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.

February is when Venus — named after the Roman goddess of love — shines her brightest. Here's how to spot it and the full moon before Valentine's Day.