Nature Astronomy

Nature Astronomy, published by Springer Nature under the ISSN 2397-3366, is a premier monthly journal dedicated to advancing the frontiers of astronomical research and scholarship. As signified by its abbreviation NAT ASTRON, the journal covers the full breadth of astronomy, astrophysics, and planetary science, encompassing observational, theoretical, and computational studies of celestial phenomena, from the Solar System to exoplanets, stellar and galactic evolution, cosmology, and the search for dark matter and dark energy. The journal publishes a diverse range of article types, including original research Articles, Letters, and Reviews, alongside Commentaries, News & Views, and Correspondence that foster critical discussion and contextualize major discoveries. Its primary target audience comprises professional astronomers, astrophysicists, planetary scientists, and advanced graduate students seeking high-impact, rigorously peer-reviewed findings that shape the field. A notable feature is its hybrid open access model, allowing authors to publish gold open access under a Creative Commons license, while also providing subscription-based access. Nature Astronomy holds exceptional standing in the field, reflected by its 2026 Journal Citation Reports Impact Factor of 15.200 and its placement in the JCR Q1 quartile, ranking among the top journals in astronomy and astrophysics. This performance underscores its role as a flagship venue for groundbreaking research that often garners widespread media and scientific attention, solidifying its status as an essential resource for the global astronomical community.