The latest in space: sugar molecules, a simulated mission and a NASA probe's next steps

NPR | By Ari Daniel,

Regina G. Barber

Published July 16, 2026 at 4:36 PM EDT

In this roundup of space news, we talk about sugar molecules in space, a call for volunteers for a simulated Moon/Mars mission and next steps for NASA's New Horizons probe.

Ari Daniel

Ari Daniel is a reporter for NPR's Science desk where he covers global health and development.

See stories by Ari Daniel

Regina G. Barber

Regina G. Barber is Short Wave's Scientist in Residence. She contributes original reporting on STEM and guest hosts the show.

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