Issue 36 | Breaking Space News: Feb 02 - 08, 2025

Explorer, welcome back!🚀

With commercial space developments making headlines and the new administration in the US, these are intriguing times for the space sector. Also some interesting new research about the moon this week. Don’t forget to go here for the best reading experience/in case your newsletter gets clipped at the bottom.

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Hope you enjoy this Space!

• IMAGES

  • Bullseye Galaxy : Hubble Space Telescope

  • HH30, Young Star - Protoplanetary Disc : James Web …

• SCIENCE

  • Falling Space Debris Emerges as a Concern for Aircraft Safety

  • Scientists Track Asteroid 2024 YR4 for Potential Collision

  • NASA Invests $24 Million in Artemis Lunar Exploration Studies

  • Indian Navigation Satellite Stranded in Transfer Orbit Due to Propulsion Failure

  • Russia Concludes Year-Long Mock Moon Mission

  • NASA's Lunar Trailblazer Mission to Study Moon's Water Distribution

  • Blue Origin Simulates Lunar Gravity in First-of-its-Kind Suborbital Flight

  • NASA’s PUNCH Mission Set to Explore Solar Wind in 3D

  • Extended Space Missions Linked to Vision Problems in Astronauts

  • China's Chang'e 7 Mission Aims to Hunt for Lunar Water in 2026 with Lunar Hopper

• GOVERNANCE

  • US Senators Push for Authorization of Space Traffic Coordination System

  • NASA Halts Science Activities as Trump's Executive Orders Influence Operations

  • Congress Raises Conflict of Interest Concerns About Musk's Role in DOGE

  • Starlink Contract Cancellation with Ontario on Hold as US Delays Canadian Tariffs

  • Kremlin Announces Leadership Change in Russia's Space Agency

• MILITARY

  • US Republican Senators Back Trump's "Iron Dome of America" Amid Investor Caution

  • Leadership Change at US Space Development Agency Amid Investigation

  • US Defense Innovation Unit to Study SpaceX's Starship In-Space Refueling

  • ViaSat Secures $3.5 Million Contract from U.S. Space Force for Satellite Services

  • ThinKom, Boeing Demonstrate High-Speed Satellite Communications for US Military Aircraft

• COMMERCIAL

  • NASA Revives VIPER Lunar Rover with Call for Industry Collaboration

  • Vast Space Reschedules Haven-1 Launch After Successful Testing

  • Boeing Warns Employees of Layoffs as Starliner Losses Hit $0.5B in 2024

  • Canada's WildFireSat Mission to Develop Satellite Constellation

  • SpaceSail and Measat Sign MoU to Advance LEO Satellite Services

  • Thales Alenia Space to Develop Emirates Airlock Module for Lunar Gateway

  • Geost Alleges Breach of Contract in $17.1M Lawsuit Against Sierra Space

  • SKY Perfect JSAT is Customer for Planet's $230 Million LEO Satellite Order

  • Norway’s KSAT Introduces Scalable Satellite Operations as a Service

  • Astrobotic's Griffin-1 Lander to Carry Astrolab's FLIP Rover to the Moon

  • Atmos Space Cargo Secures FAA Approval for Phoenix Re-Entry Mission

  • Observable Space Established Through OurSky and PlaneWave Merger

  • French Propulsion Firm ThrustMe Secures US Partnerships

  • Wyvern Launches Open Data Program for Free Hyperspectral Imagery

  • Former Pentagon Official Frank Calvelli Joins True Anomaly Board

• SPOTLIGHT

  • New Findings Reveal Geological Activity on the Moon

  • Astronomers Discover Metal Rain on WASP-121b

  • High-Speed Debris Carved Lunar Valleys Deeper Than the Grand Canyon

  • Einstein Probe Detects Mysterious Cosmic Explosion

IMAGES

Bullseye Galaxy : Hubble Space Telescope

HH30, Young Star - Protoplanetary Disc : James Webb Space Telescope

SCIENCE

New Research Highlights Growing Concern Over Space Debris Impact on Aircraft

Recent research highlights a growing concern over falling space debris and its potential threat to aircraft. As space activity increases, so does the amount of debris, including rocket bodies and defunct satellites. These objects, often massive and heat-resistant, pose a rising risk as they re-enter Earth's atmosphere and break apart, creating fine particulates. While the probability of debris striking an airplane remains low, the consequences could be catastrophic.

Authorities face a dilemma: whether to close airspace during re-entry events, which could cause economic disruption, or to take the risk and keep it open. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has already required investigations into incidents like SpaceX's Starship 7, which resulted in debris falling into the Atlantic Ocean on January 16. Researchers suggest controlled re-entries into the ocean as a potential mitigation strategy, but with over 2,300 rocket bodies already in orbit, the challenge persists. The incident highlights the findings from a new study titled "Airspace closures due to reentering space objects" published in Scientific Reports.

Efforts to address this issue include experimental technologies like NASA's Astrobee robots, which demonstrate autonomous detection and capture techniques for removing space debris. The global community continues to seek cost-effective solutions to ensure aviation safety and preserve the space environment for future missions4.

Scientists Track Asteroid 2024 YR4 for Potential Collision

Asteroid 2024 YR4, discovered in December 2024, has a 1 in 43 chance of impacting Earth in 2032, according to NASA's latest calculations. Measuring between 130 to 300 feet wide, it exceeds the 1% impact probability threshold, prompting formal notifications to planetary defense agencies. While the odds of impact remain low, the asteroid's size could cause localized damage if it were to collide with Earth. Scientists emphasize that impact predictions change with new data, and further observations are needed to refine its trajectory. Read more on the story here.

NASA Invests $24 Million in Artemis Lunar Exploration Studies

NASA has awarded $24 million in contracts to nine American companies as part of its Artemis program, aimed at supporting long-term lunar exploration. These contracts, under the Next Space Technologies for Exploration Partnerships (NextSTEP) Appendix R, focus on developing critical capabilities for the Artemis missions, including logistics, mobility solutions, and advanced robotics. The selected companies will work on innovative strategies to address challenges in the lunar environment, such as moving, staging, storing, and tracking gear, as well as trash management:

• Blue Origin, Merritt Island, Florida – logistical carriers; logistics handling and offloading; logistics transfer; staging, storage, and tracking; surface cargo and mobility; and integrated strategies

• Intuitive Machines, Houston, Texas – logistics handling and offloading; and surface cargo and mobility

• Leidos, Reston, Virginia – logistical carriers; logistics transfer; staging, storage, and tracking; trash management; and integrated strategies

• Lockheed Martin, Littleton, Colorado – logistical carriers; logistics transfer; and surface cargo and mobility

• MDA Space, Houston – surface cargo and mobility

• Moonprint, Dover, Delaware – logistical carriers

• Pratt Miller Defense, New Hudson, Michigan – surface cargo and mobility

• Sierra Space, Louisville, Colorado – logistical carriers; logistics transfer; staging, storage, and tracking; trash management; and integrated strategies

• Special Aerospace Services, Huntsville, Alabama – logistical carriers; logistics handling and offloading; logistics transfer; staging, storage, and tracking; trash management; surface cargo and mobility; and integrated strategies

Indian Navigation Satellite Stranded in Transfer Orbit Due to Propulsion Failure

India's Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) recently faced a setback when its newly-launched NVS-02 navigation satellite encountered a propulsion system failure. Launched on January 29, 2025, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, NVS-02 was supposed to reach a geostationary orbit but remains stranded in an elliptical transfer orbit due to malfunctioning valves that prevented the thrusters from firing. Despite the propulsion issue, the satellite's systems are healthy, and ISRO is exploring alternative mission strategies to utilize NVS-02 in its current orbit. The satellite is part of the NavIC program, aimed at providing accurate positioning, navigation, and timing services to India and surrounding regions. ISRO's challenge now is to prevent the satellite from deorbiting due to atmospheric drag at its low perigee.

Russia's Russia's Institute of Biomedical Problems Concludes Year-Long Mock Moon Mission

Russia's Institute of Biomedical Problems (IBMP) recently concluded the SIRIUS-23 project, a year-long mock moon mission simulating deep-space travel and lunar surface operations. Six analog astronauts lived and worked in a sealed environment, replicating the isolation and psychological strain of long-term space missions. The mission aimed to test technologies, procedures, and human resilience for future interplanetary missions. Insights gained from SIRIUS-23 will inform preparations for establishing lunar bases and crewed interplanetary missions.

The SIRIUS (Scientific International Research in Unique terrestrial Station) project, launched in 2017 in collaboration with NASA's Human Research Program and IBMP, has in the past, conducted 17, 120, and 240-day experiments with international crews, from U.S., Russia and UAE, to simulate the isolation and psychological strain of long-term spaceflight.

NASA's Lunar Trailblazer Mission to Study Moon's Water Distribution

NASA's Lunar Trailblazer mission is set to launch on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket February 26, 2025, from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The mission aims to detect and map water on the Moon's surface. It will search for micro-cold traps in permanently shadowed lunar regions and collect data on sunlit areas to study water signature changes as temperatures vary throughout the lunar day. Managed by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and led by the California Institute of Technology, the Lunar Trailblazer will ride along with the primary payload, the Athena lunar lander. The spacecraft, built by Lockheed Martin, will utilize advanced instruments to study the form, abundance, and distribution of lunar water, providing crucial data for future lunar exploration and potential human missions.

Blue Origin Simulates Lunar Gravity in First-of-its-Kind Suborbital Research Flight

Blue Origin recently conducted a suborbital research flight with its New Shepard rocket, simulating lunar gravity for the first time. The uncrewed NS-29 mission, launched from West Texas on February 4, 2025, achieved this by rotating the capsule at 11 revolutions per minute, creating conditions equivalent to the Moon's gravity. This experiment aimed to test 30 research payloads, many of which focused on lunar-related technologies such as in-situ resource utilization, dust mitigation, and advanced habitation systems. The mission faced delays due to avionics issues and unfavorable weather, but both the booster and capsule safely returned to Earth despite a minor parachute issue during descent. The mission's success marks a significant step towards preparing for future lunar missions and establishing a sustainable human presence on the Moon.

NASA’s PUNCH Mission Set to Explore Solar Wind in 3D

NASA is set to launch the Polarimeter to Unify the Corona and Heliosphere (PUNCH) mission on February 27, 2025, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. The mission involves a constellation of four small satellites that will create 3D observations of the Sun's corona and solar wind, aiming to understand how the solar wind is generated and how it affects the heliosphere. This research could improve space weather forecasting and help protect Earth's satellites and power grids from solar storms.

Extended Space Missions Linked to Vision Problems in Astronauts

Extended space missions have been found to weaken astronauts' eyes, raising concerns for future Mars missions. A study from the Université de Montréal revealed that 70% of astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) experienced spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome (SANS) after six to twelve months in microgravity. The condition, linked to fluid redistribution in space, caused a 33% reduction in ocular rigidity, an 11% drop in intraocular pressure, and a 25% decrease in ocular pulse amplitude. While most astronauts recovered post-mission, the long-term effects of prolonged exposure to microgravity remain uncertain, highlighting the need for further research and preventive measures for deep-space travel.

China's Chang'e 7 Mission Aims to Hunt for Lunar Water in 2026 with Lunar Hopper

China is gearing up for a lunar mission in 2026 that is expected to uncover definitive evidence of water at the moon's south pole. The Chang'e 7 mission will feature a lander, rover, and a pioneering "hopping robot" designed to leap from sunlit areas into shadowed craters. This hopper will carry a water molecule analyzer to search for ice in Shackleton Crater, a breakthrough that could provide resources for future lunar exploration. The mission will also deploy China's first deep-space "landmark image navigation" system and active shock-absorption technology for precise landings. Supported by the Queqiao 2 lunar relay satellite, Chang'e 7 is a steppingstone towards China's ambitious goal of establishing a lunar base and an International Lunar Research Station in the 2030s.

GOVERNANCE

Bipartisan US Senators Push for Authorization of Space Traffic Coordination System

A bipartisan group of U.S. senators has reintroduced a bill to formally authorize the Commerce Department's space traffic coordination system. The proposed legislation, known as S.428, aims to enhance space situational awareness and modify the functions and leadership of the U.S. Office of Space Commerce. The bill, introduced by Senator John Cornyn and cosponsored by seven other senators, seeks to address the growing need for effective space traffic management as commercial space activities increase. The legislation has been referred to the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee for further consideration.

The Traffic Coordination System for Space (TraCSS) development began with the 2018 Space Policy Directive 3 under the Trump administration, directing the Commerce Department to create a civil space traffic management system, previously managed by the Defense Department. Although Congress has funded TraCSS, it hasn't formally authorized it, which would legally establish the system and protect the government from lawsuits.

TraCSS is being developed by NOAA's Office of Space Commerce (OSC). Slingshot Aerospace, Inc., based in El Segundo, California, was awarded a contract to provide the presentation layer and user experience for TraCSS. The system aims to enhance space situational awareness and provide safety alerts to satellite operators. The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) is also collaborating with the Department of Commerce (DoC) to ensure a seamless transfer of responsibility for civil and commercial space situational awareness services.

NASA Halts Science Activities as Trump's Executive Orders Influence Operations

NASA has recently paused the work of several key planetary and astrophysics science committees, citing the need to comply with recent executive orders issued by former President Donald Trump. The directives, which target diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and climate-related initiatives, have led to the cancellation of important scientific meetings and activities. For instance, the Mercury Exploration Assessment Group (MExAG) had to cancel its first in-person meeting scheduled for February, which was expected to include around 200 scientists.

In parallel, Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has introduced a "Fork in the Road" buyout offer to federal workers, encouraging them to accept a deferred resignation program in exchange for severance pay. This move, aimed at reducing government spending and increasing accountability, has faced legal challenges and criticism from federal workers' unions. Despite exemptions, the offer has reached national security agencies, such as the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency (NGA), a hybrid defense-intelligence agency that provides geospatial intelligence to the U.S. military and allied nations, the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) which builds and operates U.S. spy satellites, Department of the Air Force and the U.S. Space Force, NASA and FCC, causing uncertainty and concern among employees.

A federal judge temporarily delayed the Feb. 6 deferred resignation deadline to Feb. 10 after legal challenges from federal employee unions. The initiative aims to reduce the federal workforce by about 10%, aligning with President Trump's goal to shrink the government. These developments highlight the ongoing tension between political directives and the scientific community's efforts to advance space exploration and research.

Congress Raises Conflict of Interest Concerns About Elon Musk's Role in DOGE

The US members of Congress have raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest regarding Elon Musk's role in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Lawmakers are worried that Musk's involvement with federal agencies, including NASA and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), could compromise the integrity of government operations. These concerns stem from Musk's extensive business interests in sectors regulated by these agencies, such as SpaceX and Tesla. The lawmakers have called for increased scrutiny and adherence to ethics laws to prevent any undue influence on government decisions, as federal employees cannot be awarded contracts by contracting officers if they, or a business they own or control, are involved in the contract.

In September 2024 FAA had fined SpaceX for violations of its launch licenses on two launches in 2023. SpaceX criticized the FAA for "systemic challenges," and Elon Musk called for the removal of FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker, who defended the fines. Whitaker resigned at the end of the Biden administration, despite having nearly four years left in his term. Meanwhile, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt has stated that Elon Musk’s conflicts of interest will be monitored and addressed by Elon Musk himself.

Starlink Contract Cancellation with Ontario on Hold as US Delays Canadian Tariffs

The Ontario government in Canada has temporarily halted its threat to cancel a $100 million contract with Elon Musk's Starlink after the U.S. delayed plans to impose new tariffs on Canadian goods. Premier Doug Ford initially announced the cancellation as a retaliatory measure against the proposed tariffs, but paused the decision following discussions between U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The tariffs have been postponed for 30 days to allow for further negotiations. Ford stated that if the tariffs are reimposed, Ontario will reconsider its position and may ban American companies from provincial contracts.

Kremlin Announces Leadership Change in Russia's Space Agency

Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed Yuri Borisov as head of Roscosmos after a 2.5-year tenure marked by significant challenges, including the failure of the Luna 25 moon mission in 2023 and ongoing corruption scandals. Dmitry Bakanov, previously Russia's deputy transport minister, has been appointed as the new head of the space agency. The Kremlin described the leadership change as a "planned rotation" aimed at fostering dynamic development within Roscosmos.

MILITARY

US Republican Senators Back Trump's "Iron Dome of America": Pentagon's Defense Contractors to Capitalize Amid Investor Caution

U.S. Republican senators have backed President Trump's ambitious plan for a space-based missile defense system, dubbed the "Iron Dome for America," with a proposed $19.5 billion bill. This legislation aims to establish a comprehensive missile defense shield for the continental U.S., incorporating advanced technologies such as Aegis Ashore systems, blimps for threat detection, and an expanded Ground-based Midcourse Defense system1. The bill also proposes a new interceptor site on the east coast, reflecting a strategic shift to address threats from peer adversaries like China and Russia.

Top Pentagon contractors, including Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and L3Harris, are poised to benefit significantly from this expansion. The proposed system relies heavily on space-based sensors and potentially controversial space-based interceptors, marking a notable shift in the U.S.'s homeland defense strategy.

However, investors are advising caution amidst this defense-focused space boom. Venture capitalists warn startups against a gold rush mentality, urging them to carefully consider the risks and challenges associated with competing in this high-stakes environment. The dominance of established players like SpaceX and the high capital requirements for vertical integration are cited as key concerns.

As the defense sector heats up, the balance between innovation and caution will be crucial for stakeholders navigating this evolving landscape.

Leadership Change at US Space Development Agency Amid Investigation: Air Force Acquisition Veteran Appointed Acting Director

The U.S. Department of the Air Force has appointed William Blauser, a veteran in defense acquisition, as the acting director of the Space Development Agency (SDA). Blauser, previously the deputy director of the Air Force's Rapid Capabilities Office, steps into the role following the administrative leave of former SDA Director Derek Tournear, amid an ongoing investigation into contracting activities.

Blauser's extensive experience includes roles at the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office and Systems Technology and Research LLC, focusing on advanced satellite systems and sensing capabilities. His appointment comes at a critical time as the SDA is pushing forward with its Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture, a network of satellites aimed at enhancing military communications and missile tracking.

The leadership change has raised industry concerns about potential impacts on the SDA's aggressive satellite procurement plans. Blauser's challenge will be to maintain the momentum and ensure the successful deployment of the satellite network while navigating the ongoing investigation and any organizational adjustments.

US Defense Innovation Unit to Study SpaceX's Starship In-Space Refueling

The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is currently exploring the potential applications of SpaceX's Starship for in-space refueling. This initiative, discussed at the Smallsat Symposium in Mountain View, California, aims to assess how Starship's in-space refueling capabilities could benefit a broader range of users across various sectors. The concept involves using tanker Starships to deliver liquid oxygen and methane propellants to an orbital depot, which would then refuel spacecraft for missions beyond low Earth orbit (LEO), such as lunar or Martian expeditions. According to Gary Henry, a senior adviser at the DIU and former SpaceX executive, in-orbit refueling could add approximately nine kilometers per second to a spacecraft's velocity, significantly enhancing its range and capability.

While the collaboration between the DIU and SpaceX holds promise for revolutionizing space travel by reducing launch costs and enabling longer missions, there are concerns within the industry about the prioritization of such initiatives in budget allocations. The U.S. military's commitment to in-space refueling has been questioned, with reports suggesting that the Space Force considered removing a budget line item for space mobility in the fiscal year 2026 budget.

This study highlights the strategic importance of flexible space operations for orbital advantages, contingent on overcoming budgetary and logistical challenges.

ViaSat Secures $3.5 Million Contract from U.S. Space Force for Satellite Services

The U.S. Space Force has awarded ViaSat a $3.5 million contract to provide satellite communications services under the Proliferated Low Earth Orbit (PLEO) Satellite-Based Services Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract. This contract, awarded by the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) on behalf of the Space Force, aims to enhance government operations globally through Ku-band Low Earth Orbit (LEO) services. ViaSat will offer network management support, real-time data access, and 24/7 technical support to ensure seamless connectivity. This contract is part of a broader strategy to diversify and strengthen satellite communications for defense and national security missions.

ThinKom, Boeing Demonstrate High-Speed Satellite Communications for US Military Aircraft

California-based, satellite antenna manufacturer, ThinKom, together with Boeing has successfully demonstrated a high-throughput satellite communications antenna for military aircraft. The joint demonstration, which took place recently, showcased the integration of ThinKom's ThinAir® GT 2517 antenna with Boeing's advanced modem hardware. This system aims to provide secure, high-speed connectivity essential for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions.

Government officials observed the system's performance, including high-definition video streaming and high-speed file transfers, under various operational conditions. The demonstration highlighted the potential for reliable, high-throughput bidirectional communication, crucial for dynamic military operations. ThinKom’s phased-array terminals are used in aeronautical, military, and on-the-move applications.

COMMERCIAL

NASA Revives VIPER Lunar Rover with Call for Industry Collaboration

NASA has announced a new initiative to seek industry partners for its VIPER (Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover) mission, aimed at exploring water ice on the Moon. Originally canceled in July 2024 due to rising costs and delays caused by supply chain issues and the COVID-19 pandemic, the mission has been revived with a focus on public-private collaboration. The mission was first planned for a late 2023 launch, but faced multiple setbacks, pushing the launch to September 2025 and increasing costs significantly. NASA will provide the rover, while industry partners will handle payload integration, lunar landing, and data dissemination. This partnership aims to advance lunar exploration and resource prospecting, with proposals due by March 3.

Vast Space Reschedules Haven-1 Launch to 2026 After Successful Structural Test

Vast Space, the California-based startup, has rescheduled the launch of the world's first commercial space station, Haven-1. Originally slated for an August 2025 launch, the mission has been pushed back to no earlier than May 2026 due to a recent key milestone in testing. The company successfully completed a primary structure qualification test, which involved pressurizing the module for extended periods and demonstrating compliance with NASA's crew-rated spacecraft standards.

Haven-1 expects to provide unprecedented access to low-Earth orbit for both crew and payloads, with plans for a four-person crew to spend two weeks aboard the station during its first operational mission. Vast Space is optimistic about achieving this ambitious timeline and hopes to secure NASA's Commercial LEO Destination (CLD) contract.

Boeing Warns Employees of Layoffs as Starliner Losses Mount to Over $0.5 Billion in 2024

Boeing has recently issued warnings of potential layoffs for employees working on its Space Launch System (SLS) moon rocket program, citing revisions to NASA's Artemis program and updated cost expectations. The company anticipates eliminating around 400 positions and is required to provide 60-day notices to affected employees under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act. The company is also exploring opportunities to redeploy employees within the organization to minimize job losses.

This decision aligns with Boeing's broader financial challenges, as the company reported losses exceeding half a billion dollars on its Starliner program in 2024 alone. The Starliner program has faced significant delays and higher-than-expected testing and certification costs, contributing to a total loss of over $2 billion since its inception. Boeing's financial struggles and the uncertain future of its space projects have raised concerns about the company's ability to retain its skilled workforce and meet its contractual obligations with NASA.

Canadian Space Agency Awards Contract to Spire and OroraTech for Wildfire Detection Satellites

The Canadian Space Agency has awarded Spire Global Canada and the German wildfire-detection satellite provider, OroraTech a C$72 million/USD 50.4 million contract to develop a satellite constellation for wildfire detection, as part of the WildFireSat mission. The constellation aims to monitor active wildfires across Canada, providing critical data on wildfire dynamics, smoke, and air quality. The spacecraft will function in dusk-dawn sun-synchronous orbits at an altitude of 475 kilometers. Scheduled for launch in 2029, the mission will enhance wildfire response and support Indigenous communities by generating job opportunities and economic benefits. Spire will expand its Cambridge, Ontario office to include satellite manufacturing facilities, while OroraTech will develop the payloads for the satellites.

China's Thousand Sails Maker, SpaceSail Signs MoU with Malaysian Measat to Advance LEO Satellite Services

Chinese constellation operator SpaceSail (Shanghai Spacesail Technologies Co. Ltd.) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Malaysian satellite operator Measat to advance Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite services. The MoU aims to facilitate collaboration in marketing services, conducting research and development, and supporting joint promotional initiatives. SpaceSail's Thousand Sails megaconstellation (Qianfan) will provide LEO broadband services, Direct-to-Device (D2D) communications, satellite-based Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities, and Earth Observation (EO) services in markets where Measat operates. The partnership seeks to bridge the digital divide and overcome geographical challenges in the Asia-Pacific region.

The Measat MoU follows a November agreement with Brazil, which will see Spacesail begin providing services to the country in 2026, alongside establishing a subsidiary in Kazakhstan. Spacesail has launched 72 satellites and aims to offer low-latency, high-speed, and ultra-reliable satellite broadband internet services globally with a planned constellation of over 14,000 satellites.

Thales Alenia Space to Develop Emirates Airlock Module for Lunar Gateway Orbital Space Station

Thales Alenia Space has been awarded a contract by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) to design and construct the Emirates Airlock Module for the Lunar Gateway. This module will be part of a crew-tended facility/space station positioned in a near-rectilinear halo orbit around the moon, serving as a staging area for Artemis missions aimed at exploring the lunar surface. This agreement, signed in Abu Dhabi, will enable astronauts to perform spacewalks, transfer research, and serve as an additional docking port for spacecraft. The collaboration aims to establish the UAE as a key player in space exploration and develop its scientific community. The Emirates Airlock will provide storage for EVA suits and scientific experiments, enhancing Gateway operations.

Geost Files $17.1 Million Lawsuit Against Sierra Space Over Military Satellite Contract Breach

Geost, an Arizona (U.S.)-based optical and infrared sensor supplier, has filed a $17.1 million lawsuit against Sierra Space, alleging breach of contract in a military satellite program. The lawsuit claims that Sierra Space reneged on an agreement to use Geost’s sensor payloads for missile-tracking satellites under a U.S. Space Force program. Geost alleges that Sierra Space used the former’s status as a new market entrant to secure a $740 million contract from the Space Development Agency (SDA) before switching to a different supplier, Leidos. The complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court in Denver, accuses Sierra Space of engaging in subcontracting negotiations and encouraging Geost to pre-purchase materials worth $2 million in October 2023, only to later abandon the deal.

In January 2024, Sierra Space was chosen to build 18 satellites for the SDA's Tranche 2 Tracking Layer, including 16 for missile warning and tracking and two with enhanced missile defense. The September 2023 solicitation also awarded contracts to Lockheed Martin and L3Harris to diversify the defense space industrial base.

SKY Perfect JSAT is Customer for Planet's $230 Million LEO Satellite Order

SKY Perfect JSAT, a Japanese satellite broadcast provider, has revealed itself as the customer that entered last week, into a $230 million contract with Planet Labs to develop a low-Earth orbit (LEO) constellation for Earth observation. This partnership expects to strengthen SKY Perfect JSAT's position in the defense and intelligence market by leveraging Planet Labs' advanced satellite technology. The new constellation, featuring Planet's high-resolution Pelican satellites, will enhance Earth observation capabilities and support applications such as disaster response and urban development. This collaboration marks a significant expansion for SKY Perfect JSAT beyond its traditional geostationary business.

Norway’s KSAT Introduces Scalable Satellite Operations as a Service

Kongsberg Satellite Services (KSAT), the Norway based satellite service provider has expanded its role in satellite operations by introducing "Satellite Operations as a Service." This new offering provides a fully managed, scalable, and cost-efficient alternative to traditional in-house operations, allowing satellite operators to focus on leveraging their satellite capabilities rather than managing day-to-day operations. KSAT's expertise in satellite operations has already supported various ambitious missions, including the ESA Arctic Weather Satellite and GHGSat’s methane-monitoring constellation. The company's operational excellence was recently highlighted by 100 continuous days of seamless mission support for a new mission. This expansion aims to meet the growing demand for efficient, scalable, and automated satellite operations in an increasingly complex space environment.

Astrobotic's Griffin-1 Lander to Carry Astrolab's FLIP Rover to the Moon’s South Pole Later This Year

Astrobotic's Griffin lander will carry Astrolab's FLIP rover to the Moon’s South Pole as part of the Griffin Mission One, scheduled for late 2025. Originally, Griffin was set to deliver NASA's VIPER rover, but the project was canceled last summer due to funding constraints. FLIP, which stands for Flex Lunar Innovation Platform, will now take its place. The mission expects to demonstrate critical technologies at the lunar south pole.

FLIP is a robotic four-wheeled vehicle designed to test technologies for Astrolab's larger FLEX rover, which will carry two astronauts or operate autonomously and is set to land on the Moon by late 2026. The robotic four-wheeled vehicle weighs about 1,000 pounds (450 kg) and can carry up to 66 pounds (30 kg) of payload. This mission will provide valuable insights into how lunar rovers operate in real lunar conditions, testing components like batteries, tires, avionics systems, sensors, and software.

Astrobotic's Griffin lander will be the company's second lunar mission, following the Peregrine lander, which crashed back to Earth in January 2024 due to a propulsion anomaly.

Atmos Space Cargo Secures FAA Approval for Phoenix Re-Entry Mission

Atmos Space Cargo, a German space logistics company, has received regulatory approval from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for its Phoenix re-entry capsule. The capsule is set to launch aboard SpaceX's Bandwagon 3 rideshare mission in April 2025. This mission will mark the first time a European private company attempts space re-entry. The Phoenix capsule aims to demonstrate its innovative inflatable heat shield technology, designed to enable controlled re-entry and safe return of payloads from orbit. The test flight will carry scientific payloads, including a radiation detector from the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and a bioreactor from Frontier Space, to gather critical data on the capsule's performance.

Observable Space Established Through OurSky and PlaneWave Merger

OurSky, a Los Angeles-based space data software platform, has merged with telescope manufacturer PlaneWave Instruments to form Observable Space. This new vertically integrated company aims to create a next-generation telescope platform that integrates software and hardware for improved usability and expanded market opportunities. The merger combines OurSky's software expertise with PlaneWave's telescopes, aiming to simplify telescope operations and open new markets. Observable Space will offer advanced integrated solutions for space observation and research, targeting both scientific institutions and the commercial space industry.

French Propulsion Firm ThrustMe Expands Presence in US, Secures Partnerships

French satellite propulsion company ThrustMe has expanded its presence in the U.S. market by securing partnerships with several prominent American firms. The company, known for its iodine-fueled electric propulsion systems, has signed deals with Starfish Space, Astro Digital, Magellan Aerospace, Lumen Orbit, Oligo Space, Turion Space, and Terran Orbital, a Lockheed Martin subsidiary. Since beginning industrial-scale production in mid-2023, ThrustMe has delivered over 150 propulsion systems, with 67 already operational in orbit. The company's expansion into North America highlights the growing demand for innovative propulsion solutions in the commercial and defense sectors.

Wyvern Launches Open Data Program for Free Hyperspectral Imagery

Wyvern, a Canadian hyperspectral imaging startup, has launched its Open Data Program, providing free access to high-resolution hyperspectral satellite imagery. The program aims to foster innovation by allowing researchers, developers, and the public to use the data for various applications, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. The initial release includes 25 images showcasing diverse land features such as forests, wildfires, crops, and solar farms. Wyvern plans to regularly update the dataset as its constellation grows, with more images expected to be released monthly.

True Anomaly Adds Former Pentagon Official Frank Calvelli to Board of Directors

Frank Calvelli, a former Pentagon official with over 30 years of experience in U.S. national security and space systems, has joined the board of directors at True Anomaly, a defense technology company. Calvelli previously served as the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Space Acquisition and Integration, where he was responsible for the architecture and integration of space systems acquisitions and programs in the armed forces. His appointment is expected to enhance True Anomaly's alignment with government and military missions, leveraging his extensive background in defense and space acquisitions.

SPOTLIGHT

New Findings Reveal Geological Activity on the Moon, Uncovers Active Lunar Tectonics

Recent research has challenged the long-held belief that the Moon is geologically inactive. Scientists from the University of Maryland and the Smithsonian Institution have discovered 266 previously unknown small ridges on the Moon's far side, suggesting that the lunar surface is more dynamic than previously thought. These ridges, formed within the last 200 million years, indicate recent tectonic activity, potentially continuing to this day. The findings, published in The Planetary Science Journal, were based on advanced mapping and crater counting techniques. This discovery has significant implications for future lunar missions, as it suggests that moonquakes and ground movement could impact the placement of equipment and infrastructure. The study highlights the need for tools like ground-penetrating radar in future missions to better understand the Moon's subsurface structures.

Ultra-Hot Planet ‘Roasting Marshmallow’ Prompts Reevaluation of Exoplanet Formation

Astronomers have recently uncovered surprising details about the ultra-hot Jupiter exoplanet WASP-121b, nicknamed the "roasting marshmallow" planet due to its extreme temperatures. Located around 858 light-years from Earth, WASP-121b is so hot that metals like magnesium and iron vaporize in its atmosphere and then condense to form metallic rain on its cooler nightside. This discovery challenges traditional planetary formation models, which suggest gas giants form in cooler, outer regions of protoplanetary disks.

Using the Gemini South telescope and the Immersion GRating INfrared Spectrograph (IGRINS), researchers found that WASP-121b has a high rock-to-ice ratio, indicating it formed in a hotter region than previously thought. This finding suggests that our understanding of planet formation may need to be revised, as it contradicts the idea that gas giants require solid ices to form.

The study also revealed that WASP-121b is tidally locked, with a scorching hot dayside and a cooler nightside, leading to extreme atmospheric dynamics. These insights not only deepen our understanding of WASP-121b but also prompt a reevaluation of how similar exoplanets might form and evolve. The team's research was published on Dec. 2 in The Astronomical Journal.

High-Speed Debris Carved Valleys on the Moon, Deeper Than the Grand Canyon

Scientists have discovered two lunar canyons, Vallis Schrödinger and Vallis Planck, on the Moon's far side, both deeper than the Grand Canyon. These canyons were carved in less than 10 minutes by high-speed rocky debris from a cosmic impact around 3.81 billion years ago. The debris traveled at speeds between 2,125 to 2,860 mph (3,420 to 4,600 km/h), significantly faster than a bullet. The Vallis Schrödinger measures 167 miles (270 km) long and 1.7 miles (2.7 km) deep, while Vallis Planck is 174 miles (280 km) long and 2.2 miles (3.5 km) deep. These findings, highlight the Moon's dramatic geological history and suggest potential landing sites for future lunar missions. The findings were published in the journal Nature Communications.

Einstein Probe Detects Mysterious Cosmic Explosion

Astronomers using the Einstein Probe — an X-ray space telescope developed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) in partnership with European Space Agency (ESA) and the Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics — have detected a mysterious cosmic explosion, designated EP240408A, which challenges existing models of gamma-ray bursts and tidal disruption events. The explosion, observed in April 2024, exhibited unusual characteristics, including a short duration and high luminosity, leading researchers to consider it might be a new type of cosmic event. Follow-up observations from multiple telescopes confirmed the explosion originated 12.5 billion light-years away, when the universe was only 10% of its current age. Published Jan. 27 in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, the study suggests the explosion doesn't match typical gamma-ray bursts and may instead represent a rare jetted tidal disruption event, where a supermassive black hole tears apart a star.

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