NASA's Pandora mission begins observing 20 exoplanets

NASA's Pandora mission has officially begun scientific observations to study the atmospheric composition of at least 20 exoplanets. Launched on January 11, 2026, the small satellite operates in low Earth orbit as part of the Astrophysical Pioneers program, which focuses on rapid, low-cost missions designed to investigate specific scientific questions.

A primary goal of the mission is to distinguish between signals originating from an exoplanet's atmosphere and those caused by its host star. Currently, astronomers struggle to determine if detected molecules, such as water, clouds, or mists, belong to the planet or are artifacts of stellar activity, such as starspots. By observing both the planets and their host stars simultaneously, Pandora aims to clarify these complex measurements.

The spacecraft is equipped with an infrared detector originally developed for the James Webb Space Telescope. Project officials report that the spacecraft is in perfect condition and all instruments are functioning as expected.