What’s New in Space: Today’s Updates (July 17, 2025)

Here’s a detailed look at the latest developments in space exploration—from spacecraft and rockets to planets, asteroids, and skywatching events.

1. Twisting Plasma Prominence Erupts from the Sun

Late yesterday, NASA’s GOES satellite captured breathtaking footage of a solar prominence – a loop of superheated plasma gracefully twisting away from the Sun’s southern pole. These dramatic eruptions shine a light on the Sun’s magnetic behavior and help scientists understand space weather that can affect satellites, radio communications, and even power grids on Earth. Time and Date+4EarthSky+4YouTube+4

2. A New “Cosmic Fossil” at the Edge of Our Solar System

Astronomers using the Subaru Telescope in Hawaii have discovered a distant object labeled 2023 KQ14, a frozen relic orbiting well beyond Neptune. Only the fourth such object known, this “cosmic fossil” could offer vital clues about the outer solar system’s early days—and may even influence searches for the hypothetical Planet Nine. 

3. SpaceX to Launch O3b mPOWER Satellites on July 21

SpaceX is preparing for a Falcon 9 mission on July 21 to deploy O3b mPOWER communications satellites for SES. These satellites, placed in medium-Earth orbit, will boost global high-speed internet, especially for underserved regions—with potential benefits for remote education, healthcare, and disaster relief. 

4. Perseids Meteor Shower Begins: Peak in August

The Perseids meteor shower has officially begun. Though the peak isn’t until August 12–13, meteors from this shower can be seen as early as mid-July, lighting up the night sky with streaks of dust from comet Swift–Tuttle. No telescope required—just a clear, dark sky and some patience. Time and Date+8NASA Science+8Astronomy Magazine+8

5. Upcoming Starship Flight Tentatively Scheduled

Elon Musk announced on social media that Starship Flight 10 may launch later this month from Starbase, Texas. If successful, it will be another step toward reusable spacecraft capable of carrying humans to the Moon and Mars. Stay tuned for the official launch date. 

6. SOFIA Airborne Observatory Hosts Public Talk

NASA pilot Manny Antimisiaris will host a “StarTalk” session about the SOFIA observatory, a modified Boeing 747 equipped with infrared telescopes that studies everything from star birth to planetary atmospheres—from the stratosphere. Attendees will learn how flying above most clouds makes Earth-based observations possible. 

Why These Developments Matter

• Solar prominences help us predict space weather, crucial for keeping satellites and power grids safe.
• Discovering distant icy bodies offers insights into how our solar system formed.
• Satellite launches improve connectivity in places where it’s needed most.
• The Perseids meteor shower is a perfect way for families and educators to connect with the night sky.
• Starship’s evolution brings crewed lunar and Martian missions closer to reality.
• SOFIA’s public outreach demystifies astronomy and inspires the next generation.