Come do science with us
What the labs are discovering, how anyone can take part, and how to back what's next.
The Telescopes Actually Finding and Studying Exoplanets Right Now
Explore the step-by-step process of exoplanet discovery, from the initial detection by TESS to the characterization of atmospheres by JWST, and the community projects making it possible at Rakiura.
September 28, 2026 · 3 min read
The New Gravitational-Wave Catalog Just Found Evidence of Black Holes Born From Other Black Holes
The LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA collaboration's latest gravitational-wave catalog reveals significant new findings, including evidence of second-generation black holes born from earlier mergers.
September 28, 2026 · 2 min read
Who's Actually Studying Venus Right Now, and What Each Team Is Looking For
Venus is experiencing a surge of missions after three decades, each seeking to answer unique questions. From NASA's VERITAS and DAVINCI missions to the ESA's EnVision project and Rocket Lab/MIT's Morning Star missions, these initiatives aim to unravel Venus's mysteries, from its surface to its clouds.
September 28, 2026 · 2 min read
NASA's Roman Telescope Is About to Find 100,000 Exoplanets. Why is this exciting?
NASA's Roman Space Telescope is projected to find on the order of 100,000 exoplanets, roughly sixteen times the ~6,000 confirmed to date. That jump turns exoplanet science from studying single worlds into studying whole populations. Here's why scientists are excited about this and how Rakiura's Limits of Habitability and Project Starshade labs work on the questions it raises.
September 28, 2026 · 2 min read
You Don't Have to Choose Between Your Job and Real Astronomy Research
Explore how to stay connected with research through international programs like Gravity Spy, RAD@home, AAVSO, and Einstein@Home, or engage directly with Rakiura's mentored community research groups.
August 11, 2026 · 2 min read