the people likely to use this camera. There's also no image stabilization, which could be an issue if you shoot handheld a lot — you'll need to ensure you have a lens with image stabilization to compensate for it. Obviously, the lack of IBIS won't matter in the slightest for astrophotography. The battery life is also a little disappointing, but you can easily combat this by stocking up on spare batteries or keeping a power bank with you.</p><ul><li><strong>Read our full </strong><a href="https://www.space.com/canon-eos-r8-review"><strong>Canon EOS R8 review</strong></a></li></ul><div ><table><caption>Canon EOS R8</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Small, lightweight and intuitive layout.</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Astounding astro performance.</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Lack of image stabilization.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><ul><li><a href="#main">Back to the top ⤴</a></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-for-portability"><span>Best for portability</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 1</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="uPVaVWdjq6qTovGHEcfPSS" name="Canon EOS R50 V" alt="A Canon EOS R50 V camera." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/uPVaVWdjq6qTovGHEcfPSS.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">This Canon EOS R50 V is built with content creators in mind. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Canon)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="canon-eos-r50-v-2"><span class="title__text"><a href="https://www.space.com/canon-m50-mark-ii-review">Canon EOS R50 V</a></span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best for portability: This camera is super-portable and can be slipped in a pocket, ideal for content creators.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Mirrorless | <strong>Sensor: </strong>24.2MP APS-C | <strong>Lens mount: </strong>RF/RF-S | <strong>ISO Range: </strong>100 – 32,000 | <strong>Viewfinder resolution: </strong>N/A | <strong>Screen size/resolution: </strong>7.5 cm / 3" TFT 1.04 million dots | <strong>Autofocus detection range: </strong>EV -5 to –20 | <strong>Video: </strong>4K 60p / 6K oversampling / Full HD 120p | <strong>Storage: </strong>SD/SDHC/SDXC and UHS-II | <strong>Battery life: </strong>480 shots | <strong>Weight: </strong>0.81 lb / 370g | <strong>Dimensions: </strong>4.6 x 3.5 x 2.3-inches / 116.3 x 88.1 x 58.7mm</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Excellent image and video quality</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Fast autofocus with subject detection</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Compact and lightweight</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">No viewfinder</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Fewer stills options</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You want a compact, portable mirrorless camera: </strong>Despite its size, this camera can use regular Canon RF and RF-S lenses. <br><br><strong>✅ You're a content creator:</strong> It's packed with video features and settings, for capturing footage on the go.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You're shooting nothing but stills: </strong>This camera does have options for stills, but the bulk of its scene settings are geared towards video. <br><br>❌ <strong>You're buying just for astrophotography: </strong>Compared to some Canon cameras, its ISO range could be better.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Canon EOS R50 V:</strong> A serious step up from a smartphone, this camera has enough features and functionality to take your video and vlogging to the next level, and it captures high-quality stills too. ★★★★</p></div></div><p>Looking for powerful but portable camera you can slip in your pocket? Granted, you'll have to detact the Canon R50 V's lenses before you tuck it away in your coat, but at 4.6 x 3.5 x 2.3-inches, it's an impressively powerful piece of kit. The evolution of the Canon R50, it takes regular RF and RF-S lenses and, like its predecessor, is built with content creators in mind.</p><p>How is the Canon R50 V so small? The lack of a viewfinder is one concession to size. Instead, you'll have to rely on the rear LCD screen. That's not to say you have to behind the lens, however. With its video capabilities, powerful microphone and included vertical and horizontal tripod, the R50 V can act as an on-the-go studio. Given that it lacks in-body image stabilization, that tripod could be a real boon.</p><p>It supports UHD 4K, UHD 4K Crop or Full-HD video, with up to 60FPS in crop mode. You can stream live from the camera, via wi-fi or HDMI and as with many of Canon's mid to high-tier camera, its intelligent autofocus can distinguish between targets, ensuring you don't lose focus mid-stream. However, while it has with 7-different video focused modes, there's only one still mode, underlining that this is geared primarily towards video.</p><p><strong>User reviews: </strong></p><p>The Canon EOS R50 V is a relatively new model, so it's not been out in the wild as long as some. However, those who've got their hands on it have been positive about their purchase, with the only grumble being that the timelapse mode is buried within the camera's settings.</p><div ><table><caption>Canon EOS R50 V</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Small and compact. </p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Excellent video and image quality.</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Geared towards video. </p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><ul><li><a href="#main">Back to the top ⤴</a></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-dslr"><span>Best DSLR</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2100px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:57.14%;"><img id="6LomoyouR5Ab6giWBJQLVX" name="canon 5d mk 4.jpg" alt="Canon 5D Mark IV" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/6LomoyouR5Ab6giWBJQLVX.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2100" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is the best DSLR Canon camera. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 2</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="WA7pfpRPurvPYxk2M5Jn43" name="Canon 5D IV resized_0003_FfafmQrhMRALNdwZRS363Y-970-80.jpg.jpg" alt="Canon 5D Mark IV review photo" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/WA7pfpRPurvPYxk2M5Jn43.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The 5D Mark IV is a big and relatively heavy piece of tech for those with smaller hands. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future/Kavi Shah)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="canon-eos-5d-mark-iv-2"><span class="title__text"><a href="https://www.space.com/canon-5d-mark-iv-review">Canon EOS 5D Mark IV</a></span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best DSLR: Ideal for enthusiasts and pro photographers seeking an all-rounder that handles well.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>DSLR | <strong>Sensor: </strong>30.4MP Full-frame CMOS | <strong>Lens mount: </strong>EF (excludes EF-S, EF-M lenses) | <strong>ISO range: </strong>100 – 32,000 (expanded to 50 – 102,400) | <strong>Viewfinder resolution: </strong>N/A - optical viewfinder | <strong>EVF size/resolution: </strong>3.2-inch LCD / 1620K dots | <strong>Autofocus detection range: </strong>EV-3 - 18 | <strong>Video: </strong>4K DCI 30p | <strong>Storage: </strong>Two slots: One CF and one SD slot | <strong>Battery life: </strong>OVF: 900 shots | LCD: 300 shots | <strong>Weight: </strong>28.22 oz. / 800g | <strong>Dimensions: </strong>5.93 x 4.58 x 2.99-inches / 150.7 x 116.4 x 75.9mm</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Pro-level image quality</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Excellent autofocusing system </div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Good ISO performance</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Screen doesn't tilt or flip out</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Big and heavy full frame camera </div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Not amazing for video</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You're looking for a backup camera:</strong> If you're a pro looking for a solid backup camera, you can't go wrong with this one.<br><br><strong>✅ You're a purist: </strong>If you want to focus on the relationship between the user and the camera without any of the fancy features, this camera will help you fall in love with the art of taking photos.<br></p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You're a videographer: </strong>While it can shoot 4K, it doesn't have a tilting screen and the video is cropped.<br><br><strong>❌ You're a beginner:</strong> This camera is aimed at pros and enthusiasts, so if you're a beginner you'll want something more beginner-friendly.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Canon EOS 5D Mark IV:</strong> An excellent upgrade on its predecessor thanks to its new autofocus system and sensor, wider ISO range, touch screen control and built-in Wi-Fi. ★★★★½</p></div></div><p>Although mirrorless cameras seem to be taking over the photography world, there's still a spot for DSLRs in the market. If you consider yourself a purist and place more importance on the photography process than the results or a camera's fancy features, we think you can't go wrong with the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV.</p><p>In our <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/canon-5d-mark-iv-review">Canon EOS 5D Mark IV review</a>, we thought the touchscreen was beautifully reliable, although it's embedded into the camera so it doesn't flip out or tilt up or down at all. If you shoot through the viewfinder then this won't be too much of an issue, but it could prove fiddly when you're shooting astrophotography at awkward angles.</p><p>Another aspect of this camera that's worth mentioning is its heavy weight and large size. This tends to be part and parcel of owning a DSLR camera on the whole, but it's worth keeping in mind if you want a camera for when you travel, or if you shoot handheld a lot and want to keep the weight down.</p><p>We found the 5D Mark IV was great in low light, making it a good option for astrophotography. The RAW files preserve a lot of detail that can be edited and manipulated afterward to produce stunning astro images with vivid color and sharp details. We found there to be noise in the images shot at ISO 1600 and above, which isn't the best on the market, but the noise reduction tools in the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-photo-editing-apps">best photo editing apps</a> are so good nowadays that a bit of noise in astro images is easily fixable.</p><p>It can shoot 4K video — but there's a 'but'. The 4K video is heavily cropped, and the whole process of shooting video without any kind of flip out, articulating or tilt screen can be tiresome very quickly.</p><ul><li><strong>Read our </strong><a href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/skywatching-kit/canon-eos-r5-mark-ii-review"><strong>Canon EOS R5 Mark II review</strong></a></li></ul><div ><table><caption>Canon EOS 5D Mark IV</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Big and bulky.</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Decent ISO performance.</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Doesn't have a tilt or flip out screen.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><ul><li><a href="#main">Back to the top ⤴</a></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-resolution"><span>Best resolution</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="7pBtQWmrzuyY3r3UjWjkbY" name="Listing - EOS R5 MKII" alt="Canon EOS R5 Mark II top view with RF 24mm f/1.4L lens attached" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7pBtQWmrzuyY3r3UjWjkbY.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Canon EOS R5 Mark II's price may put it out of the reach of beginners, but its image quality is hard to beat. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: James Abbott)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="q9VatEZh495Ya2JQCLRtZY" name="_DSF9152" alt="Canon EOS R5 Mark II ports" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/q9VatEZh495Ya2JQCLRtZY.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: James Abbott)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="HswZeA3dsA9Z3yhTsswSVY" name="_DSF9136" alt="Canon EOS R5 Mark II LCD screen" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/HswZeA3dsA9Z3yhTsswSVY.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: James Abbott)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 4 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="GxgxLYjymZrMuaQ2FTxPVY" name="_DSF9144" alt="Canon EOS R5 Mark II top plate screen" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/GxgxLYjymZrMuaQ2FTxPVY.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: James Abbott)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 5 of 5</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="JEPhoJDKbdV7z8WwrwwASY" name="_DSF9148" alt="Canon EOS R5 Mark II memory card slots" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JEPhoJDKbdV7z8WwrwwASY.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: James Abbott)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="canon-eos-r5-mark-ii-2"><span class="title__text"><a href="https://www.space.com/canon-m50-mark-ii-review">Canon EOS R5 Mark II</a></span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best for resolution: At 45 megapixels, the Canon EOS R5 Mark II is hard to beat for image quality.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Mirrorless | <strong>Sensor: </strong>45MP CMOS sensor | <strong>Lens mount: </strong>RF/RF-S | <strong>ISO Range: </strong>100-51200 | <strong>Viewfinder resolution: </strong> 5.76m dot OLED | <strong>Screen size/resolution: </strong>3.2" TFT, 2.1million dots | <strong>Autofocus detection range: </strong>EV -6.5 to –21 | <strong>Video: </strong>4K 60p / 6K oversampling / Full HD 120p | <strong>Storage: </strong>8K up to 60 FPS, 4K up to 120 FPS,2K up to 240 FPS, FHD up to 240 FPS | <strong>Battery life: </strong>LCD 630 shots / VF 340 shots | <strong>Weight: </strong>1.64 lbs / 746 g with card and battery | <strong>Dimensions: </strong>4.6 x 3.5 x 2.3-inches</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You want high-resolution images: </strong>At 45MP, this camera can produce high-resolution, high-quality images, in RAW if need be. <br><br><strong>✅ You want a professional camera:</strong> This camera delivers pro-level features and performance, so you shouldn't grow out of it any time soon.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You're on a budget: </strong>While this camera's quality is hard to beat, it comes with a hefty price tag. <br><br>❌ <strong>You don't need super high resolution: </strong>Consider, instead, the 24.2MP Canon EOS R6 Mark II.</p></div></div><p>As cameras go, the Canon EOS R5 Mark II is one of the best out there, loaded with cutting-edge technology that makes this an ideal camera for professionals and top-level enthusiasts.</p><p>In our review of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/skywatching-kit/canon-eos-r5-mark-ii-review">Canon EOS R5 Mark II</a> we remarked that "the build quality and design can't be faulted, while the features available, including fast and precise autofocus, make it a pleasure to use." Its superb ISO handling means that it excels in low-light conditions, making it excellent for astrophotographers.</p><p>But it's not just an astro camera; the Canon EOS R5 Mark II is a superb all-rounder, capable of producing professional-looking images at up to resolutions of 45MP, RAW format included, aided by Canon's DIGIC Accelerator processor. It supports 8K video capture, with a wealth of connections to get your video and stills off your camera.</p><p>All this does come with a hefty price tag, but you are paying for the pro-level performance and quality that the Canon EOS R5 Mark II delivers.</p><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Canon EOS R5 Mark II:</strong> While its price tag may be put it out of the reach of beginners and even enthusiasts, this is a powerhouse of camera that delivers the performance you pay for. ★★★★<strong>½</strong></p></div></div><ul><li><strong>Read our </strong><a href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/skywatching-kit/canon-eos-r5-mark-ii-review"><strong>Canon EOS R5 Mark II review</strong></a></li></ul><div ><table><caption>Canon EOS R5 Mark II</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Solid build and design</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Advance autofocus<br>Amazing image quality</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ></td></tr></tbody></table></div><ul><li><a href="#main">Back to the top ⤴</a></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-for-beginners"><span>Best for beginners</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 1</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="mrSFZbWM6LUUY9sHL2pkXh" name="Canon EOS RP.jpg" alt="Canon EOS RP on a white background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/mrSFZbWM6LUUY9sHL2pkXh.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Canon EOS RP is the best Canon camera for beginners on a budget. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Canon)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="canon-eos-rp-2"><span class="title__text">Canon EOS RP</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best for beginners: Ideal for beginners who are looking to advance their skills without the more expensive features.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Mirrorless | <strong>Sensor: </strong>26MP full frame CMOS | <strong>Lens mount: </strong>RF (EF/EF-S with adapter) | <strong>ISO range: </strong>100 - 40,000 (expanded to 50 - 102,400) | <strong>Viewfinder resolution: </strong>2,360,000 dots | <strong>Screen size/resolution: </strong>3-inch fully articulating, 1,040,000 dots | <strong>Autofocus detection range: </strong>Up to EV-5 to 18 (with an f/1.2 lens) | <strong>Video: </strong>4K at 25FPS | <strong>Storage: </strong>1 slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC card (UHS-II supported) | <strong>Battery life: </strong>EVF: 210 shots | LCD: 250 | <strong>Weight: </strong>1.07 lb / 485g | <strong>Dimensions: </strong>5.24 x 3.35 x 2.76-inches / 133 x 85 x 70 mm</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Small and lightweight</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Very affordable</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">No image stabilization</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Not suitable for fast action</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">No weather sealing</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You travel a lot:</strong> It's incredibly small and lightweight, making it perfect for on-the-go shooting.<br><br><strong>✅ You shoot people: </strong>The autofocus and tracking performance are great.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You shoot fast action:</strong> The 5FPS burst rate is pretty underwhelming if you want to shoot fast-paced action.<br><br><strong>❌ You shoot for long periods:</strong> The battery life isn't great, so it wouldn't hold up for long shoots.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Canon EOS RP:</strong> Small, lightweight and very affordable, this camera will delight beginners who don't need any of the big features of the pro-grade models. ★★★½</p></div></div><p>The Canon EOS RP is a fantastic option for beginner photographers looking for a neat little camera that produces pleasing images and is easy to use. Of course, it doesn't have all the bells and whistles of the more expensive models, but it's decent enough for beginners to get to grips with while they advance their photography skills.</p><p>The high ISO performance is good (not great), but we think it'll be more than good enough for beginner astrophotographers. The fully articulating screen enables effortless shooting at awkward angles and even has help modes to guide beginners in the right direction.</p><p>Given its lower price point, it'll be no surprise that some of the tastier ingredients from the more expensive models have been left out. For example, there's no weather sealing for protection against the elements and no in-body image stabilization, so you'll need to rely on lenses that have it to get steady shots. It has a relatively short battery life, but this would likely only affect pros who shoot long sessions — for beginners, just stock up on a few spare batteries and it'll be no problem.</p><p>While it can shoot 4K video, the video is cropped considerably and some users have been less impressed with the rolling shutter and poor autofocus performance in their videos. These issues won't be a problem if you shoot astrophotography. Still, if you're looking for a camera to use in all weather for various types of photography, you may want to consider whether these things are dealbreakers.</p><div ><table><caption>Canon EOS RP</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Very small and lightweight.</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Not outstanding, but still likeable.</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Beginner-friendly features.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><ul><li><a href="#main">Back to the top ⤴</a></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-canon-cameras-in-2025"><span>Best Canon cameras in 2025</span></h3><div ><table><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Product</p></th><th ><p>Rating</p></th><th ><p>Type</p></th><th ><p>Sensor</p></th><th ><p>Lens mount</p></th><th ><p>ISO Range</p></th><th ><p>Video</p></th><th ><p>Weight</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Canon EOS R6 Mark II </p></td><td ><p>★★★★★</p></td><td ><p>Mirrorless</p></td><td ><p>24.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor</p></td><td ><p>RF/RF-S</p></td><td ><p>100-102,400</p></td><td ><p>4K up to 60 FPS, 4K/FHD </p></td><td ><p>1.48 lbs / 670 g </p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Canon EOS R3</p></td><td ><p>★★★★½</p></td><td ><p>Mirrorless</p></td><td ><p>BSI stacked 24.1MP full-frame CMOS</p></td><td ><p>RF (EF/EF-s with adapter)</p></td><td ><p>100 – 102,400 (expanded 50 - 204,800)</p></td><td ><p>6K 60FPS</p></td><td ><p>1.81 lbs / 822g</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Canon EOS 6D Mark II</p></td><td ><p>★★★★</p></td><td ><p>DSLR</p></td><td ><p>26.2MP full frame CMOS</p></td><td ><p>EF</p></td><td ><p>EF100 - 40,000 (expanded 50 - 102,400)</p></td><td ><p>1080/60p</p></td><td ><p>24.16 oz. / 685g</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Canon EOS R8</p></td><td ><p>★★★★½</p></td><td ><p>Mirrorless</p></td><td ><p>24.2MP full-frame CMOS</p></td><td ><p>RF (EF/EF-s with adapter)</p></td><td ><p>100 - 102,400 (expanded 50 - 204,800)</p></td><td ><p>4K UHD 59.94 FPS maximum</p></td><td ><p>0.91 lbs / 414g</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Canon EOS 5D Mark IV</p></td><td ><p>★★★★½</p></td><td ><p>DSLR</p></td><td ><p>30.4MP Full-frame CMOS</p></td><td ><p>EF (excludes EF-S, EF-M lenses)</p></td><td ><p>100 – 32,000 (expanded to 50 – 102,400)</p></td><td ><p>4K DCI 30p</p></td><td ><p>28.22 oz. / 800g</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Canon EOS RP</p></td><td ><p>★★★½</p></td><td ><p>Mirrorless</p></td><td ><p>26MP full frame CMOS</p></td><td ><p>RF (EF/EF-S with adapter)</p></td><td ><p>100 - 40,000 (expanded to 50 - 102,400)</p></td><td ><p>4K at 25FPS</p></td><td ><p>1.07 lb / 485g</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Canon EOS R50 V</p></td><td ><p>★★★★</p></td><td ><p>Mirrorless</p></td><td ><p>24.2 MP APS-C</p></td><td ><p>RF/RF-S</p></td><td ><p>100 – 32,000</p></td><td ><p>4K 60p / 6K oversampling / Full HD 120p</p></td><td ><p>0.81 lb / 370g </p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Canon EOS R5 Mark II</p></td><td ><p>★★★★</p></td><td ><p>Mirrorless</p></td><td ><p>45MP CMOS sensor</p></td><td ><p>RF/RF-S</p></td><td ><p>100-51200</p></td><td ><p>8K up to 60 FPS, 4K up to 120 FPS,2K up to 240 FPS, FHD up to 240 FPS</p></td><td ><p>1.64 lbs / 746 g</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><ul><li><a href="#main">Back to the top ⤴</a></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-canon-camera-faqs"><span>Best Canon camera FAQs</span></h3><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What's the best Canon camera?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>While they all excel in different areas, we think the best Canon camera is the <a href="https://www.space.com/canon-eos-r5-review">Canon EOS R6 Mark II</a>. It's fantastic at everything and while you can get higher resolution Canons, it'll handle whatever you throw at it, low light shooting included.</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What's the best Canon camera for beginners?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>For beginners, we'd recommend the Canon EOS RP if you're on a budget, or the <a href="https://www.space.com/canon-eos-r8-review">Canon EOS R8</a> if you've got a bit more to spend. The RP is more beginner-friendly, but the R8 has more features and will grow with you as your skills advance over time.</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What lenses are the best for astrophotography?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p><a href="https://www.space.com/best-lenses-for-astrophotography">The best lenses for astrophotography</a> require a wide focal length (20mm and below) and low apertures (around f/2.8 and below — the lower the better). This is because you need to let as much light into the lens as possible, and the wide focal length and low aperture enable you to do just that. You can use telephoto lenses for deep-sky astrophotography, but that's something you tend to do once you're more advanced.</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>Should I get a mirrorless or DSLR Canon camera?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>This is all down to personal preference, but many photographers tend to favor mirrorless cameras due to the gradual phasing out of DSLRs. There's absolutely still a spot for DSLRs, but mirrorless cameras are constantly being upgraded and improved over time with some incredible new features, whereas DSLRs aren't. </p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What makes a Canon camera good for astrophotography?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>A good camera for astrophotography has good high ISO performance, produces beautiful colors and highly detailed images and can focus well in low-light. It's also useful to have a fully articulating screen, backlit buttons and special astro features, too. </p><p>But when it comes down to it — the better your camera is at handling noise, the better it'll be for astrophotography. </p></article></section><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-update-log"><span>Update log</span></h3><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-how-we-test-the-best-canon-cameras"><span>How we test the best Canon cameras</span></h3><h2 id="how-we-test-the-best-canon-cameras-2">How we test the best Canon cameras</h2><p>Here at Space.com, we review and test each product individually to ensure you get an honest, hands-on and up-to-date recommendation in our guides. Naturally, we take many factors into account when reviewing cameras and they include performance, design, construction and of course, functionality.</p><p>The best Canon cameras for astrophotography are tested by expert staff and freelance contributors who know their subject areas inside and out. That ensures each camera gets a personal, knowledgeable review with honesty and impartiality so that each model can be judged on price, class and destined use. We wouldn't compare a 60MP full-frame mirrorless camera to a crop-sensor DSLR as it wouldn't be appropriate. However, different models will excel in different areas and each camera may be the best in its class.</p><p>We also like to consider whether a camera features the latest technology, how easy it is to use, and whether or not it's capable of high-quality stills and videos. We would also like to suggest any extra kit or accessories that would enhance the user's experience, which, of course, could benefit you.</p><p>With complete editorial independence, Space.com are here to ensure you get the best buying advice on cameras, whether you should purchase an instrument or not, making our buying guides and reviews reliable and transparent.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/stargazing/best-canon-cameras</link>
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<![CDATA[ Find the best Canon cameras from beginner to professional grade, for any and every budget and photographic style. ]]>
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<pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2025 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Astrophotography]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Stargazing]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Kimberley Lane ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wgPxRk7QLwy5jMKgoTKrHX.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Stephen Cotterell]]></media:credit>
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<title><![CDATA[ 'We are proud to serve our country, both on Earth and in space': NASA astronauts beam home July 4 message from ISS (video) ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_7zpQ6Tq9_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="7zpQ6Tq9"> <div id="botr_7zpQ6Tq9_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>Three NASA astronauts living aboard the International Space Station (ISS) marked Independence Day with a few heartfelt words for their compatriots here on Earth.</p><p>It was written by the American members of the station's current Expedition 73 mission, Nichole Ayers, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/nasa-astronaut-jonny-kim-iss-korean-american">Jonny Kim</a> and Anne McClain.</p><p>All three are members of the U.S military — Ayers is a lieutenant colonel in the Air Force, McClain is an Army colonel and Kim is a lieutenant commander in the Navy, as well as a former SEAL — so Independence Day has a special meaning for them.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1979px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.24%;"><img id="3ZcTAaGHGr27Qq6iPkzJT7" name="1751559403.jpg" alt="two women and a man stand in front of an american flag inside a cramped space station module" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3ZcTAaGHGr27Qq6iPkzJT7.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1979" height="1113" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">NASA astronauts (from left to right) Nichole Ayers, Anne McClain and Jonny Kim deliver a July 4 message from the International Space Station. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: NASA)</span></figcaption></figure><p>"This is a special holiday for me. It just reminds us of the freedom that we get to enjoy and that we have enjoyed for so many years," Ayers said in a 160-second video, which was recorded on June 16 but <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rbymsx1N35k" target="_blank">posted by NASA on Thursday</a> (July 3).</p><p>"Protecting that freedom is important to all of us here as military officers, but also NASA astronauts," she added. "And we are proud to serve our country, both on <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/54-earth-history-composition-and-atmosphere.html">Earth</a> and in space."</p><p>"For me, the Fourth of July represents the responsibilities that we each have — to whom much is given, much is expected," McClain said. "Our forefathers gave us the rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, and every generation must protect that for future generations."</p><p>Kim said the Fourth of July is a "deep day of reflection" for him, an occasion to remember American ideals and honor the sacrifices of those who have helped uphold them.</p><p>"And to those following our mission, the spirit of exploration, just like the spirit of freedom and democracy, is what has made our country so great," he added.</p><p>The trio spoke in front of a large American flag, which they had affixed to an ISS module wall. They also provided more patriotic flair toward the end of the video: All three did a celebratory backflip, revealing socks with a stars-and-stripes theme.</p><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Related Stories:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/13809-photos-space-holidays-astronauts-christmas.html">Holidays in space: an astronaut photo album</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16748-international-space-station.html">International Space Station: Everything you need to know about the orbital laboratory</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/international-space-station/the-ups-and-downs-of-life-in-space-on-the-iss-this-week-june-23-27-2025">The ups and downs of life in space | On the ISS this week June 23 - 27, 2025</a></p></div></div><p>Ayers, McClain and Kim aren't the only Americans currently living on the orbiting lab. It also houses record-setting former NASA astronaut <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/38691-peggy-whitson-astronaut-biography.html">Peggy Whitson</a>, who's now the director of human spaceflight for the Houston-based company Axiom Space.</p><p>Whitson is commanding Axiom's four-person Ax-4 mission, which <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/private-spaceflight/watch-live-axiom-4-astronauts-aboard-spacex-crew-dragon-dock-with-international-space-station">arrived at the ISS on June 26</a> for a roughly two-week stay. Her three crewmates are pilot Shubhanshu Shukla of India; mission specialist Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/22562-european-space-agency.html">European Space Agency</a> astronaut from Poland; and mission specialist Tibor Kapu, who hails from Hungary.</p><p>There are four other people on station at the moment as well, all of them members of Expedition 73: cosmonauts Kirill Peskov, Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritsky, as well as Takuya Onishi of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/22672-japan-aerospace-exploration-agency.html">JAXA</a> (the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency).</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/space-exploration/human-spaceflight/we-are-proud-to-serve-our-country-both-on-earth-and-in-space-nasa-astronauts-beam-home-july-4-message-from-iss-video</link>
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<![CDATA[ NASA astronauts Nichole Ayers, Jonny Kim and Anne McClain marked Independence Day with a few heartfelt words for their compatriots here on Earth. ]]>
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<pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Human Spaceflight]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Space Exploration]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ mwall@space.com (Mike Wall) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Mike Wall ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3ZcTAaGHGr27Qq6iPkzJT7.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[NASA]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[NASA astronauts (from left to right) Nichole Ayers, Anne McClain and Jonny Kim deliver a July 4 message from the International Space Station in 2025.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[NASA astronauts (from left to right) Nichole Ayers, Anne McClain and Jonny Kim deliver a July 4 message from the International Space Station in 2025.]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Save 20% on this early Amazon Prime Day two-in-one Estes model rocket set ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>There's no need for a countdown to Amazon Prime Day for a great model rocket deal as you can save 20% on the two-in-one Estes Tandem rocket set.</p><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.com/Estes-Tandem-X-Flying-Rocket-Launch/dp/B002VLP67S/ref=sr_1_8"><em><strong>Save 20% on the Estes Tandem two-in-one rocket set</strong></em></a><em><strong> when you get it on Amazon.</strong></em></p><p>What's better than one model rocket? Two, of course! You can save 20% and get the lowest price we've seen this year on Estes's Tandem-X rocket set ahead of Amazon Prime Day. This is great value and if you don't want to risk fluctuating prices or stock issues, now is the time to cash in. For your money, you get two rockets, easy-to-assemble model parts, parachutes and the launch pad system. These rockets vary in maximum altitude, with the Crossfire rocket able to soar up to 1150 feet.</p><div class="product"><a data-dimension112="e4ab0448-e44a-4c36-ba7d-0b14fda15831" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Save 20% and get the lowest price we've seen this year on a two-in-one model rocket set from Estes. The Estes Tandem-X Launch set features two rockets, easy-to-assemble parts, a launch pad and parachutes. The Crossfire rocket has a projected maximum altitude of 1150 feet and the Amazon rocket, 600 feet." data-dimension48="Save 20% and get the lowest price we've seen this year on a two-in-one model rocket set from Estes. The Estes Tandem-X Launch set features two rockets, easy-to-assemble parts, a launch pad and parachutes. The Crossfire rocket has a projected maximum altitude of 1150 feet and the Amazon rocket, 600 feet." data-dimension25="$36" href="https://www.amazon.com/Estes-Tandem-X-Flying-Rocket-Launch/dp/B002VLP67S/ref=sr_1_8" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1024px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:99.51%;"><img id="JgYCgJkPX8fjCyseu5VLAE" name="51ZLLuEt9FL._AC_SL1024_.jpg" caption="" alt="" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JgYCgJkPX8fjCyseu5VLAE.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1024" height="1019" attribution="" endorsement="" credit="" class=""></p></div></div></figure></a><p><em></em></p><p><strong>Save 20% </strong>and get the lowest price we've seen this year on a two-in-one model rocket set from Estes. The Estes Tandem-X Launch set features two rockets, easy-to-assemble parts, a launch pad and parachutes. The Crossfire rocket has a projected maximum altitude of 1150 feet and the Amazon rocket, 600 feet.<a class="view-deal button" href="https://www.amazon.com/Estes-Tandem-X-Flying-Rocket-Launch/dp/B002VLP67S/ref=sr_1_8" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-dimension112="e4ab0448-e44a-4c36-ba7d-0b14fda15831" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Save 20% and get the lowest price we've seen this year on a two-in-one model rocket set from Estes. The Estes Tandem-X Launch set features two rockets, easy-to-assemble parts, a launch pad and parachutes. The Crossfire rocket has a projected maximum altitude of 1150 feet and the Amazon rocket, 600 feet." data-dimension48="Save 20% and get the lowest price we've seen this year on a two-in-one model rocket set from Estes. The Estes Tandem-X Launch set features two rockets, easy-to-assemble parts, a launch pad and parachutes. The Crossfire rocket has a projected maximum altitude of 1150 feet and the Amazon rocket, 600 feet." data-dimension25="$36">View Deal</a></p></div><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 1</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="KXpRPuVVGGti8C8MRPYPYE" name="Estes-Tandem-X" alt="Two rockets, one small, red and white and one tall, yellow and black stand next to each other next to a purple box with their picture on the front, all on a white background." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/KXpRPuVVGGti8C8MRPYPYE.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Estes Tandem-X Launch Set is ideal for rocketeers without much, or any, previous experience and is 20% off ahead of Amazon Prime Day. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Amazon)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><p>Amazon Prime Day is fast approaching; it kicks off on July 8, and for the first time ever, it will be a four-day sales event, running through to July 11. It's the online retailer's annual Summer sales event where we usually see sizable discounts across a huge range of products. To make the most of the event, you'll have to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.com/amazonprime">sign up to be a Prime member</a> to gain access to exclusive offers.</p><p>This Estes Tandem-X Launch Set deal is enough to warrant not waiting for the event to start, though. For your money, you get two rockets, a suitable launch set, parachutes and easy-to-assemble parts for the Amazon rocket. The two rockets can reach a projected maximum altitude of 600 and 1150 feet, respectively. You will, however, need a suitable engine, recovery wadding and batteries, which are sold separately.</p><p><strong>Key features: </strong>Two rockets, a launch pad, parachutes and easy-to-assemble parts.</p><p><strong>Price history:</strong> Before today's deal, we've seen this model rocket set retail for as high as $57, but we haven't seen it this low this year. Over the last few years, we've seen it retail for as low as $30. So, this deal is actually good value ahead of Amazon Prime Day.</p><p><strong>Price comparison:</strong> <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.com/Estes-Tandem-X-Flying-Rocket-Launch/dp/B002VLP67S/ref=sr_1_8"><strong>Amazon:</strong> $35.99</a> | <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Estes-001469-Tandem-X-Flying-Model-Rocket-Launch-Set/26766028?classType=REGULAR&from=/search"><strong>Walmart:</strong> $39.99</a></p><p><strong>✅ Buy it if:</strong> You want a two-in-one model rocket set, ideal for those with little to no experience.</p><p><strong>❌ Don't buy it if: </strong>You're an experienced rocketeer and you're in the market for rockets that require an experienced hand.</p><p><em>Check out our other guides to the </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/15693-telescopes-beginners-telescope-reviews-buying-guide.html"><em>best telescopes</em></a><em>, </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/26021-best-binoculars.html"><em>binoculars</em></a><em>, </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-cameras"><em>cameras</em></a><em>, </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-star-projectors"><em>star projectors</em></a><em>, </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-drones"><em>drones</em></a><em>, </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-lego-space-sets"><em>lego</em></a><em> and much more.</em></p><ul><li><em><strong>We're constantly checking the best prices on our</strong></em><a href="https://www.space.com/best-black-friday-deals-sales"><em><strong> </strong></em></a><em><strong>page for big discounts on the </strong></em><a href="https://www.space.com/15693-telescopes-beginners-telescope-reviews-buying-guide.html"><em><strong>best telescopes</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://www.space.com/26021-best-binoculars.html"><em><strong>binoculars</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://www.space.com/best-star-projectors"><em><strong>star projectors</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://www.space.com/best-cameras"><em><strong>cameras</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://www.space.com/best-drones"><em><strong>drones</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://www.space.com/38810-best-lego-deals.html"><em><strong>Lego</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://www.space.com/streaming-deals-guide"><em><strong>streaming</strong></em></a><em><strong> and more.</strong></em></li></ul> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/technology/save-20-percent-on-this-early-amazon-prime-day-two-in-one-estes-model-rocket-set</link>
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<![CDATA[ If you're looking for early Amazon Prime Day model rocket deals, then getting 20% off this Estes two-in-one set could be what you're looking for. ]]>
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<pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2025 09:20:17 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ acox@space.com (Alexander Cox) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Alexander Cox ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/XqHVEDJngQCVvGMuhJ5jC5.jpg">
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<media:text><![CDATA[Two rockets stand side by side, one smaller, one larger, next to a purple box with their picture on the front, on a blue planet background with the space.com logo in the top left corner.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Two rockets stand side by side, one smaller, one larger, next to a purple box with their picture on the front, on a blue planet background with the space.com logo in the top left corner.]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Best Star Wars costumes for kids and adults in 2025 ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>The vast galaxy of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/star-wars-movies-in-order">Star Wars</a> merchandising out there has something for everyone, and that includes costumes and outfits that you don't need to make from scratch. The Force might be powerful with many cosplayers, but not all of us have the time, credits, and/or expertise required to go handmade.</p><p>We've jumped to hyperspace to find the best Star Wars costumes for kids and adults that you can get right now, all without having to borrow money from the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://starwars.fandom.com/wiki/Hutt">Hutts</a>. Some are full costumes ready to be used if you're in a rush; others are more like collector's items you can sporadically use as part of costumes too.</p><p>The list below has been put together in no specific order, and we've tried to find a sweet spot between cost, quality, and coolness. They all should be available to buy now and in the near future. If your pockets are full of extra credits, you may want to take a look at the best <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-lightsabers">lightsabers</a> and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-lego-star-wars-sets">best Lego Star Wars sets</a> available as well.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-the-quick-list"><span>The Quick List</span></h3> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="6710f17c-7ca8-4deb-b4df-01e792c56b3a"> <a href="https://www.disneystore.com/stormtrooper-costume-for-kids-star-wars-5502041610154M.html" data-model-name="Disney Stormtrooper Costume for Kids" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/4HUL2fJMV2oiBvuZ4WHeQP.jpg' alt="A white robotic costume featuring black eyes and mouth is worn by someone in front of an orange background."><span class='featured__label hero__label'>First Order Stormtrooper </span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">First Order Stormtrooper costume for kids</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Ideal for little ones who love the sequel trilogy, the First Order Stormtrooper costume is everything you need and an official Disney product.</p><p><a href="#section-first-order-stormtrooper-costume-for-kids"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="0f2bc406-2dde-4d94-a4be-9865121164cc"> <div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/TEcx48JAvKmaAuYRTcvkNP.jpg' alt="A white dress with the iconic blue design of R2-D2 across the front and shoulders."><span class='featured__label hero__label'>R2-D2 Dress for Kids</span></p></div> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">RD-D2 'Play Story' Dress For Kids</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>While this isn't strictly a costume, it's well suited for kids who want to dress up but don't want to wear a full costume. Plus, R2-D2 is hard to cosplay as, anyway.</p><p><a href="#section-r2-d2-play-story-dress-for-kids"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="7ac42cf5-ee64-434f-a0e8-a5971b943308"> <div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:56.26%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/2ckCtu7u6KEwUEasvvpqQP.jpg' alt="A dark and white wavy pattern is featured on a cloak with a large hood on a white background."><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Padmé Amidala's Cloak for Adults</span></p></div> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Padmé Amidala's Cloak for Adults</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Fancy-looking for fancy dress, this Padmé Amidala Cloak for Adults can be worn as a costume, as part of one or separately as its own thing.</p><p><a href="#section-padme-amidala-cloak"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="ddad1dba-5b26-4a37-a788-5d2ebad57a3a"> <div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LzDZWh2edibNpeyEwgRsQP.jpg' alt="A realistic replica of a white robotic helmet with orange on the forehead and black eyes is placed next to a figure of the same clone/robot wearing the helmet."><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Clone Trooper voice-changing helmet</span></p></div> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">212th Clone Trooper Battalion voice-changing helmet</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Part of the costume and not the whole thing, this Clonetrooper helmet offers strong sound effects play and is a very realistic look.</p><p><a href="#section-clone-trooper-voice-changing-helmet"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="d40465ce-144e-44f2-97b4-f54dd397b6f4"> <div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/KjQ5jqz4H3akTeFp8mwhPP.jpg' alt="A model is dressed in cream/beige robes with white strapping on both forearms and a brown leather belt across the waist."><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Rey costume for adults</span></p></div> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Rey (The Force Awakens) costume for adults</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>This one is for the adult fans of the sequel trilogy, Rey's costume for adults comes with the belt and pouch to complete her look from The Force Awakens.</p><p><a href="#section-rey-the-force-awakens-costume-for-adults"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="84167a87-2bcf-4f7b-96ab-9ba26b572935"> <div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/46aah9winv985fvn4d66NP.jpg' alt="An inflatable green alien with pointy ears is popping out of an inflatable silver pram/dome."><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Inflatable Grogu costume for adults</span></p></div> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Inflatable Grogu costume for adults</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Who doesn't love Grogu (Baby Yoda)? Who doesn't love a novelty costume? You'll stand out with this inflatable Grogu costume for adults, featuring his hover pram.</p><p><a href="#section-inflatable-grogu-costume-for-adults"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div><div class="collapsible-block-start"></div><div class="collapsible-block-title"load-4-more-products"><p>Load 4 more products</p></div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="ddc125b7-a891-4e56-a5ae-982c6035bf3a"> <div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/sUVAh7EYVt9ZFqZGWo2wLP.jpg' alt="A man wearing a dark brown robe on top of beige overalls with a brown leather belt and a hood on a white background."><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Premium Jedi costume for adults</span></p></div> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Premium Jedi costume for adults</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>A classic. You can't go wrong with looking like a Jedi. And, with this generic but premium costume, you can cosplay as whichever Jedi you like.</p><p><a href="#section-premium-jedi-costume-for-adults"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="d2b643bf-e7ae-416e-ac80-54b2f39c50ee"> <div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/afYBVJ6R5nWC6wLNkLk5NP.jpg' alt="A silvery white dress featuring a patterned belt is worn by a model wearing a wig with two buns on either side."><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Princess Leia costume for girls</span></p></div> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Princess Leia costume for girls</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>Simple but effective, this Princess Leia costume is fully licensed, affordable and it comes with the iconic wig featuring buns on either side.</p><p><a href="#section-princess-leia-costume-for-girls"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="b9083ea6-93ed-432b-8542-f7628cf010e1"> <div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wA6kMSuKuPddPqKAdVLrQP.jpg' alt="A white robotic costume complete with white mask and black eyes next to a shiny silver metallic costume with silver mask and black eyes, next to the same costume but in green. "><span class='featured__label hero__label'>The Mandalorian youth dress-up box</span></p></div> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">The Mandalorian youth dress-up box</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>If you want value for money or you need more than one costume in a hurry, this three-in-one costume box featuring three major characters from the franchise is what you need.</p><p><a href="#section-the-mandalorian-youth-dress-up-box"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="5e0b6c15-da7e-4e5d-8761-184d694b8ffe"> <div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/znVyiUPzCTvtP6EUDJ5BPP.jpg' alt="A close up of a shiny black helmet with a mask attached with a triangular mouth piece on a white background."><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Darth Vader premium accessory helmet</span></p></div> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Darth Vader premium accessory helmet</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p>We couldn't have a Star Wars costume guide and not feature Darth Vader, right? This premium mask is one-size-fits-all with an adjustable strap and gives a realistic look.</p><p><a href="#section-darth-vader-premium-accessory-helmet-for-adults"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div><div class="collapsible-block-end"></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-first-order-stormtrooper-costume-for-kids"><span>First Order Stormtrooper Costume For Kids</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="y4e4yXnjY2Q4Y9eseejUSP" name="Stormtrooper-Costume" alt="A white robotic costume featuring black eyes and mouth is worn by someone in front of an orange background." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/y4e4yXnjY2Q4Y9eseejUSP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Disney)</span></figcaption></figure><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="first-order-stormtrooper-costume-for-kids-2"><span class="title__text">First Order Stormtrooper Costume For Kids</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Officially licensed and all-in-one, this is the ideal costume for any young Star Wars fanatic.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Price: </strong>$59.99 | <strong>Age: </strong>3-13 Years | <strong>Extras: </strong> Detachable parts, hard plastic mask, no blaster</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">All-in-one costume for kids</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Comes with hard plastic mask</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Not the highest quality</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">doesn't come with blaster</div></div><p>Something is alluring about the dark side of the Force, and stormtrooper costumes have become and remained super famous over the decades. When the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/star-wars-movies-ranked-worst-to-best">Star Wars sequels</a> kicked off in 2015, stormtroopers got a modern refresh <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/star-wars-timeline#section-rise-of-the-first-order-34-aby-35-aby">as the First Order rose to power</a> and began fighting the New Republic and the Resistance.</p><p>This costume for children of all ages (if the Force is with you when it comes to stock) is a quick and hassle-free way to let your kid become one of the bad guys just for one day; just make sure to bring them back to the light once they're done having fun. It contains a bodysuit, the iconic helmet mask, a detachable belt, and shoulder pauldrons. It's made to be flexible, durable, and easy to use, which is exactly why you shouldn't expect top-notch quality from this one. This is a traditional children's costume.</p><p>We'd also have liked to see a toy replica of a Stormtrooper blaster included, but if you're looking for one, we think the <strong>Star Wars Nerf Episode VII First Order Stormtrooper Deluxe Blaster</strong> is a great fit (you can get it on <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Star-Wars-Nerf-Episode-VII-First-Order-Stormtrooper-Deluxe-Blaster/45057791">Walmart</a>).</p><ul><li><strong>Buy on </strong><a href="https://www.disneystore.com/stormtrooper-costume-for-kids-star-wars-5502041610154M.html"><strong>Disney Store</strong></a><strong>.</strong></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-r2-d2-play-story-dress-for-kids"><span>R2-D2 play story dress for kids</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="fEng2es4jrKECWq7nb5CPP" name="R2D2-dress" alt="A white dress with the iconic blue design of R2-D2 across the front and shoulders." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/fEng2es4jrKECWq7nb5CPP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Disney)</span></figcaption></figure><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="rd-d2-play-story-dress-for-kids-2"><span class="title__text">RD-D2 ‘Play Story’ Dress For Kids</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>A hybrid, this dress works for those who want to show their love of Star Wars, but don't want a full-blown costume.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Price: </strong>$49.99 | <strong>Age: </strong>3-14 | <strong>Key info: </strong>Washable, shimmery mesh overlay, blue satin trim</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Different from typical Star Wars costumes</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Ideal if you want to wear a dress instead of a usual costume</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Part of a wider collection</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Not a typical Star Wars costume</div></div><p>Another Star Wars character you can't go wrong with is R2-D2, but cosplaying as an astromech droid is... difficult to say the least. You can, however, evoke the iconic design of our favorite blue-and-white droid hero with the right clothing, and Disney's R2-D2 "play story" dress for kids gets the job done perfectly, at least for children.</p><p>This princess-like dress has a cute face & metallic control panel design on the chest section. Together with some nice trims and extra details evocative of R2-D2, it's the rare sort of costume-like piece of clothing that can be worn casually. Mind you, this isn't an actual Star Wars costume, but if your kid wants something that shouts "I love Star Wars!" but isn't restricted to parties, Halloween, and other celebrations, you can't go wrong with this one.</p><p>Moreover, this dress is part of the "Star Wars Story Play Collection", which also includes a <strong>C-3PO dress for women</strong> available on the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.disneystore.com/c-3po-dress-for-women-star-wars-disney-parks-dress-shop-5101107050566M.html"><u>Disney Store</u></a>, so adults are covered too.</p><ul><li><strong>Buy on </strong><a href="https://www.disneystore.com/r2-d2-star-wars-story-play-dress-for-kids-5002057390857M.html"><strong>Disney Store</strong></a><strong>.</strong></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-padme-amidala-cloak"><span>Padme Amidala cloak</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="2ckCtu7u6KEwUEasvvpqQP" name="Padme-Cloack" alt="A dark and white wavy pattern is featured on a cloak with a large hood on a white background." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/2ckCtu7u6KEwUEasvvpqQP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Disney)</span></figcaption></figure><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="padme-amidala-s-cloak-for-adults-2"><span class="title__text">Padmé Amidala's Cloak for Adults</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>One for the adults, this cloak can be its own costume or as part of something fancier, but it is expensive.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Price: </strong>$149.99 | <strong>Size: </strong>XXS-3XL | <strong>Extra info: </strong>Clasp at neck, Valour fabric, </p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Looks fancy</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Isn't restricted to just a costume</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Not instantly recognizable</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Other iconic looks available for less</div></div><p>It'd be silly to put together a list of Star Wars costumes and leave Padmé Amidala's memorable wardrobe entirely out of it, which is why we've looked for something worth spending extra money on. Like or hate <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/star-wars-movies-in-order#section-star-wars-movies-in-chronological-order">Episode II: Attack of the Clones</a>, you have to admit Senator Amidala's many outfits were great.</p><p>This cloak is directly based on one of her many looks in that movie. Although it's not the full costume you might be looking for, we think it's a pretty awesome piece of Star Wars clothing that can be part of a fancier costume or just a more expensive addition to your collection that you can wear whenever. Get ready to put extra credits down for this one, though.</p><p>Per the description (and as seen in the pictures), the fabric is voluminous, especially when walking, and the hood is slightly oversized for extra coolness. This isn't a cloak inspired by Star Wars clothing. <em>It is </em>Star Wars clothing, and we believe there are huge market opportunities in that space if Disney wants to go down that path in the future.</p><ul><li><strong>Buy on </strong><a href="https://www.disneystore.com/padme-amidala-cloak-for-adults-star-wars-5500040730084MS.html"><strong>Disney Store</strong></a><strong>.</strong></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-clone-trooper-voice-changing-helmet"><span>Clone Trooper voice changing helmet</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="apX6h3dxiA7KRWLeLnwGRP" name="Clonetrooper-Helmet" alt="A realistic replica of a white robotic helmet with orange on the forehead and black eyes is placed next to a figure of the same clone/robot wearing the helmet." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/apX6h3dxiA7KRWLeLnwGRP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Disney)</span></figcaption></figure><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="212th-clone-trooper-battalion-voice-changing-helmet-2"><span class="title__text">212th Clone Trooper Battalion voice-changing helmet</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>The iconic look with voice changing sound effects, what's not to like?</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Price: </strong>$99.99 | <strong>Ages: </strong>8+ | <strong>Extra info: </strong>Full-scale, padded interior, AA batteries included</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Iconic look</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Suitable for adults and teens</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Voice changing is cool</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Not the cheapest</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Suitable for 8+ but aimed at adults</div></div><p>Clone troopers are also among the coolest characters introduced into the Star Wars canon by the prequels, and diehards have a hard time keeping track of every clone trooper group that battled for the Republic during the Clone Wars until the day that Order 66 came into effect. Everyone knows the clones that served alongside General Obi-Wan Kenobi on Utapau, though.</p><p>If you're a big fan of the 212<sup>th</sup> clone trooper battalion or simply love the Grand Army of the Republic, this voice-changing helmet for adults is an awesome collector's item that can also be part of an expensive cosplay, if you're into spending all the time and money to become a real-life clone trooper.</p><p>It's a full-scale replica that looks just like the model seen in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-movies-shows/planning-on-rewatching-revenge-of-the-sith-for-its-20th-anniversary-heres-why-the-clone-wars-finale-makes-it-a-better-movie">Revenge of the Sith</a>, and you might be surprised to learn it includes a 60-second voice-changing effect, pre-recorded character phrases, and a padded interior which makes it comfortable to wear if you're more of an aspiring trooper that likes to run around with the armor on. It also comes with three AA batteries, which are required to power the helmet.</p><ul><li><strong>Buy on </strong><a href="https://www.disneystore.com/212th-battalion-clone-trooper-voice-changing-helmet-with-sound-effects-star-wars-418148204189.html"><strong>Disney Store</strong></a><strong>.</strong></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-rey-the-force-awakens-costume-for-adults"><span>Rey (The Force Awakens) costume for adults</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="uEU7KzoxhD2YB8yqwvCGQP" name="Rey-Costume" alt="A model is dressed in cream/beige robes with white strapping on both forearms and a brown leather belt across the waist." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/uEU7KzoxhD2YB8yqwvCGQP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Target)</span></figcaption></figure><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="rey-the-force-awakens-costume-for-adults-2"><span class="title__text">Rey (The Force Awakens) Costume For Adults</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>This costume, aimed at adult fans of the sequel trilogy, features some nice details.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Price: </strong>$102.98 | <strong>Size: </strong>XS-XL | <strong>Extra info: </strong>Secured belt/pouch, officially licensed</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Complete Rey costume</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Officially licenses</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">looks great</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Expensive</div></div><p>Another Star Wars character we can't ignore, if we're talking costumes, is the Skywalker heir, Rey from Jakku (or Palpatine if you're following her bloodline). The last <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/history-of-the-jedi-order-in-star-wars">Jedi</a> and new hope for the Order are said to be key to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-movies-shows/every-new-star-wars-movie-officially-announced">the future of the franchise</a>, so she won't be going out of fashion anytime soon.</p><p>We've seen plenty of both stunning Rey cosplays and cheap costumes for almost a full decade now, but complete pre-made costumes that don't look terrible have been a bit harder to find. Luckily for you, we've come across a pretty convincing option that's officially licensed and is just <em>slightly </em>expensive.</p><p>This Rey costume has everything you'd want from a recreation of her Jakku look, minus her desert staff (or <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-lightsabers#section-best-anakin">the Skywalker lightsaber</a>), and that's why we think it's worth looking into despite the steep-ish price tag. We're especially happy with the belt, mask, and bag; those elements are often ignored and/or of very poor quality in other costumes. If you don't have the time or patience required to craft a Rey cosplay from scratch, we think this is the next best thing.</p><ul><li><strong>Buy on </strong><a href="https://www.target.com/p/halloweencostumes-com-star-wars-the-force-awakens-women-s-rey-costume-star-wars-costumes/-/A-94066398?preselect=94066408"><strong>Target</strong></a><strong>.</strong></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-inflatable-grogu-costume-for-adults"><span>Inflatable Grogu costume for adults</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="Bi4T2WyKZAYXLRKb9jygQP" name="Grogu" alt="An inflatable green alien with pointy ears is popping out of an inflatable silver pram/dome." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Bi4T2WyKZAYXLRKb9jygQP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Target)</span></figcaption></figure><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="inflatable-grogu-costume-for-adults-2"><span class="title__text">Inflatable Grogu costume for adults</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Who doesn't love Grogu? Who doesn't love novelty? If you want to stand out, this is the way.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Price: </strong>$101.73 | <strong>Size: </strong>One size fits most | <strong>Extra info: </strong>requires AA batteries (not included), officially licensed</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">You stand out</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Fun, goofy costume</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Grogu is a fan favorite</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">You'll probably be quite warm quite quickly</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Expensive</div></div><p>We all love Grogu, don't we? Especially kids. Well, here's a twist: The best costume we've found based on our little green friend was made for adults. Goofy adults, that is.</p><p>This is yet another officially licensed costume, but it's far simpler than previous entries in its design: You just have to stick yourself into what's essentially a giant balloon. Yes, you'll be Grogu inside his hover-pram. But, of course, you won't be floating, but using your own legs to walk/run around without bumping into too many folks, hopefully.</p><p>It's hard to imagine anyone wearing this inflatable, comically oversized costume for a whole day in a warm environment, but we wanted an off-beat, surprising pick on this list, and we instantly fell in love with this item. While everyone is looking to become Din Djarin for Halloween, this is the costume that will make you the center of attention ahead of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/everything-we-know-about-the-mandalorian-and-grogu">The Mandalorian & Grogu</a>.</p><ul><li><strong>Buy on </strong><a href="https://www.target.com/p/halloweencostumes-com-one-size-fits-most-adult-the-mandalorian-inflatable-grogu-costume-tv-show-costumes-green-gray-brown/-/A-92448634"><strong>Target</strong></a><strong>.</strong></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-premium-jedi-costume-for-adults"><span>Premium Jedi costume for adults</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="VSrxDzU3KBoR4FC95RfjPP" name="Jedi-costume" alt="A man wearing a dark brown robe on top of beige overalls with a brown leather belt and a hood on a white background." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/VSrxDzU3KBoR4FC95RfjPP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Target)</span></figcaption></figure><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="premium-jedi-costume-for-adults-2"><span class="title__text">Premium Jedi costume for adults</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>The good thing about a generic Jedi outfit is you can be any Jedi you want to be. But you'll part with a fair few credits.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Price: </strong>$157.98 | <strong>Size: </strong>XS-XL | <strong>Extra info: </strong>Cotton shirt and pants, detailed belt</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Is a premium costume</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Detailed belt</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Very expensive</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Doesn't come with lightsaber</div></div><p>Strong with the Force or not, everyone would love to get a shot at becoming a Jedi. This costume makes living that fantasy much easier, and we dig that it's a generic Jedi outfit instead of a more specific costume based on a famous character from the movies. While the price tag is on the steep side, we love the extra details and many layers this costume has, all while leaving space for custom finishing touches you may want to add.</p><p>These are the classic Jedi robes as seen in the prequels, and every piece of clothing in this full costume is textured enough to be believable without becoming ridiculously expensive. It's not a cheap option either, but we love a good investment, and these clothes could serve you well for many years... as long as you're done growing up.</p><p>Its biggest negative? There's no lightsaber included, so you'll have to go through our <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-lightsabers">best lightsabers list</a> to complete your Jedi training and become one with the Force.</p><ul><li><strong>Buy on </strong><a href="https://www.target.com/p/halloweencostumes-com-adult-star-wars-premium-jedi-costume-star-wars-costumes/-/A-1000015192"><strong>Target</strong></a><strong>.</strong></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-princess-leia-costume-for-girls"><span>Princess Leia costume for girls</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="oK3ds5ykPWSsQjUp22w3PP" name="Leia-Costume" alt="A silvery white dress featuring a patterned belt is worn by a model wearing a wig with two buns on either side." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/oK3ds5ykPWSsQjUp22w3PP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Target)</span></figcaption></figure><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="princess-leia-costume-for-girls-2"><span class="title__text">Princess Leia costume for girls</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>An affordable all-in-one, this even comes with a wig featuring the iconic buns on either side.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Price: </strong>$45.48 | <strong>Size: </strong>S-L | <strong>Extra info: </strong>Officially licensed, wig included, vinyl belt</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Affordable</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Officially licensed</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Wig with buns included</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">More detailed options available</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Not the highest quality</div></div><p>If we're being honest, this Leia costume isn't the most detailed option around, but it's great value at under $50, and we know Star Wars fans, especially those with young ones in their family, appreciate such picks.</p><p>Things are kept really simple here: You've got the classic Princess Leia dress from A New Hope, a nice belt that's evocative enough of the one Carrie Fisher had in the flick, and a wig with the iconic buns that we weren't expecting at all. It's neither low-quality nor top-notch stuff, which makes it sort of perfect for one or two Halloween parties and other celebrations.</p><p>Again, this costume doesn't come with a blaster, so that's a separate bit of shopping that you'll have to do if you want the little Leia in your life to defend herself against the evil Imperial forces.</p><ul><li><strong>Buy on </strong><a href="https://www.target.com/p/halloweencostumes-com-star-wars-classic-princess-leia-girl-s-costume-star-wars-costumes/-/A-92448529"><strong>Target</strong></a><strong>.</strong></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-the-mandalorian-youth-dress-up-box"><span>The Mandalorian youth dress up box</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="PaWg48sPYhETqaUdQCw3SP" name="Kids-pack-costumes" alt="A white robotic costume complete with white mask and black eyes next to a shiny silver metallic costume with silver mask and black eyes, next to the same costume but in green." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/PaWg48sPYhETqaUdQCw3SP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Amazon)</span></figcaption></figure><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="the-mandalorian-youth-dress-up-box-din-djarin-boba-fett-and-stormtrooper-2"><span class="title__text">The Mandalorian youth dress-up box: Din Djarin, Boba Fett, and stormtrooper</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>What's better than one Star Wars costume? Three Star Wars costumes!</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Price: </strong>$49.99 | <strong>Size: </strong>M | <strong>Extra info: </strong>Officially licensed, three costumes in one</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Three costumes in one</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Officially licensed</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Not many sizes available</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Doesn't look premium</div></div><p>What's better than a costume below $50? Three costumes, of course. This officially licensed three-pack from Jazwares won't blow anyone away, but if you have kids who desperately need to dress up as the most iconic masked Star Wars characters around, you won't have much to complain about. Din Djarin, Boba Fett, and a random stormtrooper are all effectively evoked by these simple outfits.</p><p>These are four-piece costumes with long-sleeved tops and simple printed designs, which is basic stuff, but also means they can be easily upgraded with extra items over time or right away. No pants included for any of these three fits, though, so make sure you've got something that goes well with them lying around.</p><p>Needless to say, you won't find any blasters here either. This is a barebones pack that will save anyone in a pickle or looking to make young Star Wars happy for a day, but look elsewhere for genuinely convincing costumes.</p><ul><li><strong>Buy on </strong><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Mandalorian-Child-Halloween-Costume-Dress-Up/dp/B09PKLHL8B/"><strong>Amazon</strong></a><strong>.</strong></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-darth-vader-premium-accessory-helmet-for-adults"><span>Darth Vader premium accessory helmet for adults</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="TbsXLcvuknNQ7GBWefMePP" name="Vader-helmet" alt="A close up of a shiny black helmet with a mask attached with a triangular mouth piece on a white background." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/TbsXLcvuknNQ7GBWefMePP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Amazon)</span></figcaption></figure><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="darth-vader-premium-accessory-helmet-for-adults-2"><span class="title__text">Darth Vader premium accessory helmet for adults</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Rule the galaxy and fulfil your destiny with this premium, officially licensed Darth Vader helmet.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Price: </strong>$99.99 | <strong>Size: </strong>One size fits most | <strong>Extra info: </strong>Officially licensed, adjustable</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Iconic look</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">High quality helmet</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Officially licensed</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Not a one-piece item</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">No sound FX</div></div><p>We just couldn't wrap this list up without a Darth Vader item or costume, and it turns out Jazwares' Vader helmet — based on the iconic villain's look in the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/obi-wan-kenobi-episode-1-and-2-review">Obi-Wan Kenobi series</a> — is a pretty sweet deal that would make any <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/history-of-the-sith-order-in-star-wars">Sith lord</a> excited.</p><p>Here's the thing: This Darth Vader helmet/mask isn't a one-piece, heavy replica like the ones you get from Hasbro's Black Series, but the quality of the plastic is good, and it's built in a way that makes it good for both serious cosplay and sitting on a shelf along with other collector's Star Wars items. We imagine most buyers will prioritize putting it on display versus wearing it, but it feels perfect as the key item of a complete Vader costume.</p><p>This one's aimed at adults, and while you won't be able to order different sizes, the band inside the helmet allows you to adjust it to fit your head. No sound FX bonuses either, so don't expect to magically obtain James Earl Jones' voice with it.</p><ul><li><strong>Buy on </strong><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Star-Wars-Costume-Accessory-Style/dp/B0CQ311CD1/"><strong>Amazon</strong></a><strong>.</strong></li></ul> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/entertainment/best-star-wars-costumes-for-kids-and-adults</link>
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<![CDATA[ If you want to become a Jedi, a Sith, or a bounty hunter without muchhassle, check out the best Star Wars costumes you can buy right now. ]]>
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<pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2025 08:11:50 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Fran Ruiz ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ZwiJwuDtLcdTBdnp3sCim4.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Future]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A white dress featuring a blue design of a droid is adjacent to an inflatable green alien while underneath a black robotic head and shoulders in a triangular formation, all on an orange planet background.]]></media:text>
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<title><![CDATA[ Very massive stars vomit vast amounts of matter before collapsing into black holes ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Very massive stars that collapse to create black holes may vomit out much more material during their short lives than we previously thought.</p><p>To fit with astronomical observations of these stars, which have masses over 100 times that of<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/42649-solar-mass.html"> the sun</a>, a team of scientists has estimated that <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/41313-most-massive-star.html">very massive stars</a> must have <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/22215-solar-wind.html">stellar winds</a> far more powerful than has been estimated in the past. These winds should be powerful enough to blow the outer layers of these monstrous stars into space.</p><p>The team's modeling revealed how stellar binaries can lead to mergers between stars that forge single, very massive stars. They also explored how stronger stellar winds impact <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/15421-black-holes-facts-formation-discovery-sdcmp.html">black hole</a> populations, pointing away from the formation of elusive <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/37299-missing-link-intermediate-mass-black-holes.html">intermediate-mass black holes.</a></p><p>"Very massive stars are like the 'rock stars' of the universe — they are powerful, and they live fast and die young," team member Kendall Shepherd, a researcher at the Institute for Advanced Study in Italy (known by its Italian acronym, SISSA), told Space.com. "For these very massive stars, their stellar wind is more like a hurricane than a light breeze."</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_tnJUCnOo_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="tnJUCnOo"> <div id="botr_tnJUCnOo_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>While our average-sized sun is expected to live for around <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/14732-sun-burns-star-death.html">10 billion years</a>, very massive stars burn through their <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/22437-main-sequence-star.html">nuclear fuel</a> faster, living for just a few million years, or even a few hundred thousand years.</p><p>Studying such behemoths is important because they have a profound impact on their environments despite their short lives, Shepherd said.</p><p>"The strong winds of very massive stars and their eventual <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/6638-supernova.html">supernova explosions</a> eject newly formed elements into the environment," she said. "Many of these elements form the basis of new stars, while others, like carbon and oxygen, are the building blocks of life.</p><p>"They are also the progenitors of black holes, including the black hole binaries that merge and produce <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/25088-gravitational-waves.html">gravitational waves</a> that we detect on Earth."</p><h2 id="the-rock-star-mass-loss-diet-2">The Rock Star mass-loss diet</h2><p>In the new research, Shepherd and her colleagues analyzed theoretical and observational studies of very massive stars.</p><p>"Such massive stars are so incredibly rare, and so few observational constraints existed," Shepherd said. "With the help of space and ground-based telescopes, researchers were recently finally able to directly observe several stars in the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/11180-hubble-telescope-photos-tarantula-nebula.html">Tarantula Nebula</a> of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/25450-large-magellanic-cloud.html">Large Magellanic Cloud</a> with masses above 100 times our sun’s mass for the first time."</p><p>Those previous studies found that the most massive stars in the Tarantula Nebula are a rare hot and bright type of mostly stripped <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/32689-massive-wolf-rayet-stars-not-fully-understood.html">Wolf-Rayet stars</a> (WNh stars) at the end of their hydrogen-burning phase, meaning they show leftover hydrogen on their surface.</p><p>"These stars were found to be very hot, around 72,540 to 90,000 degrees Fahrenheit (40,000 to 50,000 degrees Celsius). That's a little too hot! Standard models predict that, as the stars age, they should expand and cool down, in contrast to what the new observations showed," Shepherd said. "Researchers put the two pieces together and used the observed properties to calibrate a mass-loss 'recipe' to combine the theory and observation."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:3047px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:102.20%;"><img id="DKaTnhfnxVsdeG66AhRSTk" name="tarantula-nebula-herrmann.jpg" alt="image of a purple, glowing nebula in deep space" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DKaTnhfnxVsdeG66AhRSTk.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="3047" height="3114" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">The Tarantula Nebula is located in the southern constellation Dorado (Dolphin Fish), 160,000 light-years from Earth. It's home to massive hot stars. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: <a href="http://OwlMountainObservatory.com/">Fred Herrmann</a> | <a href="http://OwlMountainObservatory.com/"> Owl Mountain Observatory </a>)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The team worked this recipe into their stellar evolution code, known as PARSEC (PAdova and tRieste Stellar Evolution Code), to create a new model accounting for the massive stars of the Tarantula Nebula.</p><p>"Our new models featuring stronger stellar winds are now able to match the observations and theory. The strong winds strip away the star’s outer layers, preventing it from cooling down, while maintaining the surface composition matching a WNh star," Shepherd explained. "The star stays more compact and hot for longer, exactly reproducing what observations show."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2500px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.24%;"><img id="vrJkm9mWEgum396hfbWEPN" name="r136a1-size-compare.jpg" alt="Four spheres of red, orange, light blue, and dark blue, increasing in size from left to right" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/vrJkm9mWEgum396hfbWEPN.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2500" height="1406" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">This artist's impression shows the relative sizes of young stars, from the smallest red dwarfs, weighing in at about 0.1 solar masses, through low-mass yellow dwarfs, such as the sun, to massive blue dwarf stars weighing eight times more than the sun, as well as the 300-solar-mass star named R136a1. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: European Southern Observatory)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The team's research suggests there are two different routes that could have led to the birth of stars like the most massive star ever seen, R136a1. This star, also found in the Tarantula Nebula, has up to 230 times the mass of the sun and emits millions of times more energy than our star. It's also just 1.5 million years old, compared to the 4.6 billion<em>-</em>year-old sun.</p><p>The team's model suggests that R136a1 could have been born as a single, ginormous star, or it could have formed as a result of a dramatic stellar merger.</p><p>"I was surprised that our results give two distinct possible explanations for the origin of R136a1, the most massive star known. I was quite fascinated that a binary stellar merger — where two stars merge and become a single, more massive star — could provide a plausible origin," Shepherd said. "Even more interesting is the difference in the initial mass that is needed to reproduce R136a1 from the single-star and binary stellar merger scenarios."</p><p>The researcher added that, for a single-star origin to match the features of R136a1, the star would need an initial mass over 100 solar masses — larger than is needed for a binary stellar merger origin, regardless of the wind recipe used.</p><p>"This could suggest a revision to what we thought was the upper limit for how massive a star can be in the local universe," Shepherd said.</p><h2 id="what-direction-does-the-wind-blow-for-black-holes-2">What direction does the wind blow for black holes?</h2><p>Strong stellar winds and the rapid mass loss they cause also have strong implications for the masses of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/astronomy/laws-of-physics-are-still-broken-attempt-to-explain-away-black-holes-central-singularity-falls-short-scientist-says">black holes</a> that are created when massive stars collapse under their own gravity at the end of their lives.</p><p>"Because the stronger winds strip away so much of the star's mass, at the end of their lives they form smaller black holes," Shepherd said. "This study can shed a lot of light on predicting black hole masses. Stellar models that use the standard and weaker mass-loss recipes can produce intermediate-mass black holes."</p><p>These black holes, which are around 100 to 10,000 times more massive than the sun, have <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/5751-middleweight-black-holes-ruled.html">proved difficult for astronomers to find.</a></p><p>"By having the stars lose more mass via stronger winds, the simulations produce fewer of these uncertain objects, making our models more in line with what is found in nature!" Shepherd said.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:4534px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.24%;"><img id="3ZvACTT9rGdKxpjrkMU97L" name="Gravity-Waves-StillImage.jpg" alt="Two black holes in a binary spiral around each other emitting gravitational waves before colliding and merging" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3ZvACTT9rGdKxpjrkMU97L.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="4534" height="2550" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">An artists illustration of two black holes circling around each other and colliding, 1.4 billion light years from Earth. The merger created ripples in spacetime called gravitational waves. LIGO detected those waves in December 2015. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: LIGO)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The team also proposes that, contrary to current thinking, stronger stellar winds are needed if systems are to develop into <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/dark-energy-allow-existence-binary-black-holes">black hole binaries</a> with masses both greater than around 30 times that of the sun.</p><p>"Even more exciting is that, when we looked at the binary black holes that merge in our simulations, our new models with stronger winds were able to produce systems where the two black holes were both massive," Shepherd said. "This is exciting because this is a population that has been observed with <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/gravitational-wave-detector-space-lisa-ripples-spacetime-esa-nasa">gravitational wave detectors</a>, but which previous models with standard winds struggled to produce."</p><p>The two black holes in these binaries emit tiny ripples in space called <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/25088-gravitational-waves.html">gravitational waves </a>as they spiral together and eventually merge. But strong stellar winds may be key to allowing this situation to develop.</p><p>"With the weaker, standard winds, the two stars expand and are more likely to merge before becoming black holes," Shepherd explained. "In contrast, the stronger winds can push the two stars apart, allowing them to survive as a pair of black holes that can later spiral in and merge."</p><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Related Stories:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"> — <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/astronomy/black-holes/this-is-the-holy-grail-of-theoretical-physics-is-the-key-to-quantum-gravity-hiding-in-this-new-way-to-make-black-holes">'This is the holy grail of theoretical physics.' Is the key to quantum gravity hiding in this new way to make black holes?</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text"> — <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/astronomy/black-holes/this-supermassive-black-hole-is-eating-way-too-quickly-and-burping-at-near-light-speeds">This supermassive black hole is eating way too quickly — and 'burping' at near-light speeds</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text"> — <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/astronomy/black-holes/astronomers-discover-ultrapowerful-black-hole-jet-as-bright-as-10-trillion-suns-lit-by-big-bangs-afterglow">Astronomers discover ultrapowerful black hole jet as bright as 10 trillion suns lit by Big Bang's afterglow</a></p></div></div><p>The new research was focused on one specific environment, in the Large Magellanic Cloud, which has its own unique chemical composition. Thus, Shepherd said, the next step for the team will be to try to explain a handful of peculiar observed stars.</p><p>"These results are not yet universal, and so the natural next step would be to extend this study to a range of different initial compositions, to model different environments across <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/52-the-expanding-universe-from-the-big-bang-to-today.html">the universe</a>," Shepherd concluded. "It would be very exciting to see how much the predicted black hole populations change with these differing initial compositions."</p><p>The team's research is available as a preprint on the research repository <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2505.10206" target="_blank">arXiv.</a></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/astronomy/very-massive-stars-vomit-vast-amounts-of-matter-before-collapsing-into-black-holes</link>
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<![CDATA[ Very massive stars are cosmic "rock stars" that live fast, die young and leave black holes in their place. During this transformation, they may vomit out more stellar material than we knew. ]]>
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<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2025 21:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Astronomy]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Robert Lea ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/png" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/YJJfreR2YMQtLiEjYKnPFV.png">
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<media:text><![CDATA[An illustration of a very massive star ejecting vast amounts of matter into space]]></media:text>
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<title><![CDATA[ James Gunn's sci-fi movies ranked, worst to best ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>James Gunn's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/everything-we-know-about-james-gunns-superman"><u>Superman</u></a> is coming to theaters on July 11, ushering in the esteemed director's vision to reshape DC's shared universe. There's a lot to live up to with such a powerful franchise, but he's certainly no stranger to bringing superheroes to life on the big screen or small screen. He's even been known to create his very own.</p><p>His directorial movie portfolio isn't vast, but it's certainly an excellent representation of James Gunn's unique and dark comedic style. From extremely low-budget sci-fi classics to multi-million dollar superhero flicks, his range is incredibly varied, and history has shown that a big budget doesn't always make the best work.</p><p>So, to celebrate the upcoming release of Superman, we're taking a look back at all of James Gunn's sci-fi movies and ranking them from worst to best.</p><h2 id="7-movie-43-2">7. Movie 43</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="gWg5aBF7A79MiDQ3qmUMa5" name="Movie 43" alt="Elizabeth Banks as Amy and Josh Duhamel as Anson in Movie 43." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/gWg5aBF7A79MiDQ3qmUMa5.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Relativity Media)</span></figcaption></figure><ul><li><strong>Release date: </strong>January 25, 2013</li><li><strong>Cast: </strong>Elizabeth Banks, Josh Duhamel, Emily Alyn Lind</li></ul><p>Movie 43 is an anthology of 14 short stories, unconnected, but all steered towards comedy. For his part, James Gunn created Beezel, and… well, we're not even sure how to start describing the events that unfold in Beezel because it is absolutely wild.</p><p>Amy (Elizabeth Banks) is competing for the affection of her boyfriend, Anson (Josh Duhamel), but not with another woman vying for his attention. No, in fact, it's his animated and pretty vulgar cat, Beezel. While Amy tries to explain to Anson what's really going on, it all gets super weird and very funny.</p><p>Movie 43 has 14 different storylines in it, but Gunn's ill-behaved offering is definitely among the best. It's a great example of how Gunn's mind can craft something teetering on the edge of 'acceptable'. With that said, it's only a small part of an anthology, and he's done even greater things with full control throughout his decades-spanning career.</p><h2 id="6-super-2">6. Super</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="bxEDbwfsChk6fk8sKdVDpL" name="Super" alt="Rainn Wilson as Frank Darbo / The Crimson Bolt in Super." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bxEDbwfsChk6fk8sKdVDpL.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: IFC Midnight)</span></figcaption></figure><ul><li><strong>Release date: </strong>April 1, 2011</li><li><strong>Cast: </strong>Rainn Wilson, Elliot Page, Liv Tyler, Kevin Bacon</li></ul><p>Gunn is fully enrolled in the Marvel Cinematic Universe hall of fame, and now he's heading up the DC universe's cinematic efforts too, but before he tackled superheroes with tales already told, he worked hard to make his own with Super.</p><p>With the same dark comedic tone that he carries through a lot of his directorial work, Gunn shows why not everybody can be a superhero. Frank (Rainn Wilson) finds a nemesis in Jacques (Kevin Bacon) for leading his wife astray in the dangerous world of drugs. So, he decides to formulate his own superhero, Crimson Bolt, to fight crime and win back his wife. But, what he quickly finds is he's severely misjudged what a comic book might have taught him was possible.</p><p>Turning the superhero concept on its head is a bold and brave idea, but if you come in looking for a typical superhero story, Super isn't going to deliver for you. It's weird enough to win over genre fans, but stepping too far out of the realms of feel-good superhero story redemption arcs will leave some fans feeling pretty deflated and disheartened.</p><h2 id="5-the-suicide-squad-2">5. The Suicide Squad</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="7wTLnMuXdvWn93wDKFXzWB" name="The Suicide Squad" alt="David Dastmalchian as Polka-Dot Man, John Cena as Peacemaker, Idris Elba as Bloodsport, and Daniela Melchior as Ratcatcher 2 in The Suicide Squad." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7wTLnMuXdvWn93wDKFXzWB.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Warner Bros)</span></figcaption></figure><ul><li><strong>Release date:</strong> August 5, 2021</li><li><strong>Cast: </strong>Margot Robbie, Idris Elba, John Cena, Viola Davis</li></ul><p>Before he was co-CEO of DC Studios, Gunn took on The Suicide Squad, a standalone sequel to 2016's much derided Suicide Squad. The first movie was a stinker, but five years later, Gunn decided to revive the franchise, and it was a lot better. Gunn's take on the DC Comics team is widely praised by critics and fans alike, and can be seen as the catalyst for his current reign over the DC movie and TV empire.</p><p>Bringing back Margot Robbie's Harley Quinn and Viola Davis's character was the launchpad that began a whole new roster for Task Force X. Their mission – to invade the island of Corto Maltese to stop Project Starfish.</p><p>The plot subverts expectations from the off, and a combination of sharp writing and expert delivery from the all-star cast resulted in a hilarious, but also touching tale of redemption. John Cena's Peacemaker character was so well-received that he got his own spin-off TV show, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/entertainment/hes-the-17-time-wwe-world-champion-but-john-cena-still-cant-get-into-the-justice-league-in-the-peacemaker-season-2-trailer-video"><u>Peacemaker</u></a>, with season 2 coming out on August 21.</p><h2 id="4-slither-2">4. Slither</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="LkK6DVt4rk5VKVekgovTJK" name="Slither" alt="Michael Rooker as Grant Grant in Slither." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LkK6DVt4rk5VKVekgovTJK.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Universal Pictures)</span></figcaption></figure><ul><li><strong>Release date:</strong> March 31, 2006</li><li><strong>Cast:</strong> Nathan Fillion, Elizabeth Banks, Michael Rooker</li></ul><p>Another weird and wacky tale from the front-end of Gunn's career, Slither is the tale of a small town turned alien parasite hive that seeps into every corner and crevice of the once-peaceful place.</p><p>Grant (Michael Rooker) is the unlucky patient zero, but it doesn't take long for half the town to get infected, leaving only local police officers to fight it off. Unsurprisingly, a bunch of small-town sheriffs are not clued up at all on how to deal with a hostile alien entity..</p><p>For his directorial debut, James Gunn used his signature humor and beautifully twisted storytelling to create a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-sci-fi-movies"><u>sci-fi movie</u></a> for real genre fans, and he didn't disappoint. A scriptwriter before director, Gunn has a knack for horror comedy, and Slither is an exceptionally weird and captivating watch. Be warned, you will also be left feeling a little bit icky.</p><h2 id="3-guardians-of-the-galaxy-vol-2-2">3. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="rQQneEjy6F2y4nEQbH7r5W" name="Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2" alt="Zoe Saldaña as Gamora, Karen Gillan as Nebula, Chris Pratt as Peter Quill aka Star-Lord, and Dave Bautista as Drax the Destroyer in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/rQQneEjy6F2y4nEQbH7r5W.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Disney / Marvel)</span></figcaption></figure><ul><li><strong>Release date:</strong> May 5, 2017</li><li><strong>Cast:</strong> Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldaña, Dave Bautista, Kurt Russell</li></ul><p>Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 is the second outing of this MCU franchise, and if I could grant all three the joint top spot, that's what I'd do. But, this is a ranked list, so rank them worst to best, I must.</p><p>Vol. 2 is a fantastic movie, but it doesn't quite have the story building that the first carved out, nor does it have the emotional climax of the third movie that marks a perfect send-off for the characters, so it takes the bronze medal.</p><p>In Vol. 2, Peter Quill and the Guardians meet Ego (Kurt Russell), who just so happens to be Peter's long-lost father. It's jam-packed with action-packed sequences, excellent soundtrack picks, beloved returning characters, and some new faces, too, including the adorable Baby Groot.</p><p>The Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy is where Gunn's unique and devastatingly humorous mind found its true home. The superheroes of this franchise were ripe for Gunn to build them layers, make them darkly funny, and bond them together with his deep knowledge and understanding of comic books.</p><h2 id="2-guardians-of-the-galaxy-2">2. Guardians of the Galaxy</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="VppxYqxT4zsvkqCZpViaNc" name="Guardians of the Galaxy" alt="Chris Pratt as Peter Quill aka Star-Lord in Guardians of the Galaxy." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/VppxYqxT4zsvkqCZpViaNc.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Disney / Marvel)</span></figcaption></figure><ul><li><strong>Release date: </strong>August 1, 2014</li><li><strong>Cast:</strong> Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldaña, Bradley Cooper, Vin Diesel</li></ul><p>The first Guardians of the Galaxy movie is where Gunn used all the skills he's built up throughout the years in the industry to create one of the most perfect movies in the MCU to date. From the very beginning, there's a different vibe to this rag-tag team of superheroes, and that's down to Gunn's unique take on turning comic books into big-screen hits.</p><p>Unlike the gods and super-humans making up the rest of the MCU up to this point, the Guardians are a group of criminals bonded together to take on a common enemy, using their unique skills to team up to become a bit of an intergalactic powerhouse.</p><p>There's not an unlikeable character in the bunch, all woven together with the same dry and well-timed humor throughout. From Peter Quill to Groot to Drax to Rocket, the casting is phenomenal, but the fact that Gunn had a hand in the writing as well as the directing feels so front and center to this movie's success, and the two that followed it.</p><h2 id="1-guardians-of-the-galaxy-vol-3-2">1. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3</h2><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="E687gAofhDmFj8V7TtZ9zh" name="Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3" alt="Rocket Racoon (voiced by Bradley Cooper) in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/E687gAofhDmFj8V7TtZ9zh.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Disney / Marvel)</span></figcaption></figure><ul><li><strong>Release date: </strong>May 5, 2023</li><li><strong>Cast:</strong> Chris Pratt, Karen Gillan, Vin Diesel, Sean Gunn</li></ul><p>For the final hoorah, the Guardians unite to defend the universe one last time in their biggest space mission yet. There's a perpetual debate amongst Guardians of the Galaxy fans about the order in which these three stand in the rankings.</p><p>It's our list, though, and we wholeheartedly believe that Vol. 3 is the best of the bunch. Why? Because it's a culmination of everything that came before it without losing its drive and ferocity, and that's often a hard position to hold three movies in. Taking the responsibility of ending a franchise is huge, but doing it with the prowess that Gunn did is awesome.</p><p>The end of trilogies can often falter, but there's no less of the humor, fantastic dialogue, action scenes, and incredible relationships in this final run for the characters. We didn't know a James Gunn movie could get us in the feels, but Vol. 3 demonstrated the layers he's capable of – and hopefully, there's more to come in Superman.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-movies-shows/james-gunns-sci-fi-movies-ranked-worst-to-best</link>
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<![CDATA[ With Superman on its way, we take a look at director James Gunn's incredible slate of sci-fi movies to date. ]]>
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<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2025 18:23:40 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Space Movies & Shows]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Grace Dean ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/SSSfX9YfhPKSJWBB2nauVP.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Universal Pictures, Warner Bros, & Disney]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Split image showing scenes from three James Gunn sci-fi movies: Slither, The Suicide Squad, and Guardians of the Galaxy.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Split image showing scenes from three James Gunn sci-fi movies: Slither, The Suicide Squad, and Guardians of the Galaxy.]]></media:title>
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<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/SSSfX9YfhPKSJWBB2nauVP-1200-80.jpg" />
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<title><![CDATA[ Best Fujifilm lenses in 2025: Level up your Fujifilm camera this Amazon Prime Day ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>To get the best results from your Fujifilm camera, you need a top-notch Fujifilm lens to go with it. Fujifilm has carved out a niche that focuses on creativity, tactile control and stunning image quality. This guide will go through some of the best XF and GFX lenses for Fujifilm cameras.</p><p>We've tested a range of lenses and detailed exactly what makes each lens special. You don't have to stick with one lens; professional photographers and serious enthusiasts often have several lenses on hand and switch between them as the situation dictates. Our guide will cover a variety of lenses that offer telephoto capability, superfast apertures and wide angles while considering their value and technical prowess.</p><p>If you have been wanting to level up your Fujifilm for a while, then now might be the right moment to buy with <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/amazon-prime-day-space-deals">Amazon Prime Day</a> around the corner. It is running from July 8 to 11 and is the first four-day event, so be sure to check the prices on these models!</p><p>We've given the weight of each lens, and the heavier lenses may need one of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-tripods">best tripods</a>. If you are looking for a new camera body, check out our guide to the best Fujifilm cameras. If you're after a new camera body as well, see our guides to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/best-fujifilm-cameras">best Fujifilm cameras</a> and the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-cameras">best cameras</a>.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-the-quick-list"><span>The quick list</span></h3><p>Below, you'll find our picks for the best Fujifilm lenses. Click "Read more below" for a more in-depth look at each lens.</p> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="88ddc93e-94b3-49b7-9c7b-607c3ecb10b7"> <a href="#section-best-xf-wide-zoom" data-model-name="Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f2.8 R LM WR II" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/MTQEVhPSakXMksEwbLdNwj.jpg' alt="A Fujifilm XF16-55mmF2.8 R LM WR II lens."><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best XF wide zoom </span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR II</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best XF wide zoom </strong></em></p><p>The XF 16-55mm f/2.8 is a robust and sharp standard zoom lens that's perfect for a wide range of photographic subjects.</p><p><a href="#section-best-crop-sensor-wide-angle-zoom-lens"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="48cdc333-eec5-4940-8812-399c17234ef2"> <a href="#section-best-xf-ultra-wide-zoom" data-model-name="Fujifilm XF 8-16mm F2.8 R LM WR" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/yhdE4PcMhnYUu36yVS9PRC.jpg' alt="A Fujifilm XF8-16mm F2.8 R LM WR camera lens"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best XF ultra-wide zoom</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Fujifilm Fujinon XF 8-16mm f/2.8 R LM WR</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best XF ultra-wide zoom </strong></em></p><p>The Fujifilm Fujinon XF 8-16mm f/2.8 R LM WR is an essential lens for capturing expansive landscapes and wide-field starscapes. </p><p><a href="#section-best-crop-sensor-ultra-wide-angle-zoom-lens"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="4a90a73e-1b76-4ff3-bac7-3c2bdbcde184"> <a href="#section-best-xf-wide-prime" data-model-name="Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/XTKpbDkXvetrMauh9xV6dC.jpg' alt="Fujifilm XF 18mm F1.4 R LM WR on a white background"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best XF wide prime</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best XF wide prime</strong></em></p><p>The XF 18mm f/1.4 offers stunning sharpness and a fast aperture that are perfect for low-light images and astrophotography.</p><p><a href="#section-best-crop-sensor-wide-angle-prime-lens"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="b0bd3b2d-a793-4044-b237-2be702f55832"> <a href="#section-best-50-mm-lens" data-model-name="Fujifilm XF50mm f/2 R WR" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/2wxSUzhHpyw5CWCxAv2Kr8.jpg' alt="A Fujifilm XF50mmF2 R WR lens on white background"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best 50mm lens</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Fujifilm XF 50mm f/2 R WR</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best 50mm lens</strong></em></p><p>This nifty-fifty lens is versatile, compact, weather-resistant and perfect for everyday shooting.</p><p><a href="#section-best-50mm-lens"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="bd8de7c1-ce50-4b1b-bf6a-ae1594413d0b"> <a href="#section-best-medium-format-wide-prime" data-model-name="Fujifilm Fujinon GF 30mm f/3.5 R WR" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/YqMMQHSqY4cW26Z6i3srdc.jpg' alt="A side view of the Fujifilm GF 30mm f/3.5 R WR lens."><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best medium-format wide prime</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Fujifilm Fujinon GF 30mm f/3.5 R WR</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best medium-format wide prime<br><br></strong></em>The GF 30mm f/3.5 is a wide-open lens with a relatively large aperture for the GFX system, making it perfect for a broad perspective with lots of detail.</p><p><a href="#section-best-medium-format-wide-angle-prime-lens"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="ce9c0ca8-a8c5-44e6-b60c-2a8255955fb7"> <a href="#section-best-medium-format-wide-zoom" data-model-name="Fujifilm GF20-35mm F4 R WR" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BdoiZzGpxbWqn6hDqJZkDb.jpg' alt="A Fujifilm GF 20-35mm F4 R WR 500 lens on a white background. "><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best medium-format wide zoom</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Fujifilm Fujinon GF 20-35mm F4 R WR</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best medium-format wide zoom</strong></em></p><p>This lens adds a flexible ultra-wide to wide-angle zoom range to the GFX system for capturing details in the farthest edges of the frame. </p><p><a href="#section-best-medium-format-wide-angle-zoom-lens"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="ba3c113c-0001-4676-87fd-f92dd626e8b8"> <a href="#section-best-telephoto-zoom-lens" data-model-name="Fuji XF 50-140mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WR" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ZrXwMap2yUqYMDWLUAJapb.jpg' alt="A Fujifilm XF 50-140mm F2.8 R LM OIS WR lens on a white background. "><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best telephoto zoom lens</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Fujifilm Fujinon XF 50-140mm F2.8 R LM OIS WR</div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best telephoto zoom lens</strong></em></p><p>The Fujifilm Fujinon XF 50-140mm f/2.8 lens is a versatile zoom lens with a constant aperture of f/2.8, which makes it great for letting in lots of light during astrophotography.</p><p><a href="#section-best-telephoto-zoom-lens"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div><ul><li><a href="#main">Back to the top ⤴</a></li></ul><h2 id="best-fujifilm-lenses-we-recommend-in-2025-2">Best Fujifilm lenses we recommend in 2025</h2><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-xf-wide-zoom"><span>Best XF wide zoom </span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 7</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="nCcNmXuuwjprXhAXwX8qQM" name="xh2-1655-2" alt="A side-on view of the Fujifilm X-H2 with the Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 LM WR II lens attached and a field in the background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/nCcNmXuuwjprXhAXwX8qQM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 LM WR II lens has a great variable focal length, which provides versatile shooting options. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 7</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="LaTbeWNrtvhZvugEEEY3TM" name="xh2-1655-3" alt="A head-on view of the Fujifilm X-H2 with the Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 LM WR II lens attached and a field in the background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LaTbeWNrtvhZvugEEEY3TM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 LM WR II lens has a relatively fast aperture of f/2.8. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 7</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="Uw4e9bRxbsTpCEiArJqSLM" name="1655-extended" alt="The Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8LM WR II lens upright with an extended focal length, showing the front lens element" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Uw4e9bRxbsTpCEiArJqSLM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 LM WR II lens is 37% lighter than its predecessor. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 4 of 7</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="ydrEiexyv23KHDszpLWVKM" name="1655-f28-2" alt="A Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 LM WR II lens, showing the dials for focal length and aperture" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ydrEiexyv23KHDszpLWVKM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 LM WR II lens has a red XF zoom at the base. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 5 of 7</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="EC9LdMRAqQEYEJVWe2DcNM" name="1655-closeup" alt="A close-up of the controls on the Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 lens LM WR II, including the aperture dial and the noise dampening switch" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/EC9LdMRAqQEYEJVWe2DcNM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 LM WR II lens' aperture ring has an auto-lock button and a switch to dampen the clicking noise. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 6 of 7</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2134px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.23%;"><img id="U4jv9zyTWJoUGkDHshYHKM" name="1655-bottom" alt="The lens mount on the Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 LM WR II lens" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/U4jv9zyTWJoUGkDHshYHKM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2134" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 LM WR II lens fits all Fujifilm X-mount cameras. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 7 of 7</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2134px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.23%;"><img id="fhxQayCJfKqXVDvqS65GNM" name="1655-lenscap" alt="The Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 lens LM WR II with the lens cap attached" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/fhxQayCJfKqXVDvqS65GNM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2134" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The lens cap can be removed and replaced easily for the Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 LM WR II lens. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="fujifilm-xf-16-55mm-f-2-8-r-lm-wr-ii-2"><span class="title__text">Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR II</span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best XF wide zoom</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>APS-C | <strong>Mount type: </strong>Fujfilm X-mount | <strong>Focal range: </strong>16-55mm | <strong>Aperture range: </strong>f/2.8 - f/22 | <strong>Autofocus: </strong>Yes | <strong>Thread size: </strong>72mm | <strong>Weight: </strong>14.5 ounces (410 g)</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You need a versatile zoom. </strong>The focal-length range on this zoom makes it suitable for everyday scenarios and a wide range of photographic subjects.<br><br><strong>✅</strong> <strong>You shoot astrophotography. </strong>This is a great astrophotography lens thanks to its f/2.8 aperture and variable focal length for different night-sky targets.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You regularly shoot with an ultra-wide or telephoto focal length. </strong>If you work primarily in one focal length range, then the 16-55mm focal length range might not fit your specific needs.<br><br><strong>❌ Your camera lacks in-body image stabilization (IBIS). </strong>This lens lacks optical image stabilization, so it wouldn't be suitable for shooting in low-light conditions with a camera that lacks IBIS.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 LM WR II: </strong>A remarkable lens with stellar optical performance for all kinds of photography, thanks to the fast f/2.8 aperture and variable focal length</p></div></div><p>The Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 LM WR II is the second version of Fujifilm's flagship standard zoom on the X-mount system. It's designed to be the ultimate all-rounder, capable of handling everything from astrophotography to wide-angle landscapes and portraits. Compared with its predecessor, this iteration of the lens is 37% lighter and more compact, making it perfect for everyday shooting.</p><p>During our astrophotography testing, the Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 LM WR II performed well and captured a wide range of celestial phenomena, including the Orion Nebula, Mars and the Big Dipper. The fast f/2.8 aperture let in lots of light, and the variable focal length allowed us to shoot different targets. For example, we used the full 55 mm focal length to photograph the Orion Nebula and the wide focal lengths for larger targets, like the Big Dipper. Yes, star trails become slightly more pronounced with more zoom, but pairing this lens with one of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-star-trackers-for-astrophotography">best star trackers</a> would create crystal-clear nightscapes.</p><p>The lens is weather sealed in 12 points, making it a good choice for challenging conditions involving dust and moisture. There is also a "click" switch for the aperture ring that can silence or enable the tactile clicking sound that accompanies the switching of apertures. Although this lens lacks optical image stabilization (OIS), many newer Fujifilm cameras feature in-body image stabilization (IBIS), so this is only an issue if your camera body lacks it.</p><p>The Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 LM WR II is a high-performance lens for Fujifilm X-series users. It has a constant f/2.8 aperture, meaning it will keep that aperture value for the entire range of focal lengths, and it is more portable than its predecessor. This is surely an essential lens for any serious photographer.</p><div ><table><caption>Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR II</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Compact and lightweight lens</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Constant aperture for great all-round photography</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Versatile focal length and weather sealed in 12 points</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-xf-ultra-wide-zoom"><span>Best XF ultra-wide zoom</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="aA5yjUZFpCMkGRFZmLFSNM" name="xh2-816" alt="A side view of the Fujifilm X-H2 with the Fujifilm XF 8-16mm f/2.8 lens attached and a field in the background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/aA5yjUZFpCMkGRFZmLFSNM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 8-16mm f/2.8 lens has a spherical front element that helps to achieve the ultra-wide focal lengths. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="gKePAyRnXau3hyeKUbGvQM" name="xh2-816-2" alt="A side view of the Fujifilm X-H2 with the Fujifilm XF 8-16mm f/2.8 lens attached and a field in the background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/gKePAyRnXau3hyeKUbGvQM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 8-16mm f/2.8 lens is quite hefty and feels balanced only on a large camera like the Fujifilm X-H2. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="X2tKmykBvzfRmaFEpu9PKA" name="xf-8-16-on-xt50" alt="The Fujifilm X-T50 with a Fujifilm XF 8-16mm f/2.8 pointing at the sky" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/X2tKmykBvzfRmaFEpu9PKA.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">Despite being large, the Fujifilm XF 8-16mm f/2.8 lens fits onto all Fujifilm X-series cameras. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 4 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="5X6br3speGr3QzpJWiZQDV" name="xh2-816-headon-2" alt="A head-on shot of the Fujifilm XF 8-16mm f/2.8 LM WR lens attached to the Fujifilm X-H2, with a field in the background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/5X6br3speGr3QzpJWiZQDV.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 8-16mm f/2.8 lens maintains a relatively fast f/2.8 aperture and performed well during astrophotography sessions. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 5 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2134px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.23%;"><img id="5ooDq6Hxm29AiaRzTFs6MM" name="816-front-element" alt="The Fujifilm XF 8-16mm f/2.8 lens's bulbous front element" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/5ooDq6Hxm29AiaRzTFs6MM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2134" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 8-16mm f/2.8 lens has low dispersion elements (ED) and super ED elements that work to prevent chromatic aberration and maintain sharpness. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 6 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="WUH57pY6TL4mKKEcdY42MM" name="816-f28" alt="A close-up of the Fujifilm XF 8-16mm f/2.8 lens showing the widest aperture of f/2.8" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/WUH57pY6TL4mKKEcdY42MM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 8-16mm f/2.8 lens can still get an f/2.8 aperture, even at an 8mm focal length. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 7 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="Vmd5dTi8QDkXBvUoCbP2JM" name="816-base" alt="A close-up of the Fujifilm XF 8-16mm f/2.8 lens showing the red XF zoom logo" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Vmd5dTi8QDkXBvUoCbP2JM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 8-16mm f/2.8 lens is another XF zoom from Fujifilm. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 8 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="rALoShnJAeqMJ3mCkyyFMM" name="816-lens-cap" alt="The Fujifilm XF 8-16mm f/2.8 lens with the lens cap attached" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/rALoShnJAeqMJ3mCkyyFMM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The lens cap felt sturdy while being easy to replace after each shoot. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="fujifilm-fujinon-xf-8-16mm-f-2-8-r-lm-wr-2"><span class="title__text">Fujifilm Fujinon XF 8-16mm f/2.8 R LM WR</span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best ultra-wide-angle zoom lens</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>APS-C | <strong>Mount type: </strong>Fujifilm X-mount | <strong>Focal range: </strong>8-16mm | <strong>Aperture range: </strong> f/2.8 - f/22 | <strong>Autofocus: </strong>Yes | <strong>Thread size: </strong>N/A | <strong>Weight: </strong>1.8 pounds (805 g)</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Super-wide angle coverage</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Constant f/2.8 aperture</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Excellent optical sharpness</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Heavy for X-mount</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Expensive</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">No front filter thread</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You need an ultra-wide perspective. </strong>The huge 8mm wide-angle focal length makes this lens perfect for capturing expansive scenes such as vast star fields and sweeping landscapes.<br><br><strong>✅</strong> <strong>You regularly shoot in low light. </strong>The constant f/2.8 aperture is excellent for distinguishing subjects in dim conditions and astrophotography.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You prioritize portability. </strong>At 1.8 pounds, this is a heavy and bulky lens, which means it's not the best option for traveling to shoots.<br><br><strong>❌ You use screw-on filters. </strong>The bulbous front element of this lens makes it incompatible with traditional screw-on filters and requires a specialized filter system.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Fujifilm</strong> <strong>Fujinon XF 8-16mm f/2.8 R LM WR: </strong>A powerful, ultra-wide zoom lens that offers exceptional image quality for photographers who need to capture very wide fields of view</p></div></div><p>This lens is designed for X-mount photographers who need ultra-wide capabilities while maintaining a fast f/2.8 aperture. It is ideal for capturing sprawling landscapes, wide star fields and large architecture. It has a robust construction and contains aspherical lens elements that work to minimize aberration and ensure edge-to-edge sharpness.</p><p>During our astrophotography testing, we used this lens with both the Fujifilm X-H2 and the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/astrophotography/fujifilm-x-t50-review">Fujifilm X-T50</a> to photograph wide star fields and identify the Pleiades, Orion and Taurus. The extra-low dispersion (ED) and super ED elements were good at minimizing chromatic aberration. Although some was still visible in extremely zoomed-in shots, we managed to sustain detail across the whole frame.</p><p>The constant f/2.8 aperture across the zoom range offers consistent exposure and depth-of-field control — a significant advantage for those who shoot in variable light. The lens has high optical prowess. However, it may not be suitable for photographers who rely on standard screw-on filters because the convex front element prevents their use.</p><p>Despite being large and heavy, the Fujinon XF 8-16mm f/2.8 R LM WR is a cornerstone lens for those who regularly shoot at wide angles. At just under $1,500, this is not a cheap lens, but it offers amazing optical quality and range for APS-C photographers.</p><div ><table><caption>Fujifilm Fujinon XF 8-16mm f/2.8 R LM WR</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Hefty build with an aspherical lens design</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Incredible wide-angle detail</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Constant f/2.8 aperture and variable wide focal length</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-xf-wide-prime"><span>Best XF wide prime</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="bqvaBZ4nGvzAJ82cZkkpQM" name="xh2-18mm-3" alt="The Fujifilm X-H2 with the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 lens attached and a field in the background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bqvaBZ4nGvzAJ82cZkkpQM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 works well with the X-H2 for astrophotography. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="6VWPoTABzgYdWF4UVqX9TB" name="xh2-with-18mm" alt="The Fujifilm X-H2 with Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 lens on a tripod in a field" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/6VWPoTABzgYdWF4UVqX9TB.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 is a sharp and lightweight lens that deserves a place in your kit bag. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="owAdJ6ctKAvxsVjAfDSPGA" name="xt50-with-18" alt="The Fujifilm X-T50 with the 18mm f/1.4 lens on a tripod aiming at the sky" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/owAdJ6ctKAvxsVjAfDSPGA.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">We used the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 with a range of cameras, including the Fujifilm X-T50, to test their astrophotography ability. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 4 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="28TCyW7UMuUHJBzT8hUyLM" name="xt50-18mm" alt="A side-on view of the Fujifilm X-M5 with the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 lens attached, with a field in the background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/28TCyW7UMuUHJBzT8hUyLM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 lets in a lot of light, making it great for astrophotography and low-light situations. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 5 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="Y3XF9fMFK8wh3uw87MnmLM" name="xm5-18mm-2" alt="A side view of the Fujifilm X-M5 with the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 lens attached and a field in the background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Y3XF9fMFK8wh3uw87MnmLM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 lens can fit on all Fujifilm X-series cameras, including the compact X-M5. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 6 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="Q9Nu6gCqRVvqoQMpj7GbNM" name="18mm-headon" alt="A head-on shot looking directly into the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 lens" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Q9Nu6gCqRVvqoQMpj7GbNM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 has a fixed focal length that allows it to have a superfast f/1.4 aperture. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 7 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2134px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.23%;"><img id="jLkPPkKMyHLwB4bdPkTyLM" name="18mm-inhand" alt="An open hand with the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 lens in the palm" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/jLkPPkKMyHLwB4bdPkTyLM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2134" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 is not the most compact Fujifilm prime lens, but it fits nicely in the palm of your hand. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 8 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="fQm4gdFEFB7nQWfNhzA6MM" name="18mm-f14" alt="A close-up showing the widest aperture of f/1.4 on the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 lens" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/fQm4gdFEFB7nQWfNhzA6MM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">Dials at the bottom of the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 lens control the aperture range. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 9 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="B8ATD7BD9jAGxW97jLc7LM" name="18mm-f16" alt="A dial showing the narrowest aperture and auto aperture stops on the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 lens" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/B8ATD7BD9jAGxW97jLc7LM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The button on the aperture ring acts as a lock for the auto-aperture setting so you don't accidentally go auto when shooting a certain aperture. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 10 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="9UpYWxNEicQsb8bHxpEBKM" name="18mm-lenscap" alt="The Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 lens on a table with lens cap" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/9UpYWxNEicQsb8bHxpEBKM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 has a sleek lens cap that is easy to remove and replace. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 11 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="LVRARKHnNnrmxhF5bHtyLM" name="18mm-bottom" alt="The lens mount on the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 lens" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LVRARKHnNnrmxhF5bHtyLM.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 has an X-mount and fits on all Fujifilm X-series cameras. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="fujifilm-xf-18mm-f-1-4-r-lm-wr-2"><span class="title__text">Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR</span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best wide-angle prime lens</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>APS-C prime | <strong>Mount type: </strong>Fujfilm X-mount | <strong>Focal range: </strong>18mm | <strong>Aperture range: </strong>f/1.4 - f/16 | <strong>Autofocus: </strong>Yes | <strong>Thread size: </strong>62mm | <strong>Weight: </strong>13.1 ounces (370 g)</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Huge f/1.4 aperture</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Razor-sharp detail</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Compact design</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Larger than other fast primes</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Chromatic aberration on raw image files</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You shoot a lot of astrophotography or low-light subjects. </strong>The superfast f/1.4 aperture on this lens can capture faint stars in the night sky and is ideal for capturing detail in dim conditions. <br><br><strong>✅</strong> <strong>You need a shallow depth of field. </strong>The f/1.4 aperture makes it easy to achieve subject isolation and bokeh effects in your photography.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You prefer super-compact lenses. </strong>Although it's not huge, the XF 18mm f/1.4 is larger than Fujifilm's compact f/2 primes.<br><br><strong>❌ You're on a tight budget. </strong>This lens is more expensive than rival lenses from Sigma and Viltrox.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR: </strong>A fast prime lens with superb optics and incredible astro performance in a weather-resistant package</p></div></div><p>The Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR impressively combines a fast f/1.4 aperture and strong optical quality, delivering bright images of star fields and capturing faint objects in the night sky. This is equivalent to 27mm on a full-frame system and is a versatile prime lens for a range of photography types.</p><p>When we tested the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR for astrophotography, we captured bright star fields featuring the Orion Nebula, Mars, and the Pleiades and Beehive star clusters. We used this lens with a Fujifilm X-T50 and found that there was some chromatic aberration present in the raw image files. However, this was easily fixed by lens correction applied during JPEG formatting in-camera or correction in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/adobe-photoshop-review">Adobe Photoshop</a>.</p><p>In line with Fujifilm's focus on manual controls, there is an aperture ring that allows for intuitive exposure adjustments and a lock button that prevents the ring from slipping into auto-aperture. It doesn't feature optical image stabilization, but in-body image stabilization in newer Fujifilm cameras compensates for this omission.</p><p>The Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR is priced just under $1,000, which is more expensive than rival models, such as the Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN and the Viltrox AF 13mm f/1.4. Even with this in mind, there is no denying that this lens is an investment that pays you back in amazing image quality and performance. This lens can upgrade your Fujifilm camera's astrophotography ability. We even tried it on a small Fujifilm X-M5, and it captured the Orion Nebula!</p><div ><table><caption>Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Solid build; aperture ring with an auto-lock button</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Great astro and low-light ability</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Weather-sealed and fast aperture</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-50mm-lens"><span>Best 50mm lens</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 4</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2131px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.31%;"><img id="o9Lrt6o5vKFWGD74uFMNqR" name="xf-50mm" alt="A black Fujifilm XF 50mm f/2 R WR lens standing upright and showing the front element" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/o9Lrt6o5vKFWGD74uFMNqR.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2131" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 50mm f/2 R WR lens offers amazing optics for an amazing value, with a 50mm focal length and a fast f/2 aperture. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 4</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2134px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.23%;"><img id="eV8eMt2iHnEq8e9RrLiEtR" name="xf50mm-silver" alt="A silver Fujifilm XF 50mm f/2 R WR standing upright" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/eV8eMt2iHnEq8e9RrLiEtR.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2134" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 50mm f/2 R WR also comes in silver. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 4</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2111px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.85%;"><img id="AZvDVcR7jM6GpJbrZJqgsR" name="xf50mm-hood" alt="The Fujifilm XF 50mm f/2 R WR lens next to its lens hood" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/AZvDVcR7jM6GpJbrZJqgsR.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2111" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 50mm f/2 R WR lens comes with a lens hood attachment. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 4 of 4</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2135px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.21%;"><img id="npJNhmmUqeTQRZFo9PkGrR" name="xf50mm-side" alt="The Fujifilm XF 50mm f/2 R WR lens standing upright" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/npJNhmmUqeTQRZFo9PkGrR.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2135" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 50mm f/2 R WR lens has an aperture ring that goes up to f/2 and would be great for astrophotography. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="fujifilm-fujinon-xf-50mm-f-2-r-wr-2"><span class="title__text">Fujifilm Fujinon XF 50mm f/2 R WR</span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best 50mm lens </p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>APS-C | <strong>Mount type: </strong>Fujfilm X-mount | <strong>Focal range: </strong>50mm fixed | <strong>Aperture range: </strong>f/2 - f/16 | <strong>Autofocus: </strong>Yes | <strong>Thread size: </strong>46mm | <strong>Weight: </strong>7.1 ounces (200 g)</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Incredibly compact</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Sharp and fast at f/2</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Great value</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Mediocre bokeh</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">No optical image stabilization</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Slower stepping motor autofocus</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You need a lightweight portrait lens. </strong>The<strong> </strong>XF 50mm f/2 R WR is compact enough to make it perfect for on-the-go shooting for a wide range of subjects.<br><br><strong>✅</strong> <strong>You want a great value. </strong>This lens offers a fast f/2 aperture and excellent image quality without breaking the bank.<br></p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You primarily shoot in low light. </strong>The<strong> </strong>f/2 aperture is fast, but there are faster options, like f/1.4 or f/1.2. <br><br><strong>❌ You prioritize bokeh perfection. </strong>This lens has good bokeh, but it isn't as "creamy" as what faster lenses produce.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Fujifilm</strong> <strong>Fujinon XF 50mm f/2 R WR: </strong>A highly portable prime lens that delivers sharp images and excellent value</p></div></div><p>The Fujifilm Fujinon XF 50mm f/2 R WR falls into the portrait and general-purpose telephoto category. It belongs to a series nicknamed "Fujicron" cameras, which are known for their compact size, weather resistance and fast f/2 apertures. It also features an aspherical low-dispersion (ED) element to minimize aberration and deliver sharp details.</p><p>We haven't tested this model yet, but we would expect it to be an excellent-value lens that delivers a fast aperture and reasonable astrophotography performance. The stepping motor autofocus is not as blazingly fast as linear motors, but it is still quick and quiet, according to user reviews. Its robust, all-metal construction and weather-resistant sealing make it durable and usable in challenging conditions.</p><p>Further user feedback praises the tactile focus ring and clicky aperture ring. Others thought the small size made this lens perfectly balanced on most Fujifilm X-mount bodies. Some users may want a smoother bokeh effect with a wider aperture, but the f/2 aperture on this lens produces a pleasing bokeh effect that isolates subjects.</p><p>For photographers seeking a lightweight, sharp and affordable lens for portraits and other general telephoto work, the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 50mm f/2 R WR would be a great choice at just under $400.</p><div ><table><caption>Fujifilm Fujinon XF 50mm f/2 R WR</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Sleek and compact prime lens with a slower stepping motor</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Good for portrait and midlevel telephoto work</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Bright portrait lens with good bokeh</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-medium-format-wide-prime"><span>Best medium-format wide prime</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 4</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2132px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.29%;"><img id="eiHp5L63L6bhqRMEAJxVpR" name="gf30-3" alt="The Fujifilm GF 30mm f/3.5 R WR lens standing upright, showing the front lens element" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/eiHp5L63L6bhqRMEAJxVpR.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2132" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm GF 30mm f/3.5 R WR lens strikes a great balance between focal length and max aperture value </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 4</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="ibr2A7tTVygZ3q3ZT4j4sR" name="gf30-4" alt="The Fujifilm GF 30mm f/3.5 R WR lens on its side" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ibr2A7tTVygZ3q3ZT4j4sR.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The aperture ring's apertures range from f/3.5 to f/32, auto position and command position. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 4</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="mnmhCeBv6V38Y2PhBLt3sR" name="gf30" alt="A Fujifilm GF 30mm f/3.5 R WR lens standing upright" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/mnmhCeBv6V38Y2PhBLt3sR.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm GF 30mm f/3.5 R WR lens is a great lens for any of the GFX system cameras. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 4 of 4</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="axrcx6vNkztjb3AvxVHyoR" name="gf30-2" alt="A Fujifilm GF 30mm f/3.5 R WR lens standing upright" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/axrcx6vNkztjb3AvxVHyoR.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm GF 30mm f/3.5 R WR lens comes with a tulip-style lens hood. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="fujifilm-fujinon-gf-30mm-f-3-5-r-wr-2"><span class="title__text">Fujifilm Fujinon GF 30mm f/3.5 R WR</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best medium-format wide-angle prime lens</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Medium format | <strong>Mount type: </strong>Fujfilm G-mount | <strong>Focal range: </strong>30mm fixed | <strong>Aperture range: </strong>f/3.5 - f/32 | <strong>Autofocus: </strong>Yes | <strong>Thread size: </strong>58mm | <strong>Weight: </strong>1.1 pounds (510 g)</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Exceptional clarity</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Balanced focal length and aperture</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Compact for GFX</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Higher medium-format cost</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Slower aperture</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You need a good balance between focal length and aperture. </strong>This lens balances a 30mm focal length with an f/3.5 aperture, making it a great middle ground for shooting a wide range of subjects.<br><br><strong>✅</strong> <strong>You need wide-angle detail. </strong>If you primarily shoot wide angles for landscapes and architecture, this lens enables the GFX cameras to capture incredible detail.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You need a rapid aperture. </strong>If you need a rapid aperture, there are faster aperture lenses available from the G-mount lineup.<br><br><strong>❌ You shoot super wide. </strong>Although this lens offers 24mm full-frame equivalent, this may not be wide enough for capturing larger star fields and the Milky Way, for which an 18mm lens may be more suitable.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Fujifilm Fujinon GF 30mm f/3.5 R WR: </strong>A highly capable lens for the GFX system that strikes a great balance between focal length and aperture to deliver stunning details</p></div></div><p>The Fujifilm Fujinon GF 30mm f/3.5 R WR is a key wide-angle prime lens for Fujifilm's class-leading medium-format system. Offering a 35mm-equivalent focal length of 24mm, it provides a broad perspective while maintaining the exceptional detail and rendering that GFX users expect. The lens contains 13 optical elements, including two aspherical and two low-dispersion (ED) elements to control chromatic aberration and retain sharpness across the sensor.</p><p>The general consensus is that this lens lives up to the reputation of the G-mount system for amazing image quality. We haven't tested this lens yet, but based on user reviews, it seems to produce excellent detail and sharpness with a responsive autofocus.</p><p>This lens is aimed at professional photographers who need a compact lens that strikes a middle ground between focal length and aperture size. Yes, there are G-mount lenses with wider focal lengths, but the aperture is slower. Yes, there are G-mount lenses with faster apertures, but the focal length is narrower. We think the GF 30mm f/3.5 R WR hits the sweet spot for both, and it comes weather sealed with nine sealing points to protect against dust and moisture.</p><p>The GFX lens range isn't as extensive as the X-series range, and you will need to find a lens that fits your needs the best. There is often compromise involved, but never on the optical quality. The Fujifilm GF 30mm f/3.5 R WR is a great balanced lens to optimize your Fujifilm GFX camera.</p><div ><table><caption>Fujifilm Fujinon GF 30mm f/3.5 R WR</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Compact and balanced build</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Ultra-sharp detail with minimal aberration</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Versatile focal length and aperture for varied shooting</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-medium-format-wide-zoom"><span>Best medium-format wide zoom</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 6</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="HtgKrCM5tTfBjpKUnUayEa" name="Fujifilm Fujinon GF 20-35mm F4 R WR" alt="A Fujifilm Fujinon GF 20-35mm F4 R WR lens on a white background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/HtgKrCM5tTfBjpKUnUayEa.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm Fujinon GF 20-35mm lens has a versatile zoom range. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujfilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 6</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="TVUgR963PUznH8EzyRz4sR" name="gf2035" alt="The Fujifilm GF 20-35mm f/4 R WR lens standing upright with the front lens element showing" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/TVUgR963PUznH8EzyRz4sR.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The consistent f/4 aperture helps to maintain detail at all focal lengths. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 6</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2134px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.23%;"><img id="vAd7LRvRMu5ZLa58vHKJrR" name="gf2035-2" alt="A Fujifilm GF 20-35mm f/4 R WR lens standing upright" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/vAd7LRvRMu5ZLa58vHKJrR.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2134" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm GF 20-35mm f/4 R WR adds zoom capability to your GFX camera. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 4 of 6</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="9gWLLtb7xhCLeQXcFEgosR" name="gf2035-3" alt="A side view of the Fujifilm GF 20-35mm f/4 R WR lens" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/9gWLLtb7xhCLeQXcFEgosR.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm GF 20-35mm f/4 R WR lens has a button on the aperture ring that selects the aperture value, auto and command positions. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 5 of 6</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="3huu6PdrBj2CRGuJ7DwEtR" name="gf2035-4" alt="A side-on view of the Fujifilm GF 20-35mm f/4 R WR lens showing the front lens element" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3huu6PdrBj2CRGuJ7DwEtR.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm GF 20-35mm f/4 R WR lens is quite large, but the zoom may outweigh the size for many photographers. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 6 of 6</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2136px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.18%;"><img id="s3BLkDroznra5XTWBhQBqR" name="gf2035-5" alt="A side view of the Fujifilm GF 20-35mm f/4 R WR lens" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/s3BLkDroznra5XTWBhQBqR.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2136" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm GF 20-35mm f/4 R WR lens has a G-mount and is compatible with Fujifilm's GFX range of cameras. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="fujifilm-fujinon-gf-20-35mm-f-4-r-wr-2"><span class="title__text">Fujifilm Fujinon GF 20-35mm f/4 R WR</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best medium-format wide-angle zoom lens</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Medium format | <strong>Mount type: </strong>Fujifilm G-mount | <strong>Focal range: </strong>20-35mm | <strong>Aperture range: </strong>f/4 - f/22 | <strong>Autofocus: </strong>Yes | <strong>Thread size: </strong>82mm | <strong>Weight: </strong>1.6 pounds (725 g)</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Versatile wide zoom range</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Consistent f/4 aperture</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Sharp image detail</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Not the fastest aperture</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Quite big</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Huge price tag</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You need a versatile wide-angle zoom. </strong>This lens covers a large range of focal lengths for your wide-angle needs.<br><br><strong>✅</strong> <strong>You need a tough lens for difficult conditions. </strong>This lens balances a range of focal lengths and an f/4 aperture with 12 weather-sealed points and reliable functionality down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 10 degrees Celsius).</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You shoot primarily in low light. </strong>The f/4 aperture may not perform as well in low light as some faster wide-angle prime lenses.<br><br><strong>❌ You need a compact setup. </strong>This is one of the larger and heavier lenses from the GFX system and would add considerable weight to a setup.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Fujifilm Fujinon GF 20-35mm f/4 R WR: </strong>A highly versatile wide-angle zoom lens for the GFX system that delivers strong and consistent f/4 performance and top-tier image quality</p></div></div><p>The Fujifilm Fujinon GF 20-35mm f/4 R WR is a significant addition to the Fujifilm lineup. Released in 2022, it still stands as the best general-purpose zoom lens for the GFX system. It has a 35mm-equivalent focal range of 16 to 28 mm, making it an ideal choice for photographers who need versatility.</p><p>As with other GFX lenses, the GF 20-35mm f/4 R WR is made with advanced optical design, including three aspherical, one asperical low-dispersion (ED) and three low-dispersion elements to keep images sharp and aberration-free.</p><p>We haven't tested this camera ourselves, but user reviews praise the image quality across the zoom range and at all apertures. The autofocus is quiet and precise, which allows you to capture intricate details in varied environments. Although this is one of the larger lenses from the GFX range, the zoom's versatility may outweigh the size for many photographers.</p><p>The f/4 aperture is not the fastest, and those who shoot primarily in low light or who need a superfast prime lens should look elsewhere in the range. However, f/4 seems reasonable when you consider the versatility of the zoom range and would be more than suitable for capturing faint stars at longer exposures.</p><p>The GFX series of cameras and lenses are not known for being cheap, and the Fujifilm Fujinon GF 20-35mm f/4 R WR is no exception. With a price just under $2,500, it is a considerable investment. But if you want to give your medium-format camera more versatility, this lens will not disappoint.<br></p><div ><table><caption>Fujifilm Fujinon GF 20-35mm f/4 R WR</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Large, versatile zoom lens</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Excellent sharpness across apertures and focal lengths</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Versatile zoom across constant f/4 aperture</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-telephoto-zoom-lens"><span>Best telephoto zoom lens</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 3</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="Mqz9GMUzPd3dvwppe7qgx7" name="Fujifilm XF 50-140mm F2.8 R LM OIS WR" alt="A Fujifilm Fujinon XF 50-140mm F2.8 R LM OIS WR lens" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Mqz9GMUzPd3dvwppe7qgx7.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">This telephoto lens isn't light, but its performance is hard to beat. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 3</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2134px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.23%;"><img id="DpXCbPGX9JHo79HzXxzTrR" name="xf50140-2" alt="A view into the Fujifilm XF 50-140mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WR lens" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DpXCbPGX9JHo79HzXxzTrR.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2134" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 50-140mm f/2.8 lens has a constant aperture throughout its zoom range. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 3</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2135px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.21%;"><img id="3WkFnDbvumUBeV6NJGo9tR" name="xf50140" alt="A diagram showing the Fujifilm XF 50-140mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WR lens if it were attached to a Fujifilm X-T1" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3WkFnDbvumUBeV6NJGo9tR.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2135" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm XF 50-140mm f/2.8 lens is compatible with all of Fujifilm's X-mount cameras. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="fujifilm-fujinon-xf-50-140mm-f-2-8-r-lm-ois-wr-2"><span class="title__text">Fujifilm Fujinon XF 50-140mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WR</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best telephoto zoom lens</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>APS-C | <strong>Mount type: </strong>Fujifilm X-mount | <strong>Focal range: </strong>50-140mm | <strong>Aperture range: </strong>f/2.8 - f/22 | <strong>Autofocus: </strong>Yes | <strong>Thread size: </strong>72mm | <strong>Weight: </strong>2.2 pounds (995 g) </p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Constant f/2.8 aperture</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Excellent optical image stabilization</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Fast autofocus</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Heavy for X-mount cameras</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Big and bulky build</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Expensive</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You primarily shoot sports and wildlife. </strong>The constant f/2.8 aperture and optical image stabilization are perfect for action shots.<br><br><strong>✅</strong> <strong>You want a versatile zoom lens. </strong>The range of focal lengths makes this a great lens for different subjects, and the relatively fast f/2.8 aperture would make it a useful astro lens.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You need extreme telephoto focal lengths. </strong>If you need a lens that gives you focal lengths above 140 mm, there are other X-mount lenses available, although they compromise on aperture speed.<br><br><strong>❌ You mainly shoot static subjects. </strong>The advanced features, like the rapid autofocus and optical image stabilization, would be overkill for casual use.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Fujifilm Fujinon XF 50-140mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WR: </strong>A professional-grade telephoto zoom lens that delivers outstanding image quality and speed for photographers who prioritize sharp results for fast action</p></div></div><p>The Fujifilm Fujinon XF 50-140mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WR is a telephoto zoom lens that covers a midrange of focal lengths for the APS-C X-series cameras. Its standout features include a fast, constant f/2.8 aperture across the entire zoom range, robust weather resistance and highly effective OIS. The lens design features five low-dispersion and one super-ED element to combat distortion and aberration.</p><p>We have not tested this lens yet, but user reviews praise the edge-to-edge sharpness at all apertures and focal lengths. Thanks to the fast f/2.8 aperture, this lens is also capable of producing smooth bokeh and capturing fast-moving subjects in dim conditions. We think it would be a good astrophotography lens for capturing objects up close, but only when used with one of the best star trackers. If you only shoot astrophotography, the rapid linear motor (LM) autofocus and OIS system would be overkill, but it's useful for photographers who also need sharp detail for handheld shooting.</p><p>Similarly to other Fujifilm environments, this lens is built for demanding conditions, including dust, light rain and low temperatures. The size and weight are substantial for an APS-C lens, but this is a necessary trade-off for a constant f/2.8 aperture and advanced optical design.</p><p>At $1,599, the XF 50-140mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WR is a big investment, but this lens offers great telephoto ability while maintaining a huge f/2.8 aperture. You might need a telephoto lens with a longer focal range, but you will have to accept a slower aperture.</p><div ><table><caption>Fujifilm Fujinon XF 50-140mm F2.8 R LM OIS WR</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Rugged build with variable zoom length</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Sharp image quality when shooting fast action</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Constant f/2.8 with rapid LM autofocus and strong OIS</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Related articles</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-cameras"><strong>Best cameras for photos and videos</strong></a><strong><br></strong><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/camera-deals"><strong>Camera deals: discounts on cameras</strong></a><strong><br></strong><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-mirrorless-cameras"><strong>Best mirrorless cameras</strong></a><strong><br></strong><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-dslr-cameras"><strong>Best DSLR cameras</strong></a><strong></strong></p></div></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-fujifilm-lenses-faqs"><span>Best Fujifilm lenses FAQs</span></h3><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What is the best Fujifilm lens?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>There isn't a single "best" Fujifilm lens, as it heavily depends on your photographic needs and your budget. For overall versatility and great image quality, the XF 16-55mm f/2.8 LM WR II would be a great choice because it can capture a range of subjects.</p><p>If you have a Fujifilm medium-format camera, lenses like the Fujifilm Fujinon GF 30mm f/3.5 R WR and the Fujifilm Fujinon GF 20-35mm F4 R WR fit the bill for superb image definition and performance.</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What is the best Fujifilm lens for astrophotography?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>Again, the best lens depends on your specific needs and goals for astrophotography. We found that the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR was absolutely phenomenal for capturing stars and faint deep-space objects. </p><p>If you need a more zoomed-in shot, the Fujifilm Fujinon XF 16-55 mm f/2.8 R LM WR is another good pick that performed well in our astrophotography testing.</p><p>For those who want super-high resolution with a medium-format camera, any GFX lens will work wonders for crystal-clear star definition.</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What is the cheapest Fujfilm lens?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>The cheapest Fujifilm lens in our guide is the Fujifilm XF 50mm f/2 R WR, which costs just under $400. It's a great-value, compact lens with fast f/2 performance at a midrange focal length. </p><p>However, there are cheaper Fujifilm lenses available. As with any photo gear decision, you will need to assess your budget and needs to pick the right lens for you.</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What is the difference between XF and GFX lenses?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>The primary difference between XF and GFX lenses lies in their compatibility and sensor coverage. Fujifilm produces APS-C sensor (X series) and medium-format sensor (GFX series) cameras.</p><p>XF lenses are designed for Fujifilm's X-mount cameras, like the X-T50 and the X-H2. These cameras have APS-C sensors, which are smaller than full-frame sensors.</p><p>GFX lenses are designed for Fujifilm's GFX system. These cameras have medium-format sensors that are larger than full-frame sensors. GFX lenses work with these cameras and have a larger image circle to cover the sensor.</p><p>While many astrophotographers prefer a full-frame camera, we've found that the X-series cameras do a great job of capturing the night sky. Fujifilm's answer to a lack of full-frame cameras is the GFX-series cameras, which feature larger medium-format sensors.</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What do LM, WR and OIS mean?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p><strong>LM (linear motor): </strong>This is a type of motor used in some lenses as part of their autofocusing system and is known for providing extremely fast, quiet and precise autofocus. </p><p><strong>WR (weather resistant): </strong>This means the lens has weather sealing at various points along its barrel. This helps protect internal components from dust and moisture.</p><p><strong>OIS (optical image stabilization): </strong>This means the lens can use internal lens elements that shift to counteract camera shake. This is especially useful for handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds or longer focal lengths.</p></article></section><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-update-log"><span>Update log</span></h3><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-how-we-tested-the-best-fujifilm-lenses"><span>How we tested the best Fujifilm lenses</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="Seb9vHA2zbB5ctbZEWJVKA" name="looking-xt50" alt="A man looking through a Fujifilm X-T50 with a field and sunset in the background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Seb9vHA2zbB5ctbZEWJVKA.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure><p>We compare real-world usage with technical specifications to evaluate whether the lens would be good for a certain photography subject. When testing the lenses, we evaluate autofocus quality, image sharpness and chromatic aberration. We primarily test them in low-light conditions with a heavy focus on astrophotography.</p><p>During our testing of some of these Fujifilm lenses, we took them to a Bortle Level 4 dark-sky site and used them for astrophotography. We used the XF 18mm f/1.4 R LM WR, XF 8-16mm f/2.8 R LM WR and XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR II with a Fujifilm X-T50, X-H2 and X-M5. We managed to get good photographs of star fields containing Orion, the Orion Nebula, the Andromeda galaxy, Jupiter, Mars and the Pleiades.</p><p>We try to test all of the products in our buying guides, but wherever we don't have hands-on experience, we look at user reviews on merchant sites and analyze the quoted specifications ourselves. Our reviewers are astrophotographers who have good camera experience alongside a strong interest in photographing the night sky.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/stargazing/skywatching-kit/best-fujifilm-camera-lenses</link>
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<![CDATA[ Want to make the most of your Fujifilm camera? We've rounded up the best Fujifilm lenses, now with expected savings on Amazon Prime Day this July 8. ]]>
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<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2025 18:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Skywatching Kit]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Stargazing]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Harry Bennett ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/2ZUS8pnHS8mmrPTFermhkE.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Future]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A Fujifilm X-T50 with a Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 lens in a field in the evening]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A Fujifilm X-T50 with a Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 lens in a field in the evening]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ See the bright star Spica close to the waxing gibbous moon on July 3 ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>The moon will ride close to the bright star Spica above the southwestern horizon tonight (July 3) — and some well-placed viewers will see the lunar disk pass directly in front of the bright stellar body, occulting its light.</p><p>Stargazers in the U.S. will find the waxing gibbous moon above the southwestern horizon as <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/58-the-sun-formation-facts-and-characteristics.html">the sun</a> sets on July 3, with <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/22049-spica.html">Spica</a> — the brightest star in the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/17021-virgo-constellation.html">constellation Virgo</a> — visible less than 2 degrees to the upper right of the lunar disk.</p><p>Remember, you can estimate distances in the night sky using your outstretched hand. The width of your pinky finger measured at the tip accounts for roughly 1 degree in the night sky. By the time the pair set below the horizon in the early hours of July 4, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/55-earths-moon-formation-composition-and-orbit.html">the moon</a> will have shifted to Spica's left-hand side.</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="sT3QY0MQ"> <div id="botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>At a distance of 250 <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/light-year.html">light-years</a> from Earth, Spica appears to us as a single point of light in the night sky. In reality, it is a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/22509-binary-stars.html">binary star</a> system composed of two stellar bodies multiple times the size of the sun, which together shine roughly 12,100 times brighter than our parent star.</p><p>The moon orbits our Blue Marble at an average distance of just 238,860 miles (382,500 kilometers) — close enough for its apparent position to shift by up to 2 degrees relative to the starfield beyond, depending on where you are viewing from on <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/54-earth-history-composition-and-atmosphere.html">Earth</a>.</p><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">TOP TELESCOPE PICK</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' ><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="k8f8vCtiknzctWBbaB4nkc" name="Celestron Nexstar 8 SE" caption="" alt="A Celestron Nexstar 8 SE telescope" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/k8f8vCtiknzctWBbaB4nkc.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="" height="" attribution="" endorsement="" class="pinterest-pin-exclude"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Celestron)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="fancy-box__body-text">Want to see Spica and the Moon? The<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.com/Celestron-11069-Computerised-Schmidt-Cassegrain-Technology/dp/B000GUFOC8/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?tag=georiot-us-default-20&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.f0b1F2bylj60FMX6yPsrGQcyNiWAVxERdtD_hC6sMwheOAQYf2ZKU3dM10XVlFNeJgZ0mGNOUvE9bkVzFvWjvCzyjw_pEI4TtbYvfFRws3QBvQF5YJAPtGYGzK2nOUkkSJtYejE8tjFCkXPw3xT0y9jlmnppgUHsCmniw7gv5rt4a9yLaPZqw96FFL4gFdugvpmSPGkbVlQ6HwPHfxzOlp3mlbxAcorFc78UqiGCtT0.dQWrqG0Cwi1BftKni7oNMJ7FARzekSJWSl4fvILD1MU&dib_tag=se&hvadid=694198857096&hvdev=c&hvexpln=67&hvlocphy=9058761&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=17617777239930721740--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=17617777239930721740&hvtargid=kwd-4686936163&hydadcr=18472_13462150&keywords=celestron%20nexstar%208se&mcid=deadd43652e331aabadee6ae726cd94c&qid=1751535125&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1&ascsubtag=space-us-1346887865419321405-20&geniuslink=true" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"> Celestron NexStar 8SE</a> is ideal for beginners wanting quality, reliable and quick views of celestial objects. For a more in-depth look at our<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/celestron-nexstar-8se-telescope-review"> Celestron NexStar 8SE review.</a></p></div></div><p>As such, a very small percentage of our planet's population will <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/ultimate-moon-observation-guide">see the moon</a> slide directly in front of Spica in the coming hours. This event, known as an occultation, will occur in the hours following 3:51 p.m. EDT (19:51 GMT) on July 3 and will be visible to stargazers situated in Antarctica, the Falkland Islands, and the southernmost tips of Chile and Argentina.</p><p><em><strong>Editor's Note: </strong></em><em>If you capture a shot of the moon and Spica together and want to share it with Space.com's readers, then please send your photo, comments, name and location to spacephotos@space.com. </em></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/stargazing/see-the-bright-star-spica-close-to-the-waxing-gibbous-moon-on-july-3</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Spica is a binary star system that orbits over 250 light-years from Earth within the Milky Way. ]]>
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<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2025 17:23:25 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Stargazing]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Anthony Wood ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/RwMN5SbYFgwZQp6vTMqYES.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Anthony Wood]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A simulation of the night sky showing the moon close to Spica on the night of July 3. The locations of stars belonging to the constellation Virgo are arrayed above the moon’s disk, joined by a thin line, while those of libra can be seen to the left, with the constellation Corvus below. ]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A simulation of the night sky showing the moon close to Spica on the night of July 3. The locations of stars belonging to the constellation Virgo are arrayed above the moon’s disk, joined by a thin line, while those of libra can be seen to the left, with the constellation Corvus below. ]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Best Fujifilm cameras 2025: Save big on these models this Amazon Prime Day. ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>We have tried many of the best Fujifilm cameras and tested them for astrophotography and a range of other photographic subjects. Fujifilm is known for its focus on creativity, along with excellent film simulation and top-quality images straight out of the camera.</p><p>If you aren't familiar with Fujifilm cameras, this guide will take you through the models we think are the best and explain the features that help these cameras stand out from those of other brands. As with any big purchase, you should take your time to figure out what you need from a camera before buying. Now could be a great time to buy a Fujifilm camera as <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/amazon-prime-day-space-deals">Amazon Prime Day</a> is running from July 8 to 11 and there could be big discounts on these models.</p><p>We've compiled a list of the top models available from Fujifilm right now and provided their specifications along with their pros and cons. Our guide considers a range of uses and budgets so you can pick the right model for you. If you're set on buying a Fujifilm camera, you will need one of the best Fujifilm lenses to go with it. To see how Fujifilm compares with other brands, check out our guide to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-cameras">best cameras</a> available right now. Photographers looking to capture the night sky should see our guide to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-cameras-for-astrophotography">best cameras for astrophotography</a>.</p><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-the-quick-list"><span>The quick list</span></h3> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="6440ee75-74e4-4751-a8ff-a97d2bd5e3f5"> <a href="#section-best-overall" data-model-name="Fujifilm X-T50" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BsS2tfV3VpSBrKEZEZrKH6.jpg' alt="Fujifilm X-T50"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best overall</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Fujifilm X-T50 </div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="90" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best overall</strong></em></p><p>The Fujifilm X-T50 is a perfectly balanced camera that blends performance, portability and vintage style into a camera that is great for most subjects.</p><p><a href="#section-best-overall"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="955b14f1-7377-4ffb-80aa-67bf10eb86e8"> <a href="#section-best-for-professionals" data-model-name="Fujifilm X-H2" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JFagcPcQ3Q2eDmXNPbSRUd.jpg' alt="Fujifilm X-H2"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best for professionals</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Fujifilm X-H2</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="90" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best for professionals</strong></em></p><p>This high-resolution hybrid camera is a workhorse that's a good pick for heavy shooting and professional photographers.</p><p><a href="#section-best-for-professionals"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="d012f1a4-6406-4182-b1fd-a6bbbb5f5b93"> <a href="#section-best-for-portability" data-model-name="Fujifilm X-M5" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/E4H2CHiQxQrFEg8ZQPQkrk.jpg' alt="Fujifilm X-M5"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best for portability</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Fujifilm X-M5</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="80" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best for portability</strong></em></p><p>This compact, lightweight camera doesn't compromise on image quality and works with all X-series lenses.</p><p><a href="#section-best-for-portability"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="ab7ddcef-a1c1-451d-9c73-4cfcc7c951dc"> <a href="#section-best-for-versatility" data-model-name="Fujifilm X-T5" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/xXthKdxpjVuiwEMrK6hKuS.jpg' alt="A Fujifilm - X-T5 Mirrorless Camera "><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best for versatility</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Fujifilm X-T5</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="90" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best for versatility</strong></em></p><p>This flexible workhorse camera is weatherproof and excels at both stills and video.</p><p><a href="#section-best-for-versatility"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="d561d7be-f9f1-42f5-a902-a10c52089797"> <a href="#section-best-for-beginners" data-model-name="Fujifilm X-T30 II" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/pWhjewVZtTxghdpK3Ba6Rj.png' alt="Image shows the Fujifilm X-T30 II."><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best for beginners</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Fujifilm X-T30 II</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="80" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best for beginners</strong></em></p><p>The X-T30 II is a great introduction to Fujifilm's XT camera series, with an affordable price and plenty of beginner-friendly manual controls.</p><p><a href="#section-best-for-beginners"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="aaaf4433-b1b5-4c9c-bc56-14895d1b70ed"> <a href="#section-best-medium-format" data-model-name="Fujifilm GFX 100S II" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/QGMYKNX5JheT8U6iWQBNCm.jpg' alt="Fujifilm GFX100S II"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best medium format</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Fujifilm GFX100S II</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="90" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best medium format</strong></em></p><p>This camera offers 102-megapixel photography in a relatively compact body for its huge medium-format sensor size.</p><p><a href="#section-best-medium-format"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div><div class="collapsible-block-start"></div><div class="collapsible-block-title"load-the-next-product"><p>Load the next product ↴</p></div> <div class="featured_product_block featured_block_hero" data-id="b5665df0-0d4c-46ab-9798-f6ce5d7fef48"> <a href="#section-best-for-video" data-model-name="Fujifilm GFX 100 II" ><div class='product-image-widthsetter'><p class='vanilla-image-block' data-bordeaux-image-check style='padding-top:100.00%';><img style='width: 100%' class='featured_image' src='https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/yyX6MVkKNuSimCttskv5HW.jpg' alt="Fujifilm GFX 100 II"><span class='featured__label hero__label'>Best for video</span></p></div></a> <div class="featured_product_details_wrapper"> <div class="featured_product_title_wrapper"> <div class="featured__title">Fujifilm GFX100 II</div> <div class="stars__reviews"><span itemprop="reviewRating" itemscope itemtype="http://schema.org/Rating" class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span><meta itemprop="bestRating" content="100.0" /><meta itemprop="worstRating" content="0.0" /><meta itemprop="ratingValue" content="90" /></span></div> </div> <div class="subtitle__description"> <p><p><em><strong>Best for video</strong></em></p><p>Fujifilm's flagship medium-format camera hosts a range of high-tech features, including stunning 8K video at 30p.</p><p><a href="#section-best-for-video"><strong>Read more below</strong></a></p></p> </div> </div> </div><div class="collapsible-block-end"></div><h2 id="the-best-fujifilm-cameras-we-recommend-in-2025-2">The best Fujifilm cameras we recommend in 2025</h2><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-overall"><span>Best overall</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="W5TXAaWpBj4dUy448BihgD" name="xt50-side-view" alt="A Fujifilm X-T50 camera on a tripod in a field" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/W5TXAaWpBj4dUy448BihgD.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-T50 excelled in our astrophotography testing. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="owAdJ6ctKAvxsVjAfDSPGA" name="xt50-with-18" alt="Fujifilm X-T50 with an 18mm f/1.4 lens on a tripod aiming at the sky" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/owAdJ6ctKAvxsVjAfDSPGA.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-T50 is compatible with all of Fujifilm's XF lenses. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2135px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.21%;"><img id="ankFyjrRBnEL4UCrxgLgLA" name="orion-nebula" alt="The Orion Nebula and Orion's Belt in the night sky" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ankFyjrRBnEL4UCrxgLgLA.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2135" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">We used the Fujifilm X-T50 to capture the Orion Nebula and Orion's Belt, among other astrophotography targets. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 4 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="UKjkuYMhao9U8rFWXk8vSm" name="Mars-triangle-corner" alt="The Mars Triangle, Jupiter, Capella and the Pleiades star cluster" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/UKjkuYMhao9U8rFWXk8vSm.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Mars Triangle, Jupiter, Capella and the Pleiades star cluster taken with the Fujifilm X-T50. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 5 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="NeDwuGqAeDgDRPbrbsxBMA" name="front-view-xt50" alt="The Fujifilm X-T50 on a wooden bench" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NeDwuGqAeDgDRPbrbsxBMA.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-T50 has a classic film-style housing. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 6 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="Lac2bLezeEkqvdvzSqryKA" name="shutter-speed-dial" alt="A close-up of the Fujifilm X-T50's dials and power switch" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Lac2bLezeEkqvdvzSqryKA.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-T50 has plenty of tactile creative controls. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 7 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="tVbKh3yDieiQJcq2XQEzKA" name="film-sim-dial" alt="A close-up of the Fujifilm X-T50's film- simulation dial" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/tVbKh3yDieiQJcq2XQEzKA.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The X-T50 features the new film-simulation dial that allows you to switch through the classic Fujifilm film recipes. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 8 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="Seb9vHA2zbB5ctbZEWJVKA" name="looking-xt50" alt="A man looking through a Fujifilm X-T50 with a field and sunset in the background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Seb9vHA2zbB5ctbZEWJVKA.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-T50 performed well with a wide range of photography, including landscapes, light trails and astrophotography. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="fujifilm-x-t50-2"><span class="title__text"><a href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/astrophotography/fujifilm-x-t50-review">Fujifilm X-T50</a></span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best overall: The Fujifilm X-T50 is a powerful hybrid camera in a vintage body with exceptional astro performance.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Mirrorless | <strong>Sensor: </strong>40.2-MP APS-C CMOS sensor | <strong>Lens mount: </strong>X-mount | <strong>ISO range: </strong>125 to 12,800 (extendable from 64 to 51,200) | <strong>Viewfinder resolution: </strong>2.36m dots | <strong>Screen size/resolution: </strong>3.0 inch / 1.84 million dots | <strong>Autofocus detection range: </strong>-7 EV | <strong>Video: </strong>Videos up to 6.2K internally at 30p, 4K/60p and high-speed 1080/240p | <strong>Storage: </strong>1x SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II, V90) | <strong>Battery life: </strong>305 frames | <strong>Weight: </strong> 15.45 ounces (438 g), including the battery and memory card | <strong>Dimensions: </strong>4.9 x 3.3 x 1.9 inches (124 x 84 x 48 mm)</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Strong creative focus</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Good astro capability</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Versatile camera</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">APS-C crop sensor only</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">No astro-specific features</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Slow low-light autofocus</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You are highly creative.</strong> The X-T50 features plenty of manual controls and dials for creative control of exposure.<br><strong>✅ You shoot a range of photography styles. </strong>The 40-MP sensor makes the X-T50 a great camera for astrophotography as well as other subjects, like people, animals and landscapes.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You need a full-frame camera. </strong>The Fujifilm X-T50 is an APS-C crop camera, so if you need a full-frame camera, this is not for you.</p><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You need astro-specific features. </strong>Although this camera performs relatively well with astrophotography, it lacks specific astrophotography features, like modes that preserve night vision and astrophotography modes.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Fujifilm X-T50:</strong> This is a creative powerhouse with a 40-MP sensor, manual controls and versatile photography capability, including a strong astro ability. It is great for capturing high-resolution stills with strong creative expression. However, it's not the best choice for advanced video production or for people looking for a full-frame camera. ★★★★<strong>1/2</strong></p></div></div><p>The Fujifilm X-T50 is a phenomenal enthusiast-level camera with a huge 40-megapixel sensor, a 50-frame-per-second burst rate and great high-ISO performance. It's perfect for a range of photography styles, and it performed well during our astrophotography testing. All of these high-tech features are housed in a compact body that resembles a vintage film camera.</p><p>In our review of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/astrophotography/fujifilm-x-t50-review">Fujifilm X-T50, we said it </a>"excels in capturing all photographic subjects, and we think it is one of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-cameras">best cameras</a> available." It has a high-resolution 40-MP sensor, good high-ISO performance, and video capabilities of 6.2K at 30p and 4K at 60p. During our astrophotography testing, we managed to get stunning images of the Orion Nebula, Mars and a range of other night-sky targets.</p><p>It's built into a compact body, which makes it good for those who want a portable or light camera. It's a lighter version of the X-T5 and features a film-simulation dial for more direct creative control. There are a few trade-offs, like a lack of weatherproofing and two-axis tilt screen, but we didn't think these omissions affected the X-T50's astrophotography performance.</p><p>Although the X-T50 has only one SD card slot, you can store plenty of photos with a high-volume UHS-III SD card. The camera also has Bluetooth for transferring photos to the smartphone app. At just under $1,400, the X-T50 is a great value, leaving you more money to spend on one of the best Fujifilm lenses.</p><ul><li><strong>Read our full </strong><a href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/astrophotography/fujifilm-x-t50-review"><strong>Fujifilm X-T50 review</strong></a></li></ul><div ><table><caption>Fujifilm X-T50</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Classic film-style housing and tactile creative controls</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Strong astro ability</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Good battery and connectivity</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><ul><li><a href="#main">Back to the top ⤴</a></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-for-professionals"><span>Best for professionals</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="ZpUD2M2KjqKMZxEqDuSZTB" name="xh2-sensor" alt="A close-up of the front of the Fujifilm X-H2, with the sensor appearing red and green" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ZpUD2M2KjqKMZxEqDuSZTB.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-H2 features the same 40-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor from the X-T50 and the X-T5. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="6VWPoTABzgYdWF4UVqX9TB" name="xh2-with-18mm" alt="The Fujifilm X-H2 with the Fujifilm XF 18mm f/1.4 lens on a tripod in a field" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/6VWPoTABzgYdWF4UVqX9TB.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-H2 works seamlessly with Fujifilm's range of XF lenses. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="rN3TAhGXf8iGC4gVczm4RB" name="orion-nebula" alt="Orion's Belt, with the Orion Nebula visible in the night sky" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/rN3TAhGXf8iGC4gVczm4RB.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">We captured Orion's Belt and the Orion Nebula, among other targets, with the X-H2. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 4 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="DfveUSGvsF3rDoFkVK3MEB" name="crescent-sunset" alt="A crescent moon with Venus in a sunset sky" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DfveUSGvsF3rDoFkVK3MEB.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">A crescent moon with Venus over a sunset taken with the X-H2. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 5 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="c54kGbNg4TMWs9VhVrNQJB" name="testing-xh2" alt="A man looking at a Fujifilm X-H2 with the stars, moon, Venus and city lights in the background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/c54kGbNg4TMWs9VhVrNQJB.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">During our astrophotography tests, the Fujifilm X-H2 performed well and captured many night-sky targets. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 6 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="JXW2tCf4RPVm44aHzV4wQB" name="xh2-logo" alt="A close-up of the drive button, gallery button and X-H2 logo on the Fujifilm X-H2" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JXW2tCf4RPVm44aHzV4wQB.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The X-H2 has manual operation dials and has the weight and feel of the pro-level camera that it is. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 7 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="z4vLBcFr4oGZ4xyghQAgPB" name="xh2-monitor" alt="A close-up of the secondary LCD monitor on the Fujifilm X-H2" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/z4vLBcFr4oGZ4xyghQAgPB.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">There is a secondary LCD monitor that shows the battery life and shooting settings. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 8 of 8</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="mBVJQp2xwBgwb2mvYsoTPB" name="xh2-memory-card" alt="A Fujifilm X-H2 on a wooden shelf with the memory card compartment open" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/mBVJQp2xwBgwb2mvYsoTPB.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-H2 has a CFexpress slot and an SD card slot, so it can handle prolonged shooting sessions. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="fujifilm-x-h2-2"><span class="title__text">Fujifilm X-H2</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best for professionals: The Fujifilm X-H2 is a workhorse hybrid camera that's packed with features for professional photographers.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Mirrorless | <strong>Sensor: </strong>40.2-MP APS-C CMOS sensor | <strong>Lens mount: </strong>X-mount | <strong>ISO range: </strong>125 to 12,800 (extendable from 64 to 51,200) | <strong>Viewfinder resolution: </strong>5.76m dots | <strong>Screen size/resolution: </strong>3-inch vari-angle / 1.62m dots | <strong>Autofocus detection range: </strong>-7 EV | <strong>Video: </strong>8K at 30 fps, 4K at 60 fps and full HD at 240 fps | <strong>Storage: </strong>1x CFexpress slot, 1x UHS-II SD slot | <strong>Battery life: </strong>580 frames | <strong>Weight: </strong>1.46 pounds (660 g) with the battery and memory card | <strong>Dimensions: </strong>5.4 x 3.7 x 3.3 inches (136 x 93 x 85 mm)</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">40-MP high-resolution sensor</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Excellent astrophotography</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">8K video capability</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Potentially overwhelming features and high price for beginners and casual use</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Bulky camera</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You are a professional photographer.</strong> This camera won't let you down in long shoots and has professional features such as custom function buttons.<br><br><strong>✅ You need hybrid photo and video capability. </strong>The 40-MP sensor delivers crisp stills and has 8K video capability.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You need a lightweight, compact camera.</strong> The X-H2 weighs a hefty 1.46 pounds and has a bulky body, making it unsuitable if you need something lightweight.<br><br><strong>❌ You're not a professional photographer.</strong> Although the X-H2 boasts impressive tech, its features would be overkill for a beginner or hobbyist with a limited budget.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Fujifilm X-H2:</strong> This feature-packed powerhouse camera delivers professional images, video and astrophotography performance. It is suited to professionals; many of the features would be overkill for a beginner or hobbyist. ★★★★½</p></div></div><p>The Fujifilm X-H2 is a high-end mirrorless camera aimed at serious hybrid shooters. It features a 40-MP sensor, 8K video and a weather-sealed body. Although it's an APS-C-format camera, it delivers exceptional photo and video performance.</p><p>In our review, the X-H2 handled astrophotography well and captured a wide range of targets, including Ursa Major, Jupiter and the Orion Nebula. It delivered incredibly detailed stills of a wide range of subjects and worked seamlessly even on long shoots. We think the Fujifilm X-H2 is one of the best cameras for photo and video.</p><p>The X-H2 has the same sensor as some of Fujifilm's other cameras, notably the X-T50 and X-T5. However, it differs in the level of features. The X-H2 offers high resolution, great video capture at 8K and robust advanced video codec handling. The X-H2 can handle a huge range of photography demands, but the pro-level features would be overkill for a beginner or hobbyist.</p><p>This camera is built for professional photographers in mind, with custom function buttons and a secondary LCD for exposure details and battery life. The Fujifilm X-H2 can handle all the jobs you throw at it with both precision and speed.</p><div ><table><caption>Fujifilm X-H2</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Rugged and weather-sealed camera with a deep grip</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Excellent-resolution images of a wide range of subjects</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Pro-level tools, like 8K video and pixel shift multishot</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><ul><li><a href="#main">Back to the top ⤴</a></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-for-portability"><span>Best for portability</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="EzLRYaRMdoi5QH6EkdfdeA" name="xm5-oiz" alt="The Fujifilm X-M5 with an XC 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS PZ lens on a tripod head in a field" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/EzLRYaRMdoi5QH6EkdfdeA.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-M5 pairs well with Fujifilm's XC f/3.5-5.6 OIS PZ lens for everyday shooting. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="EnGtLeWkNDmwKFbYyj2AYA" name="xm5-big-dipper" alt="The Big Dipper in the night sky" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/EnGtLeWkNDmwKFbYyj2AYA.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Big Dipper captured with the Fujifilm X-M5. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="BG53Lf72E9ZZfFgvTLhjZA" name="xm5-orion" alt="The night sky showing Sirius, Orion and Jupiter" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BG53Lf72E9ZZfFgvTLhjZA.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">Sirius, Orion and Jupiter photographed with the Fujifilm X-M5. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 4 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="fNqvYtAzTDTUXuuVeozAMA" name="xm5-testing" alt="A man looking at the Fujifilm X-M5 at night with Orion's Belt and city lights in the background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/fNqvYtAzTDTUXuuVeozAMA.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-M5 performed well in our astrophotography tests, especially when paired with the XF 18mm f/1.4 lens. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 5 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="P8xwTCovZR42ZjXrti59WA" name="xm5-sunset" alt="A sunset with a clear blue-and-orange sky over some fields" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/P8xwTCovZR42ZjXrti59WA.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-M5 is great for a range of subjects, like this sunset. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 6 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="dxASkAfJzJSQ7gwvmbcieA" name="xm5-sensor-closeup" alt="A close-up of the Fujifilm X-M5 with a maroon sensor" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/dxASkAfJzJSQ7gwvmbcieA.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-M5 features a 26.1-MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 7 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="cfGWWeUqgUmx9uDs4sU2ZA" name="xm5-diagonal" alt="The Fujifilm X-M5 at a diagonal angle on a wooden shelf" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/cfGWWeUqgUmx9uDs4sU2ZA.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-M5 is compact, at just 12.5 ounces. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 8 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="2TYBFN2pZzZFdaiRVywBYA" name="xm5-dials" alt="The film-simulation dial, mode dial and other controls on top of the Fujifilm X-M5" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/2TYBFN2pZzZFdaiRVywBYA.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-M5 features simple controls, including a film-simulation dial, a mode dial and a power switch/shutter button. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 9 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="nRiZHGgoxgN6qu9KgMj7dA" name="xm5-screen" alt="The Fujifilm X-M5 with screen flipped out to the left on a wooden shelf." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/nRiZHGgoxgN6qu9KgMj7dA.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-M5 has a fully articulating screen. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 10 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="juVFqGeGtVgyNcTbuuUKSA" name="xm5-battery-compartment" alt="The closed battery compartment of the Fujifilm X-M5." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/juVFqGeGtVgyNcTbuuUKSA.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The battery compartment on the X-M5 has a slide switch, making battery changes streamlined. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 11 of 11</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="tu4d78o4eHnTXypT34Y7QA" name="xm5-ports" alt="The mic jack, USB-C and mini HDMI port on the side of the Fujifilm X-M5." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/tu4d78o4eHnTXypT34Y7QA.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-M5 has good connectivity with a mic jack, mini HDMI port and a USB-C port that doubles up as a charging port. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="fujifilm-x-m5-2"><span class="title__text">Fujifilm X-M5</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best for portability: The Fujifilm X-M5 is a compact and travel-ready mirrorless camera that can handle astrophotography.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Mirrorless | <strong>Sensor: </strong>26.1-MP APS-C CMOS sensor | <strong>Lens mount: </strong>X-mount | <strong>ISO range: </strong>160 to 12,800 (extended from 80 to 51,200) | <strong>Viewfinder resolution: </strong>N/A | <strong>Screen size/resolution: </strong>3-inch vari-angle, 1.04m dots | <strong>Autofocus detection range: </strong>-7 EV (phase), -4 EV (contrast) | <strong>Video: </strong>6.2K at 30p, 4K at 60p, full HD at 240p | <strong>Storage: </strong>1x UHS-I SD card slot | <strong>Battery life: </strong>330 frames | <strong>Weight: </strong>12.5 ounces (355 grams) with the battery and memory card | <strong>Dimensions: </strong>4.4 x 2.6 x 1.5 inches (112 x 67 x 38 mm)</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Tiny, lightweight design</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Good astro capability</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Tactile exposure controls</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">No viewfinder</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Shallow grip</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Unstable with larger lenses</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You need a compact camera.</strong> The X-M5 weighs only 12.5 ounces and is compact enough to fit in your pocket.<br><br>✅ <strong>You are a beginner. </strong>This is a great camera for a beginner because of its simple controls and creative film-simulation dial.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You often use large lenses. </strong>Although the X-M5 is compatible with all of Fujifilm's XF lenses, it can feel unbalanced with larger zooms or aspherical lenses.<br><strong>❌ You are an intermediate photographer. </strong>The X-M5 can feel a bit basic for intermediate photographers, as it lacks a full dial system for controlling exposure and has a lower-resolution sensor.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Fujifilm X-M5: </strong>The X-M5 is a superportable introductory camera that's perfect for travel and is more than capable of basic astrophotography.★★★★</p></div></div><p>The Fujifilm X-M5 is all about balance and portability; it delivers a 26-MP sensor and reliable autofocus in a body that can easily fit in your pocket. Although it lacks a traditional grip, it's a handy camera that can capture a wide range of subjects. The price is midtier for an APS-C sensor, giving pro-level image results without bulk.</p><p>In our review, we were impressed with the astrophotography results of this camera, especially with the XF 18mm f/1.4 lens. We managed to get good shots of Orion, the Pleiades star cluster and Jupiter. There was a lot of noise when we pushed up the ISO, but we rarely needed to raise it that high.</p><p>Compared with the X-T50 and the X-H2, X-M5 trades in resolution and a viewfinder, among other features, for compactness. If portability is your main consideration, then it is hard to beat the X-M5.</p><p>Because it's designed with beginners in mind, the Fujifilm X-M5 has a limited set of controls aimed at making photo capture easy and fun. We love the new film-simulation dial that makes it quick and easy to change your film style.</p><div ><table><caption>Fujifilm X-M5</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Lightweight and compact camera</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Strong autofocus and astrophotography capability</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Fully articulated LCD screen and compatibility with all XF lenses</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><ul><li><a href="#main">Back to the top ⤴</a></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-for-versatility"><span>Best for versatility</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 7</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="DPYmN3BM78ifFdz86n5uuc" name="Fujifilm-XT5-main169.jpg" alt="Fujifilm X-T5 in the reviewer's hands" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DPYmN3BM78ifFdz86n5uuc.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-T5 is compatible with all of Fujifilm's XF lenses. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Lauren Scott)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 7</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="eGCprdSbYzuUwvfQuvcj3d" name="Fujifilm-XT5-topview.jpg" alt="A top-down view of the camera held at a low angle with the rear screen tilted out" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/eGCprdSbYzuUwvfQuvcj3d.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-T5's LCD screen can tilt on two axes. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Lauren Scott)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 7</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="Dxkh5dZVeAkJeLbXSgdjwb" name="Fujifilm-XT5-lowangle.jpg" alt="Fujifilm X-T5 in the reviewer's hands, shooting at a low angle with the rear screen" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Dxkh5dZVeAkJeLbXSgdjwb.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The tilting LCD screen makes it easy to shoot from low angles. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Lauren Scott)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 4 of 7</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:3000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:66.67%;"><img id="4nmD9pqpWmeU4V3bBPaXNc" name="Fujifilm-XT5-lowlight3.jpg" alt="An image taken inside a church in low light" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/4nmD9pqpWmeU4V3bBPaXNc.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="3000" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-T5 has great low-light capability and captures a good amount of detail. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Lauren Scott)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 5 of 7</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:3000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:66.67%;"><img id="qv9LnkQuFgA4F79BUy5Z7c" name="Fujifilm-XT5-lowlight1.jpg" alt="An image of Bath Abbey taken with the Fujifilm X-T5 at night" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/qv9LnkQuFgA4F79BUy5Z7c.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="3000" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">Bath Abbey at night, taken with the Fujifilm X-T5. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Lauren Scott)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 6 of 7</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:3000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:66.67%;"><img id="X9PMfTxhCi95faNJxWTegc" name="Fujifilm-XT5-lowlight5.jpg" alt="A low-angle image in a forest taken with the Fujifilm X-T5" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/X9PMfTxhCi95faNJxWTegc.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="3000" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-T5 delivers high-resolution images with its 40.2-MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Lauren Scott)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 7 of 7</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="ERsrd5yhujKQdDbrKEVmob" name="Fujifilm-XT5-handson2.jpg" alt="The Fujifilm X-T5 in hand against a white background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ERsrd5yhujKQdDbrKEVmob.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The large grip on the Fujifilm X-T5 makes this camera a sturdy choice for extended shoots. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Lauren Scott)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="fujifilm-x-t5-2"><span class="title__text"><a href="https://www.space.com/fujifilm-x-t5-review">Fujifilm X-T5</a></span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best beginner full frame</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Mirrorless | <strong>Sensor: </strong>40.2-MP full-frame CMOS | <strong>Lens mount: </strong>X-mount | <strong>ISO range: </strong>125 to 12,800 (extendable from 64 to 51,200) | <strong>Viewfinder resolution: </strong>3.69m dots | <strong>Screen size/resolution: </strong>3-inch 2-axis tilting / 1.84m dots | <strong>Autofocus detection range: </strong>-7 EV (phase), -4 EV (contrast) | <strong>Video: </strong>6.2K at 30p, 4K at 60p, full HD at 240p | <strong>Storage: </strong>2x UHS-II SD card slots | <strong>Battery life: </strong>580 frames | <strong>Weight: </strong>1.2 pounds (557 grams) | <strong>Dimensions: </strong>5.1 x 3.6 x 2.5 inches (130 x 91 x 64 mm) </p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Compact, ergonomic design</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Wide range of compatible X-mount lenses</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">High-resolution sensor</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">LCD screen doesn't flip</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Top-heavy camera with larger lenses</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Physical control dials that are hard to find in the dark</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You want one camera to do it all.</strong> The X-T5 can handle landscapes, portraits, action shots and astrophotography thanks to its 40-MP sensor.<br><strong>✅ You shoot in challenging conditions. </strong>The X-T5 has 56 weather-sealed points to prevent water and dust ingress.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You want a modern-style camera. </strong>The traditional control layout might feel slower to operate than controls on other cameras.</p><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You only shoot astrophotography. </strong>Although it performs well in low light, the APS-C sensor and lack of astro-specific features mean the X-T5 isn't a good choice for users who only shoot astrophotography.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Fujifilm X-T5: </strong>The X-T5 is a great all-rounder that can handle a wide range of shooting needs, all while being resilient in tough conditions. ★★★★</p></div></div><p>The X-T5 delivers the same powerful 40-MP X-Trans sensor, 6.2K video capability and in-body stabilization as the Fujifilm X-T50. So what's different? The X-T5 has 56 weather-sealed points, whereas the X-T50 has none. It also features a screen that can tilt on two different axes, dual memory card slots, more manual controls and pixel-shift multishot.</p><p>In our <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/fujifilm-x-t5-review">Fujifilm X-T5 review, </a>we praised the camera's stellar low-light performance and sharp detail; we managed to get high-resolution images of nighttime architecture. We thought the screen's lack of full articulation and dim dial visibility were some drawbacks when shooting in dark environments.</p><p>When compared with rival APS-C cameras like the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/sony-a6700-review">Sony A6700</a> and the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href=" https://www.space.com/canon-eos-r7-review">Canon EOS R7</a>, the X-T5 stands out with higher resolution and in-body image stabilization. It has great color rendering for its class, but noise at higher ISOs reveals the limits of the sensor size.</p><p>The X-T5 is tailored more to professionals than the X-T50 is, with advanced shooting options, extra storage and a weather-sealed body. Users who prefer full manual operation of exposure will also delight in the full range of controls on top of the camera.</p><ul><li><strong>Read our full </strong><a href="https://www.space.com/fujifilm-x-t5-review"><strong>Fujifilm X-T5 review</strong></a></li></ul><div ><table><caption>Fujifilm X-T5</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Rugged hybrid camera with manual control dials</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Strong low-light performance at lower ISOs</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Great battery life and 56 points of weather sealing</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><ul><li><a href="#main">Back to the top ⤴</a></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-for-beginners"><span>Best for beginners</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 4</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:4032px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="tnG5Go7rRA8G4Wzj56AFtJ" name="20220624_151516.jpg" alt="A photo of the Fujifilm X-T30 II's compact body" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/tnG5Go7rRA8G4Wzj56AFtJ.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="4032" height="2268" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-T30 II has a compact, lightweight body. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Tantse Walter)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 4</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:4032px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.23%;"><img id="A3mo66fp7ymZ9bZKcG7HdL" name="20220624_151410.jpg" alt="An image of the X-T30 II from above, with its tactile aluminum-alloy dials" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/A3mo66fp7ymZ9bZKcG7HdL.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="4032" height="2267" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm X-T30 II features classic manual control dials. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Tantse Walter)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 4</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:4441px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="2u9HVNzkSuSxaY2AwzS3u8" name="moonfuji.jpg" alt="A quick, handheld snap of the moon on the Fujifilm X-T30 II" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/2u9HVNzkSuSxaY2AwzS3u8.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="4441" height="2498" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">A photograph of the half moon taken with the Fujifilm X-T30 II. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Tantse Walter)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 4 of 4</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:6240px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="XegGhf6BDAUFvNd9hBx7zY" name="xt30 flower.jpg" alt="A photo of a flower demonstrating the camera's ability to produce rich and accurate colors" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/XegGhf6BDAUFvNd9hBx7zY.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="6240" height="3510" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The X-T30 II delivers rich color science synonymous with Fujifilm. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Tantse Walter)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="fujifilm-x-t30-ii-2"><span class="title__text"><a href="https://www.space.com/fujifilm-x-t30-ii-camera-review">Fujifilm X-T30 II</a></span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best for beginners: The Fujifilm X-T30 II is a wallet-friendly classic that offers the full Fujifilm experience for newcomers.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Mirrorless | <strong>Sensor: </strong>26.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor | <strong>Lens mount: </strong>X-Mount | <strong>ISO Range: </strong>160 to 12,800 (extendable from 80 to 51,200) | <strong>Viewfinder resolution: </strong>2.36m dots | <strong>Screen size/resolution: </strong>3-in tilting / 1.62m dots | <strong>Autofocus detection range: </strong>-7 EV (phase), -3 EV (contrast) | <strong>Video: </strong>DCI 4K at 30p, UHD 4K at 30p, Full HD at 240p | <strong>Storage: </strong>1x UHS-1 SD card slot | <strong>Battery life: </strong>380 frames | <strong>Weight: </strong>13.3 ounces (378 g) with the memory card and battery | <strong>Dimensions: </strong>4.6 x 3.3 x 1.9 inches (118 x 83 x 47 mm) </p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Very light and compact camera</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Easy image sharing</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Quick autofocus</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Weak battery life </div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Tilt-only screen</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Nonintuitive menu</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You are a beginner. </strong>The X-T30 II is powerful but approachable for a photographer just starting out, with plenty of auto modes and film simulations.<br><br><strong>✅ You want a camera for everyday shooting. </strong>The sensor is a modest 26-MP but can produce high-resolution images of a wide range of subjects.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You shoot in low light often. </strong>Although it can capture acceptable photos of the moon, the X-T30 II doesn't handle high ISOs well and lacks in-body image stabilization for shooting in dim conditions.<br><br>❌ <strong>You are an intermediate photographer. </strong>The X-T30 II lacks the functionality demanded of intermediate-level cameras, such as a high-resolution sensor and strong battery life.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Fujifilm X-T30 II:</strong> This is a budget-friendly beginner camera for everyday shooting and introduces you to the Fujifilm ecosystem. ★★★★1/2</p></div></div><p>The Fujifilm X-T30 II is a compact camera from Fujifilm's X-T camera line. The body looks very similar to the X-T50's vintage-style housing, but the X-T30 II has weaker specs and a smaller body.</p><p>Although we can't recommend this camera for astrophotography specifically, we can recommend it for everyday shooting. In our <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/fujifilm-x-t30-ii-camera-review">Fujifilm X-T30 II review</a>, we were impressed with the autofocus speed and accuracy of the 425-point hybrid autofocus system. When shooting outdoors, we captured impressive colors and sharp detail. We even managed to get a decent photo of the moon!</p><p>The X-T30 II's weak points lie in its low-light performance. Stars were invisible in our shots, and there was significant noise at higher ISO levels. The X-T30 II also lacks in-body image stabilization, making it difficult to shoot sharp images in dim conditions.</p><p>That said, the X-T30 II is a strong beginner camera that is capable of 4K video and excels in daylight shooting. At just over 13 ounces, this is a nice lightweight introduction to the Fujifilm mirrorless world.</p><ul><li><strong>Read our full </strong><a href="https://www.space.com/fujifilm-x-t30-ii-camera-review"><strong>Fujifilm X-T30 II review</strong></a></li></ul><div ><table><caption>Fujifilm X-T30 II</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Compact vintage body with a tilting screen</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Good daylight shooting performance</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Great connectivity with the Fujifilm smartphone app</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><ul><li><a href="#main">Back to the top ⤴</a></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-medium-format"><span>Best medium format</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 6</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="SpobHthHjHHvt6xZwGkRtV" name="gfx100iis" alt="The Fujifilm GFX100S II showing its sensor" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/SpobHthHjHHvt6xZwGkRtV.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm GFX100S II has a huge 102-MP medium-format sensor. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 6</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2131px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.31%;"><img id="hMJEbMUt6mcHKqDypNyXtV" name="gfx100sii-lens" alt="The Fujifilm GFX100S II with its lens" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/hMJEbMUt6mcHKqDypNyXtV.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2131" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm GFX100S II is compatible with Fujifilm's range of G-mount lenses. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 6</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2131px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.31%;"><img id="SbiN3VBR887q279SwAkcUT" name="gfx100sII-top" alt="A top view of the Fujifilm GFX100S II" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/SbiN3VBR887q279SwAkcUT.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2131" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm GFX100S II with a mode dial and sub LCD that displays shooting information. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 4 of 6</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2131px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.31%;"><img id="7jK3HvVy43k9PVgaYcYksV" name="gfx100sii-screen" alt="The Fujifilm GFX100S II with its screen tilted" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7jK3HvVy43k9PVgaYcYksV.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2131" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm GFX100S II has a three-way tilting LCD screen. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 5 of 6</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2131px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.31%;"><img id="PYzuit2zWAjyv8kCi9YprV" name="gfx100sii-ports" alt="The Fujifilm GFX100S II's ports" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/PYzuit2zWAjyv8kCi9YprV.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2131" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm GFX100S II has a wide range of ports to support external device use. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 6 of 6</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="6uVMqgHYB5j4HEjK8HJAuV" name="gfx100sii-battery" alt="The Fujifilm GFX100S II showing the battery and open battery compartment" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/6uVMqgHYB5j4HEjK8HJAuV.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm GFX100S II uses the Fujifilm NP-W235 battery. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="fujifilm-gfx100s-ii-2"><span class="title__text">Fujifilm GFX100S II</span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star half"></span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best medium format: The Fujifilm GFX100S II is a compact medium-format camera that delivers powerful 102-MP performance.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Mirrorless | <strong>Sensor: </strong>102-MP medium-format CMOS sensor | <strong>Lens mount: </strong>G-mount | <strong>ISO range: </strong>80 to 12,800 (extendable from 40 to 102,400) | <strong>Viewfinder resolution: </strong>5.76m dots | <strong>EVF size/resolution: </strong>3.2-in tilting LCD / 2.36m dots | <strong>Autofocus detection range: </strong>-5.5 EV (phase), -2.5 EV (contrast) | <strong>Video: </strong>DCI 4K at 30p, full HD at 60p | <strong>Storage: </strong>2x UHS-II SD card slots | <strong>Battery life: </strong>530 frames | <strong>Weight: </strong>1.95 pounds (883 g) with the memory card and battery | <strong>Dimensions: </strong>5.9 x 4.1 x 3.4 inches (150 x 104 x 87 mm)</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Huge 102MP sensor</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Relatively compact for medium format</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Strong dynamic range</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Very expensive</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Slower buffer speeds</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Limited range of G-mount lenses</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You want superior image detail.</strong> With 102 MP of resolution to play with, you can capture an incredible level of detail with better quality for larger prints or severe image cropping.<br><br><strong>✅ You shoot high-level studio or landscape photography. </strong>The medium-format sensor allows you to capture a better dynamic range and tonal gradation, as well as provides the potential for strong background blur and a signature "3D pop" associated with medium-format sensors.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You need fast action performance. </strong>Due to the larger-than-full-frame system, larger lenses and huge raw file sizes, the GFX100S II just can't compete when it comes to rapid-fire photography.</p><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You travel light. </strong>While still relatively compact for a medium-format camera, the body still weighs 1.95 pounds even before it's paired with one of the heavier G-mount lenses.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Fujifilm GFX100S II:</strong> The GFX100S II is a huge 102-MP powerhouse aimed at professionals who need tons of detail, and it's designed in a surprisingly compact body for its class. ★★★★½</p></div></div><p>Fujifilm skips producing full-frame cameras and goes straight for the jugular with its beastly lineup of "larger-than-full-frame" medium-format cameras. The GFX100S II packs a 102-MP medium-format sensor and eight stops of in-body image stabilization into a 1.95-pound body, making it Fujifilm's lightest medium-format camera.</p><p>We haven't tested this model, but we think it would be an amazing camera for shooting landscapes and astrophotography. The medium-format sensor should allow for better dynamic range and low noise for star photography. The massive resolution would also benefit astrophotographers who do large-scale prints and like to crop in on their images.</p><p>Compared with full-frame rivals like the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/sony-a7r-v-review">Sony A7R V</a> and the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/canon-eos-r5-review">Canon EOS R5</a>, the GFX100S II outresolves and produces more tonal depth, but it lacks speed and strong video capability.</p><p>The GFX100S II is a beast for producing super-high-resolution stills, especially in a landscape or studio setting, but it lacks the performance needed for huge burst photography or high-end video production.</p><div ><table><caption>Fujifilm GFX100S II</caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Huge medium-format sensor in a compact body</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Super-high resolution with strong dynamic range</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>Great for cropping and large-scale prints</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><ul><li><a href="#main">Back to the top ⤴</a></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-for-video"><span>Best for video</span></h3><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 6</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2131px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.31%;"><img id="5wkgFTy3iQrH75nyy46MXT" name="gfx100II" alt="A front view of the Fujifilm GFX100 II showing its sensor" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/5wkgFTy3iQrH75nyy46MXT.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2131" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm GFX100 II has a 102-MP sensor. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 6</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2131px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.31%;"><img id="f8rehonQpeiYsU9SJPewXT" name="gfx100II-lens" alt="The Fujifilm GFX100 II with the lens attached" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/f8rehonQpeiYsU9SJPewXT.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2131" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm GFX100 II is compatible with GFX series lenses. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 6</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2131px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.31%;"><img id="47BQhZNUwTdya6qip687WT" name="gfx100II-top" alt="A top view of the Fujifilm GFX100 II" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/47BQhZNUwTdya6qip687WT.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2131" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm GFX100 II with the mode dial and sub LCD monitor. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 4 of 6</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2131px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.31%;"><img id="ELbdgPyjbhdzEczAA8hNWT" name="gfx100II-screen" alt="A back view of the Fujifilm GFX100 II showing its screens and buttons" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ELbdgPyjbhdzEczAA8hNWT.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2131" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm GFX100 II has a three-way tilting screen and 9.44m dot viewfinder. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 5 of 6</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2131px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.31%;"><img id="M3traNz9LFxnYhaknvnhWT" name="gfx100II-ports" alt="The Fujifilm GFX100 II's ports" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/M3traNz9LFxnYhaknvnhWT.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2131" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The GFX100 II has a range of ports, including an Ethernet port and an HDMI A port. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 6 of 6</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2131px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.31%;"><img id="krMscxE8qJ42k8B4sqDGXT" name="gfx100II-battery" alt="The Fujifilm GFX100 II with the battery compartment open and the battery sliding out" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/krMscxE8qJ42k8B4sqDGXT.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="2131" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="caption-text">The Fujifilm GFX100 II features the Fujifilm NP-W235 battery. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Fujifilm)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><div class="buying-guide-block"><h3 id="fujifilm-gfx100-ii-2"><span class="title__text"><a href="https://www.space.com/canon-m50-mark-ii-review">Fujifilm GFX100 II</a></span><span class="chunk rating"><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span><span class="icon icon-star"> </span></span></h3><div class="_hawk subtitle"><p>Best for video: The Fujifilm GFX100 II is a medium-format camera that offers cinematic 8K video with unrivaled depth.</p></div><p class="specs__container"><strong>Type: </strong>Mirrorless | <strong>Sensor: </strong>102-MP medium-format CMOS sensor | <strong>Lens mount: </strong>G-mount | <strong>ISO Range: </strong>80 to 12,800 (extendable from 40 to 102,400) | <strong>Viewfinder resolution: </strong>9.44m dots | <strong>Screen size/resolution: </strong>3.2-in tilting LCD, 2.36m dots | <strong>Autofocus detection range: </strong>-5.5 EV (phase), -2.5 EV (contrast) | <strong>Video: </strong>8K at 30p, DCI/UHD 4K at 60p, full HD at 120p | <strong>Storage: </strong>1x CFexpress card slot, 1x UHS-II SD card slot, can record to external SSD via USB-C | <strong>Battery life: </strong>540 frames | <strong>Weight: </strong>2.27 pounds (1.03 kg) with the memory card, battery and electronic viewfinder | <strong>Dimensions: </strong>6 x 4.6 x 3.9 inches (152 x 117 x 99 mm) with EVF</p><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="hawk-wrapper"></div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">8K internal recording</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Massive hybrid capability</div><div class="icon icon-plus_circle _hawk">Amazing medium-format detail</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Heavy camera</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Very high price</div><div class="icon icon-minus_circle _hawk">Huge file sizes</div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>✅ You make money from shooting video. </strong>The GFX100 II can shoot in 8K at 30p and 4K at 60p using 10-bit 4:2:2 color, 12-bit raw capture and F-Log2.<br><br><strong>✅ You want maximum image depth in photo and video.</strong> The huge 102-MP sensor lets you capture huge dynamic range and tonal quality in raw files.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Don't buy it if:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><strong>❌ You're on a budget. </strong>This camera is not cheap, coming it at around $7,499 / £5555.<br><br>❌ <strong>You only shoot stills. </strong>If you only shoot stills, the GFX100S II will suit you better, as it lacks the advanced video capability of the GFX100 II and is over $2,000 cheaper.</p></div></div><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">The bottom line</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">🔎 <strong>Fujifilm GFX100 II:</strong> Fujifilm's flagship medium-format model can handle serious videography needs as well as stunning 102-MP stills, but this serious hybrid powerhouse has a price tag to match. ★★★★<strong>½</strong></p></div></div><p>The GFX 100 II is Fujifilm's flagship medium-format camera. Built for serious videographers, filmmakers and high-end studio professionals, it comes priced at $7,499 / £5555. The huge cost of this camera means that it would be most beneficial to those who make money from shooting video. If you only shoot stills, then go for the GFX 100S II and save over $2,000.</p><p>That said, the GFX 100 II is brimming with pro-level technology that really does put it leagues above the rest in terms of resolution and video capability. The huge 102-MP sensor offers incredible detail on images. It allows for large crops, making it perfect for large-scale printing. On top of amazing photography performance, the GFX100 II excels in the video space, with recording capability of 8K at 30p and 4K at 60p, as well as a range of advanced codecs, including Apple ProRes raw.</p><p>Although we haven't tested this model, we think the medium-format sensor would produce astounding astrophotography images. With the larger sensor, there should be less noise and more dynamic range, which are perfect for shooting in low light. The 102-MP resolution would also benefit astrophotographers who work with large prints or extreme crops.</p><p>The Fujifilm GFX100 II is a truly hybrid camera that can produce top-notch stills and footage, but you should consider it only if you are serious about making studio-level video.</p><div ><table><caption>Fujifilm GFX100 II </caption><thead><tr><th class="firstcol " ><p>Attributes</p></th><th ><p>Notes</p></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Design</p></td><td ><p>Bulky body housing; medium-format sensor</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Performance</p></td><td ><p>Phenomenal hybrid shooting</p></td></tr><tr><td class="firstcol " ><p>Functionality</p></td><td ><p>CFexpress card slot and HDMI A terminal</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><ul><li><a href="#main">Back to the top ⤴</a></li></ul><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-best-fujifilm-camera-faqs"><span>Best Fujifilm camera FAQs</span></h3><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What is the best Fujifilm camera?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>While different Fujifilm cameras excel in different areas, we think the best one is the <a href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/astrophotography/fujifilm-x-t50-review">Fujifilm X-T50 </a>because of its amazing performance in our astrophotography testing. We captured Jupiter, Mars, the Orion Nebula and other astrophotography targets during our shoots.</p><p>The X-T50 has a huge 40-MP APS-C sensor and produces incredibly detailed photos of a wide range of subjects. It also has video recording of 6.2K at 30p and a 20-fps burst rate, making it a solid all-rounder.</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What's the best Fujifilm camera for beginners?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>For beginners, we have recommended the <a href="https://www.space.com/fujifilm-x-t30-ii-camera-review">Fujifilm X-T30 II</a> because of its low price and great everyday shooting ability. It is a good introduction to the Fujifilm mirrorless camera range, exhibiting strong autofocus and great color detail. </p><p>We would also recommend the <a href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/astrophotography/fujifilm-x-m5-review">Fujifilm X-M5</a>, which is similarly priced but lacks a viewfinder and manual exposure control dials. The X-M5 is a much more compact and simplified camera, but it performed well for everyday shooting and astrophotography.</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What is the difference between X series and GFX series cameras?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>Fujifilm X series cameras — like the X-T50, the X-T5 and the X-H2 — are made to be portable, affordable and capable of a wide range of photography. They use an APS-C crop sensor and the X-mount lens ecosystem, which includes a wide range of lenses. </p><p>Fujifilm GFX series cameras — like the GFX100 II and the GFX100S II — are aimed at professional photographers who need super-high-resolution images and high-end video production. The GFX system uses a medium-format sensor and is compatible with the GFX lens ecosystem, which is still quite limited compared with the X-mount range.</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What is medium format?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>Medium format refers to a sensor size that is larger than full-frame sensors. Fujifilm's GFX sensors measure 43.8 x 32.9 mm and are considerably more expensive than most full-frame cameras. </p><p>The benefits of medium-format sensors include the capacity for stronger dynamic range, lower noise at higher ISOs and smoother tonal gradations. These cameras are often used in professional studios due to their capacity for high-resolution images, background blurring and a "3D pop" that is synonymous with medium format. </p><p>The Fujifilm GFX100 II has a huge 102-MP sensor that would be ideal for photographers who need severe cropping or large-scale printing without sacrificing detail.</p></article></section><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-update-log"><span>Update log</span></h3><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-how-we-test-the-best-fujifilm-cameras"><span>How we test the best Fujifilm cameras</span></h3><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2133px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="fNqvYtAzTDTUXuuVeozAMA" name="xm5-testing" alt="A man looking at the Fujifilm X-M5 at night with Orion's belt and city lights in the background." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/fNqvYtAzTDTUXuuVeozAMA.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2133" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Future)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Here at Space.com, we review and test the cameras in our guides and reviews carefully with a focus on astrophotography while also considering other styles.</p><p>We haven't tested all of the cameras in this guide, but we have linked to the full reviews of the ones we have. When testing Fujifilm cameras, we use them for everyday shooting and astrophotography. For our astrophotography shoots, we go to locations with dark skies so that we have a good chance of capturing night-sky objects. With some Fujifilm cameras, we have managed to capture Jupiter, Mars, the Orion Nebula, the Andromeda galaxy and many more celestial sights.</p><p>Our reviewers are photographers and skywatchers who have years of both stargazing and photography experience. When reviewing camera gear, we compare our results with the manufacturer's claims to see how the equipment lives up to them and whether we would recommend the products.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/stargazing/best-fujifilm-cameras</link>
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<![CDATA[ These are the best Fujifilm cameras from beginner to professional grade, with some models potentially falling in price on Amazon Prime Day from July 8 to 11. ]]>
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<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2025 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Astrophotography]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Stargazing]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Harry Bennett ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ZyQvnkLP9i5jSzE2xmfCAA.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Future]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A man looking down at a Fujifilm X-T50 with stars and streetlights in the background.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A man looking down at a Fujifilm X-T50 with stars and streetlights in the background.]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Private lunar landing: How Blue Ghost measured the moon's electric and magnetic fields ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>After achieving a touchdown in early March within the moon's Mare Crisium impact basin, Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost lunar lander became an on-duty robotic scientist.</p><p>Kicking up dust and rocks, the Blue Ghost Mission-1's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/the-universe/moon/were-on-the-moon-private-blue-ghost-moon-lander-aces-historic-lunar-landing-for-nasa">March 2 moon landing</a> marked the start of executing NASA-backed Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) instruments.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="tWbVoLUnSbNuh3BRCQYgjK" name="blue ghost lunar lander" alt="A metal machine peers from the moon toward the sun in outer space" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/tWbVoLUnSbNuh3BRCQYgjK.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">Blue Ghost lunar lander image taken of a solar eclipse from the moon on March 14, 2025 from Mare Crisium. The photo also shows Blue Ghost's X-band antenna (left), the Lunar Environment heliospheric X-ray Imager (center), and the Lunar Magnetotelluric Sounder mast (right). </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Firefly Aerospace)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/55-earths-moon-formation-composition-and-orbit.html">moon</a> lander <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/the-universe/moon/farewell-blue-ghost-private-moon-lander-goes-dark-to-end-record-breaking-commercial-lunar-mission">wrapped up</a> more than 14 Earth days of surface operations (346 hours of daylight) and worked just over five hours into the super-chilly lunar night — checkmark accomplishments after performing the first fully successful commercial moon landing.</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_eeXOZrLn_ANn1bv7q_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="ANn1bv7q" data-playlist-id="eeXOZrLn"> <div id="botr_eeXOZrLn_ANn1bv7q_div"></div> </div> </div></div><h2 id="deep-dive-2">Deep dive</h2><p>One of those investigations involved a distinctive deep dive into studying the interior of the moon.</p><p>Blue Ghost deployed four tethered Lunar Magnetotelluric Sounder (LMS) electrodes at 90-degree angles to each other onto the lunar surface, shot far from the lander's top deck. It also unleashed a tall, mast-mounted magnetometer that extended some 8 feet (2.4 meters) above the lunar surface to reduce interference from the lander and to work in tandem with the "shoot from the deck" electrodes.</p><p>LMS was designed to measure the moon's electric and magnetic fields. Developed by the Southwest Research Institute (SwRI), the instrument aimed to gather data that would reveal insights into the moon's mantle, revealing how it has cooled and chemically evolved since its formation.</p><p>The LMS payload was funded for delivery to the lunar surface through NASA's CLPS initiative.</p><p>SwRI designed the instrument, built its electronics box and led the science investigation. NASA's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/goddard-space-flight-center.html">Goddard Space Flight Center</a> in Maryland provided the LMS magnetometer to measure the magnetic fields, and Heliospace Corporation provided the magnetometer mast and four electrodes used to measure the electrical fields.</p><h2 id="wham-there-it-goes-2">Wham, there it goes</h2><p>"The data is shaping up," said SwRI's Robert Grimm, the LMS principal investigator. "The electrodes all worked," he told Space.com, adding that they arched some 80 feet (25 m) away from Blue Ghost to their respective landing spots.</p><figure class="van-image-figure pull-left inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:4530px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:73.40%;"><img id="sgw4ioq4bzu2geeZVMzKve" name="PHOTO 2 Bob Grimm BARB DAVID.JPG" alt="A man wearing a baseball hat and glasses looks at the camera." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/sgw4ioq4bzu2geeZVMzKve.jpg" mos="" align="left" fullscreen="1" width="4530" height="3325" attribution="" endorsement="" class="pull-left expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class="pull-left inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">Robert Grimm of Southwest Research Institute (SwRI), the Lunar Magnetotelluric Sounder (LMS) lead investigator. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Barbara David)</span></figcaption></figure><p>While the core LMS technique is used every day on <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/54-earth-history-composition-and-atmosphere.html">Earth</a>, Grimm said it was the first extraterrestrial application of magnetotellurics. "And ours are laying on the surface of the moon."</p><p>On Earth, the method is used for finding oil, water, geothermal and mineral resources, as well as to understand geologic processes such as the growth of continents.</p><p>Grimm remembers awaiting the electrode deployments while sitting in a SwRI operations center.</p><p>"Then suddenly, wham, there it goes. It was a pretty exciting moment. There were a lot of high fives," said Grimm. All the deployments happened with the LMS team immediately starting to take test data.</p><p>"We got some really great swaths of high-rate data that are going to be the real heart of our experiment…the best data nuggets for us to analyze," said Grimm. LMS operated for 13 days, he said, with what was learned forthcoming in a few months.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="QadZMTfVwe22GUVrC877D5" name="photo 3" alt="The moon (left) and its magnetic field comparison on the right" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/QadZMTfVwe22GUVrC877D5.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">From within the Mare Crisium impact basin, the Lunar Magnetotelluric Sounder (LMS) instrument made the first geophysical measurements representative of the bulk of the moon. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: NASA)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="payload-birthright-2">Payload birthright</h2><p>The road to the moon was a long one.</p><p>Indeed, the LMS payload's development goes back years, Grimm said, stemming from SwRI internal funding for prototype landing instruments for two icy ocean moons — Jupiter's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/15498-europa-sdcmp.html">Europa</a> and Saturn's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/20543-enceladus-saturn-s-tiny-shiny-moon.html">Enceladus</a>.</p><p>For the LMS proposal to NASA, Grimm said the team could point to heritage hardware that had been subjected to vibration and thermal-vacuum testing. "You are not going to be picked if you don't have hardware," Grimm said, "and writing proposals is like breathing for us."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1584px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:60.67%;"><img id="GQtS6hnY6RAoVGQiNJDwLG" name="PHOTO 4 LONG SHOT TESTING" alt="Two men test a piece of equipment in an empty room." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/GQtS6hnY6RAoVGQiNJDwLG.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1584" height="961" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">Specialists test fire an electrode to evaluate hardware used on the moon to measure electrical fields. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: SwRI/Space.com screengrab)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Moreover, the team's moon instrument pitch put forward the idea of landing at Mare Crisium, Grimm recalled, "because it's outside where all the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/apollo-program-overview.html">Apollo</a> landings were. We wanted to look at a part of the moon that we thought would offer a different interior composition."</p><p>Once selected, and through a consensus process with NASA, Firefly Aerospace, and the other payload selectees, Blue Ghost was targeted for Mare Crisium.</p><h2 id="team-building-2">Team building</h2><p>Throughout the process of scoping out Blue Ghost's mission, deliberations were ongoing and focused on power needs, how long experiments would run, data requirements, baseline minimums and maximums, and other specifics.</p><p>"There was a team-building process. Maybe it happened naturally over that time. We got to know them, they got to know us," Grimm said, pointing out that the CLPS contract with Firefly Aerospace was geared to delivering science gathered on the lunar surface.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:6572px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:66.68%;"><img id="dvDsSjSvj6se6LDwGYX4wR" name="PHOTO 5 LMS TEAM AND LMS EXPERIMENT" alt="A group of people wearing blue coats stand next to a laboratory bench." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/dvDsSjSvj6se6LDwGYX4wR.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="6572" height="4382" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">The LMS instrument team for the Mare Crisium lander mission. The device consisted of a magnetometer, a central electronics box and four spring-launched electrodes. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Robert Grimm/SwRI)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Blue Ghost lunar lander was lofted moonward on Jan. 15, 2025 by a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/18853-spacex.html">SpaceX</a> Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/17705-nasa-kennedy-space-center.html">Kennedy Space Center</a> in Florida.</p><p>As an in-person viewer of the early morning liftoff from 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) away, "it was exciting and louder than I thought it would be. It made car alarms go off. But it didn't rattle the change in my pocket," said Grimm. "A person from SpaceX reminded us we're going to the moon from the Apollo launch pad!"</p><h2 id="themes-and-expressions-2">Themes and expressions</h2><p>On moon landing day, "it was very smooth. Everything tracked all the way down," Grimm said.</p><p>Following the nearly two weeks of LMS operating on the moon, as sunset fell on the Blue Ghost machinery, the experiment was turned off. "It was a poignant moment," Grimm recalled. "We cracked a beer, made a toast, and that was it."</p><p>A number of moon research signals became evident to Grimm. For one, themes and expressions used around the Commercial Lunar Payload Services concept like "more shots on goal" and "FedEx to the moon" are bothersome, he said.</p><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">RELATED STORIES</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"> — <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/the-universe/moon/were-on-the-moon-private-blue-ghost-moon-lander-aces-historic-lunar-landing-for-nasa">'We're on the moon!' Private Blue Ghost moon lander aces historic lunar landing for NASA</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text"> — <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/watch-sparks-fly-as-blue-ghost-lander-drills-into-the-moon-video">Watch sparks fly as Blue Ghost lander drills into the moon (video)</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/the-universe/moon/wow-private-lunar-lander-watches-diamond-ring-eclipse-from-the-surface-of-the-moon-photo">Wow! Private lunar lander watches 'diamond ring' eclipse from the surface of the moon (photo)</a></p></div></div><h2 id="it-s-still-hard-2">It's still hard</h2><p>Given the CLPS lunar landings to date, and the less-than-hoped-for moon science produced, there's a high failure rate at work.</p><p>Also, the FedEx notion of simply bolting on your experiment and waiting for the data to roll in doesn't really hold.</p><p>"We thought that we were going to turn it on and that was going to be it. Instead, it was a rollercoaster the whole way," Grimm said.</p><p>"I'm hopeful that the CLPS is making progress. There's a half-dozen missions already cued up next," Grimm explained.</p><p>It's still spaceflight, Grimm stressed. "It's still hard. In some sense harder than it used to be because it has got to be done for so cheap. So it's hard."</p><p>And many moon mysteries remain, even <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/19275-moon-formation.html">how it was formed</a> in the first place.</p><p>"The <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/moon-giant-impact-theory-chlorine-isotopes">giant impact theory</a> is and has been the leading theory. It explains more than anything else," said Grimm. However, he added, "anything in science is subject to revision if you get more and better data. We don't have all the answers as yet."</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/astronomy/moon/private-lunar-landing-how-blue-ghost-measured-the-moons-electric-and-magnetic-fields</link>
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<![CDATA[ Private lunar landing: How Blue Ghost measured the moon's electric and magnetic fields ]]>
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<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2025 16:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[The moon]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Astronomy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Solar System]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Leonard David ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/QadZMTfVwe22GUVrC877D5.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[NASA]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[The moon (left) and its magnetic field comparison on the right]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[The moon (left) and its magnetic field comparison on the right]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ How to see China's Tiangong space station and the ISS in the predawn sky this week ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>During this upcoming week, skywatchers across most of the U.S. and southern Canada will get an opportunity to view the two largest space vehicles now in orbit around the Earth within minutes of each other.</p><p>They are the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.nasa.gov/international-space-station/">International Space Station (ISS)</a> and China's space station, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiangong_space_station">Tiangong.</a> If you are up during the predawn hours, you'll probably be able to make a sighting of both within less than a half hour of each other.</p><p>And on the morning of July 5, it may be possible to see both in the sky at the same time.</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_vgZ9T8Ef_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="vgZ9T8Ef"> <div id="botr_vgZ9T8Ef_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><h2 id="night-lights-2">Night lights</h2><p>If you go out and carefully study the sky near dusk or dawn, the odds are that you should not have to wait more than a few minutes before you see one of the more than 30,700 satellites now in orbit around Earth.</p><p>Most of these are just "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/kessler-syndrome-space-debris">space junk</a>" ranging in size from as large as 30 feet (9 meters) down to about the size of a softball, including defunct satellites, rocket bodies, and fragments from collisions. In addition to the tracked objects, there are an estimated 130 million pieces of debris too small to be tracked. <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/us-needs-orbital-interceptors-to-win-a-war-in-space-space-command-chief-says">U.S. Space Command</a>, headquartered at Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs, keeps a constant watch on all <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/satellites/3-big-hunks-of-space-junk-crash-to-earth-every-day-and-its-only-going-to-get-worse">orbiting space debris</a>.</p><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">TOP TELESCOPE PICK:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' ><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="wPYYYSkjGjgEznJCgsbuvC" name="Celestron - NexStar 4SE Telescope" caption="" alt="Celestron - NexStar 4SE Telescope" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wPYYYSkjGjgEznJCgsbuvC.png" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="" height="" attribution="" endorsement="" class="pinterest-pin-exclude"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Amazon)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="fancy-box__body-text">Want to see the night sky up close? The <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://amazon.com/dp/B000GUFOBO/ref=asc_df_B000GUFOBO1706720400000?tag=hawk-future-20&ascsubtag=space-us-1269214074237629933-20" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Celestron NexStar 4SE</a> is ideal for beginners wanting quality, reliable and quick views of celestial objects. For a more in-depth look at our <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/celestron-nexstar-4se-telescope-review">Celestron NexStar 4SE review</a>.</p></div></div><p>Most <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/24839-satellites.html">satellites</a> are too faint to be seen with the unaided eye. But depending on who's counting, about 500 can be seen with the unaided eye. These are the satellites that are large enough (over 20 feet, or 6 m) in length) and low enough (100 to 400 miles, or 160 to 640 kilometers) above Earth to be most readily seen. In his book <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.com/Observing-Earth-Satellites-Desmond-King-Hele/dp/0442248776" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Observing Earth Satellites</a>, the distinguished British scientist <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Desmond_King-Hele" target="_blank">Desmond King-Hele</a> perhaps said it best: "A satellite looks like a star that has taken leave of its senses and decided to move off to another part of the sky."</p><p>The International Space Station is by far the biggest and brightest of all the man-made objects orbiting Earth. More than four times as large as the defunct Russian <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/19650-mir-space-station.html">Mir space station</a>, the ISS has a total mass of approximately 925,000 pounds (420,000 kilograms), and measures 357 feet (109 m) across and 240 feet (73 m) long. This makes it almost the equivalent to the length of a football field, including the end zones, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.nasa.gov/image-article/comparison-of-size-of-international-space-station/" target="_blank">according to NASA.</a></p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2048px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:66.65%;"><img id="Kkcxf2AwtZW6FbTU3q6UvS" name="internatinal-space-station.jpg" alt="The International Space Station as of October 2018." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Kkcxf2AwtZW6FbTU3q6UvS.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2048" height="1365" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">The International Space Station. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: NASA)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The ISS draws power from four pairs of solar arrays, which are each 112 feet (34 m) long and 39 feet (12 m wide) — longer than a Boeing 777's wingspan. Additionally, the ISS is being upgraded with six new, smaller <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/spacewalking-astronauts-space-station-solar-arrays-snags">Roll-Out Solar Arrays</a> (iROSAs). These are being installed over portions of the existing arrays. Each new iROSA measures 63 feet (19 m) long by 20 feet (6 m) wide. Despite being smaller, they are more efficient due to technological advancements.</p><p>Presently circling Earth at an average altitude of 259 miles (416 km) and at a speed of 17,900 mph (28,800 kph), the ISS takes 93 minutes to orbit Earth and completes roughly 15.5 orbits per day. It can appear to move as fast as a high-flying jet airliner, sometimes taking about four to five minutes to cross the sky. Because of its size and the configuration of its highly reflective solar panels, the space station is now, by far, the brightest man-made object currently in orbit around Earth.</p><p>On its most favorable passes, it can appear some 2.5 times brighter than <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/44-venus-second-planet-from-the-sun-brightest-planet-in-solar-system.html">Venus</a> and nearly 40 times brighter than <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/21702-sirius-brightest-star.html">Sirius</a>, the brightest star in the night sky. And, as a bonus, sunlight glinting directly off the solar panels can sometimes make the ISS appear to briefly "flare" in brilliance to as bright as magnitude -8, some 19 times brighter than Venus!</p><h2 id="china-s-orbiting-space-station-2">China's orbiting space station</h2><p>Besides the ISS, there is another space station orbiting Earth. That's Tiangong (Chinese for "Heavenly Palace"), a permanently crewed space station operated by China's Manned Space Agency (CMSA). The chief purpose of Tiangong, according to the CMSA, is to develop and gain experience in spacecraft rendezvous technology and to serve the platform for the next-generation orbit transportation vehicles and technology for future deep-space missions.</p><p>Tiangong is smaller than the ISS, in overall dimensions measuring about one-fifth as large. Its total mass is approximately 77 tons (69,900 kg). It measures approximately 180 feet (55 m) in length and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/china-completes-tiangong-space-station">contains three modules</a> (the ISS has 16 modules). It orbits Earth at an average altitude of 244 miles (393 km), somewhat similar to the ISS.</p><p>And, like the ISS, it is a prominent object when moving across the nighttime sky. On its most favorable passes, it can appear as bright as Venus (magnitude -4.1), though usually it tends to appear closer to magnitude -2 (as bright as <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/7-jupiter-largest-planet-solar-system.html">Jupiter</a>).</p><p>Currently, taking into account both the ISS and Tiangong, there are <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://whoisinspace.com/" target="_blank">14 humans in space.</a></p><h2 id="viewing-windows-of-opportunity-2">Viewing windows of opportunity</h2><p>From now through the final days of July, North Americans and Europeans will have many opportunities to see both the ISS and Tiangong flying over their homes, due chiefly to a seasonal circumstance. Nights are now the shortest, and the time that a satellite in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/low-earth-orbit">low Earth orbit</a> (like the ISS and Tiangong) can remain illuminated by the sun can extend throughout the night, a situation that can never be attained during other times of the year.</p><p>Because both space stations circle Earth about every 90 minutes on average, it's possible to see them not just on one singular pass, but for several consecutive passes.</p><p>And from now through July 8, the ISS and Tiangong will be making morning passes — one to two hours before sunrise — within a half hour or less of each other. And on the morning of July 5, for parts of the northeastern U.S. and eastern Canada, it may be possible to see both in the sky at the same time.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:3571px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.26%;"><img id="TMsMzFQ5WiJC4w9dRkphuP" name="1751479672.jpg" alt="black and white diagram showing the path two space stations will take over the northern united states on july 5, 2025" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/TMsMzFQ5WiJC4w9dRkphuP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="3571" height="2009" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">On the morning of July 5, 2025, the International Space Station and China’s Tiangong space station are predicted to be within range simultaneously of skywatchers across the northeastern U.S. and Atlantic Canada. Between roughly 3:56 a.m. and 3:58 a.m. EDT, the ISS will pass to the north of New York, while Tiangong will cruise to the south of New York. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Courtesy Joe Rao)</span></figcaption></figure><p>This doesn't happen too often, due to the fact that their orbital altitudes differ slightly, along with the fact that both space stations circle the Earth at different orbital inclinations: 51.63 degrees for the ISS, compared to 41.46 degrees for Tiangong.</p><h2 id="where-and-when-should-you-look-2">Where and when should you look?</h2><p>So, what is the viewing schedule for your particular hometown? You can easily find out by visiting one of these two popular web sites: Chris Peat's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://heavens-above.com/" target="_blank">Heavens Above</a> or NASA's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.nasa.gov/spot-the-station/" target="_blank">Spot the Station</a>.</p><p>With Heavens Above, you'll be able to generate accurate sighting data for both the ISS and Tiangong (as well as other bright naked-eye satellites). You'll simply need to input your location based on latitude and longitude.</p><p>NASA's Spot the Station app is a great tool for quickly finding upcoming ISS viewing opportunities. Simply pop in the location you wish to know for ISS sighting opportunities and let the widget work its magic. It will tell you the time of the ISS flyover along with how long it is visible, the maximum height it will reach in the sky and which direction it will appear and disappear from your field of view.</p><p>Predictions computed a few days ahead of time are usually accurate within a few minutes. However, they can change due to the slow decay of the space station's orbit and periodic re-boosts to higher altitudes. Check frequently for updates.</p><p><em>Joe Rao serves as an instructor and guest lecturer at New York's </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amnh.org/our-research/hayden-planetarium" target="_blank"><em>Hayden Planetarium</em></a><em>. He writes about astronomy for </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="http://www.naturalhistorymag.com/" target="_blank"><em>Natural History magazine</em></a><em>, </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://skyandtelescope.org/" target="_blank"><em>Sky and Telescope</em></a><em> and other publications.</em></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/stargazing/how-to-see-chinas-tiangong-space-station-and-the-iss-in-the-predawn-sky-this-week</link>
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<![CDATA[ The International Space Station and China's Tiangong Space Station will be visible for early risers. Here's how to make a dual sighting. ]]>
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<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2025 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Stargazing]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joe Rao ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/CcYJAALypCRVkGF7GTXg4g.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[NASA/CNSA/Jose A. Bernat Bacete/Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[images of two H-shaped space stations on a starry background]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[images of two H-shaped space stations on a starry background]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ 'An exceedingly rare event': See a pair of nova explosions shining in the southern sky this week. ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Not one, but two exploding stars are currently visible to the naked eye in the southern night sky, a cosmic coincidence that's "exceedingly rare" and may soon vanish from view entirely.</p><p>On June 12, the All-Sky Automated Survey for Supernovae (ASAS-SN), led by the Ohio State University, detected a dramatic surge in the brightness of an otherwise unremarkable star embedded in the constellation Lupus. Subsequent observations revealed a powerful nova explosion — <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/stargazing/a-star-exploded-in-the-lupus-constellation-heres-how-to-see-the-nova-in-the-night-sky-this-month">now designated V462 Lupi</a> — to be the cause of the radiation outburst. The star quickly brightened from its previously dim <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/21640-star-luminosity-and-magnitude.html">magnitude</a> of +22 to a peak brightness of around +5.5, rendering it visible to the naked eye.</p><p>Remember, magnitude is the system used by astronomers to track the brightness of an object in the night sky. The lower the magnitude, the brighter the object! The human eye is capable of detecting stars with a magnitude of around +6.5 or greater in dark sky areas.</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="sT3QY0MQ"> <div id="botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>Less than two weeks later, on June 25, reports began to circulate of a second nova blossoming in the southern <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16149-night-sky.html">night sky</a>, this time in the constellation Vela. This nova — later designated V572 Velorum — quickly jumped to a similar peak of +5.5, making it appear as if two new stars had suddenly burst to life in the skies south of the equator.</p><h2 id="a-nuclear-explosion-on-the-surface-of-a-star-2">A nuclear explosion on the surface of a star</h2><p>"Both appear to be part of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/22509-binary-stars.html">binary star systems</a> composed of a white dwarf and a companion star," veteran science communicator and meteorologist Joe Rao told Space.com in an email. "In each case, the objects that we are able to see visually, are likely being caused by a thermonuclear explosion on the surface of the white dwarf star."</p><p>These kinds of explosions are called novas. Unlike,their more violent cousins, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/6638-supernova.html">supernova</a>s, these events don't destroy the star. Instead, they occur as a result of a vampyric process in which the gravitational influence of a white dwarf strips material from a nearby companion star, adding it to its own mass. This ‘feeding’ continues until the mass of stolen stellar material deposited on the surface of the white dwarf is heated to a critical threshold, after which a cataclysmic thermonuclear explosion is inevitable.</p><p>The resulting outpouring of radiation leads to a dramatic increase in a star's apparent brightness from our perspective on <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/54-earth-history-composition-and-atmosphere.html">Earth</a>, occasionally making it appear as if a new stellar body has burst to life in the night sky.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="duvdCxrqoxLk7Q8HxM23XV" name="Southern hemisphere novae (1)" alt="Two nova explosions are shown as bright points of light with diffraction spikes emanating outward, outshining the background stars peppering the night sky beyond." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/duvdCxrqoxLk7Q8HxM23XV.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">A comparison of two nova explosions and the difference in their luminosity. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Eliot Herman)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="to-have-two-naked-eye-novae-shining-in-the-sky-at-the-same-time-is-an-exceedingly-rare-event-2">"To have two naked-eye novae shining in the sky at the same time is an exceedingly rare event"</h2><p>"To have two naked-eye novae shining in the sky at the same time is an exceedingly rare event," said Rao. "In checking my copy of Norton's Star Atlas, which lists bright novae dating back to the 16th century, I can only find one other case of two novae erupting so close together: V368 Aquilae on September 25, 1936 and V630 Sagittarii just eight days later."</p><p>Rao — who serves as an instructor and guest lecturer at New York's Hayden Planetarium — went on to note that the 1936 novas had faded swiftly after reaching their peaks and likely wouldn't have been visible simultaneously. Astronomer Stephen James O'Meara also discovered a 2018 occurrence in which two novas peaked and became visible to the unaided eye on the same day, according to <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://earthsky.org/tonight/nova-or-new-star-visible-in-vela/" target="_blank">stargazing website Earthsky.org</a><em>.</em></p><h2 id="where-to-find-the-novas-in-the-southern-sky-2">Where to find the novas in the southern sky</h2><p>"Generally speaking, most novae fade from view after a few weeks, although some may fade much faster (as was the case with the aforementioned novae in 1936) and sometimes the fade-down may take longer," said Rao. "In the case of V572 Velorum, it apparently exhibits both long (over 13 days) and short (3-4 days) outbursts."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="AtReJLDKAFbUZ9q4KTdKLZ" name="New nova (5)" alt="A graphic showing the location of the nova in the night sky between the Lupus and Centaurus constellations" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/AtReJLDKAFbUZ9q4KTdKLZ.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">The location of the V462 Lupi nova shown close to the constellations Lupus and Centaurus. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Created in Canva by Daisy Dobrijevic)</span></figcaption></figure><p>It may still be possible to spot the ancient light from both novas from a dark sky location for observers in the southern hemisphere. Meanwhile, those in the southern U.S. might yet glimpse V462 Lupi peeking above the horizon — perhaps with the aid of a pair of 10X50 binoculars.</p><p>The patch of sky containing V462 Lupi is located in the constellation Lupus, close to the bright <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/57-stars-formation-classification-and-constellations.html">stars</a> Delta Lupi and Kappa Centauri, from the neighboring constellation Centaurus. Lupus will be highest in the sky for those in the southern hemisphere, though those in the southernmost states of the U.S. may spot the constellation — and the site of the nova — close to the southern horizon at sunset in early July.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="TrYfGCJU8kPePQ654GqYaF" name="Vela nova star chart annotated (1)" alt="A star chart is pictured showing the southern hemisphere constellations Antila, Vela, Carina and others, with their stars connected by green lines. Starsare shown as black dots, while the approximate location of the V572 Velorum nova explosion is designated by a red circle." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/TrYfGCJU8kPePQ654GqYaF.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">A star chart showing the location of the V572 Velorum nova alongside stars from the constellation Vela. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: IAU and Sky & Telescope, annotations by Anthony Wood)</span></figcaption></figure><p>V572 Velorum meanwhile, can be found in the southern constellation Vela and is not easily visible from the continental United States. Viewers in the southern hemisphere will find the region of sky containing the nova close to the bright stars Mu Velorum and Phi Velorum.</p><p>If you do manage to catch even a fleeting glimpse of either V572 Velorum, or V462 Lupi, you will have witnessed first hand one of the most spectacularly violent explosions that the universe has to offer. Not bad for one evening’s stargazing.</p><p><em><strong>Editor's Note: </strong></em><em>If you capture an image of a nova and want to share it with Space.com's readers, then please send your photo(s), comments, and your name and location to spacephotos@space.com. </em></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/stargazing/an-exceedingly-rare-event-see-a-pair-of-nova-explosions-shining-in-the-southern-sky-this-week</link>
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<![CDATA[ Both novas will eventually become too dim to see, even under the darkest skies. So catch them while you can! ]]>
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<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2025 14:35:31 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Stargazing]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Anthony Wood ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/duvdCxrqoxLk7Q8HxM23XV.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Eliot Herman]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Two nova explosions are shown as bright points of light with diffraction spikes emanating outward, outshining the background stars peppering the night sky beyond.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Two nova explosions are shown as bright points of light with diffraction spikes emanating outward, outshining the background stars peppering the night sky beyond.]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Rare breed of exploding star discovered by citizen scientists in cataclysmic find ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Astronomers have teamed up with citizen scientists to discover a brand-new exploding star that's greedily feeding on a stellar companion.</p><p>The newly observed <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/22509-binary-stars.html">binary system</a> features a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/15396-variable-stars.html">cataclysmic variable</a> star, designated GOTO0650, which is in a rarely seen late stage of its evolution. This was also the first major discovery for the citizen astronomy project Kilonova Seekers.</p><p>The exploding <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/57-stars-formation-classification-and-constellations.html">star</a> was detected when the general public was invited to play a game of cosmic "spot the difference." This involved comparing images of the same patch of night sky to detect light changes that could indicate <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/superflares-sunlike-stars-100-years">powerful and violent events.</a></p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_oBztgvie_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="oBztgvie"> <div id="botr_oBztgvie_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>GOTO0650 was spotted when a patch of sky brightened by a factor of around 2,500 compared to its previous brightness just days earlier.</p><p>The rapid response of the citizen scientists allowed astronomers to classify the object as a cataclysmic variable star. These are binary systems in which one object, a dense stellar corpse known as a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/23756-white-dwarf-stars.html">white dwarf</a>, is stripping material from a companion star. The stolen matter from the companion forms a flattened cloud of material around the white dwarf called an accretion disk.</p><p>As the accretion disk gradually feeds the white dwarf, accumulated matter builds up and eventually triggers a runaway nuclear explosion, which destroys the white dwarf. However, before this happens, material in the accretion disk can reach a critical density and temperature. This causes the disk to dramatically brighten until it eventually cools and returns to a quiescent state.</p><p>These events were originally called "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/31608-supernovas-star-explosions-infographic.html">novae</a>," meaning "new" in Latin, as they were believed to represent the birth of a new star.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:402px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:100.00%;"><img id="wHRSmL278qjc9FiUzPziPN" name="An animation of the GOTO0650 outburst, made from GOTO's all-sky survey images. Credit - GOTO, T. Killestein and K. Ulaczyk" alt="black and white gif showing a dozen or so grainy stars flickering against a dark background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wHRSmL278qjc9FiUzPziPN.gif" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="402" height="402" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">Animation of the GOTO0650 outburst, made from GOTO's all-sky survey images. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: GOTO, T. Killestein and K. Ulaczyk )</span></figcaption></figure><p>"Kilonova Seekers is a unique opportunity for members of the public to take part in true real-time astrophysics," Kilonova Seekers team co-leader Tom Killestein, a researcher at the University of Warwick in England, said in a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://phys.org/news/2025-07-discovery-star.html" target="_blank">statement</a>.</p><p>"Remarkably, public volunteers identified this star as an object of interest within 3.5 hours of the image being taken by the GOTO telescopes," he added, referring to the Gravitational-wave Optical Transient Observer project, which employs telescope arrays in Spain and Australia. "This discovery could have been missed among many other objects without their efforts."</p><p>This fast response allowed astronomers to get a comprehensive dataset regarding GOTO0650 before it returned to a quiet state.</p><p>"The involvement of the volunteers didn’t stop there, as there was a huge follow-up response from the public," Killestein continued."It was flagged for further observations from the Swift and Einstein Probe space observatories, and GOTO0650 was bright enough for amateur astronomers to take impressively high-quality observations of it with their own equipment, which formed a key part of the paper and really helped us understand the object."</p><p>X-ray and ultraviolet data revealed that GOTO0650 is a "period bouncer," one of two possible final states of a cataclysmic variable star. During this stage, mass loss from the donor star causes the orbital period of the binary system to increase, with the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/astronomy/missing-link-star-why-this-teenage-vampire-white-dwarf-has-scientists-so-excited">white dwarf and companion star</a> moving away from each other.</p><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Related Stories:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"> — <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/hubble-tension-early-dark-energy-model">How dark energy could relieve 'Hubble tension' and galaxy headaches</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text"> — <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/astronomy/astronomers-see-the-1st-stars-dispel-darkness-13-billion-years-ago-at-cosmic-dawn">Astronomers see the 1st stars dispel darkness 13 billion years ago at 'Cosmic Dawn'</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text"> — <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/the-universe/james-webb-space-telescope-suggests-new-cosmic-feature-is-needed-to-solve-hubble-trouble">'Our understanding of the universe may be incomplete': James Webb Space Telescope data suggests we need a 'new cosmic feature' to explain it all</a></p></div></div><p>It's rare to spot a cataclysmic variable star in its final bouncer stage, making the discovery of GOTO0650 even more special. That's especially true for the citizen scientists who played a key role in its discovery.</p><p>"I literally screamed with joy when I saw that I was going to be a co-author of the research paper," Kilonova Seekers Volunteer<strong> </strong>Svetoslav Alexandrov said in the same statement. "I'm certain that people on the street raised their eyebrows when they saw me screaming and dancing, but I didn't care. I knew I am a co-discoverer of something significant, and this was all that mattered."</p><p>The team's research was published on Tuesday (July 1) in the journal <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.aanda.org/articles/aa/full_html/2025/07/aa53823-25/aa53823-25.html" target="_blank">Astronomy & Astrophysics.</a></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/astronomy/rare-breed-of-exploding-star-discovered-by-citizen-scientists-in-cataclysmic-find</link>
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<![CDATA[ With the aid of citizen scientists, astronomers have discovered an erupting cataclysmic variable star in a rarely seen evolutionary stage. ]]>
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<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2025 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Astronomy]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Robert Lea ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/png" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BMmjAwrKbUi6is8oWoP5Li.png">
<media:credit><![CDATA[GOTO, T. Killestein and K. Ulaczyk]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[The supernova GOTO0650 spotted by astronomers and citizen scientists]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[The supernova GOTO0650 spotted by astronomers and citizen scientists]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Early Amazon Prime Day big saving on the Celestron NexStar 8SE — the cheapest price it's been since January ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Save $200 this Amazon Prime Day on the Celestron NexStar 8SE. This telescope appears in several of our guides, ranking as the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-telescopes-for-seeing-planets#section-best-telescope-overall">best overall telescope for seeing the planets </a>as well as the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-telescopes-for-deep-space#section-best-overall">best overall telescope for deep space</a> and the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/15693-telescopes-beginners-telescope-reviews-buying-guide.html#section-best-motorized-telescope">best motorized telescope</a>. Now you can get it at the cheapest price we've seen it since January, coming in reduced from $1699 to $1499 on Amazon.</p><p><em><strong>Get the Celestron NexStar 8SE </strong></em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.com/Celestron-11069-Computerised-Schmidt-Cassegrain-Technology/dp/B000GUFOC8/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.f0b1F2bylj60FMX6yPsrGQcyNiWAVxERdtD_hC6sMwheOAQYf2ZKU3dM10XVlFNeJgZ0mGNOUvE9bkVzFvWjvCzyjw_pEI4TtbYvfFRws3QBvQF5YJAPtGYGzK2nOUkkSJtYejE8tjFCkXPw3xT0y9jlmnppgUHsCmniw7gv5rt4a9yLaPZqw96FFL4gFdugvpmSPGkbVlQ6HwPHfxzOlp3mlbxAcorFc78UqiGCtT0.dQWrqG0Cwi1BftKni7oNMJ7FARzekSJWSl4fvILD1MU&dib_tag=se&hvadid=694198857096&hvdev=c&hvexpln=67&hvlocphy=9058761&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=17617777239930721740--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=17617777239930721740&hvtargid=kwd-4686936163&hydadcr=18472_13462150&keywords=celestron%2Bnexstar%2B8se&mcid=deadd43652e331aabadee6ae726cd94c&qid=1751535125&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1"><em><strong>on sale right now at Amazon for $1499.</strong></em></a><em><br><br></em>The <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/celestron-nexstar-8se-telescope-review">Celestron NexStar 8SE </a>received four and a half stars out of five in our review. We loved how accessible it was from beginner to advanced skywatchers as well as its portable nature. Not only this but, with its catadioptric construction, it means it is one of the most compact telescopes for deep space watching.</p><p>With $200 off, this is a great deal from one of the leading brands for telescopes, giving you top-notch viewing of the night sky for less than we've seen all year.</p><div class="product"><a data-dimension112="e4ab0448-e44a-4c36-ba7d-0b14fda15831" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="best telescopes" data-dimension48="best telescopes" data-dimension25="$1499" href="https://www.amazon.com/Celestron-11069-Computerised-Schmidt-Cassegrain-Technology/dp/B000GUFOC8/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.f0b1F2bylj60FMX6yPsrGQcyNiWAVxERdtD_hC6sMwheOAQYf2ZKU3dM10XVlFNeJgZ0mGNOUvE9bkVzFvWjvCzyjw_pEI4TtbYvfFRws3QBvQF5YJAPtGYGzK2nOUkkSJtYejE8tjFCkXPw3xT0y9jlmnppgUHsCmniw7gv5rt4a9yLaPZqw96FFL4gFdugvpmSPGkbVlQ6HwPHfxzOlp3mlbxAcorFc78UqiGCtT0.dQWrqG0Cwi1BftKni7oNMJ7FARzekSJWSl4fvILD1MU&dib_tag=se&hvadid=694198857096&hvdev=c&hvexpln=67&hvlocphy=9058761&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=17617777239930721740--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=17617777239930721740&hvtargid=kwd-4686936163&hydadcr=18472_13462150&keywords=celestron%2Bnexstar%2B8se&mcid=deadd43652e331aabadee6ae726cd94c&qid=1751535125&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:100.00%;"><img id="iSd8nqZxtwjfmcjBwRYfGG" name="celestron nexstar 8se.jpg" caption="" alt="" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/iSd8nqZxtwjfmcjBwRYfGG.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1000" height="1000" attribution="" endorsement="" credit="" class=""></p></div></div></figure></a><p><strong>Save $200 </strong>on one of the <a href="https://www.space.com/15693-telescopes-beginners-telescope-reviews-buying-guide.html" data-dimension112="e4ab0448-e44a-4c36-ba7d-0b14fda15831" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="best telescopes" data-dimension48="best telescopes" data-dimension25="$1499">best telescopes </a>we've tested and reviewed. With a large 8-inch aperture, the Celestron NexStar 8SE is ideal for viewing deep space objects and planets. Suitable for all ability levels, you can be stargazing in minutes thanks to its automated motorized and remote control function.<a class="view-deal button" href="https://www.amazon.com/Celestron-11069-Computerised-Schmidt-Cassegrain-Technology/dp/B000GUFOC8/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.f0b1F2bylj60FMX6yPsrGQcyNiWAVxERdtD_hC6sMwheOAQYf2ZKU3dM10XVlFNeJgZ0mGNOUvE9bkVzFvWjvCzyjw_pEI4TtbYvfFRws3QBvQF5YJAPtGYGzK2nOUkkSJtYejE8tjFCkXPw3xT0y9jlmnppgUHsCmniw7gv5rt4a9yLaPZqw96FFL4gFdugvpmSPGkbVlQ6HwPHfxzOlp3mlbxAcorFc78UqiGCtT0.dQWrqG0Cwi1BftKni7oNMJ7FARzekSJWSl4fvILD1MU&dib_tag=se&hvadid=694198857096&hvdev=c&hvexpln=67&hvlocphy=9058761&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=17617777239930721740--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=17617777239930721740&hvtargid=kwd-4686936163&hydadcr=18472_13462150&keywords=celestron%2Bnexstar%2B8se&mcid=deadd43652e331aabadee6ae726cd94c&qid=1751535125&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-dimension112="e4ab0448-e44a-4c36-ba7d-0b14fda15831" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="best telescopes" data-dimension48="best telescopes" data-dimension25="$1499">View Deal</a></p></div><ul><li><em><strong>We're constantly checking the best prices on our Amazon Prime Day</strong></em><a href="https://www.space.com/amazon-prime-day-space-deals"><em><strong> space deals </strong></em></a><em><strong>page for big discounts on the </strong></em><a href="https://www.space.com/15693-telescopes-beginners-telescope-reviews-buying-guide.html"><em><strong>best telescopes</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://www.space.com/26021-best-binoculars.html"><em><strong>binoculars</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://www.space.com/best-star-projectors"><em><strong>star projectors</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://www.space.com/best-cameras"><em><strong>cameras</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://www.space.com/best-drones"><em><strong>drones</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://www.space.com/38810-best-lego-deals.html"><em><strong>Lego</strong></em></a><em><strong>, </strong></em><a href="https://www.space.com/streaming-deals-guide"><em><strong>streaming</strong></em></a><em><strong> and more.</strong></em></li></ul><div class="inlinegallery carousel-layout"><div class="inlinegallery-wrap" style="display:flex; flex-flow:row nowrap;"><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 1 of 3</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="bssuvceUVCdkc9TmrGRbiP" name="celestron-nexstar-8se-16x9.jpg" alt="Review photos of the Celestron NexStar 8SE telescope with its orange optical tube" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bssuvceUVCdkc9TmrGRbiP.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 2 of 3</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="b2GY4sRTkHKHc3g3qjRMwP" name="celestron-nexstar-8se-II.jpg" alt="Review photos of the Celestron NexStar 8SE telescope with its orange optical tube" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/b2GY4sRTkHKHc3g3qjRMwP.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)</span></figcaption></figure></div><div class="inlinegallery-item" style="flex: 0 0 auto;"><span class="slidecount">Image 3 of 3</span><figure class="van-image-figure " data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="LztimJGrBgWZs53PxwwPsP" name="Celestron-Nexstar-8SE-III.jpg" alt="Review photos of the Celestron NexStar 8SE telescope with its orange optical tube" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LztimJGrBgWZs53PxwwPsP.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Jason Parnell-Brookes)</span></figcaption></figure></div></div></div><p>With its high-quality Schmidt-Cassegrain optics, you get beautifully clear views of the night sky, making it ideal for viewing planets and distant objects. Plus, it lets in 78% more light than the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/celestron-nexstar-6se-telescope-review.html">NexStar 6SE</a> thanks to its large 8-inch aperture.</p><p>While the NexStar 8SE suits all abilities, its motorized single fork arm and handheld remote control functionality mean it's easy to set up and start stargazing even for those unfamiliar with the night sky. In our review, we noted the smoothness of the motor and, with the help of the Celestron SkyAlign app, you can align the scope using three bright stars and enjoy automated viewing almost instantly.</p><p>If this price is still a little high for you then our <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/telescopes-under-500">best budget telescopes under $500 </a>guide may help you find something more suitable.</p><p><strong>Key features:</strong> 8-inch aperture, handheld remote control function, Celestron SkyAlign app, motorized function, automated night sky viewing, database of over 40,000 celestial objects an 80-inch optical tube and useful magnification of up to 180x.</p><p><strong>Product launched:</strong> March 2000</p><p><strong>Price history:</strong> Before today's deal, the lowest price this year that we've seen for the Celestron NexStar 8SE was $1299 back in January. It has been as low as $1599 prior to today's deal but this is the best we've seen since the start of the year.</p><p><strong>Price comparison:</strong> <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/440829-REG/Celestron_11069_NexStar_8_SE_8_0_203mm.html"><strong>B&H Photo:</strong> $1499 </a>| <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Celestron-NexStar-8SE-Computerized-Telescope/16327783?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=1316&selectedOfferId=FCE8327AC64E4641862753ECD3D3904C&conditionGroupCode=1&adid=2222222222716327783_1316_138897173421_18500529964&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=625931447015&wl4=pla-1809960901153&wl5=9058761&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=112549887&wl11=online&wl12=16327783_1316&veh=sem&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=18500529964&gbraid=0AAAAADmfBIovJahafD1HHrUrtv6JYzKHn&gclid=Cj0KCQjw1JjDBhDjARIsABlM2SumAH8_UkF6nK_0uJX0O2QMAF_TYRuYeTkgvPOcvcbDrZOrrgg6GT4aAqm9EALw_wcB"><strong>Walmart:</strong> $1499</a>| <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.bestbuy.com/site/celestron-nexstar-8-se-schmidt-cassegrain-computerized-telescope-orange/2595041.p?skuId=2595041&ref=212&loc=22619718640&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22642669375&gbraid=0AAAAAD-ORIjPBog4-p6VA_oKvJuu_dGwE&gclid=Cj0KCQjw1JjDBhDjARIsABlM2Sti8tsgIMFBSdaq3AKQJ9ktDBg6gheBJXUSD96u4nDK6zwV-fTD_hoaAqwwEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds"><strong>Best Buy</strong>: $1699</a></p><p><strong>Consensus:</strong> Appearing in several of our best telescope guides, you can't get much better for any level of sky watching experience than the NexStar 8SE. Costing more than beginners might want to spend on a first telescope, we still think it's a worthwhile investment for a hobby that will last years.</p><p><strong>✅ Buy it if:</strong> You're keen to view deep space objects and planets, whether you're a beginner or advanced sky watcher. The automated motorized function means this telescope can be used by anyone with any level of experience and knowledge.</p><p><strong>❌ Don't buy it if: </strong>You're brand new to the hobby and don't have the budget. One of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/telescopes-under-500">best budget telescopes</a> might be more suitable or even one of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/31229-best-beginner-telescopes.html">best telescopes for beginners</a>.</p><p><em>Check out our other guides to the </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/15693-telescopes-beginners-telescope-reviews-buying-guide.html"><em>best telescopes</em></a><em>, </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/26021-best-binoculars.html"><em>binoculars</em></a><em>, </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-cameras"><em>cameras</em></a><em>, </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-star-projectors"><em>star projectors</em></a><em>, </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-drones"><em>drones</em></a><em>, </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-lego-space-sets"><em>lego</em></a><em> and much more.</em></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/stargazing/skywatching-kit/early-amazon-prime-day-big-saving-on-the-celestron-nexstar-8se-the-cheapest-price-its-been-since-january</link>
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<![CDATA[ Save $200 on the best telescope for viewing the planets — the Celestron NexStar 8SE has a huge discount this Prime Day ]]>
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<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2025 13:39:50 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Skywatching Kit]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Stargazing]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Kat Bayly ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/536i9wAwgdvZdM2FSbrs5E.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Amazon/Future]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Celestron NexStar 8SE telescope in front of a blue planet background with a Space.com badge in the top right corner]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Celestron NexStar 8SE telescope in front of a blue planet background with a Space.com badge in the top right corner]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ See Vega-C rocket's 3rd stage hoisted for upcoming launch | Space photo of the day for July 3, 2025 ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Since its first launch in 2012 from French Guiana, Europe's Vega rocket system has been instrumental in helping put multiple satellites in<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/low-earth-orbit"> low Earth orbit</a> with only a single launch.</p><h2 id="what-is-it-7">What is it?</h2><p>The Vega-C rocket — a more powerful variant developed by the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/22562-european-space-agency.html">European Space Agency</a> (ESA) and operated by the French company Arianespace — took off its <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/arianespace-vega-c-debut-launch-success">inaugural launch</a> on July 13, 2022.</p><p>The Vega-C <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/arianespace-vega-c-launch-failure-december-2022">failed</a> on its next launch, in December 2022, and battled technical issues on its way back to the pad. The rocket aced its third-ever flight in<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/watch-europes-vega-c-rocket-launch-today-on-1st-flight-since-2022-video"> December 2024</a> and succeeded on its next liftoff as well, in April of this year.</p><h2 id="where-is-it-7">Where is it?</h2><p>The Vega-C rocket is on a launch pad at th<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/what-are-spaceports">e Guiana Space Centre</a>, northwest of Kourou in French Guiana.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:5433px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:150.01%;"><img id="3PKbny5tgqD5ktBJjyEu7P" name="Zefiro-9_hoisted_into_place" alt="A large black cylinder is raised on a crane." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3PKbny5tgqD5ktBJjyEu7P.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="5433" height="8150" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">The Vega-C third stage, Zefiro-9, is lifted on the launch pad. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: ESA-CNES-ARIANESPACE/Optique vidéo du CSG–T. Leduc)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="why-is-it-amazing-7">Why is it amazing?</h2><p>The Vega-C is made of four stages, which help <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/40602-vega-rocket.html">the rocket</a> overcome Earth's gravity and get its payloads to space. The first stage, or <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://cnes.fr/en/projects/vega-c#:~:text=The%20biggest%20change%20is%20on,test%20stand%20at%20the%20base." target="_blank">P120C,</a> is the rocket's main booster. Fueled with solid propellant, it helps provide the main thrust to lift the rocket off the pad.</p><p>The Zefiro-40 second stage is also solid-fueled and helps increase the rocket's speed after the first stage.</p><p>The Zefiro-9 is the Vega-C rocket's third stage, and burns through around 10 tons of solid propellant, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images" target="_blank">according to ESA.</a> Vega-C's fourth stage is known as AVUM+.</p><p>The third stage highlighted in this photo is being added for the upcoming Vega-C flight VV27, which plans to take several CO3D satellites into space. These satellites are part of a larger satellite creating a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.airbus.com/en/products-services/space/earth-observation/earth-observation-systems/co3d" target="_blank">3D map</a> of our planet from low Earth orbit.</p><h2 id="want-to-learn-more-7">Want to learn more?</h2><p>You can read more about the European Space Agency's many different <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/22562-european-space-agency.html">research projects</a>, along with <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/satellites/satellites-keep-breaking-up-in-space-insurance-wont-cover-them">satellites in space.</a></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/see-vega-c-rockets-3rd-stage-hoisted-for-upcoming-launch-space-photo-of-the-day-for-july-3-2025</link>
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<![CDATA[ The Zefiro-9 was hoisted in preparation for the Vega-C flight VV27. ]]>
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<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2025 13:13:42 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Launches & Spacecraft]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Space Exploration]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Kenna Hughes-Castleberry ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/3Teny3zN2D8mGyazZCDT3J.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[ESA-CNES-ARIANESPACE/Optique vidéo du CSG–T. Leduc]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A large black cylinder is raised on a crane. ]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A large black cylinder is raised on a crane. ]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Russia launches Progress 92 cargo ship toward the ISS ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_3uTLUi3D_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="3uTLUi3D"> <div id="botr_3uTLUi3D_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>A Russian cargo spacecraft launched toward the International Space Station (ISS) this afternoon (July 3), hauling several tons of cargo to the orbiting lab.</p><p>A <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/40282-soyuz-rocket.html">Soyuz</a> rocket lifted off from the Russia-run <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/33947-baikonur-cosmodrome.html">Baikonur Cosmodrome</a> in Kazakhstan today at<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16748-international-space-station.html"> </a>3:32 p.m. EDT (1932 GMT; 12:32 a.m. on July 4 local time in Kazakhstan), sending the uncrewed Progress 92 freighter aloft.</p><p>Progress 92 is hauling about three tons of food, fuel and other supplies to the ISS. If all goes according to plan, the robotic freighter will dock with the orbiting lab's Poisk module on Saturday (July 5) at 5:27 p.m. EDT (2127 GMT).</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="5QHvLCzJXtzVy3DSDcAquD" name="1751572350.jpg" alt="a white rocket launches into a dark night sky" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/5QHvLCzJXtzVy3DSDcAquD.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">A Russian Soyuz rocket launches the Progress 92 cargo spacecraft toward the International Space Station from Baikonur Cosmodrome on July 3, 2025. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: NASA/Roscosmos)</span></figcaption></figure><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/38700-nasa-history.html">NASA</a> will provide a livestream of rendezvous and docking activities <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://plus.nasa.gov/scheduled-video/progress-92-cargo-ship-launch/" target="_blank">via NASA+</a> beginning at 4:45 p.m. EDT (2045 GMT) on Saturday. Space.com will simulcast the stream if the agency makes it available.</p><p>Progress 92 will take the place of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/international-space-station/watch-russian-progress-cargo-spacecraft-launch-to-the-iss-on-nov-21">Progress 90</a> vehicle, which undocked from the same Poisk port on Tuesday (July 1) after a roughly seven-month stay. Progress 90 will burn up in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/17683-earth-atmosphere.html">Earth's atmosphere</a> shortly — the same fate that awaits Progress 92 about six months from now.</p><p>Progress 91, which launched on Feb. 27, remains at the station, docked to its Zvezda service module.</p><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Related Stories:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"> — <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/international-space-station-astronaut-russian-cargo-ship-reentry-photos">ISS astronauts watch Russian cargo ship burn up in Earth's atmosphere (photos)</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text"> — <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/32645-progress-spacecraft.html">Facts about Russia's Progress cargo ship</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/22724-roscosmos.html">Roscosmos: Russia's space agency</a></p></div></div><p>Progress is one of three cargo ships that ferry supplies to the ISS these days. The other two are private American vehicles: Northrup Grumman's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/cygnus-spacecraft.html">Cygnus</a> and SpaceX's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/18852-spacex-dragon.html">Dragon</a>.</p><p>Like Progress, Cygnus is designed for one-time use, ending its space stays with a fiery death dive. But Dragon is reusable and can therefore haul scientific samples and other materials from the ISS safely back down to Earth.</p><p><em><strong>Editor's note: </strong></em><em>This story was updated at 3:50 p.m. ET on July 3 with news of successful launch.</em></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/russian-cargo-ship-progress-92-launch-iss</link>
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<![CDATA[ A Russian Progress cargo spacecraft launched toward the International Space Station this afternoon (July 3), hauling several tons of cargo to the orbiting lab. ]]>
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<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2025 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Launches & Spacecraft]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Space Exploration]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ mwall@space.com (Mike Wall) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Mike Wall ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/5QHvLCzJXtzVy3DSDcAquD.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[NASA/Roscosmos]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A Russian Soyuz rocket launches the Progress 92 cargo spacecraft toward the International Space Station from Baikonur Cosmodrome on July 3, 2025.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A Russian Soyuz rocket launches the Progress 92 cargo spacecraft toward the International Space Station from Baikonur Cosmodrome on July 3, 2025.]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ The best Fourth of July and early Amazon Prime Day space tech deals on the market ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>If you're looking for the best space tech deals this Fourth of July and ahead of Amazon Prime Day, you're in the right place.</p><p>We've rounded up worthwhile discounts across a range of products, including telescopes, star projectors, binoculars and model rockets. Now is a great time to search for deals, as we're seeing plenty of Fourth of July celebration discounts as well as early Amazon Prime Day offers. Both annual events offer a chance to grab the space tech you've been after with a sizable discount, with Prime Day becoming a four-day event for the first time ever.</p><p>You might be chasing quality over the size of a discount, and we can't fault that line of thought. So, it might be worth checking out our guides to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/15693-telescopes-beginners-telescope-reviews-buying-guide.html">best telescopes</a>, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-star-projectors">best star projectors</a>, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/26021-best-binoculars.html">best binoculars</a> and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/entertainment/best-model-rocket-sets">best model rockets</a>, if you don't find something suitable below. But, scroll down to discover the best Fourth of July and early Prime Day space tech deals out there.</p><h2 id="the-best-fourth-of-july-and-early-prime-day-2025-space-tech-deals-we-recommend-2">The best Fourth of July and early Prime Day 2025: Space tech deals we recommend</h2><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-the-best-fourth-of-july-and-early-prime-day-telescope-deals"><span>The best Fourth of July and early Prime Day telescope deals</span></h3><div class="product"><a data-dimension112="55515d07-6949-4b43-9b8c-a50f542054ea" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="best telescopes" data-dimension48="best telescopes" data-dimension25="$63" href="https://www.amazon.com/Celestron-Signature-Astronomical-Telescope-22016/dp/B07DJPD2VH/ref=sr_1_1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:500px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:100.00%;"><img id="r7nekEkFTXB6rF5DdbGWbK" name="Celestron Firstscope 76 Square" caption="" alt="" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/r7nekEkFTXB6rF5DdbGWbK.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="500" height="500" attribution="" endorsement="" credit="" class=""></p></div></div></figure></a><p></p><p><strong>Save 16% </strong>on an excellent beginner tabletop telescope that features in our <a href="https://www.space.com/15693-telescopes-beginners-telescope-reviews-buying-guide.html" data-dimension112="55515d07-6949-4b43-9b8c-a50f542054ea" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="best telescopes" data-dimension48="best telescopes" data-dimension25="$63">best telescopes </a>guide. An affordable Dobsonian tabletop telescope with a 76mm aperture and a moon-design wrap, it's ideal for those looking for hassle-free views of the moon and stars, including budding astronomers. </p><p><strong>Note: </strong>We have seen a slightly lower price for this telescope in recent times, but for the last couple of years, this is a decent price to pay. <a href="https://www.space.com/celestron-firstscope-76-telescope-review.html">Check out our review</a> for a closer look.<a class="view-deal button" href="https://www.amazon.com/Celestron-Signature-Astronomical-Telescope-22016/dp/B07DJPD2VH/ref=sr_1_1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-dimension112="55515d07-6949-4b43-9b8c-a50f542054ea" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="best telescopes" data-dimension48="best telescopes" data-dimension25="$63">View Deal</a></p></div><div class="product"><a data-dimension112="1ec84157-cd0d-4006-b711-56bd3cd7f1ab" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Celestron Nexstar 8SE review" data-dimension48="Celestron Nexstar 8SE review" data-dimension25="$1499" href="https://www.amazon.com/Celestron-11069-Computerised-Schmidt-Cassegrain-Technology/dp/B000GUFOC8/ref=sr_1_4" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:500px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:100.00%;"><img id="HAKDGuQRwAhyPqWzgRzqsk" name="CelestronNexStar8SEComputerizedTelescope2.jpg" caption="" alt="" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/HAKDGuQRwAhyPqWzgRzqsk.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="500" height="500" attribution="" endorsement="" credit="" class=""></p></div></div></figure></a><p></p><p><strong>Save $200 </strong>on another one of the best telescopes. This one features a motorized mount, an eight-inch mount, a 2032mm focal length and a useful magnification of up to 480x. Check out our <a href="https://www.space.com/celestron-nexstar-8se-telescope-review" data-dimension112="1ec84157-cd0d-4006-b711-56bd3cd7f1ab" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Celestron Nexstar 8SE review" data-dimension48="Celestron Nexstar 8SE review" data-dimension25="$1499">Celestron Nexstar 8SE review</a> for a closer look.</p><p><strong>Note: </strong>We have seen lower prices for this telescope before but this is a good price to pay compared to recent prices.<a class="view-deal button" href="https://www.amazon.com/Celestron-11069-Computerised-Schmidt-Cassegrain-Technology/dp/B000GUFOC8/ref=sr_1_4" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-dimension112="1ec84157-cd0d-4006-b711-56bd3cd7f1ab" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Celestron Nexstar 8SE review" data-dimension48="Celestron Nexstar 8SE review" data-dimension25="$1499">View Deal</a></p></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-the-best-fourth-of-july-and-early-amazon-prime-day-2025-star-projector-deals"><span>The best Fourth of July and early Amazon Prime Day 2025 star projector deals</span></h3><div class="product"><a data-dimension112="60e4228e-af6d-4484-9a4d-ef81f859e1aa" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="our Pococo Galaxy Star Projector review," data-dimension48="our Pococo Galaxy Star Projector review," data-dimension25="$72" href="https://www.amazon.com/POCOCO-Home-Planetarium-Star-Projector/dp/B0B5RPHBFR/ref=sr_1_1_sspa" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:500px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:100.00%;"><img id="RbTUtQqMyK8bTY44wkaaXP" name="Pococo-galaxy-star-projector-home-planetarium.jpg" caption="" alt="" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/RbTUtQqMyK8bTY44wkaaXP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="500" height="500" attribution="" endorsement="" credit="" class=""></p></div></div></figure></a><p></p><p><strong>Save 28% by applying the coupon as well </strong>on one of the best star projectors around. In <a href="https://www.space.com/pococo-galaxy-star-projector-review" data-dimension112="60e4228e-af6d-4484-9a4d-ef81f859e1aa" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="our Pococo Galaxy Star Projector review," data-dimension48="our Pococo Galaxy Star Projector review," data-dimension25="$72">our Pococo Galaxy Star Projector review,</a> we praised its rechargeable battery, meaning you can take it with you and use it where you like. We also liked the realistic imagery on offer and the expansion packs available. <a class="view-deal button" href="https://www.amazon.com/POCOCO-Home-Planetarium-Star-Projector/dp/B0B5RPHBFR/ref=sr_1_1_sspa" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-dimension112="60e4228e-af6d-4484-9a4d-ef81f859e1aa" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="our Pococo Galaxy Star Projector review," data-dimension48="our Pococo Galaxy Star Projector review," data-dimension25="$72">View Deal</a></p></div><div class="product"><a data-dimension112="91084bb3-db37-4552-9c11-22d77178a3e1" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="our review" data-dimension48="our review" data-dimension25="$27.86" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004S6QWDG" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:752px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:100.00%;"><img id="kHX8iA9imXs3e6PAxQJ7A" name="Brainstorm Toys Deep Space Home Planetarium star projector.jpg" caption="" alt="" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/kHX8iA9imXs3e6PAxQJ7A.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="752" height="752" attribution="" endorsement="" credit="" class=""></p></div></div></figure></a><p></p><p><strong>Save 17% </strong>on an excellent STEM set, well-suited for kids. In <a href="https://www.space.com/brainstorm-toys-deep-space-home-planetarium-star-projector-review" data-dimension112="91084bb3-db37-4552-9c11-22d77178a3e1" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="our review" data-dimension48="our review" data-dimension25="$27.86">our review</a>, we praised its value, its transportability and the child-friendly design. Its clear projections make it a great, affordable STEM option for budding scientists. <a class="view-deal button" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004S6QWDG" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-dimension112="91084bb3-db37-4552-9c11-22d77178a3e1" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="our review" data-dimension48="our review" data-dimension25="$27.86">View Deal</a></p></div><div class="product"><a data-dimension112="56ded511-cee5-43c2-8a57-a66da5c6fdc6" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="best star projectors" data-dimension48="best star projectors" data-dimension25="$11" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CQX291B8" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:500px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:100.00%;"><img id="mbDmduUvYbmTRRkx9aPxNg" name="astronaut star projector.jpg" caption="" alt="" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/mbDmduUvYbmTRRkx9aPxNg.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="500" height="500" attribution="" endorsement="" credit="" class=""></p></div></div></figure></a><p></p><p>Get this novelty star projector for <strong>half price </strong>as it's reduced to just $11. We love Astronaut star projectors and they feature in our <a href="https://www.space.com/best-star-projectors" data-dimension112="56ded511-cee5-43c2-8a57-a66da5c6fdc6" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="best star projectors" data-dimension48="best star projectors" data-dimension25="$11">best star projectors</a> and <a href="https://www.space.com/technology/best-star-projectors-under-100-dollars">best star projectors under $100</a> guides. This is a low-risk investment if you're looking for a star projector for a space-loving young one. <a class="view-deal button" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CQX291B8" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-dimension112="56ded511-cee5-43c2-8a57-a66da5c6fdc6" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="best star projectors" data-dimension48="best star projectors" data-dimension25="$11">View Deal</a></p></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-the-best-fourth-of-july-and-early-amazon-prime-day-2025-binoculars-deals"><span>The best Fourth of July and early Amazon Prime Day 2025 Binoculars Deals</span></h3><div class="product"><a data-dimension112="b6c53421-2360-459d-9a22-5fc35d18d8d4" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Celestron Nature DX ED 12x50 review" data-dimension48="Celestron Nature DX ED 12x50 review" data-dimension25="$199" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VHTTRHN" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:500px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:100.00%;"><img id="UbaCkYpzpzxPqNhvdiZkTG" name="Celestron Nature DX ED 12x50 Binocular.jpeg" caption="" alt="" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/UbaCkYpzpzxPqNhvdiZkTG.jpeg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="500" height="500" attribution="" endorsement="" credit="" class=""></p></div></div></figure></a><p></p><p><strong>Save over $80 </strong>on what we think are the best binoculars for daytime use on the market. We praised them for their compact design, ED objective lenses, and the sharp images produced by high-end glass in our <a href="https://www.space.com/celestron-nature-dx-ed-12x50-binoculars-review" data-dimension112="b6c53421-2360-459d-9a22-5fc35d18d8d4" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Celestron Nature DX ED 12x50 review" data-dimension48="Celestron Nature DX ED 12x50 review" data-dimension25="$199">Celestron Nature DX ED 12x50 review</a>. </p><p><strong>Note: </strong>Apply the coupon to maximize the savings. <a class="view-deal button" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VHTTRHN" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-dimension112="b6c53421-2360-459d-9a22-5fc35d18d8d4" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Celestron Nature DX ED 12x50 review" data-dimension48="Celestron Nature DX ED 12x50 review" data-dimension25="$199">View Deal</a></p></div><div class="product"><a data-dimension112="4dd45468-455d-48fa-81c5-2561cd22cada" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="In our review," data-dimension48="In our review," data-dimension25="$219" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00U6AIZHE" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:500px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:100.00%;"><img id="w96rqnN48fYwD7jZr6nT2F" name="Celestron SkyMaster Pro 15x70 Binocular.jpeg" caption="" alt="" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/w96rqnN48fYwD7jZr6nT2F.jpeg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="500" height="500" attribution="" endorsement="" credit="" class=""></p></div></div></figure></a><p></p><p><strong>Get over $60 off </strong>the best binoculars for moon views available. <a href="https://www.space.com/celestron-skymaster-pro-15x70-binoculars-review" data-dimension112="4dd45468-455d-48fa-81c5-2561cd22cada" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="In our review," data-dimension48="In our review," data-dimension25="$219">In our review,</a> we praised the reasonable price (that's now even more reasonable) you pay for an amazing stargazing experience. These binos are robust, waterproof and come with 15x magnification and a large 70mm aperture. </p><p><strong>Note: </strong>Apply the coupon to maximize the savings.<a class="view-deal button" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00U6AIZHE" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-dimension112="4dd45468-455d-48fa-81c5-2561cd22cada" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="In our review," data-dimension48="In our review," data-dimension25="$219">View Deal</a></p></div><div class="product"><a data-dimension112="17860c4e-211f-407a-b7d7-580f7f4177d1" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="best budget binoculars" data-dimension48="best budget binoculars" data-dimension25="$78" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0007UQNTK" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:500px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:100.00%;"><img id="2bzoS9DwNCe6EQaVTfmoBe" name="Celestron SkyMaster 12x60" caption="" alt="" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/2bzoS9DwNCe6EQaVTfmoBe.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="500" height="500" attribution="" endorsement="" credit="" class=""></p></div></div></figure></a><p></p><p><strong>Save $32 </strong>on one of the <a href="https://www.space.com/best-budget-binoculars" data-dimension112="17860c4e-211f-407a-b7d7-580f7f4177d1" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="best budget binoculars" data-dimension48="best budget binoculars" data-dimension25="$78">best budget binoculars</a> on the market. <a href="https://www.space.com/celestron-skymaster-12x60-binocular-review">In our review</a>, we praised the quality of specs and its water-resistant exterior. It also features a 12x magnification and a sizable 60mm aperture. </p><p><strong>Note: </strong>Apply the coupon to maximize the savings.<a class="view-deal button" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0007UQNTK" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-dimension112="17860c4e-211f-407a-b7d7-580f7f4177d1" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="best budget binoculars" data-dimension48="best budget binoculars" data-dimension25="$78">View Deal</a></p></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-the-best-fourth-of-july-and-early-amazon-prime-day-model-rocket-deals"><span>The best Fourth of July and early Amazon Prime Day model rocket deals</span></h3><div class="product"><a data-dimension112="4847ef1e-230b-43f0-b799-6492e877f03c" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Save $35 and get a fantastic Fourth of July and early Prime Day deal on an excellent model rocket set designed for beginners. This set comes with the rocket, a parachute, a launch pad and a launch set, so you don't need much more to be ready for take-off." data-dimension48="Save $35 and get a fantastic Fourth of July and early Prime Day deal on an excellent model rocket set designed for beginners. This set comes with the rocket, a parachute, a launch pad and a launch set, so you don't need much more to be ready for take-off." data-dimension25="$26" href="https://www.amazon.com/Estes-Journey-Model-Rocket-Launch/dp/B01I8VBUVK/ref=sr_1_6" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:500px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:100.00%;"><img id="DJxDJRcxKabkMYDVkgAzdh" name="Estes-Journey-Launch-Set" caption="" alt="" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DJxDJRcxKabkMYDVkgAzdh.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="500" height="500" attribution="" endorsement="" credit="" class=""></p></div></div></figure></a><p></p><p><strong>Save $35 </strong>and get a fantastic Fourth of July and early Prime Day deal on an excellent model rocket set designed for beginners. This set comes with the rocket, a parachute, a launch pad and a launch set, so you don't need much more to be ready for take-off. <a class="view-deal button" href="https://www.amazon.com/Estes-Journey-Model-Rocket-Launch/dp/B01I8VBUVK/ref=sr_1_6" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-dimension112="4847ef1e-230b-43f0-b799-6492e877f03c" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Save $35 and get a fantastic Fourth of July and early Prime Day deal on an excellent model rocket set designed for beginners. This set comes with the rocket, a parachute, a launch pad and a launch set, so you don't need much more to be ready for take-off." data-dimension48="Save $35 and get a fantastic Fourth of July and early Prime Day deal on an excellent model rocket set designed for beginners. This set comes with the rocket, a parachute, a launch pad and a launch set, so you don't need much more to be ready for take-off." data-dimension25="$26">View Deal</a></p></div><div class="product"><a data-dimension112="fe61946e-7d6d-4a47-86b2-0f50332b0451" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Save 20% and get the lowest price we've seen for a while on a 19-inch rocket and building kit designed for those with some experience behind them. It requires assembly and features a 24-inch parachute, allowing it to reach heights of up to 900 feet." data-dimension48="Save 20% and get the lowest price we've seen for a while on a 19-inch rocket and building kit designed for those with some experience behind them. It requires assembly and features a 24-inch parachute, allowing it to reach heights of up to 900 feet." data-dimension25="$32" href="https://www.amazon.com/Estes-Daddy-Flying-Model-Rocket/dp/B000BVL50C/ref=sr_1_15" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:2000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:100.00%;"><img id="GKYVHCtrsKCS9CZuSwn8JV" name="estes big daddy.jpeg" caption="" alt="" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/GKYVHCtrsKCS9CZuSwn8JV.jpeg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="2000" height="2000" attribution="" endorsement="" credit="" class=""></p></div></div></figure></a><p></p><p><strong>Save 20% </strong>and get the lowest price we've seen for a while on a 19-inch rocket and building kit designed for those with some experience behind them. It requires assembly and features a 24-inch parachute, allowing it to reach heights of up to 900 feet. <a class="view-deal button" href="https://www.amazon.com/Estes-Daddy-Flying-Model-Rocket/dp/B000BVL50C/ref=sr_1_15" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-dimension112="fe61946e-7d6d-4a47-86b2-0f50332b0451" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Save 20% and get the lowest price we've seen for a while on a 19-inch rocket and building kit designed for those with some experience behind them. It requires assembly and features a 24-inch parachute, allowing it to reach heights of up to 900 feet." data-dimension48="Save 20% and get the lowest price we've seen for a while on a 19-inch rocket and building kit designed for those with some experience behind them. It requires assembly and features a 24-inch parachute, allowing it to reach heights of up to 900 feet." data-dimension25="$32">View Deal</a></p></div><h3 class="article-body__section" id="section-faqs"><span>FAQs</span></h3><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>When is Amazon Prime Day 2025?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>Amazon Prime Day 2025 starts on July 8. For the first time ever, it will be a four-day event, meaning it will run through to July 11. We usually see a multitude of discounts across a broad range of products and if you're looking to beat the sales rush and pick up a bargain, we think the deals you see above are the pick of the bunch.</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What is Amazon Prime Day?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>Amazon Prime Day is Amazon's annual summer sales event where they reduce the prices on a vast number of products. To make the most of this event, you'll have to become an <a href="https://www.amazon.com/amazonprime?pd_rd_w=bcRUD&content-id=amzn1.sym.df599986-726e-4c60-bd86-1fb3f6f167c1:amzn1.sym.df599986-726e-4c60-bd86-1fb3f6f167c1&pf_rd_p=df599986-726e-4c60-bd86-1fb3f6f167c1&pf_rd_r=FGXNZKVYPC6DK56ATSZN&pd_rd_wg=CvbPi&pd_rd_r=44fa6932-c6dc-4e42-91dd-adf072ca91bb&qid=1751541813&ref_=sxts_snpl_1_0_df599986-726e-4c60-bd86-1fb3f6f167c1">Amazon Prime member</a> to gain access to exclusive offers from the online retailer.</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>Why buy now and not wait for Prime Day?</h3><p>Fourth of July deals versus Amazon Prime Day</p><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>Fourth of July celebrations often offer up discounts from retailers. We're also already seeing early Amazon Prime Day deals. The discounts you see above are worthwhile deals and by waiting for Prime Day, you risk stock issues and price fluctuations. In most cases, it would make sense to wait for the sales event as it's the safest bet to get a good offer. But, if you see a good deal now, there's no reason not to grab it.</p></article></section> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/technology/the-best-fourth-of-july-and-early-amazon-prime-space-tech-deals-on-the-market</link>
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<![CDATA[ These are our picks of the best space tech deals you can get ahead of Fourth of July and Amazon Prime Day with offers on telescopes, star projectors and more. ]]>
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<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2025 11:44:52 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ acox@space.com (Alexander Cox) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Alexander Cox ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/m9VA7JrDobHFgnZpXmXF7a.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Future]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A blue, red and yellow rocket is placed between a telescope with a moon printed on it and a projector sitting on a stand, all on a blue planet background with the space.com logo in the top left corner.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A blue, red and yellow rocket is placed between a telescope with a moon printed on it and a projector sitting on a stand, all on a blue planet background with the space.com logo in the top left corner.]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ New interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS is hurtling through the solar system — and you can watch it live online today ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <div class="youtube-video" data-nosnippet ><div class="video-aspect-box"><iframe data-lazy-priority="low" data-lazy-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sOtp16YKweM" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div><p>A rare but faint interstellar visitor from beyond our solar system is racing toward the sun — and you can watch it live online today!</p><p>Astronomers have identified this cosmic interloper as 3I/ATLAS, making it only the third confirmed object from outside the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16080-solar-system-planets.html">solar system</a> after <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/oumuamua.html">'Oumuamua</a> (2017) and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/interstellar-comet-borisov-most-pristine-ever">comet 2I/Borisov</a> (2019). The interstellar comet, originally designated C/2025 N1 (ATLAS), was observed on July 1 by the NASA-funded ATLAS (<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/nasa-upgrades-atlas-system">Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System</a>) telescope in Rio Hurtado, Chile. It has since been designated 3I/ATLAS by the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://minorplanetcenter.net/mpec/K25/K25N12.html" target="_blank">Minor Planet Center (MPC)</a>, with "3I" marking it as the third known interstellar object.</p><p>"There are tentative reports of cometary activity," The MPC report states. "With a marginal coma and a short 3" tail".</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="sT3QY0MQ"> <div id="botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>You can watch comet 3I/ATLAS live online tonight (July 3), thanks to the Virtual Telescope Project, which will livestream views beginning at 6:00 p.m. EDT (2200 GMT). The feed will showcase imagery from telescopes in Manciano, Italy, weather permitting. Tune in via Virtual Telescope's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.virtualtelescope.eu/webtv/" target="_blank">WebTV</a>, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sOtp16YKweM&ab_channel=TheVirtualTelescopeProject" target="_blank">YouTube channel</a> or here on Space.com.</p><p>Currently, 3I/ATLAS is about 4.5 astronomical units (AU) — or 670 million kilometers (416 million miles) — from the sun <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://science.nasa.gov/blogs/planetary-defense/2025/07/02/nasa-discovers-interstellar-comet-moving-through-solar-system/" target="_blank">according to NASA</a>, and around <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/21640-star-luminosity-and-magnitude.html">magnitude</a> 18.8, far too faint for backyard telescopes.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1840px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="mE4Bp9hrSn8xVbKaEvCGFB" name="3I_interstellar comet orbit" alt="graphic showing the projected path of the new interstellar visitor through our solar system." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/mE4Bp9hrSn8xVbKaEvCGFB.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1840" height="1035" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">Trajectory of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS as it passes through the solar system. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech)</span></figcaption></figure><p>But it's expected to brighten slightly as it approaches <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/what-is-perihelion">perihelion</a> (closest point to the sun) on Oct. 30, when it will pass just 1.4 AU (130 million miles or 210 million km) from <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/58-the-sun-formation-facts-and-characteristics.html">the sun</a> inside the orbit of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/47-mars-the-red-planet-fourth-planet-from-the-sun.html">Mars</a>.</p><p>The Virtual Telescope Project <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.virtualtelescope.eu/2025/07/03/interstellar-object-3i-atlas-c-2025-n1-atlas-an-image-2-july-2025/" target="_blank">captured a photo</a> of the interstellar visitor on July 2, using one of its robotic telescopes to track the object's motion across the sky. In the 120-second exposure, the comet appears as a sharp point of light, while the background stars show short trails due to their relative movement.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1099px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:79.16%;"><img id="7o4nCKxGZ8DMcbq7GsHfU" name="3I_Atlas_C2025N1_2july2025_masi" alt="a monochrome image with a white arrow pointing at the new interstellar visitor against a background of stars." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/7o4nCKxGZ8DMcbq7GsHfU.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1099" height="870" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">3I/ATLAS imaged on July 2 by Gianluca Masi of the Virtual Telescope Project. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Gianluca Masi, The Virtual Telescope Project)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The object is speeding through the solar system at 68 kilometers per second (152,000 mph) relative to the sun, and it poses no threat to Earth, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/news/4722/new-interstellar-visitor-speeds-through-the-solar-system/" target="_blank">according to NASA.</a></p><p>After dipping behind the sun in late fall, 3I/ATLAS is expected to reappear in early December, giving astronomers another chance to study this rare visitor from beyond our cosmic neighborhood.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/astronomy/comets/new-interstellar-comet-3i-atlas-is-hurtling-through-the-solar-system-and-you-can-watch-it-live-online-today</link>
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<![CDATA[ 3I/ATLAS is the third-ever interstellar object discovered. ]]>
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<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2025 10:34:48 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Comets]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Astronomy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Solar System]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ daisy.dobrijevic@space.com (Daisy Dobrijevic) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Daisy Dobrijevic ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/qk9279hfpvXttrtverJ3KK.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Interstellar object: Virtual Telescope Project, graphic made in Canva by Daisy Dobrijevic]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[graphic showing the new interstellar object with a white arrow pointing it out against the background of stars. ]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[graphic showing the new interstellar object with a white arrow pointing it out against the background of stars. ]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Earth is farthest from the sun today. So why is it so hot? ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>The National weather forecast for this Thursday before Independence Day 2025 shows high temperatures reaching to at least 90 degrees across the southern half of the nation, from the middle-Atlantic coast, westward through the Greater Ohio Valley, Central Great Plains, Texas and Oklahoma and down into the Desert Southwest.</p><p>Ninety-degree temperatures will also be attained over California (save for along the Pacific Coast), as well as Nevada, central and eastern portions of Oregon and Washington State and most of Idaho. Temperatures at or above 100 degrees are expected for southwest Texas, southern and western Arizona, southern Nevada and southeast California. Some desert locations might see ambient air temperatures approach 110 degrees.</p><p>With such hot temperatures as these, it might be a surprise for you to hear that on Thursday, July 3 at 3:55 p.m. EDT (1955 GMT), our <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/54-earth-history-composition-and-atmosphere.html">Earth</a> will reach that point in its orbit where it is farthest from <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/58-the-sun-formation-facts-and-characteristics.html">the sun</a> in space.</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="sT3QY0MQ"> <div id="botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:800px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:75.00%;"><img id="c3pKwuZAFDsEp7CJnBSDYV" name="JULY 3RD MAX TEMPS" alt="a map of the united states with temperatures overlaid on it; most are in the 80s or above" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/c3pKwuZAFDsEp7CJnBSDYV.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="800" height="600" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">U.S. National Weather Service Forecast Map of projected high temperatures across the United States for July 3. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: NOAA)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Since Kepler's laws of motion dictate that celestial bodies orbit more slowly when farther from the sun, we are now moving at our slowest pace in orbit, slightly less than 18 miles per second (29 kilometers per second) compared to just over 19 at perihelion.</p><p>Called aphelion, the sun at that moment will be 94,502,939 miles (152,087,738 km) from our Earth (measured from center to center), or 3,096,946 miles (4,984,051 km) farther as compared to when the Earth was closest to it (called perihelion) last Jan. 4. Put another way, we are 16.62 light seconds farther from our local star than at <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/what-is-perihelion">perihelion</a> in January. The difference in distance is equivalent to 3.277 percent, which makes the sun appear <em>6.55 percent dimmer </em>now than in January; A change of only one part in 30.</p><h2 id="the-tilt-not-the-distance-makes-the-difference-2">The tilt, not the distance makes the difference</h2><p>Indeed, it's probably no surprise that if you ask people in which month of the year they believe that the Earth is closest to the sun, most probably would say we're closest during June, July or August. But our warm weather doesn't relate to our distance from the sun. It's because of the 23.5-degree tilt of the Earth's axis that the sun is above the horizon for different lengths of time at different seasons. The tilt determines whether the sun's rays strike us at a low angle or more directly.</p><p>At New York's latitude, the more nearly direct rays at the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/summer-solstice-when-what">summer solstice</a> of June 20 bring about three times as much heat as the more slanting rays at the winter solstice on Dec. 21. Heat received by any region is dependent on the length of daylight and the angle of the sun above the horizon. Hence the noticeable differences in temperatures that are registered over different parts of the world.</p><h2 id="a-climatological-fallacy-2">A climatological fallacy</h2><p>When I attended Junior High School, my earth science teacher told all of us that because we were farthest from the sun in July and closest in December, that such a difference would tend to warm the winters and cool the summers — at least in the Northern Hemisphere.</p><p>That certainly seemed to make sense, and yet the truth of the matter is that the preponderance of large land masses in the Northern Hemisphere works the other way and actually tends to make our northern winters colder and the summers hotter!</p><p>Interestingly, the times when the Earth lies at its closest and farthest points from the sun roughly coincide with two significant holidays here in the United States: We're closest to the sun around New Year's Day and farthest from the sun around Independence Day.</p><p>For those living in Canada, aphelion nearly coincides with their national holiday — Canada Day — on July 1.</p><p>But actually, depending on the year, the date of perihelion can vary from Jan. 1 to 5 and the date of aphelion can also vary from July 2 to July 6.</p><p><em>Joe Rao serves as an instructor and guest lecturer at New York's </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amnh.org/our-research/hayden-planetarium" target="_blank"><u><em>Hayden Planetarium</em></u></a><em>. He writes about astronomy for </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="http://www.naturalhistorymag.com/" target="_blank"><u><em>Natural History magazine</em></u></a><em>, </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://skyandtelescope.org/" target="_blank"><u><em>Sky and Telescope</em></u></a><em> and other publications.</em></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/astronomy/earth/earth-is-farthest-from-the-sun-today-so-why-is-it-so-hot</link>
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<![CDATA[ Earth is at its farthest point from the sun on July 3. So why are temperatures so high across the U.S.? ]]>
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<pubDate>Thu, 03 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Earth]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Astronomy]]></category>
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<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Joe Rao ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/JWFdzHnrCMoPuEV7kJ58Lo.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Space.com / Josh Dinner]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[a bright sun in an orange-and-red sky above a city skyline]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[a bright sun in an orange-and-red sky above a city skyline]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ See Mercury at greatest elongation, its farthest from the sun in the evening sky this week ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Mercury reaches its point of greatest eastern elongation on Friday (July 4), presenting an excellent opportunity to spot the rocky planet during its evening apparition in the post-sunset sky.</p><p>Astronomers describe <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/36-mercury-the-suns-closest-planetary-neighbor.html">Mercury</a> as an "inferior planet", because its orbital path around the sun is much closer than that of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/54-earth-history-composition-and-atmosphere.html">Earth</a>. As a result, Mercury never strays far from the sun in our sky and always appears low on the horizon compared to planets like Jupiter and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/47-mars-the-red-planet-fourth-planet-from-the-sun.html">Mars</a>, whose distant orbits allow them to ride high on the line of the ecliptic (the plane of the major planets' path around the sun).</p><p>The point at which Mercury appears most distant from the sun in Earth's sky, known as its point of greatest elongation, will occur at 00:37 a.m. EDT (0437 GMT) on July 4, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://in-the-sky.org/news.php?id=20250704_11_101" target="_blank">according to stargazing website in-the-sky.org</a>. Viewers in the U.S. will have a golden opportunity to spot Mercury shining low above the western horizon immediately after sunset over the coming days.</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="sT3QY0MQ"> <div id="botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>The rocky world will appear as a bright "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/31851-what-is-morning-star-evening-star.html">evening star</a>" approximately 15 degrees above the western horizon in the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16970-cancer-constellation.html">constellation Cancer</a> at sunset for viewers in New York on July 4. For context, 10 degrees is roughly the same as the span of your clenched fist when held at arms length against the night sky.</p><p>Mercury's low altitude could make it a challenging target for those in built-up areas, so we would advise scoping out a spot with a clear horizon ahead of time if you want to catch a glimpse of the fleet-footed planet before it sets less than an hour and a half after sundown.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="QBqZZHHA6v6X6c3gnWrgc4" name="July 4 (1)" alt="The position of Mercury is shown for the night of July 4 on a simulation of the night sky. Mercury is located close to the western horizon, with the bright star Regulus and Mars positioned to the upper left of the rocky planet." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/QBqZZHHA6v6X6c3gnWrgc4.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">Mercury can be seen with Regulus and Mars in the night sky on July 4. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Starry Night)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The "Great Bear" of the constellation <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/ursa-major-constellation-great-bear">Ursa Major</a> will become visible around the time Mercury slips out of view, with the stars of Leo and the red light of Mars beating a path toward the western horizon as the night wears on.</p><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">TOP TELESCOPE PICK</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' ><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="wPYYYSkjGjgEznJCgsbuvC" name="Celestron - NexStar 4SE Telescope" caption="" alt="Celestron - NexStar 4SE Telescope" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wPYYYSkjGjgEznJCgsbuvC.png" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="" height="" attribution="" endorsement="" class="pinterest-pin-exclude"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Amazon)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="fancy-box__body-text">Want to see Mercury, Mars, and Regulus all in the night sky? The <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://amazon.com/dp/B000GUFOBO/ref=asc_df_B000GUFOBO1706720400000?tag=hawk-future-20&ascsubtag=space-us-1269214074237629933-20" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Celestron NexStar 4SE</a> is ideal for beginners wanting quality, reliable and quick views of celestial objects. For a more in-depth look at our <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/celestron-nexstar-4se-telescope-review">Celestron NexStar 4SE review</a>.</p></div></div><p>Stargazers hoping to explore the wonders of the cosmos for themselves should check out our roundup of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/telescopes-deals-sale-discount">best telescopes </a>and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/binoculars-deals-sale-discount">binoculars available in 2025</a>. If you're new to the hobby you should also check out our roundup of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-stargazing-apps">top paid and free smartphone astronomy apps</a>, many of which use augmented reality tech to help you find your way around the night sky.</p><p><em><strong>Editor's Note: </strong></em><em>If you snap a picture of Mercury and want to share it with Space.com's readers, then please send it alongside your comments, name and location to spacephotos@space.com. </em></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/stargazing/see-mercury-at-greatest-elongation-its-farthest-from-the-sun-in-the-evening-sky-this-week</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ The rocky world will be visible for a brief window after sunset. ]]>
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<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 22:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Stargazing]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Anthony Wood ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/QBqZZHHA6v6X6c3gnWrgc4.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Starry Night]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[The position of Mercury is shown for the night of July 4 on a simulation of the night sky. Mercury is located close to the western horizon, with the bright star Regulus and Mars positioned to the upper left of the rocky planet.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[The position of Mercury is shown for the night of July 4 on a simulation of the night sky. Mercury is located close to the western horizon, with the bright star Regulus and Mars positioned to the upper left of the rocky planet.]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ '52 Assignments: Night Photography': A Q&A with author and astrophotographer Josh Dury ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>In his new book '52 Assignments: Night Photography', award-winning astrophotographer Josh Dury invites you to raise your lens and embark on a journey through the night sky to capture everything from the moon and Milky Way, to satellite megaconstellations and aurora.</p><p>The latest book in Ammonite Press' popular '52 Assignments' series seeks to demystify the technically demanding hobby of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/astrophotography-for-beginners-guide">astrophotography</a> by offering stargazers a year's worth of weekly workshops packed with advice and photography techniques for capturing the night sky.</p><p>Each assignment will help aspiring astrophotographers gain a better understanding of how their camera performs at night, while arming them with the technical knowledge and tricks of the trade needed to capture spectacular images of the post-sunset realm.</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="sT3QY0MQ"> <div id="botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>Space.com caught up with Dury to discuss his experience of writing the book, how aspiring astrophotographers can benefit from the assignments, and the importance of capturing unique images of the night sky.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="NTEGfRA4LXJQLRDfyTVS6N" name="Vanishing World (2)" alt="Satellites are pictured leaving long 'trails' in the night sky in a composite image featuring the Milky Way hanging over a stone monument." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NTEGfRA4LXJQLRDfyTVS6N.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">A composite image showing satellite trails criss-crossing the night sky. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Josh Dury)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="space-com-your-book-52-assignments-night-photography-feels-like-a-real-work-of-passion-the-culmination-of-years-of-experience-was-there-a-specific-moment-or-event-that-pushed-you-towards-distilling-your-experiences-and-writing-the-book-2">Space.com: Your book '52 assignments Night Photography' feels like a real work of passion, the culmination of years of experience. Was there a specific moment or event that pushed you towards distilling your experiences and writing the book?</h2><p><strong>Josh Dury: </strong>The whole experience really started off from a very young age, when I was seven years old. Back then, there were children's programs about the planet Mars, and it was when I purchased my first telescope that [I was] ultimately encouraged me to look up to life on other worlds, at the planets of the solar system. I thought, well, how can I document that?</p><p>So it began by taking images with these planetary cameras at the time. But then I pursued an education and then a degree in photography, and now pursuing a career as a landscape astrophotographer. It's one of those bucket list things I've always wished to do to educate others, which is to publish a book. But at the same time, when I was approached by Ammonite Press, [there were] very pressing issues in the astrophotography community.</p><p>With the [rising] popularity of taking images of the night sky and the Milky Way, not only are we seeing environmental effects of light pollution and artificial light at night, but we're also seeing consequences of [so many people] going to dark sky places — hundreds of photographers in one go producing artificial light in dark sky areas. And so this book aims to promote sustainable astrophotography so that we can take further respect and consideration for the night sky and also just the etiquette of being respectful of other photographers in these dark sky areas. I feel it's a pressing issue at the moment that needs to be addressed.</p><div class="product"><a data-dimension112="b0e9c1c5-d8b0-40ba-b6a3-f3c0dc180bab" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Full of workshops, prompts and a personalized journal, "52 Assignments: Night Photography" is a must-have for any astrophotographer." data-dimension48="Full of workshops, prompts and a personalized journal, "52 Assignments: Night Photography" is a must-have for any astrophotographer." data-dimension25="$19.99" href="https://www.amazon.com/52-Assignments-Photography-Josh-Dury/dp/1781454957/ref=sr_1_1?crid=239NI936KUBCU&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.JODWqfdRu_i51MgcFoXegxBtWiLTxLh9ZEWIQI-igVnXhi_XWMJpx_TMe_JqYNTUD9sHm9Q_VMZ8B7Zr81hEJG41gBee2lYJNvVR44MTQmrJdEVc3mmaY2Iw3fh8vel9BxFbYgWKccEY1Fc3DOCZGQ.FZLCWDHY3flXHncTyTs-mTSPg4XPEBjUwdnKklng7fc&dib_tag=se&keywords=52+assignments+night+photography&qid=1751384486&s=books&sprefix=52+assignments+night+photography%2Cstripbooks%2C121&sr=1-1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:500px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:100.00%;"><img id="ZSoM3bJTZCaXTZx8kRmbE8" name="Dury book cover" caption="" alt="" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ZSoM3bJTZCaXTZx8kRmbE8.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="500" height="500" attribution="" endorsement="" credit="" class=""></p></div></div></figure></a><p>Full of workshops, prompts and a personalized journal, "52 Assignments: Night Photography" is a must-have for any astrophotographer. <a class="view-deal button" href="https://www.amazon.com/52-Assignments-Photography-Josh-Dury/dp/1781454957/ref=sr_1_1?crid=239NI936KUBCU&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.JODWqfdRu_i51MgcFoXegxBtWiLTxLh9ZEWIQI-igVnXhi_XWMJpx_TMe_JqYNTUD9sHm9Q_VMZ8B7Zr81hEJG41gBee2lYJNvVR44MTQmrJdEVc3mmaY2Iw3fh8vel9BxFbYgWKccEY1Fc3DOCZGQ.FZLCWDHY3flXHncTyTs-mTSPg4XPEBjUwdnKklng7fc&dib_tag=se&keywords=52+assignments+night+photography&qid=1751384486&s=books&sprefix=52+assignments+night+photography%2Cstripbooks%2C121&sr=1-1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-dimension112="b0e9c1c5-d8b0-40ba-b6a3-f3c0dc180bab" data-action="Deal Block" data-label="Full of workshops, prompts and a personalized journal, "52 Assignments: Night Photography" is a must-have for any astrophotographer." data-dimension48="Full of workshops, prompts and a personalized journal, "52 Assignments: Night Photography" is a must-have for any astrophotographer." data-dimension25="$19.99">View Deal</a></p></div><h2 id="you-re-a-passionate-dark-sky-advocate-yet-a-number-of-the-assignments-that-you-picked-out-specifically-take-aim-at-light-pollution-and-the-satellites-that-crisscross-our-sky-could-you-tell-me-a-little-bit-more-about-your-process-your-thought-process-and-including-them-as-targets-in-the-book-2">You're a passionate dark sky advocate, yet a number of the assignments that you picked out specifically take aim at light pollution and the satellites that crisscross our sky. Could you tell me a little bit more about your process, your thought process, and including them as targets in the book? </h2><p>I think it's very important to take images of light polluted areas, because it demonstrates the state of affairs in which we are living. The majority of the British public and further afield live under light polluted skies. When I was a youngster living on the Mendip Hills, I was one of the lucky ones [who got] to look up at the beautiful dark skies and see the Milky Way glowing on down, but also the pressing issues that have come from that.</p><div><blockquote><p>"…are we potentially the last generation that will see the night's sky in its entirety?"</p></blockquote></div><p>As a delegate of Dark Sky International, I work with a group of like minded people who are producing research on the impacts of light pollution. So not only the effects to astronomers and astrophotographers like myself, but also wildlife conservation, how light at night is affecting nocturnal and marine wildlife as well as ourselves. Human health, how exposure to light at night affects chemical reactions during our sleeping patterns, our circadian rhythm and effectively affecting melatonin cycles. But [there's] also the next pressing issue, which is satellite megaconstellations. I respect the fact that it's very much a double edged sword.</p><p>We live in the 21st Century. We need internet technology, globally, across the world, for communication. But there's also the pressing issue of what it's doing to the night sky?</p><p>It is a concerning issue, and it's going to grow. So it's my concern as a delegate and an astrophotographer: are we potentially the last generation that will see the night sky in its entirety?</p><h2 id="so-including-satellites-as-targets-in-the-book-was-your-way-of-grabbing-people-and-making-them-look-directly-at-the-issue-2">So including satellites as targets in the book was your way of grabbing people and making them look directly at the issue?</h2><div><blockquote><p>"You don't need the latest photographic technologies to get a good image."</p></blockquote></div><p>Exactly, and even just after sundown, Anthony, when you look up, you will see them easily. You'll just see one after another moving throughout the night. So when an avid or professional photographer takes an image of the sky, and they see one of the trails, they will easily — through the assignments — be able to identify what is a meteor and what is a satellite.</p><p>And I think it's that readdressing issue of: 'what is it we are looking at, what is it all about?' I believe the connection between being an astronomer and an astrophotographer is to really know your subjects, because without that prior knowledge, things can easily be mistaken for [one another] in the night sky.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="mxJhjo5oeaocLfRP2YXavc" name="Labelled_7 Planets (1)" alt="The positions of Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Venus, Neptune, Mercury and Saturn are labelled arcing through a star-studded night sky above a hillside. Light pollution can also be seen brightening the sky from nearby towns." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/mxJhjo5oeaocLfRP2YXavc.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">One of the assignments gives advice on how to capture a rare 'planetary parade.' </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Josh Dury)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="astrophotography-is-an-inherently-intimidating-and-technically-demanding-hobby-especially-for-beginners-that-said-your-book-does-a-great-job-of-demystifying-the-terms-and-camera-settings-needed-to-capture-the-night-sky-by-breaking-it-down-into-individual-projects-each-of-which-adds-to-the-user-skill-set-and-confidence-over-time-could-you-walk-us-through-your-process-when-it-came-to-creating-the-assignments-2">Astrophotography is an inherently intimidating and technically demanding hobby, especially for beginners. That said, your book does a great job of demystifying the terms and camera settings needed to capture the night sky by breaking it down into individual projects, each of which adds to the user skill set and confidence over time. Could you walk us through your process when it came to creating the assignments?</h2><p>Really it was putting myself back in my shoes when I was a youngster, but also the experience of being involved with astronomical societies, photographic societies, and years of research. Astrophotography is a technically competent area or niche within photography and so, as opposed to taking an image of, say, a sunset, or architecture, we're dealing with much longer exposures. And also, we need to let as much light into our cameras as possible — identified as the aperture of our camera lenses — but we also have what's called ISO (camera sensitivity) and so again, it's just trying to break down these barriers. You don't need the latest photographic technologies to get a good image.</p><p>I still take a lot of my images on a Sony α7S II, which is considered a more traditional model of the α7 series, but it's still more than competent [enough] to take these quality images. One pressing issue, I would say, however, is the camera. You need a good quality piece of glass. In the past couple of years I've been lucky enough to work with Sigma as a leading purveyor for astrophotography style lenses, dealing with F numbers like f 1.4 that let the light into your camera. <em>That's</em> where the cutting edge technology comes in, and quite frankly, breaking new boundaries to test this equipment and hopefully the ambition of making it more accessible to everyone.</p><h2 id="the-assignments-tend-to-provide-a-structure-for-the-shoot-and-then-you-ask-the-photographer-to-go-off-and-put-their-own-personal-touches-on-the-composition-what-were-the-challenges-when-it-came-to-finding-the-line-between-handholding-and-simply-providing-the-necessary-structure-for-newcomers-to-enjoy-the-pastime-2">The assignments tend to provide a structure for the shoot, and then you ask the photographer to go off and put their own personal touches on the composition. What were the challenges when it came to finding the line between handholding and simply providing the necessary structure for newcomers to enjoy the pastime? </h2><div><blockquote><p>"When a viewer or a potential client is looking on their mobile devices at hundreds of submissions all the time, they're looking for images that are unique and not those same compositions."</p></blockquote></div><p>I have taken it upon myself to think deep within what is of interest to me, through my background, through ancient astronomy and stone circles and ancient sites. But I also appreciate that there have been purveyors in astrophotography who were there long before I was and have their own take on the astrophotography landscape. This is my concern when I see locations which have been photographed a hundred times or more, [how can you find] originality?</p><p>And so the book is there to speak to the reader, to dive deep into what interests them, and to [help them] apply that knowledge to produce an image that has never been seen before. So it could be one of your hobbies, it could be one of your interests, somewhere where you like walking, your own area of the landscape. Just something new, something refreshing.</p><p>When a viewer or a potential client is looking on their mobile devices at hundreds of submissions all the time, they're looking for images that are unique and not those same compositions. And most importantly, it's got [to have] an interesting story to tell. So I'll give you one example, which is one of the assignments titled 'Meteor Showers.' So the image [I took as an example] was the Perseid meteors over Stonehenge. Yes, okay, it's been photographed millions of times before, but it's somewhere of interest to me. I thought 'I'm trying out a particular lens here. I want to capture the Milky Way [tumbling] down'. Just being a creative mind, I can picture it in my mind already and [I] executed this image over three and a half hours. It was endorsed by NASA, Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin and the European Space Agency. So to have this backing, even by a scientific journal, was huge and it just shows where originality goes a long way.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="Ye2QpuQoUvKu57BVbmdSdX" name="NASA APOD - Perseid Meteors over Stonehenge (Cropped)16x9" alt="The ancient monument Stonehenge is pictured at night with the Milky Way glowing in a band tumbling towards the horizon. Pereid meteor trails can be seen arcing towards the historic site in a night sky dotted with stars." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Ye2QpuQoUvKu57BVbmdSdX.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">Perseid meteors captured streaking through the skies over Stonehenge in Wiltshire, UK. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Josh Dury)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="do-you-have-a-personal-favorite-assignment-that-you-keep-coming-back-to-2">Do you have a personal favorite assignment that you keep coming back to?</h2><p>I would say it would have to be one of the final assignments, which is traveling far afield. Not only have I been lucky enough to go to some of the darkest skies in the world, but also to make friendships through the experience. So that particular photograph [Assignment 51] captures the iconic Moai statues of Easter Island from the southern hemisphere skies, and the photograph wouldn't be possible without the support of the local Islanders and the community. And this is again something which is very easily forgotten in astrophotography today, is that there are people who help you along the way.</p><h2 id="towards-the-end-of-the-book-you-get-to-the-aspirational-bucket-list-shots-that-people-eventually-want-to-get-but-it-was-really-refreshing-that-throughout-for-quite-a-few-of-the-assignments-all-you-needed-was-a-camera-and-a-tripod-there-was-no-real-barrier-to-entry-if-you-are-already-a-photographer-or-have-any-interest-in-it-you-ve-probably-already-got-most-of-this-gear-and-then-you-can-just-enjoy-it-and-embrace-it-and-maybe-pick-up-a-star-tracker-2">Towards the end of the book, you get to the aspirational, bucket list shots that people eventually want to get. But it was really refreshing that throughout, for quite a few of the assignments all you needed was a camera and a tripod, there was no real barrier to entry. If you are already a photographer or have any interest in it, you've probably already got most of this gear and then you can just enjoy it and embrace it (and maybe pick up a star tracker).</h2><div><blockquote><p>"With astrophotography, it's about having fun."</p></blockquote></div><p>Well, this is it. So you take yourself on that initial journey. So you start off with the basics, your tripod, your camera, and then as you begin to learn more about your camera and how it operates, is then the realization that if I want to take even cleaner, crisper images, that I will need to deploy the use of a star tracker.</p><p>And so it's just trying to break down what this information means to an audience, and that with one of these devices, you can track the sky for a longer period of time, so that, yes, you can use the longer exposures, you can bring down the ISO levels and produce a cleaner image. But by that point, already, you're learning. And this is the whole point of the book is to take you for a guided rhythm, really, of the assignments themselves.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="p8qDHAoXuuKzwnaGfJxWKN" name="Knowlton Henge Aurora (1)" alt="Vivid pink and purple aurora can be seen dancing in a starry night sky above an old church." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/p8qDHAoXuuKzwnaGfJxWKN.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">A colorful aurora captured above a Norman church situated on the Knowlton Henge earthwork in Dorset, UK. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Josh Dury)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="so-what-do-you-think-would-be-one-of-the-most-difficult-photography-concepts-or-techniques-for-a-newcomer-to-pick-up-that-s-included-in-your-book-2">So what do you think would be one of the most difficult photography concepts or techniques for a newcomer to pick up that's included in your book?</h2><p>There's a number. So I would say, first of all, image stacking, which is addressed in the assignments. Why is there a need to stack images? So at night we have to remember that, as we have camera settings with a greater sensitivity [and] a longer exposure, when the camera has produced the image you'll zoom in on it and it almost looks like the surface of sandpaper — it's very textured. And so the purpose of stacking is so that computer software — Photoshop, being one of them — can read the individual images and, like a cake, stack them together. And so by doing that, it increases what's known as the signal-to-noise ratio and produces a cleaner image as a result. And then you can produce those minor adjustments to make the Milky Way more representative of what you've seen on the night.</p><h2 id="is-there-anything-else-you-d-like-to-say-to-our-readers-about-the-book-2">Is there anything else you'd like to say to our readers about the book?</h2><div><blockquote><p>"...by remaining true to yourself, you interact with your subjects more."</p></blockquote></div><p>With astrophotography, it's about having fun. That is what I've learned throughout the experience. But also not to be put off by numbers and competition, that's so easily done now, by social media, peer pressure, likes and the modern day following count, none of that at all. Do it for the reason you enjoy doing it and the love of the subject.</p><h2 id="final-question-for-someone-who-picks-the-book-up-this-week-to-start-their-journey-in-astrophotography-what-is-the-one-piece-of-golden-advice-that-you-would-give-them-to-carry-through-their-entire-journey-2">Final question — for someone who picks the book up this week to start their journey in astrophotography, what is the one piece of golden advice that you would give them to carry through their entire journey?</h2><p>Remain true to yourself. It's something I don't see very often in astrophotography, but by remaining true to yourself, you interact with your subjects more. It becomes an emotional experience, and through that connection and understanding of a story, [you get] an image that has never been seen before, and ultimately to connect with our open window that is the universe.</p><p><em>This interview has been edited for length. You can buy '52 Assignments: Night Photography' at </em><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/52-Assignments-Photography-Josh-Dury/dp/1781454957" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"><em>Amazon.com</em></a><em>.</em></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/stargazing/52-assignments-night-photography-a-q-and-a-with-author-josh-dury</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ "…are we potentially the last generation that will see the night's sky in its entirety?" ]]>
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<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 21:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Stargazing]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Anthony Wood ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Ye2QpuQoUvKu57BVbmdSdX.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Josh Dury]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[The ancient monument Stonehenge is pictured at night with the Milky Way glowing in a band tumbling towards the horizon. Pereid meteor trails can be seen arcing towards the historic site in a night sky dotted with stars.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[The ancient monument Stonehenge is pictured at night with the Milky Way glowing in a band tumbling towards the horizon. Pereid meteor trails can be seen arcing towards the historic site in a night sky dotted with stars.]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Hubble Telescope finds stellar nursery in Taurus Molecular Cloud | Space photo of the day for July 2, 2025 ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>The <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/15892-hubble-space-telescope.html">Hubble Space Telescope</a> searches the universe to understand how planets, stars, and galaxies form. Recently, it captured this image of a nebula known as GN 04.32.8 within a larger stellar nursery called the Taurus Molecular Cloud.</p><h2 id="what-is-it-12">What is it?</h2><p><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://esahubble.org/images/potw2526a/" target="_blank">According to the European Space Agency (ESA)</a>, the GN 04.32.8 <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/nebula-definition-types">nebula</a> is classified as a reflection nebula, as it does not emit its own light, but instead its clouds of space dust reflect the light of nearby stars.</p><p>The reflection nebula is more brightly illuminated around three young bright stars, the centermost being star V1025 Tauri. This star is a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/15396-variable-stars.html">variable star</a>, meaning that it's very chaotic and active as it's beginning its stellar evolution.</p><h2 id="where-is-it-12">Where is it?</h2><p>The Taurus Molecular Cloud, where GN 04.32.8 lies, is in the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/17101-taurus-constellation.html">constellation</a> Taurus, around 480 light-years from Earth.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="4qsTMTRiFvrVnCybXyoZQA" name="taurus molecular cloud" alt="A blue-gray cloud swirls around three bright stars over a dark background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/4qsTMTRiFvrVnCybXyoZQA.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">The reflection nebula is lit up by HP Tau, HP Tau G2 and HP Tau G3, the three young stars in the center of the image. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: ESA/Hubble & NASA, G. Duchêne)</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="why-is-it-amazing-12">Why is it amazing?</h2><p>The Taurus Molecular Cloud is one of the closest and most well-known <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/39935-stellar-nursery-unites-star-formation-theories.html">stellar nurseries,</a> making it an easy place to study how stars are born and evolve.</p><p>But it's not the only thing in this picture that's newly formed. Lower down in this image is a small squished orange spot with a dark line through it. It's easy to miss but important to study, as it's a newly formed protostar surrounded by a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/planet-formation-organics-alma-research-protoplanetary-disks">protoplanetary disk. </a>Because the disk is edge-on to the Hubble Space Telescope, astronomers can zoom in to further study how this disk formed, revealing more about the early universe.</p><h2 id="want-to-learn-more-12">Want to learn more?</h2><p>You can read more about <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/12740-milky-baby-stars-growth-spurt.html">baby stars</a> and the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/best-hubble-space-telescope-images.html">Hubble Space Telescope's photographs </a>as astronomers continue peering deep into our<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/11642-dark-matter-dark-energy-4-percent-universe-panek.html"> universe. </a></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/astronomy/hubble-telescope-finds-stellar-nursery-in-taurus-molecular-cloud-space-photo-of-the-day-for-july-2-2025</link>
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<![CDATA[ The space telescope spied three young stars in the nebula. ]]>
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<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 19:23:46 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Astronomy]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Kenna Hughes-Castleberry ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/4qsTMTRiFvrVnCybXyoZQA.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[ESA/Hubble & NASA, G. Duchêne]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A blue-gray cloud swirls around three bright stars over a dark background]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A blue-gray cloud swirls around three bright stars over a dark background]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ A newly forming ocean may split Africa apart, scientists say ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>A plume of molten rock deep beneath eastern Africa is pulsing upward in rhythmic surges, slowly splitting the continent apart and potentially marking the birth of a new ocean.</p><p>At least, that's what a team of researchers led by <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.swansea.ac.uk/staff/e.j.watts/" target="_blank">Emma Watts</a> of the Swansea University in the U.K. recently discovered. More specifically, the scientists' new study found that the Afar region of Ethiopia is underlain by a plume of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/35904-earth-mantle-is-hotter-than-realized.html">hot mantle</a> that rises and falls in a repeated pattern, almost like "a beating heart." These pulses, the team says, are closely tied to overlying tectonic plates and play a key role in the slow rifting of the African continent.</p><p>"We found that the mantle beneath Afar is not uniform or stationary — it pulses, and these pulses carry distinct chemical signatures," Watts said in a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.swansea.ac.uk/press-office/news-events/news/2025/06/scientists-detect-deep-earth-pulses-beneath-africa.php" target="_blank">statement</a>. "That's important for how we think about the interaction between Earth's interior and its surface."</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_uncpSe6S_ANn1bv7q_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="ANn1bv7q" data-playlist-id="uncpSe6S"> <div id="botr_uncpSe6S_ANn1bv7q_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>The Afar region, which covers the northeastern region of Ethiopia, is one of the few places on Earth where three tectonic rift systems meet — the Red Sea Rift, the Gulf of Aden Rift and the Main Ethiopian Rift. As the tectonic plates in this so-called "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.see.leeds.ac.uk/afar/new-afar/geology-afar/structure-nontech-pages/mer-nontech.html#:~:text=The%20Afar%20region%20is%20known,the%20East%20African%20Rift%20system." target="_blank">triple junction</a>" are pulled apart over millions of years, the crust stretches, thins, and eventually breaks, signaling an early step in the formation of a new ocean basin. Geologists have long suspected that a plume of hot mantle lies beneath this region and helps drive the rifting process — but, until now, little was known about how that plume behaves.</p><p>To study what lies beneath, researchers collected over 100 volcanic rock samples from across Afar and the Main Ethiopian Rift. They combined this fieldwork with existing geophysical data and advanced statistical modeling to better understand the structure and composition of the crust and underlying mantle.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="5Ap7wxqf9eMUczrBzn92SZ" name="2048px-ET_Afar_asv2018-01_img48_Dallol (1)" alt="A photo of a volcanic landscape" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/5Ap7wxqf9eMUczrBzn92SZ.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">A landscape shot at the Dallol volcano in the Afar Region in Ethiopia. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: A.Savin via Wikimedia Commons)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Their analysis revealed a single, asymmetric plume beneath the region, marked by repeating chemical patterns or "geological barcodes," according to the new study." The chemical striping suggests the plume is pulsing," study co-author Tom Gernon of the University of Southampton said in the statement. "In places where the plates are thinner or pulling apart faster, like the Red Sea Rift, those pulses move more efficiently — like blood through a narrow artery."</p><p>"We found that the evolution of deep mantle upwellings is intimately tied to the motion of the plates above," study co-author Derek Keir of the University of Southampton added in the same statement.</p><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">RELATED STORIES</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"> — <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/planets-exoplanets-plate-tectonics">Do other planets have plate tectonics?</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text"> — <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/how-satellites-revolutionized-study-of-volcanoes">How satellites have revolutionized the study of volcanoes</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text"> — <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/meteorites-volcanoes-origin-life-on-earth">Meteorites and volcanoes may have helped jump-start life on Earth</a></p></div></div><p>"This has profound implications for how we interpret surface volcanism, earthquake activity, and the process of continental breakup."</p><p>The team's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41561-025-01717-0" target="_blank">study</a> was published on June 25 in the journal Nature Geoscience.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/astronomy/earth/a-newly-forming-ocean-may-split-africa-apart-scientists-say</link>
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<![CDATA[ A plume of molten rock deep beneath eastern Africa is pulsing upward in rhythmic surges, slowly splitting the continent and potentially marking the birth of a new ocean, a new study reports. ]]>
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<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 19:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Earth]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Astronomy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Solar System]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Sharmila Kuthunur ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/webp" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/cUHtrLdcRUVPkYkGDjhpaD.webp">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Dr Derek Keir, University of Southampton/ University of Florence]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A flow of magma spews out of hot molten rock]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A flow of magma spews out of hot molten rock]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Climate satellite MethaneSAT backed by Bezos and Google fails in space after just 1 year ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>One of the most advanced satellites for tracking harmful greenhouse gas emissions has died in space.</p><p>MethaneSAT, built and operated by the nonprofit Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), was launched in March of 2024 as part of SpaceX's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/spacex-transporter-10-launch-satellites">Transporter-10 mission</a>. The spacecraft was designed to pinpoint methane hotspots across the globe — specifically, those created by oil and gas production — and provide freely accessible data analytics about specific emission sources.</p><p>Now, after a year of collecting that data, the satellite is no longer operational. "On Friday, June 20, the MethaneSAT mission operations lost contact with MethaneSAT. After pursuing all options to restore communications, we learned this morning that the satellite has lost power, and that it is likely not recoverable," EDF said in a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.methanesat.org/project-updates/methanesat-loses-contact-satellite" target="_blank">statement</a> on Tuesday (July 1).</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_MmO8PUYC_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="MmO8PUYC"> <div id="botr_MmO8PUYC_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>Though invisible, methane is one of the most potent <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/greenhouse-effect.html"><u>greenhouse gases</u></a>. Methane molecules absorb infrared radiation very efficiently, trapping 20 to 30 times more heat in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/17683-earth-atmosphere.html"><u>Earth's atmosphere</u></a> when compared to carbon dioxide. Fossil fuel production and industrial waste are some of the highest human-related contributors of methane into the atmosphere. That methane then hovers in Earth's troposphere — about five to nine miles (eight to 15 kilometers) in altitude — like a warm coat around the planet.</p><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">RELATED STORIES:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/earth-enters-uncharted-territory-new-climate-report">Climate change has pushed Earth into 'uncharted territory': report</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/orbital-sidekick-methane-monitoring-ai-help">Tiny satellites use AI to sniff for methane leaks on the ground (photos)</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/methane-deposits-earth-proteins-search-for-alien-life">How methane studies on Earth could inform the search for alien life in our solar system</a></p></div></div><p>MethaneSAT was designed as a sort of check against commercial climate measurements in order to help policymakers independently verify industry emissions reports. "MethaneSAT is specifically designed to catalyze methane reductions by creating unprecedented transparency," the mission's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.methanesat.org/satellite" target="_blank">website</a> states.</p><p>EDF lists 10 <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.methanesat.org/team" target="_blank">mission partners</a> credited with bringing the $88 million satellite to fruition, including BAE Systems, Harvard University, the New Zealand Space Agency, Bezos Earth Fund, Google and more. Though MethaneSAT is now out of service, mission operators say they're still committed to turning the data they were able to collect into actionable results.</p><p>"We will continue to process data that we have retrieved from the satellite and will be releasing additional scenes of global oil and gas production region-scale emissions over the coming months," EDT officials said. "To solve the climate challenge requires bold action and risk-taking and this satellite was at the leading edge of science, technology and advocacy. "</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/space-exploration/satellites/climate-satellite-methanesat-backed-by-bezos-and-google-fails-in-space-after-just-1-year</link>
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<![CDATA[ MethaneSAT, the first satellite made by an environmental nonprofit organization, was designed to monitor some of the world's largest industrial contributors of greenhouse gas emissions. Now, without power, the spacecraft's mission has abruptly ended. ]]>
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<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 16:35:04 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Satellites]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Space Exploration]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ jdinner@space.com (Josh Dinner) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Josh Dinner ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/PBZYsjjY667U3r65tXuT7N.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[MethaneSAT/EDF]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[illustration of a gold spacecfraft with dark solar wings against the blackness of space]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[illustration of a gold spacecfraft with dark solar wings against the blackness of space]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ The secret of why Mars grew cold and dry may be locked away in its rocks ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>The discovery by the Mars rovers of carbonate in sedimentary rock on the Red Planet has enabled planetary scientists to rewind the clock and tell the tale of how Mars' warmer, watery climate 3.5 billion years ago changed to the barren, dry and cold environment that it is today.</p><p>We know that, in the distant past, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/47-mars-the-red-planet-fourth-planet-from-the-sun.html">Mars</a> was warmer than it is today and had <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/17048-water-on-mars.html">liquid water</a> on its surface. We can see evidence for this in the form of ancient river channels, deltas, lakes and even the eroded coastlines of a large sea in the north. Sometime in the past 3.5 billion years, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16903-mars-atmosphere-climate-weather.html">Mars' atmosphere</a> thinned and its water either froze or was lost to space. The question is, how did that happen?</p><p>NASA's <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/23617-nasa-maven-mars-mission.html">MAVEN</a> – Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN – mission arrived at the Red Planet in 2014 charged with studying the loss rate of Mars' atmospheric molecules to space. However, scientists know that the carbon in Mars' atmosphere, mostly in the form of carbon dioxide, cannot have been mostly lost to space. That's because the lighter carbon-12 would preferentially escape rather than the marginally heavier carbon-13 (the difference between the two being one extra <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/neutrons-facts-discovery-charge-mass">neutron</a>), but we don't see an excess of carbon-13 in Mars' atmosphere today.</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_4A2PjjX4_ANn1bv7q_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="ANn1bv7q" data-playlist-id="4A2PjjX4"> <div id="botr_4A2PjjX4_ANn1bv7q_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>The alternative is that Mars' atmospheric carbon must have rained out of the atmosphere and subsequently been locked away in the ground, in the form of carbonates embedded in sedimentary rock. The trouble is, searches for carbonates on Mars had always found nothing, until relatively recently.</p><p>Both current Mars rover missions – <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/17963-mars-curiosity.html">Curiosity</a> climbing Mount Sharp in Gale crater and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/perseverance-rover-mars-2020-mission">Perseverance</a> exploring the river delta in Jezero Crater – <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/mars-rovers/nasas-curiosity-rover-finds-major-clue-that-mars-was-once-habitable">have discovered</a> carbonates, in the sedimentary rock that form Mount Sharp, and stretching tens of kilometers along the rim of Jezero.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="mcxWHFpRMtaf8m87obbdzY" name="Black and White Modern Company Profile Presentation (169)" alt="A series of valleys and ridges on the surface of Mars" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/mcxWHFpRMtaf8m87obbdzY.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">A view of a region nicknamed Ubajara, which is part of the slopes of Mount Sharp and where Curiosity discovered a carbonate mineral called siderite. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: NASA/JPL–Caltech/MSSS)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Because carbon dioxide is a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/greenhouse-effect.html">greenhouse gas</a>, it can therefore regulate a planet's climate. Losing that carbon dioxide as it transforms into carbonate rocks would have had a drastic effect on Mars' climate.</p><p>To determine just how drastic, planetary scientists led by Edwin Kite of the University of Chicago modeled how losing its atmospheric carbon in carbonate rocks has affected how Mars' climate has changed over the past 3.5 billion years. This is coupled with the increase in solar luminosity as the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/58-the-sun-formation-facts-and-characteristics.html">sun</a> brightens with age (in just over a billion years' time the sun will be too luminous and hot for life on <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/54-earth-history-composition-and-atmosphere.html">Earth</a> to survive). As the sun grew hotter, it breathed more heat onto Mars, increasing the planet's average temperature. This led to more precipitation, causing the carbon dioxide to rain out and become locked away as carbonate.</p><p>With the loss of the carbon dioxide's greenhouse effects, Mars cooled and grew drier. Intermittent spells of high temperatures and shallow liquid water were caused by orbital variations, similar to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/milankovitch-cycles">Milankovitch cycles</a> on Earth, which are periodic variations in the shape of Earth's orbit and the tilt of our planet's axis caused by the gravitational forces of the other planets, and which affect our long-term climate.</p><p>The difference between Earth and Mars is that our planet has been able to manage a continuous outgassing of carbon dioxide, mostly from volcanism, to maintain its presence in our atmosphere. Mars, which is about half the diameter of Earth, lost heat from its core more rapidly, which slowed down and ultimately – as far as we can tell – stopped Mars' volcanic activity. With no active volcanoes, or at least very few, there was nothing to replenish the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.</p><p>These findings help explain the geological evidence of subsequent but increasingly less frequent bursts of liquid water on the surface of Mars during the past 3.5 billion years.</p><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">RELATED STORIES</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"> — <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/astronomy/mars/early-visions-of-mars-meet-the-19th-century-astronomer-who-used-science-fiction-to-imagine-the-red-planet">Early visions of Mars: Meet the 19th-century astronomer who used science fiction to imagine the Red Planet</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text"> — <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/astronomy/mars/is-the-us-forfeiting-its-red-planet-leadership-to-chinas-mars-sample-return-plan">Is the US forfeiting its Red Planet leadership to China's Mars Sample Return plan?</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text"> —<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/astronomy/nasas-curiosity-rover-takes-a-closer-look-at-spiderwebs-on-mars-space-photo-of-the-day-for-july-1-2025"> NASA's Curiosity rover takes a closer look at 'spiderwebs' on Mars | Space photo of the day for July 1, 2025</a></p></div></div><p>There is one caveat, which is that the study assumes that the abundance of carbonates at Gale crater is typical of the entire Red Planet. Carbonate samples need to be identified in many locations before we can say for sure that this was how Mars lost its greenhouse gas.</p><p>The research is published in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://press.springernature.com/carbonate-formation-and-fluctuating-habitability-on-mars/51098470" target="_blank">Nature.</a></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/science/the-secret-of-why-mars-grew-cold-and-dry-may-be-locked-away-in-its-rocks</link>
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<![CDATA[ As the sun grew hotter, so did Mars, prompting much of its atmospheric carbon dioxide to rain out and ultimately get locked up in rocks. ]]>
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<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 16:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Science]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Keith Cooper ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/mcxWHFpRMtaf8m87obbdzY.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[NASA/JPL–Caltech/MSSS]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[A series of valleys and ridges on the surface of Mars]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[A series of valleys and ridges on the surface of Mars]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Exoplanets that cling too tightly to their stars trigger their own doom: 'This is a completely new phenomenon' ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Some planets take the expression "you're your own worst enemy" to the extreme. At least, that's what astronomers found when they recently discovered a doomed planet clinging to its parent star so tightly that it's triggering explosive outbursts and destroying itself.</p><p>The clingy, self-destructive extrasolar planet, or "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/17738-exoplanets.html">exoplanet</a>," in question is called HIP 67522 b. It orbits a young, 17 million-year-old star so closely that one of its years lasts just one Earth week.</p><p>Considering our middle-aged star, the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/58-the-sun-formation-facts-and-characteristics.html">sun, is 4.6 <em>billion</em> years old</a>, the stellar parent of this clingy exoplanet (called HIP 67522) is a relative infant. This means it is bursting with energy.</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_WGnzkRwB_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="WGnzkRwB"> <div id="botr_WGnzkRwB_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>Since the mid-1990s, when the first exoplanets were discovered, astronomers have pondered whether exoplanets can orbit their stars closely enough that stellar magnetic fields are impacted. Over 5,000 exoplanet discoveries later and astronomers still hadn't found the answer.</p><p>That is, until now.</p><p>"We hadn't seen any systems like HIP 67522 before; when the planet was found, it was the youngest planet known to be orbiting its host star in less than 10 days," team leader and Netherlands Institute for Radio Astronomy (ASTRON) researcher Ekaterina Ilin said in a statement. "I have a million questions because this is a completely new phenomenon, so the details are still not clear."</p><h2 id="kid-planet-triggers-stellar-parent-2">Kid planet triggers stellar parent</h2><p>The team discovered HIP 67522 while using NASA's exoplanet hunting spacecraft <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/39939-tess-satellite-exoplanet-hunter.html">TESS</a> (Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite) to survey flaring stars.</p><p>TESS discovered some interesting characteristics of HIP 67522, prompting a follow-up investigation with the European Space Agency (ESA) mission <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/36144-cheops-exoplanet-satellite.html">Cheops</a> (Characterizing Exoplanet Satellite).</p><p>"We quickly requested observing time with Cheops, which can target individual stars on demand, ultra precisely," Ilin said. "With Cheops, we saw more flares, taking the total count to 15, almost all coming in our direction as the planet transited in front of the star as seen from Earth."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:840px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:142.86%;"><img id="j6j2R8W6mBn3fDUcYoaN5k" name="cover_art_danielle_futselaar" alt="A huge, fiery red and orange sphere surrounded by looping orange arcs, upon which is a purple and red sphere." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/j6j2R8W6mBn3fDUcYoaN5k.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="840" height="1200" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">An illustration shows the planet HIP 67522 b sending a wave of energy down the magnetic field lines towards the surface of its host star triggering a massive flare. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Danielle Futselaar)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Ilin and colleagues discovered that the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/superflare-star-system-more-powerful-than-solar-flares">stellar flares</a> being thrown out by HIP 67522 occur when its clingy planet passes in front of, or "transits," the star. That means these flares are very likely triggered by the planet itself. The team theorizes this occurs because HIP 67522 b is so close to its star that it exerts a magnetic influence on the star.</p><p>As the planet whips around the star, it gathers energy, which is redirected as waves rippling down the star's magnetic field lines. When a wave hits the stellar surface, a massive flare is triggered.</p><p>"The planet seems to be triggering particularly energetic flares," Ilin explained. "The waves it sends along the star’s magnetic field lines kick off flares at specific moments. But the energy of the flares is much higher than the energy of the waves.</p><p>"We think that the waves are setting off explosions that are waiting to happen."</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:8000px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="nX98KscUVBYaCSD4U3EYwB" name="Cheops_stellar flares_INFOGRPAPHIC" alt="Astronomers using the European Space Agency’s Cheops mission have caught a clingy exoplanet that seems to be triggering flares of radiation from the star it orbits. These tremendous explosions are blasting away the planet’s thick atmosphere, causing it to shrink every year." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/nX98KscUVBYaCSD4U3EYwB.png" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="8000" height="4500" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">A diagram of how a clingy planet can cause its stellar parent to blow its top. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: ESA)</span></figcaption></figure><p>This is therefore the first hard evidence that planets can influence the behavior of their stars.</p><p>HIP 67522 b isn't just triggering flares facing nowhere, though. These induced flares are directed toward the world itself. In particular, it is <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/27132-solar-storms-bombarding-earth-now.html">bombarded with around six times the radiation</a> a planet at this orbital distance usually would experience.</p><p>As you might imagine, this bombardment spells doom for HIP 67522 b. The planet is currently around the size of Jupiter, but it has around the density of candy floss.</p><p>The planet's wispy outer layers are being stripped away by harsh radiation, causing the planet to lose even the little mass it has. Over the next 100 million years, HIP 67522 b is expected to drop from the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/18392-how-big-is-jupiter.html">size of Jupiter </a>to around the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/18924-how-big-is-neptune.html">size of Neptune.</a> The team doesn't actually quite know how extreme the damage these self-inflicted flares could be for HIP 67522 b.</p><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Related Stories:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/white-dwarf-type-1a-supernovas-artificial-intelligence">'Vampire stars' explode after eating too much — AI could help reveal why</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">—<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/nasa-chandra-searching-for-exoplanets">Could nearby stars have habitable exoplanets? NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory hopes to find out</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">—<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/astronomy/exoplanets/the-james-webb-space-telescope-has-discovered-its-1st-exoplanet-and-snapped-its-picture-image">The James Webb Space Telescope has discovered its 1st exoplanet and snapped its picture (image)</a></p></div></div><p>"There are two things that I think are most important to do now. The first is to follow up in different wavelengths to find out what kind of energy is being released in these flares — for example, ultraviolet and X-rays are especially bad news for the exoplanet," Ilin said. "The second is to find and study other similar star-planet systems; by moving from a single case to a group of 10 to 100 systems, theoretical astronomers will have something to work with."</p><p>The team's research was published on Wednesday (July 2) in the journal <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-09236-z" target="_blank">Nature.</a></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/astronomy/exoplanets/exoplanets-that-cling-too-tightly-to-their-stars-trigger-their-own-doom-this-is-a-completely-new-phenomenon</link>
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<![CDATA[ Some planets take the expression "you're your own worst enemy" to the extreme — triggering stellar flares from their own parent stars by being too clingy. ]]>
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<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Exoplanets]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Astronomy]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Robert Lea ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/png" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/vgazeqCoy22scoNbB4qDgi.png">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Janine Fohlmeister (Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics Potsdam)]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[An illustration of the planet HIP 67522 b bombarded by flares from its host star.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[An illustration of the planet HIP 67522 b bombarded by flares from its host star.]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ 'I spent 7 months in space. So, I've been given a lot, and I feel like this is a time when things have gotten so bad that it was time for me to serve again.' Former astronaut Terry Virts is running for Senate and this is why (video) ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Former NASA astronaut Terry Virts announced his run for a seat in the U.S. Senate on June 23. Since then, his campaign has been working hard spreading his message and highlighting his values as a candidate and a Texan.</p><p>Virts hopes to flip the seat currently held by Sen. John Cornyn (R), who is up for reelection in 2026. Virts is the first Democrat to enter what is likely to be a crowded primary field, and he's already differentiating himself from what he views as D.C.'s "do-nothing Democrats."</p><p>His background as a retired U.S. Air Force colonel, F-16 pilot and two-time crewmember of the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16748-international-space-station.html">International Space Station</a> (ISS) — where he also served as commander — have shaped his worldview and approach to leadership. Virts sat down with Space.com recently to discuss his candidacy, vision for Texas and the effects that turbulent shifts in America's current political landscape may have on space policy and exploration.</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_LSThZrTp_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="LSThZrTp"> <div id="botr_LSThZrTp_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity. A full video of Space.com's 40-minute conversation with Virts is available <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W3VehlGsetQ" target="_blank">on YouTube</a>. The video embedded above covers the questions and answers included herein.</p><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What is it that made you decide to run for the Senate now?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>"Just looking at what's going on in the world, what's going on in our country, this disaster from the <a href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/trump-administration-proposes-slashing-nasa-budget-by-24-percent">Trump administration</a>, the chaos and division that's happening — I just couldn't stand by and watch this. I had this moment in space. It's been a few years. We were on the Russian segment. We were having dinner, and we looked down at <a href="https://www.space.com/54-earth-history-composition-and-atmosphere.html">Earth</a>, and I said, 'You know what, guys? There's six of us up here, and there's over six billion people over there on that planet.' The Russians have this big window [from which] you can see [Earth]. I said, 'We've been given something really special.' </p><p>"I have this kind of philosophy: To those whom much has been given, much will be expected.' And I've been given a lot. You know, thankfully, my country, the taxpayers have made me an F-16 pilot and a NASA astronaut. I spent seven months in space. So, I've been given a lot, and I feel like this is a time when things have gotten so bad that it was time for me to serve again. So I threw my name in the hat. I know it's big. I jumped into the deep end of the pool by running for U.S. Senate. But I think the moment requires leadership."</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>How does your experience as an astronaut inform your style of leadership? and your political worldview?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>"Either as a fighter pilot, or a test pilot, or an astronaut, you're part of a team. You don't care about other people's politics, you don't care about their religion or their gender or anything. You care about getting the mission done. In fact, we had a conversation about that with the Russians. I was there when they first <a href="https://www.space.com/news/live/russia-ukraine-invasion-space-impacts-updates">invaded Ukraine</a>. We could see bombs going off in Ukraine. It was awful. And I said, 'Look, guys, we need to stay alive. We're in outer space, so we need to focus on our mission, and we'll leave politics on Earth for later on.' So, that's your job. Your job is to get the mission done — to solve the problem. You're not worried about politics. And I think having that mentality in Washington will be really refreshing. </p><p>"I'm not going there to be on this team to fight the other team. And that seems like all you hear. Whenever you turn on Fox News, that's constant. The only thing they talk about is bashing Democrats. Or, on the other networks, they just talk about, 'Whatever Trump does is bad,' and I don't look at it that way. I look at like, 'What's the problem?' We need to solve healthcare. We need to solve the debt. We need to solve the global security issue. How do we solve that? I'm running as a Democrat, but really, I'm an American first, a Texan second and a common-sense Democrat third. So I'm going to approach problems as how to solve them, not how to just win one for my team."</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What is your take on the White House's proposed NASA budget?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>"It is a disaster. You know, NASA's budget overall is <a href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/trump-administration-could-slash-nasa-science-budget-by-50-percent-reports-suggest">cut by a quarter</a> — this is proposed — and the <a href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/what-a-waste-us-scientists-decry-trumps-47-percent-cuts-to-nasa-science-budget">science budget is cut by half</a>. Here in Houston — you know, I'm from Houston — it's going to be a disaster. Thousands and thousands of people are going to lose their jobs. They're already having profoundly negative effects on the space station's science ability — the ability to do science on the International Space Station that I helped build and commanded. They are going to cut important space probes. I saw there's going to be <a href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/trumps-2026-budget-would-slash-nasa-funding-by-24-percent-and-its-workforce-by-nearly-one-third">41 space missions that are canceled</a>. There's over a dozen space missions that are currently in operation, things like <a href="https://www.space.com/18377-new-horizons.html">New Horizons</a>, <a href="https://www.space.com/32742-juno-spacecraft.html">Juno</a> and others that are costing pennies on the dollar. These things are super cheap. We've already paid all the expense. We should just keep them operating, and they're going to cancel those. It's just a disaster. </p><p>"It's really, really bad. A lot of people watching Space.com I think care about space. Please call your congressmen, please call your senators. Please call the White House and let them know that this is ridiculous and you expect something better out of America. It's a disaster."</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>Do you expect these cuts are going to pose a long term risk for the United States' leadership in space?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>"Absolutely. Look, you can't start and stop a space program. Here in Houston, they're canceling several of the most important science ones. Once the hardware is canceled, once the scientists are gone, you can't just start them up again. <a href="https://www.space.com/16080-solar-system-planets.html">Solar system</a> probes require engineers to understand very technical things, to work for years on a program. Once you let someone go, you're not just going to get them back. They're going to get hired by some other company, and they're going to move on with their life. </p><p>"Kids who are in school right now at Texas A&M, University of Texas, at Rice, you know, they're studying and they're thinking, 'OK, do I go work at NASA? Do I go work in the aerospace industry? Do I go to Silicon Valley to develop a new app?' The desire to go work at NASA is going to be less than it once was when they see this chaos. So the problem is not just, in the short term we're losing these missions. The problem's in the long term. There's going to be real damage done to our national security. </p><p>"What we've really been lacking is a coherent vision that is bipartisan, that everybody agrees on. There's been entirely too much politicization of our space exploration program. That's insane. Republicans and Democrats and Independents generally, for the most part, love space exploration. And so I think it comes back to complete lack of vision. And this goes back to the chaos that is Donald Trump. Whenever his neurons fire, he says the latest thing, and this chaos going back and forth is not a way to run a space program."</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What's your perception of morale at NASA right now?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>"Morale has never been lower. NASA has always [been] voted the top, or one of the top agencies to work at in the government. It was a great place. Some of the best people I've ever met work at NASA. They're awesome. And morale has never been lower.</p><p>"Even when they canceled the <a href="https://www.space.com/7849-obama-budget-scraps-nasa-moon-plan-21st-century-space-program.html">Constellation program</a>, which was a pretty low point in 2010; even when the <a href="https://www.space.com/19436-columbia-disaster.html">Columbia accident</a> happened, that was terrible, it was a tragedy, but we knew we were working towards something better. So, right now, it just feels like <a href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/nasa-celebrated-this-employees-story-of-resilience-then-tried-to-scrub-it-from-the-internet-then-fired-her">they're not valued</a>. They're being told, 'Please leave the government.' </p><p>"I have several friends that I've talked to that are taking these early outs that <a href="https://www.space.com/18849-elon-musk.html">Elon Musk</a> offered to federal employees to please leave the government. They were going to retire anyway. These are people that were literally on their way out anyway. They just got a few months of free pay. So this genius 'get rid of government employees' plan is just wasting government money. With the role that Elon Musk had at DOGE, the problem is, he had absolute power over seemingly the entire American government. </p><p>"And the real fundamental problem: Elon Musk donated $300 million to the Trump campaign, and all of the sudden, he's given the keys to the United States government. He's earning billions and tens of billions of dollars-worth of government contracts. He's given all the insight into the federal government. His A.I. company is given all the data of the United States government. We don't even know the damage that's been done to the privacy of American citizens. So the corruption that's happened cannot be overstated. I mean, the corruption that's happened in this Trump administration gives the word 'corruption' a bad name. </p><p>"Imagine on your ethics training, if question 1 was, 'Are you allowed to give the president hundreds of millions of dollars,' and then, 'Is he allowed to give you billions of dollars worth of contracts?' Like, of course that's unethical. Of course it's a conflict of interest. Of course it shouldn't be happening, and of course it is happening. So it's hard to have confidence in what NASA is doing with this level of corruption and conflict of interest."</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>Is the damage done to NASA irreparable? </h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>"No, nothing is ever irreparable. It can be solved. It can be fixed, but it's going to require leadership in Congress. Right now, what I see from John Cornyn, our senator in Texas, is just a rubber stamp. Whatever Trump does, he approves. It's the most disgusting thing — prostrating himself. So it's going to require leadership from Congress to say, 'No, this is not what we're doing. We're going to properly fund our space program. We value the scientists and engineers and astronauts that work there, and the same thing for all the other government agencies.' It's going to require leadership in the Senate. Right now, that leadership is lacking."</p></article></section><div class="see-more see-more--clipped"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet hawk-ignore" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I'm launching a campaign for U.S. Senate. I'm seeking to serve Texas because I love my country—I believe in its ideals and values. I'm an Air Force Colonel and an astronaut, but really, I'm an American first, a Texan second, and a common-sense Democrat 3rd. It's time for change. pic.twitter.com/OBHL1QjkZx<a href="https://twitter.com/cantworkitout/status/1937101647391736111">June 23, 2025</a></p></blockquote><div class="see-more__filter"></div></div><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>How do you envision keeping exploration efforts insulated from political swings like what we're experiencing now?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>"When I'm in the Senate, here in Texas, the first thing I'm going to do is, I'm going to go talk to Ted Cruz. Ted and I probably don't agree on very much, but I want to talk to him and say, 'Ted, what can we do to help Texas out? What can we do? How can we work together to help the country out?' I think space exploration is one of those things. To have a coherent vision and plan for NASA, and really all of our science — National Institute of Health, National Science Foundation and others — you have to have a bipartisan agreement. These things are not political. </p><p>"We can fight all day on immigration. Let's fight all day on tax cuts for billionaires and on supporting Russia instead of Ukraine. We can have that fight. But for space exploration, we need to work together and we need to take the Democrat hat off, put the American hat on, and work together. So that's going to be the first thing that I want to do as a U.S. senator."</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>Elon Musk has a massive presence in Texas. How do you plan to navigate that relationship?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>"So first of all, I want to say hats off to <a href="https://www.space.com/18853-spacex.html">SpaceX</a>. They're amazing. You know, they've been providing cargo to the space station for over a decade. They've been launching our astronauts now for several years. In fact, they're the only American-approved solution for launching astronauts right now. Hopefully <a href="https://www.space.com/boeing-starliner-lands-earth-crew-flight-test-mission">Boeing will get in the mix</a>, but SpaceX has done amazing things. The <a href="https://www.space.com/18962-spacex-falcon-9.html">Falcon 9</a> has basically dominated the global launch industry. The <a href="https://www.space.com/39779-falcon-heavy-facts.html">Falcon Heavy</a> is really the premier heavy-lift vehicle in the world. So SpaceX has done amazing things. <a href="https://www.space.com/spacex-starship-super-heavy.html">Starship</a> has had <a href="https://www.space.com/spacex-starship-problems-delay-artemis-3-2026">some problems</a>. I've got some thoughts on that, but my hat is off to SpaceX. </p><p>"The employees — what they've done is amazing. And frankly, Elon Musk built an amazing company. So we want them to succeed here in Texas. We want them continue to help NASA. Not only NASA, but the military and other agencies in the government that use their services. So SpaceX is very important. What we need to do is separate the politics and get rid of the conflict of interest."</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What's your take on the relationship between public policy and these private billionaires who are currently shaping access to space?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>"I'm glad that they're spending money and developing rockets. Like I said, without the Falcon 9, the US government wouldn't be able to accomplish its missions. Bezos is working on <a href="https://www.space.com/40455-new-glenn-rocket.html">New Glenn</a>. New Glenn is going to be an important rocket. So I'm glad that they're spending their time and talents and efforts. They employ thousands of engineers and scientists and all kinds of workers here in Texas and around the country. So I'm glad they're doing that. </p><p>"A bigger problem is the rise of these billionaires and mega centibillionaires. There's a lot of ethical issues of, 'Are they becoming more important than the government?' They're unelected people that are exercising supernational powers, and so that is something that we have to deal with. </p><p>"NASA's job, generally, is not to design new <a href="https://www.space.com/29295-rocket-history.html">rockets</a>. We hire other companies to do that. I think the key is that we do a public-private partnership well. If we do public-private partnerships well, we allow the American private sector to innovate. No one does that better on planet Earth than America, and a lot of that happens right here in Texas. And we allow the government to efficiently manage and provide funds to these companies. If we can do the public-private partnership well, I think that's the key to space exploration in the future. But in the short term, I'm glad that they're putting in the effort. I think we all benefit from growing the space exploration industry."</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What role do you see China's growing presence playing in the future of the space industry?</h3><p>What role do you think Congress should be playing in space security policy?</p><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>"I think that it's really important for America to send humans back to <a href="https://www.space.com/55-earths-moon-formation-composition-and-orbit.html">the moon</a> first, not just to beat our chests about how we're better than everybody else, but really the reason why we make it to the moon is because of our goodness — because our system of freedom and liberty and, yes, sometimes chaos, is a better system than China. </p><p>"You see a lot of people coming here to go to school at Harvard, or University of Texas, or Texas A&M, or wherever. You don't see people beating down the door to go to China. So I think the reason why we need to be the <a href="https://www.space.com/return-to-moon-china-space-race">first back to the moon</a> is not just a technical reason. I think it's really to shine the spotlight on why freedom and liberty and democracy are better than tyranny and oppression. Humanity is kind of at a crossroads right now. Democracy is not doing great, and these authoritarian regimes seem to be on the rise. And this is one way for us to show that, no, democracy is the better way.</p><p>"The big thing about national security and the moon: There are a lot of technical things. The capability to launch heavy-lift vehicles and to operate on the moon, and just the ability to do this mission shows that you're a pretty capable nation. I mean, so far, there's been an N of one; it's been America only who's been able to do that. So it does show your technical prowess. Space security and assured access to space is really important. </p><p>We just had this <a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-iran-war-nuclear-talks-geneva-news-06-21-2025-a7b0cdaba28b5817467ccf712d214579" target="_blank">mission in Iran</a>. That mission was incredibly complicated. I'm so proud of the United States Air Force. That was a tough mission to fly over — 100 airplanes, 30 hours — It was a complicated mission. They did a great job. Every aspect of that mission depended on access to space, so our access to space needs to be at the absolute top of our national priorities. </p><p>"Congress needs to work on that in a bipartisan sense. I don't care [about political affiliation] — I'm going to work with Republicans, Independents on this and make sure that we have very strong, assured access to space."</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>How does that perspective influence your opinion of foreign policy in general?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>"Foreign policy in general, I think, has been an absolute disaster in the last few months. </p><p>"I'll brag on Texas a little bit. The trade that Texas does — the imports and exports in Texas alone — if that were an economy and a nation on its own, it would be in the top third of global economies. So Texas really benefits from trade, and we really benefit from this American rules-based order that has worked really well in the world for the last 80 years. </p><p>"In just a few weeks, Trump was damaging that. You know, really taking a hammer to the foundation of what we built: Siding with Russia against our friend, Ukraine, and so on. So I think foreign policy is very important, and we need to get back to promoting American values, having a values-based foreign policy and not a transactional-based foreign policy. This is not some Manhattan casino that [Trump is] going to put out of business. This is foreign policy, this is relationships, and we need to focus on American values and not transactionalism."</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What are the biggest challenges you see in your race ahead in Texas?</h3><p>How do you plan on differentiating yourself between "common sense and the D.C. Democrats"?</p><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>"One of the challenges is that it's such a big state. I mean, if Texas were a country, we would be the eighth-largest economy on Earth. Texas is basically a continent of its own. When you see it from space, it is gorgeous. You know, there's the deserts of West Texas, the hill country, and you can see the big forests in the East and the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. So, Texas is kind of everything. </p><p>"So one of the challenges for me: I'm going to be putting a lot of miles on my truck, driving around the state. But you know what I found here in Texas? Texans are very practical people. We're very common sense. And there is a real hunger for honesty, for politicians to just speak the truth, to just give us some straight talk. And they're kind of fed up with D.C. politics. The Democratic Party in D.C. has been a disaster. It needs to get better. The Democrats that I know here in Texas want something new. So I think that's going to be a positive thing for my message, because I want to be a common-sense Democrat and not a D.C. Democrat, and that's going to be my focus going around the state.</p><p>"A big differentiator between me [and other candidates] is that I'm not a politician. I haven't been a congressman for years. I didn't work in the Obama administration. I haven't been a traditional Democrat, and my background — who I am as a man — is somebody who solves problems. I'm a fighter pilot and a test pilot. So I'm going to go to Congress not as a Democrat. I'm going to go to Congress as an American and as a Texan to solve problems and get things done. </p><p>"So, I think just my background is completely different than many of the other folks who might enter this race. Right now, I'm the only declared person in the Democratic primary, as far as I know. But I think that's that's the big differentiator. It's just who I am as a fighter pilot and test pilot and astronaut, and not a politician. </p><p>"You know, my mom, my dad, my aunts and uncles — nobody ever went to college. I was the first one to go to college. My mom was a secretary. She actually worked at <a href="https://www.space.com/goddard-space-flight-center.html">NASA Goddard</a> [Space Flight Center] when I was a kid. My uncle worked at <a href="https://www.space.com/northrop-grumman-space-systems.html">Northrop Grumman</a> as a union guy. My cousin works there now as a union guy. So I come from a union family, or working-class family. </p><p>"I was an astronaut. That's a really unique thing, I'll grant you that. But I also grew up in a working-class family. I mean, I worked in an orchard when I was 15 years old, picking apples and pumpkins. So, I come from a working-class background. I just happened to spend seven months in space."</p></article></section><section class="article__schema-question"><h3>What would you say are your biggest goals once you're in the Senate?</h3><article class="article__schema-answer"><p>"Here's my one goal: I'm going to represent Texans. </p><p>"I'm going to represent all Texans. I'm going to be honest with them. I'm not going to be a politician. I'm going to tell them the truth. I don't have a magic wand that I'm going to wave to solve all their problems with one bill. That doesn't exist. I don't care if they vote for me or not, if they're Republicans, Democrats, independents — I'm going to represent all Texans, and I'm going to try and bring some sanity back to D.C., some common sense. </p><p>"Let's solve problems. Let's not be mean-spirited. Let's not be a bully, like this current administration just bullies people around, just spewing hate. The presidential <a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/editorial-photos-videos/detail?itemid=3ddd53fea20b4772b479e381d185ee4a" target="_blank">press conference</a> on the White House lawn yesterday you can't even put on Space.com because of the profanities that the President was screaming. So I'm going to try and bring that temperature down and actually solve problems. I'm going to focus on the economy, healthcare, education — things that people care about, and not on this political bickering and just stabbing the other side with a 'gotcha.' I want to solve problems for Texans."</p></article></section><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title"></div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/human-spaceflight/former-nasa-astronaut-terry-virts-announces-campaign-for-texas-senate-seat">Former NASA astronaut Terry Virts announces campaign for Texas Senate seat</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/what-a-waste-us-scientists-decry-trumps-47-percent-cuts-to-nasa-science-budget">'What a waste:' US scientists decry Trump's 47% cuts to NASA science budget</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/astronomy/earth/trumps-2026-budget-cuts-would-force-the-worlds-most-powerful-solar-telescope-to-close">Trump's 2026 budget cuts would force the world's most powerful solar telescope to close</a></p></div></div><p>Terry Virts flew aboard <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/16726-space-shuttle.html">space shuttle</a> <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/18123-space-shuttle-endeavour.html">Endeavour</a> as pilot for the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/7909-sts-130-mission-updates-part-1.html">STS-130</a> mission in 2010 and later took command of the ISS in 2015. Over the course of his NASA career, he spent over 212 days in space. Since retiring, Virts has stayed active in the public sphere through writing, speaking engagements and promoting STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/space-exploration/human-spaceflight/former-astronaut-terry-virts-talks-about-his-senate-run-trump-and-the-nasa-budget-in-exclusive-space-com-interview-video</link>
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<![CDATA[ Space.com sat down recently with retired NASA astronaut Terry Virts to talk about space, politics and his run in Texas for a seat in the U.S. Senate. ]]>
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<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Human Spaceflight]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Space Exploration]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ jdinner@space.com (Josh Dinner) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Josh Dinner ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/YpJZTTdiyvnXeKHpubKdAZ.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[Max Alexander/STARMUS]]></media:credit>
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<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[a man in blue jumpsuit does a fist pump]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Dust devils on Mars may spark lightning — possibly threatening NASA's Perseverance rover ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Dust devils on Mars could be crackling with electric currents, according to a new study — and scientists are a little concerned about this because a buildup of such charge could harm rovers rolling along the surface of Mars.</p><p>"Electrified dust will adhere to conducting surfaces such as wheels, solar panels and antennas. This may diminish the availability of solar energy, harm communications and complicate the motion of rovers and robots," Yoav Yair, a professor at Reichman University in Israel who studies planetary lightning and was not part of the new study, told <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="http://space.com">Space.com</a>.</p><p>The study, led by Varun Sheel, head of the Planetary Science Division at the Physical Research Laboratory in India, uses computer models to show how charges could be distributed inside a Martian dust devil. But before getting to how charge buildup works within Red Planet dust devils, it is key to understand how dust devils form on Mars to begin with.</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_EnasTgVh_ANn1bv7q_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="ANn1bv7q" data-playlist-id="EnasTgVh"> <div id="botr_EnasTgVh_ANn1bv7q_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>As the sun heats the Martian surface, air near the surface gets heated. Hot air is lighter than cool air, and so it tends to rise. Pockets of hot air therefore rise through cold air, rapidly forming an upward current. The sudden uprush causes air to speed horizontally inward to the center of a newly forming vortex. If the conditions are right, the vortex completes formation and starts spinning. As the air continues to rise, the vortex gets stretched vertically — sort of like a noodle — making the vortex spin even more quickly. As the vortex picks up speed, the wind swirls and kicks up dust. This creates a dust devil.</p><p>In short, dust devils are like little gusts of dust high on adrenaline.</p><p>Dust devils are frequent on the dry and dusty Martian surface. Mars has lower gravity and a thinner atmosphere compared to Earth. This allows the wind there to kick up dust higher than wind on Earth can. As a result, Martian dust devils can be thrice as large as their terrestrial analogues. NASA's Viking was the first spacecraft to report dust devils on Mars. Later, Mars rovers like <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:PIA24039-MarsCuriosityRover-DustDevil-20200809.gif" target="_blank">Curiosity</a> and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:PIA26074-MarsPerseveranceRover-Whirlwind-20230830.gif" target="_blank">Perseverance</a> captured dust devils zooming across the desolate Martian landscape. In general, such whirlwinds can pose a threat to landers and rovers — however, some rovers have actually benefited from dust devils. In 2005, a benevolent dust devil blew dust <em>off</em> the Spirit rover's solar panels, increasing its power <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/861-spirit-dust-devil.html">levels.</a> Dust devils on Mars, indeed, are a fascinating and curious phenomenon.</p><p>And deepening the intrigue, the new study suggests lightning could be zapping inside these dust devils on Mars.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="TqLrLMHCKQGN3qrURBgEQP" name="PIA23513-Mars-DustTower-20101130 (1)" alt="A series of white clouds over a dusty brown background" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/TqLrLMHCKQGN3qrURBgEQP.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">A dust tower can be seen in the bottom center of this image, taken by the NASA Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The most common form of lightning on Earth is the one seen during a thunderstorm. As water and ice churn violently inside a thundercloud, they generate electrical charges due to friction. Once that happens, the atmosphere around the clouds doesn't let these charges flow through easily. This means the charges have nowhere to go and keep building up. At some point, the charges can't hold anymore — and they snap. The charges crack through the atmosphere in the form of an electrically conductive conduit, which we see as lightning.</p><p>Interestingly, the new study's team explains, a similar kind of churning happens inside dust devils on both Earth and Mars. In the case of dust devils rather than clouds, however, it's the dust particles that are getting churned instead of ice and water droplets. Again, friction builds up charges, and when the charges can't hold any more, the charges release in the form of lightning.</p><p>To be clear, the formation of a strong electric field precedes lightning and no direct observations of electric fields within dust devils on Mars have been found thus far. Instead, the study uses computer models to estimate the possible electric field strength and distribution within a Martian dust devil. This is, in fact, the first study to consider the size distribution of dust particles.</p><p>Sheel and his team found that when the atmosphere of Mars is laden with dust, the atmosphere becomes less conductive, prohibiting the flow of charges. This could cause a massive charge buildup in a dust-filled vortex, triggering lightning, he explains.</p><p>"The possibility that one day we can discover lightning [in these dust devils] is the most exciting aspect of the results," Sheel told<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="http://space.com"> </a>Space.com.</p><p>In terms of distribution, the study found that larger, positively-charged particles would settle at the bottom of the dust devil while lighter, negatively-charged ones would rise upward. The team also found that larger dust particles would increase the possibility of lightning.</p><p>"[The paper] adds an original level of complexity by discussing size distributions," Yair said. "This is an important addition to the existing literature, with practical implications."</p><p>However, regarding the possibility of dust devils generating lightning, Yair says, "I am surprised that the authors discuss the probability of lightning inside the dust devil while neglecting the fact that highly charged dust may discharge at much lower electric fields … negating the possibility of lightning."</p><p>"In the end, predictions about lightning are very difficult because we don't fully understand how particles charge each other, not even really on Earth. … Ultimately, I think the question will be settled only [by] direct observations on Mars," Steven Desch, a professor of astrophysics at Arizona State University, who was also not involved in the study, told<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="http://space.com"> </a>Space.com.</p><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">RELATED STORIES</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"> — <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/astronomy/nasas-curiosity-rover-takes-a-closer-look-at-spiderwebs-on-mars-space-photo-of-the-day-for-july-1-2025">NASA's Curiosity rover takes a closer look at 'spiderwebs' on Mars | Space photo of the day for July 1, 2025</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text"> — <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/nasa-budget-cuts-threaten-europes-already-troubled-flagship-mars-rover">NASA budget cuts threaten Europe's already troubled flagship Mars rover</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text"> — <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/astronomy/mars/turning-the-red-planet-green-its-time-to-take-terraforming-mars-seriously-scientists-say">Turning the Red Planet green? It's time to take terraforming Mars seriously, scientists say</a></p></div></div><p>Some progress may have happened on that front, too.</p><p>A recent study — shared by a group led by Baptiste Chide of the Institut de Recherche en Astrophysique et Planétologie, France at the<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://meetingorganizer.copernicus.org/EGU25/EGU25-5745.html" target="_blank"> European Geosciences Union General Assembly</a> in Vienna in May — may have recorded the thunder from an electrical discharge. "Electrical discharges such as lightning are among the most energetic and remarkable phenomena in planetary atmospheres," write the authors in their paper. They studied sounds recorded by the SuperCam microphone onboard the NASA Perseverance rover on Mars. The recordings showed signs of coming from an electric discharge in a dust devil. This is the first such direct detection on Mars, setting the stage for newer discoveries by upcoming Mars missions such as the European Space Agency’s Rosalind Franklin rover.</p><p>The study was <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://pubs.aip.org/aip/pop/article/32/3/033704/3341054/Electric-fields-due-to-charged-dust-within-a" target="_blank">published in the journal Physics of Plasmas</a> in March.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/astronomy/mars/dust-devils-on-mars-may-spark-lightning-possibly-threatening-nasas-perseverance-rover</link>
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<![CDATA[ Our Red Planet explorers may encounter a peculiar threat. ]]>
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<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Mars]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Astronomy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Solar System]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Unnati Ashar ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/sPUXDMZfeB6upyUjQB4iSf.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[NASA/JPL-Caltech]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[Perseverance in action]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[Perseverance in action]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ SpaceX rocket sets reuse record on 500th Falcon 9 launch ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>SpaceX conducted its 500th Falcon 9 rocket launch early this morning (July 2) and broke its own reuse record in the process.</p><p>The milestone mission lifted off with 27 Starlink satellites at 2:28 a.m. EDT (0628 GMT) today from Space Launch Complex 40 at the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/33926-cape-canaveral.html">Cape Canaveral Space Force Station</a> in Florida.</p><p>The <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/29295-rocket-history.html">rocket</a> entered space about nine minutes after leaving the ground and deployed the new units for SpaceX's broadband internet network 55 minutes later.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="uWf6FJzw5sv5Hof45H9dva" name="spacex-falcon-9-starlink-landing" alt="the first stage of a rocket touches down as its engine fires a bright orange flame on a sea-based droneship at night" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/uWf6FJzw5sv5Hof45H9dva.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">SpaceX's 500th Falcon 9 launch included another milestone: the 29th reuse of this particular rocket's first stage, three more than any other booster in the fleet, on Wednesday, July 2, 2025. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: SpaceX)</span></figcaption></figure><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Booster 1067 missions</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text"><a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/spacex-dragon-crs-22-nasa-cargo-launch-success"><strong>CRS-22</strong></a> | <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/spacex-crew-3-dragon-astronauts-launch"><strong>Crew-3</strong></a> | <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/spacex-falcon-9-rocket-turksat-5b-launch-success"><strong>Turksat 5B</strong></a> | <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/spacex-crew-4-nasa-astronaut-launch-webcast"><strong>Crew-4</strong></a> | <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/spacex-crs-25-cargo-mission-launch-success"><strong>CRS-25</strong></a> | <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/spacex-hotbird-13g-telecom-satellite-launch"><strong>Eutelsat HOTBIRD 13G</strong></a> | <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/spacex-launch-2-mpower-communication-satellites-from-florida"><strong>O3B mPOWER</strong></a> | <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/spacex-psn-satria-indonesian-satellite-launch"><strong>PSN SATRIA</strong></a> | <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/spacex-telkomsat-merah-putih-2-satellite-launch"><strong>Telkomsat Marah Putih 2</strong></a> | <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/spacex-galileo-l13-satellite-navigation-launch"><strong>Galileo L13</strong></a> | <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/spacex-falcon-9-rocket-launching-koreasat-6a-satellite-today-on-record-tying-23rd-flight"><strong>Koreasat-6A</strong></a> | <strong>18 Starlink missions</strong></p></div></div><p>On the way to orbit, the Falcon 9's most-flown first stage, Booster 1067, separated from its upper stage and flew back to a landing on the drone ship "A Shortfall of Gravitas" in the Atlantic Ocean. It was the 29th successful recovery for this stage, three more than any other in SpaceX's fleet.</p><p>It was the 472nd Falcon 9 first stage landing since December 2015, and the 439th reuse of a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/18853-spacex.html">SpaceX</a> rocket.</p><p>The 27 satellites (<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.spacex.com/launches/mission/?missionId=sl-10-25" target="_blank">Group 10-25</a>) added to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://planet4589.org/space/con/star/stats.html" target="_blank">more than 7,900 active Starlink relays</a> in <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/low-earth-orbit">low Earth orbit</a>. The <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/spacex-starlink-satellites.html">Starlink</a> megaconstellation — the largest in history — provides broadband internet access and limited direct-to-cell service in remote areas around the world.</p><p>SpaceX launched its first <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/18962-spacex-falcon-9.html">Falcon 9</a> rocket on June 4, 2010. Since then, the vehicle has gone through five major revisions, leading to the current Block 5 model that is used to launch satellites, robotic planetary missions and astronauts. The most-launched U.S. rocket in history, of its 500 missions, all but five all but five have been fully successful.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/spacex-starlink-10-25-b1067-ccsfs-asog</link>
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<![CDATA[ SpaceX launched 27 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit today (July 2), on the 500th Falcon 9 rocket launch in the company's history. ]]>
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<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 12:20:13 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Launches & Spacecraft]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Space Exploration]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ robert@collectspace.com (Robert Z. Pearlman) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Robert Z. Pearlman ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/WagwhFPayJSJ8sGXXtsA3K.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[SpaceX]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[a white and black rocket rides a pillar of orange, blue and white flame off its launch pad into the night sky.]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[a white and black rocket rides a pillar of orange, blue and white flame off its launch pad into the night sky.]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Northern lights may be visible in these 13 US states tonight as the sun hurls solar storm toward Earth ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <p>Northern lights could put on a show tonight (July 2) as an incoming coronal mass ejection (CME) could spark a geomagnetic storm, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).</p><p>A <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/coronal-mass-ejections-cme">CME</a> released on June 28 is due to impact Earth sometime today. It's possible that this CME could sweep up a slower CME released the day prior, on June 27, according to the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://weather.metoffice.gov.uk/specialist-forecasts/space-weather" target="_blank">U.K. Met Office</a>. The resulting solar storm could disrupt <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/earths-magnetic-field-explained">Earth's magnetic field</a>, which in turn can lead to geomagnetic storms and striking <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/15139-northern-lights-auroras-earth-facts-sdcmp.html">auroras</a>.</p><p>Space weather forecasters from <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/news/g1-minor-storm-watch-issued-02-03-jul-2025" target="_blank">NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center</a> (NOAA SWPC) and the U.K. Met Office predict a chance of minor (G1) geomagnetic storms tonight as geomagnetic activity remains unsettled to active. That means there's a window of opportunity for aurora sightings at northern latitudes, weather and dark skies permitting.</p><div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="sT3QY0MQ"> <div id="botr_sT3QY0MQ_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-where-are-the-northern-lights-visible-tonight"><span>Where are the northern lights visible tonight?</span></h2><p>Based on the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.swpc.noaa.gov/products/aurora-viewline-tonight-and-tomorrow-night-experimental" target="_blank">latest NOAA forecast</a>, we've listed 13 U.S. states that appear with fully or partially above the aurora view line. They are ordered from most likely to least likely to catch the northern lights based on their proximity to the auroral oval's center and how much of each state is within or near the view line.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1920px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="WYXZkN445rQfyiWtiyVS45" name="Untitled design (20)" alt="graphic illustration showing tonight's aurora forecast on the background of the northern lights" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/WYXZkN445rQfyiWtiyVS45.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1920" height="1080" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">Aurora forecast for tonight courtesy of NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Aurora forecast NOAA SPWC/Background added in Canva. )</span></figcaption></figure><h2 id="states-that-could-see-the-northern-lights-tonight-2">States that could see the northern lights tonight </h2><ol start="1"><li>Alaska</li><li>Montana</li><li>North Dakota</li><li>Minnesota</li><li>South Dakota</li><li>Michigan (Upper Peninsula)</li><li>Wisconsin</li><li>Maine</li><li>Vermont</li><li>New Hampshire</li><li>Idaho</li><li>Washington</li><li>New York</li></ol><p>But remember, auroras are fickle; sometimes they appear much farther south than predicted, and other times they barely show up at all. Many conditions have to align for the perfect display.</p><h2 id="northern-hemisphere-aurora-forecast-courtesy-of-the-met-office-2">Northern Hemisphere aurora forecast courtesy of the Met Office</h2><div class="looped-video"><video class="lazyload-in-view lazyloading" data-src="https://data.consumer-digital.api.metoffice.gov.uk/models/ovation/forecast/issued/videos/aurora_map_FORECAST_N_2025-07-02_0000.mp4" autoplay loop muted playsinline src="https://data.consumer-digital.api.metoffice.gov.uk/models/ovation/forecast/issued/videos/aurora_map_FORECAST_N_2025-07-02_0000.mp4"></video></div><h2 class="article-body__section" id="section-how-can-i-see-the-northern-lights-from-where-i-live"><span>How can I see the northern lights from where I live?</span></h2><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Aurora alerts</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><figure class="van-image-figure " ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' ><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="Ljg8Nu53NvJqcEhWLw67MX" name="northern lights live blog bug" caption="" alt="circle with the northern lights inside and a pair of cartoon eyes looking to the top left." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Ljg8Nu53NvJqcEhWLw67MX.jpg" mos="" link="" align="" fullscreen="" width="" height="" attribution="" endorsement="" class="pinterest-pin-exclude"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=""><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Daisy Dobrijevic/Canva)</span></figcaption></figure><p class="fancy-box__body-text">Keep up with the latest forecasts and geomagnetic storm warnings with our <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/live/aurora-forecast-will-the-northern-lights-be-visible-tonight">aurora forecast live blog</a>.</p></div></div><p>If you live in one of the 13 U.S. states forecast to potentially catch a glimpse of the northern lights tonight, there are a few things you can do to give yourself the best chance of seeing them.</p><p>Firstly, find a north-facing vantage point with a clear view of the horizon, as far away from light pollution as possible. The best time to look for the northern lights will be around 2 a.m. local time due to the limited hours of darkness in the summer months.</p><p>We recommend downloading a space weather app that provides aurora forecasts based on your location. One option I use is "My Aurora Forecast & Alerts," available for both <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=92X1588396&xcust=space_gb_6763044763583759396&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fapps.apple.com%2Fus%2Fapp%2Fmy-aurora-forecast-alerts%2Fid1073082439&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.space.com%2Fstargazing%2Fauroras%2Fnorthern-lights-may-be-visible-in-these-23-us-states-tonight-june-1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">iOS</a> and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jrustonapps.myauroraforecast&hl=en_GB" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Android</a>. However, any similar app should work well. I also use the "Space Weather Live" app, which is <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=92X1588396&xcust=space_gb_2658266628132491329&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fapps.apple.com%2Fus%2Fapp%2Fspaceweatherlive%2Fid1435501021&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.space.com%2Fstargazing%2Fauroras%2Fnorthern-lights-may-be-visible-in-these-23-us-states-tonight-june-1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">available on iOS</a> and <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.spaceweatherlive.app&hl=en_GB&pli=1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Android</a>, to get a deeper understanding of whether the current space weather conditions are favorable for aurora sightings.</p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/stargazing/auroras/northern-lights-may-be-visible-in-these-13-u-s-states-tonight-as-the-sun-hurls-solar-storm-toward-earth</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Auroras may be visible from Alaska to New York as an incoming solar storm could spark geomagnetic storm conditions overnight. ]]>
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<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 10:06:11 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Auroras]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Stargazing]]></category>
<author><![CDATA[ daisy.dobrijevic@space.com (Daisy Dobrijevic) ]]></author> <dc:creator><![CDATA[ Daisy Dobrijevic ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/jpeg" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/62EKp8JJGXpC73CBNndjNX.jpg">
<media:credit><![CDATA[JackVandenHeuvel via Getty Images]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[northern lights over a body of water in Minnesota, U.S. The auroras appear as delicate ribbons of green and purple light]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[northern lights over a body of water in Minnesota, U.S. The auroras appear as delicate ribbons of green and purple light]]></media:title>
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<title><![CDATA[ Astronomers capture incredible 1st image of a dead star that exploded twice. How did it happen? ]]></title>
<dc:content><![CDATA[ <div class="jwplayer__widthsetter"> <div class="jwplayer__wrapper"> <div id="futr_botr_RwqLtUkx_bQHItauA_div" class="future__jwplayer" data-player-id="bQHItauA" data-playlist-id="RwqLtUkx"> <div id="botr_RwqLtUkx_bQHItauA_div"></div> </div> </div></div><p>You may only live once, but some stars die twice. Astronomers have now discovered the first visual evidence of such a stellar event, a dead star that underwent a so-called "double-detonation." This could indicate that some stars could go supernova without reaching the so-called <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/chandrasekhar-limit">Chandrasekhar limit, </a>the minimum mass that a star needs to go supernova.</p><p>Using the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/40736-very-large-telescope.html">Very Large Telescope</a> (VLT) and its Multi Unit Spectroscopic Explorer (MUSE) instrument, the team zoomed in on the centuries-old remains of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/6638-supernova.html">supernova</a> <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/10474-star-explosion-shines-christmas-ornament-hubble-photo.html">SNR 0509-67.5</a> located 60,000 light-years away in the constellation <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/spiral-galaxy-dances-dorado-hubble-photo">Dorado</a>. This investigation revealed structures within this explosive wreckage that indicate its progenitor star exploded not once but twice.</p><p>Said star was a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/23756-white-dwarf-stars.html">white dwarf</a>, the type of stellar remnant that forms when a star with a mass similar to that of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/58-the-sun-formation-facts-and-characteristics.html">the sun</a> runs out of fuel for <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/what-is-nuclear-fusion">nuclear fusion</a>.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="DmYARsTDxyefPNSpYN7vtW" name="Untitled design - 2025-07-01T090658.769" alt="An orange ring with a blue ringed center" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DmYARsTDxyefPNSpYN7vtW.png" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">An image of the double detonation supernova SNR 0509-67.5 as seen by the VLT. </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: ESO/P. Das et al. Background stars (Hubble): K. Noll et al.)</span></figcaption></figure><p>The types of supernova explosions that white dwarfs undergo, Type Ia supernovas, are important to astronomers because they can be used to measure cosmic distances because their light output is so uniform. Thus, astronomers often refer to them as "<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/19198-most-distant-supernova-hubble-discovery-aas221.html">standard candles</a>."<br><br>The first visual evidence of a double detonation white dwarf reveals hidden depths to these important stellar events, scientists say.</p><p>"The explosions of white dwarfs play a crucial role in astronomy," team leader and University of New South Wales researcher Priyam Das <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.eso.org/public/news/eso2511/?nolang" target="_blank">said in a statement. </a>"Yet, despite their importance, the long-standing puzzle of the exact mechanism triggering their explosion remains unsolved."</p><h2 id="you-only-die-twice-2">You only die twice</h2><p>Scientists agree that the genesis of <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/19198-most-distant-supernova-hubble-discovery-aas221.html">Type Ia supernovas</a> is <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/22509-binary-stars.html">binary systems</a> of two stars in which one becomes a white dwarf.</p><p>If this dead star orbits close enough to its living stellar companion, or if that companion swells up, then the white dwarf becomes a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/triple-star-system-vampire-stellar-bodies-be-disks">stellar vampire</a>, greedily stripping material from its companion or "donor" star.</p><p>This continues until the piling up stolen material has added so much mass to the white dwarf that the stellar remnant crosses the so-called Chandrasekhar limit, which is about 1.4 times the mass of the sun.</p><p>Hence, this <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/astronomy/missing-link-star-why-this-teenage-vampire-white-dwarf-has-scientists-so-excited">cosmic vampire white dwarf</a> explodes in a Type Ia supernova. It is believed that in <em>most </em>cases, the eruption completely destroys the white dwarf. But for some time, astronomers have suspected there may be more to the story.</p><p>Maybe white dwarfs can experience a second explosion. This research confirms that at least some white dwarfs experience double-detonations.</p><p>The question is: why?</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1600px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:56.25%;"><img id="67WowRiFkFUyCxAnf7Gi7C" name="Untitled design - 2024-07-18T094542.683.png" alt="A glowing white sphere connected to the middle of a larger orange sphere by a chain of orange smoke" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/67WowRiFkFUyCxAnf7Gi7C.png" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="1" width="1600" height="900" attribution="" endorsement="" class="expandable"></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">An illustration shows a "vampire" white dwarf star feeding on a close companion star </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: Robert Lea (created with Canva))</span></figcaption></figure><p>Theory behind double-detonations suggests that in these cases, as white dwarfs are stripping material from a donor star, they wrap themselves in a blanket of stolen helium. This envelope becomes unstable and eventually ignites, triggering the first detonation.</p><p>The initial explosion generates a shockwave that ripples inwards, eventually striking the core of the white dwarf, triggering a second detonation, the actual supernova.</p><p>The significance of this to our understanding of Type Ia white dwarf supernovas is that it can occur well before a <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/the-universe/stars/one-of-the-universes-most-extreme-dead-stars-just-sprang-back-to-life-unexpectedly">dead star</a> swells beyond the Chandrasekhar limit.</p><figure class="van-image-figure inline-layout" data-bordeaux-image-check ><div class='image-full-width-wrapper'><div class='image-widthsetter' style="max-width:1280px;"><p class="vanilla-image-block" style="padding-top:60.08%;"><img id="XjUTP8yymp4Em5YNrNqzwe" name="eso2511c" alt="This artist’s impression of the double detonation supernova remnant SNR 0509-67.5." src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/XjUTP8yymp4Em5YNrNqzwe.jpg" mos="" align="middle" fullscreen="" width="1280" height="769" attribution="" endorsement="" class=""></p></div></div><figcaption itemprop="caption description" class=" inline-layout"><span class="caption-text">The relic galaxy NGC 1277 as seen by the Hubble Space Telescope </span><span class="credit" itemprop="copyrightHolder">(Image credit: ESO/M. Kornmesser)</span></figcaption></figure><p>Recently, scientists determined that this double-detonation process would imprint a distinctive "fingerprint" with supernova wreckage. This should be present long after the supernova ripped its progenitor star apart.</p><p>That fingerprint is now visually confirmed as being present in the wreckage of SNR 0509-67.5, supernova wreckage in the <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/25450-large-magellanic-cloud.html">Large Magellanic Cloud</a> first detected in 2004 and believed to be around 400 years old as we see it.</p><div class="fancy-box"><div class="fancy_box-title">Related Stories:</div><div class="fancy_box_body"><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/white-dwarf-type-1a-supernovas-artificial-intelligence">'Vampire stars' explode after eating too much — AI could help reveal why</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/cassiopeia-a-supernova-remnant-magnetar-neutron-star">Supernova explosion's weird leftovers may contain a super-dense star</a></p><p class="fancy-box__body-text">— <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.space.com/chandra-supernova-snr-1181">Peer inside remnants of an 800-year-old supernova and see a 'zombie' star</a></p></div></div><p>Beyond being an important discovery for our scientific understanding of these events and solving a lingering mystery about the evolution of white dwarfs, the observation of SNR 0509-67.5 has provided astronomy lovers with some stunning eye-candy.</p><p>"This tangible evidence of a double-detonation not only contributes towards solving a long-standing mystery, but also offers a visual spectacle," Das concluded.</p><p>The team's research was published on Wednesday (July 2) in the journal <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.eso.org/public/archives/releases/sciencepapers/eso2511/eso2511a.pdf" target="_blank">Nature Astronomy</a></p> ]]></dc:content>
<link>https://www.space.com/astronomy/stars/astronomers-capture-incredible-1st-image-of-a-dead-star-that-exploded-twice-how-did-it-happen</link>
<description>
<![CDATA[ Astronomers have discovered the first evidence of a white dwarf wiped out by a double-detonation supernova, also providing space-lovers with stunning eye-candy. ]]>
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<pubDate>Wed, 02 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Stars]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Astronomy]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[ Robert Lea ]]></dc:creator> <media:content type="image/png" url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DmYARsTDxyefPNSpYN7vtW.png">
<media:credit><![CDATA[ESO/P. Das et al. Background stars (Hubble): K. Noll et al.]]></media:credit>
<media:text><![CDATA[An image of the double detonation supernova SNR 0509-67.5 as seen by the VLT]]></media:text>
<media:title type="plain"><![CDATA[An image of the double detonation supernova SNR 0509-67.5 as seen by the VLT]]></media:title>
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<media:thumbnail url="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/DmYARsTDxyefPNSpYN7vtW-1200-80.png" />
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