3I/Atlas making closest approach to Earth this week

The interstellar comet known as 3I/Atlas will pass within 167 million miles of our planet Friday – the closest it gets on its grand tour of the solar system. Here's what to know.

NASA scientist suggests comet could explain Star of Bethlehem | ChicagoLIVE
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Planetary scientist Mark Matney proposes that a long-period comet passing close to Earth may account for the biblical Star of Bethlehem, offering a new astronomical perspective on a centuries-old holiday mystery. | A live look at what happened today, what’s happening now, and what’s coming tonight—no script, just real news.

ESA’s Juice spacecraft captures early image of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS
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ESA’s Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer snapped a surprise early view of comet 3I/ATLAS in November, revealing its glowing coma and two faint tails. Full science data from five instruments is expected to arrive on Earth February 2026. | A live look at what happened today, what’s happening now, and what’s coming tonight—no script, just real news.

Look up tonight: Supermoon to soar into the sky

Look up tonight as a Supermoon will rise into the sky.  Nicknamed the Cold Moon as winter weather brings colder temperatures, the moon will only be 221,813 miles away from Earth.

December skywatching guide: Wrap up 2025 with these can't miss celestial events

With the new year around the corner, December is filled with a robust lineup of celestial events to end the year with a rewarding skywatching experience.

TSA sets all time record for daily screenings

The Thanksgiving holiday saw millions of people traveling by air, and on Sunday the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) says it set a new daily screening record with over 3 million travelers screened at airports across the country.

Lightning on Mars: Scientists capture crackling sounds

The researchers examined 28 hours of audio recordings, documenting 55 episodes of what they consider to be “mini lightning” over two Martian years.

National Parks raising fees for international tourists visiting popular US parks

The fee change will impact 11 national parks, including the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone and Yosemite, according to the U.S. Department of the Interior.

San Diego Zoo’s oldest resident, 141-year-old tortoise Gramma, dies

Gramma, the San Diego Zoo’s oldest resident and one of the world’s oldest Galapagos tortoises, has died at the estimated age of 141.

Ancient canoes discovered in Wisconsin lake reveal 5,200-year-old history

Sixteen ancient canoes discovered in Lake Mendota, located in Madison, Wisconsin, are shedding light on historical transportation networks and cultural practices in the area.

NASA 3I/ATLAS comet update: ‘It’s a window into another solar system’

NASA is providing more images and information about the interstellar object that's passing through our solar system right now, known as 3I/ATLAS.

New USGS map shows what's underneath your feet, wherever you go

USGS has unveiled its most detailed national geologic map, giving the public a free, interactive way to explore underground features. Here’s how to use it.

Look up tonight—the Leonid meteor shower will peak again under clear skies

The Leonid meteor shower will peak again tonight and stargazers will have a great opportunity to see the celestial show thanks to clearer skies.

FAA ends shutdown-era flight limits as air traffic staffing rebounds

The Federal Aviation Administration announced Sunday that it will lift all restrictions on commercial flights at 40 major airports that were imposed during the nation’s record 43-day government shutdown.