After the space agency canceled its VIPER rover, an empty space was available on a private spacecraft that will still head to the lunar surface.

"NASA is looking forward to partnering with U.S. industry to meet the challenges of performing volatiles science in the lunar environment."

NASA’s VIPER (Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover) mission, initially set to explore the moon’s south pole for crucial water ice deposits, faced a significant setback when it was canceled in July 2024 due to budget constraints.

Here's when and how to watch the next full moon and February's rare planetary parade across Pennsylvania skies, starting with shiny and bright Venus.

Each full moon has its own name. Learn about the naming tradition, full moon dates, the first supermoon of 2025 and more.

The second full moon of the year—arriving on February 12—takes its name from the dusting of snowfall common at this time of year.