Hi everybody, and welcome to the 502nd Carnival of Space! I’ve become a little spoiled by the past few carnivals, thanks to the tremendous number of articles submitted by space science and astronomy authors around the world for consideration.  By contrast, this week seems almost pedestrian, but don’t be fooled – it’s all quality content.
So since we’re keeping things brief, let’s not waste any time getting started!

The Evolving Planet

• Origami-inspired Microbots, Our Future Planet Explorers
• Cassini Spacecraft to End Saturn Mission in Six Months
• Mars Radiation Shield Set for Trials on Lunar Missions

Next Big Future

• 3D printing using simulated lunar and martian regolith combined with common biologically derived polymer
• Next Japanese solar sail will be 10-15 times bigger than Ikaros solar sail and have a far better ion engine

And that’s it for this week’s Carnival of Space. Remember to check out Next Big Future at around this time next week, for the 503rd Carnival of Space. And if you just can’t wait that long for your astronomy fix, why not check out the Urban Astronomer Podcast, either by listening directly here on the Urban Astronomer website, or by subscribing on iTunes or your favourite podcatcher. Subscription and episode details on the sidebar to the right.