The New Scientist has highlighted some of the key celestial events to look forward to in 2026 for those with an interest in astronomy. These exciting stargazing events include a Mars rover landing, a solar eclipse, and the return of Halley’s Comet.
One of the most anticipated events is the Mars Sample Return (MSR) mission. The NASA and European Space Agency (ESA) are jointly planning a mission to land a rover on Mars, collect samples, and return them to Earth. The launch is set for 2026, and the rover will land on Mars in 2028. This mission aims to gather more detailed information about the Red Planet and search for signs of past or present life.
The following year, in 2027, stargazers can look forward to a partial solar eclipse. The moon will cover a portion of the sun, creating a unique spectacle for observers on Earth. The best viewing areas for this event will be in the Northern Hemisphere. However, safety precautions, such as using special eclipse glasses, must be taken when viewing a solar eclipse to avoid eye damage.
In the same year, there will be another significant event – the return of Halley’s Comet. This famous comet, named after astronomer Edmond Halley, is visible from Earth approximately once every 76 years. In 2027, it will be at its closest approach to the Sun, known as perihelion, making it more visible to observers on Earth.
In 2028, space enthusiasts can anticipate the launch of the Athena X-ray Observatory. This European Space Agency mission aims to study high-energy processes in the universe, providing insights into black holes, galaxy formation, and cosmic structure.
In 2029, the ESA’s JUICE (Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer) mission will reach Jupiter. Launched in 2022, the spacecraft aims to explore Jupiter’s icy moons Ganymede, Callisto, and Europa. This mission will provide valuable data on these celestial bodies and their potential to harbor life.
The year 2026 and beyond promise a wealth of exciting celestial events and space missions that will provide more knowledge about our universe and potentially answer some of the most pressing questions about life beyond Earth.
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