Kepler K2
NASA's Kepler spacecraft, launched in 2009 on a mission to search for exoplanets, is in a safe mode amid concerns the spacecraft may be finally running out of fuel. Credit: NASA

WASHINGTON — NASA’s Kepler spacecraft, which went into a safe mode in July amid concerns the exoplanet observatory was running out of propellant, has again gone into safe mode as astronomers fear its mission may be nearing an end.

To continue reading this article:

Register now to read
3 free articles this month.

You’ll also receive our weekly Editor’s Choice, SpaceNews This Week and Opinions newsletters. Opt-out at any time.

Sign in to an existing account

Get unlimited access to SpaceNews.com, the SpaceNews app and our digital monthly magazine for less than $5 per week.

$280

On a campus or library network? Check for access.

Cancel anytime. Sales tax may apply. No refunds. Terms and conditions apply.

See all subscription options

Jeff Foust writes about space policy, commercial space, and related topics for SpaceNews. He earned a Ph.D. in planetary sciences from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a bachelor’s degree with honors in geophysics and planetary science...