How the Universe Works

Neutron stars are strange and violent phenomena that defy the laws of physics, and new discoveries reveal that these bizarre nightmares are far more deadly than we ever thought, with the power to destroy planets and other stars.

The violent deaths of giant stars create the essential elements for all life in the universe.

Space between stars is filled with weird objects that might hold the darkest secrets of the cosmos.

New discoveries reveal black holes' role in creating stars, giving light and building the universe.

Nebulas are the strange structures of cosmic gas and dust where stars are born and die, and new discoveries reveal the secrets of these mysterious places.

New discoveries raise questions about our understanding of our universe's origins.

Dark matter and dark energy are locked in an battle that will determine the fate of the universe.

Scientists investigate whether life on Earth began elsewhere in the universe.

Thousands of exoplanets lie beyond our solar system, and some resemble Earth enough that one could be a new home for humanity. But even with cutting-edge technology, finding the perfect one is the scientific challenge of the age.

Fresh data from the Cassini spacecraft is helping scientists make brand new discoveries.