Issue 43 | Breaking Space News: Mar 23 - 29, 2025

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Last week, in Primer we covered the U.S. Space ecosystem's network of organizations and their roles. This week, we will explore the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA), a U.S. Space Force initiative to boost military space capabilities.

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• PRIMER

  • Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA)

    • Key Aspects of PWSA:

    • Current Status & Future Plans

    • Strategic Importance

• IMAGES

  • A Total Lunar Eclipse & the Milky Way

  • Millimeter-Sized Spherules on Martian Rocks

  • Herbig-Haro 49/50

  • NGC 4900 Spiral Galaxy

  • Einstein Ring in the SMACSJ0028.2-7537 Galaxy Cluster

• SCIENCE

  • OroraTech, Google Deploy Satellite Constellations to Enhance Space-Based Wildfire Detection

  • China Deploys Tianlian II-04 Communications Satellite to Support Crewed Spacecraft Operations

  • Shenzhou-19 Astronauts Install Final Debris Shielding on Tiangong Space Station to Conclude Third Spacewalk

  • New Geologic Map Tracks Meteorites & Asteroids Back to Their Origin in the Solar System

  • California Invests $95 Million in Satellite Monitoring to Curb Methane Emissions

• GOVERNANCE

  • NASA Terminates $420 Million in Contracts to Refocus Priorities

• MILITARY

  • US Congress Supports Space Force’s Commercial Engagement Despite Budget Strain

  • US Space Force Certifies ULA Vulcan, Taps Potential New Providers for National Security Launches

  • US NRO Strengthens Satellite Intelligence with Consecutive Launches

  • Gravitics Secures SpaceWERX Funding for Orbital Carrier to Enable Rapid In-Space Threat Response

  • China Launches TJS-16 Satellite Amid Speculation Over Military Applications

  • Booz Allen AI-Powered Satellite Network to Support US Golden Dome

• COMMERCIAL

  • Spanish Startups Pangea & Sateliot Secure Funds to Advance Sustainable Rocket Engines & Global Connectivity

  • Maxar Unveils GPS-Free Navigation System for Drones

  • Thales Alenia to Lead ESA’s Digital Twin Earth Initiative to Strengthen Agriculture Strategies

  • US GAO Upholds Space Traffic Contract Award to Slingshot Aerospace

  • Airbus Secures Contract to Build ExoMars Lander for Delayed ESA Mission

• RESEARCH SPOTLIGHT

  • Study Proposes Using JWST to Detect Life on Hycean Planets

  • Anomaly in Distant Galaxy’s Supermassive Black Hole Hints at Future Risks for the Milky Way

  • Curiosity Rover Uncovers Largest Organic Molecules on Mars

  • Spacecraft Swarm Concept Targets Fleeting Interstellar Visitors Like ‘Oumuamua’

PRIMER

Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA)

The Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA), formerly known as the Proliferated Low Earth Orbit (pLEO) initiative, is a U.S. Space Force (USSF) and Space Development Agency (SDA) program designed to enhance military space capabilities by deploying large, low-cost constellations of small, resilient satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) for military communications, missile tracking, and space domain awareness. Literally, "Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture" refers to a widely distributed (proliferated) network of space-based systems designed to support military operations (warfighter) through a structured framework (architecture).

The program is part of a broader shift toward proliferated satellite architectures to improve survivability, redundancy, and responsiveness in contested space environments, and to counter anti-satellite (ASAT) threats from perceived adversaries.

Key Aspects of PWSA:

1. Proliferated Constellation Approach

   • Instead of relying on a few large, high-value satellites (which are vulnerable to anti-satellite threats), PWSA deploys hundreds of smaller, cheaper satellites across multiple orbits.

   • This makes the architecture more resilient to attacks or disruptions, as losing a few satellites does not cripple the entire system.

      

2. Focus on LEO (Low Earth Orbit)

   • Most PWSA satellites operate in LEO (typically 500–1,200 km altitude), enabling faster data relay, lower latency communications, and improved sensing capabilities compared to traditional geostationary (GEO) systems.

   • LEO constellations also allow for global coverage when properly distributed.
      

3. Primary Components

   • Transport Layer: A mesh network of satellites providing secure, high-speed communications (similar to a military "internet in space") for real-time data sharing across forces, using optical inter-satellite links (OISLs) for secure, low-latency data relay. Also integrates with Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) for real-time battlefield connectivity.

   • Tracking Layer: Satellites equipped with missile warning and tracking sensors (e.g., infrared sensors for hypersonic missile detection). Hypersonic and advanced missile detection via infrared (IR) sensors; early satellites have been built by L3Harris and SpaceX (Tranche 0).

   • Deterrence Layer (formerly Custody Layer): Provides space domain awareness (SDA), helping track objects in orbit to avoid collisions and monitor threats.

   • Battle Management/Fire Control Layer: Supports command and control (C2) functions for joint military operations. Future tranches (Tranche 2+) will enable direct weapon cueing for joint strikes.
      

4. Integration with Other Programs

   • PWSA works alongside other USSF initiatives like Next-Gen OPIR (missile warning) and SDA (Space Development Agency) efforts.

   • It is closely tied to Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2), enabling seamless data sharing across air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains.
      

5. Rapid Deployment & Commercial Partnerships

   • The USSF and SDA leverage commercial space advancements, including rideshare launches and mass-produced satellites (e.g., from SpaceX, L3Harris, Lockheed Martin).

   • The goal is frequent, incremental upgrades ("spiral development") rather than waiting years for monolithic systems.

Current Status & Future Plans

• Tranche 0 (2022–2024): Initial test satellites launched to demonstrate basic capabilities such as missile tracking and secure comms. 28 satellites launched (April & September 2023 via SpaceX)

• Tranche 1 (2024–2025): ~160 satellites (Transport: 126, Tracking: 35) to establish initial operational capability (IOC) for transport and missile tracking.

• Tranche 2 & Beyond (2026+): Expanded constellations with more advanced sensors and interoperability. ~270 satellites, incorporating Missile Defense Agency (MDA) sensors.

Strategic Importance

PWSA is a cornerstone of the Pentagon’s shift toward resilient, distributed space architectures to counter emerging threats from China and Russia, both of which are developing anti-satellite (ASAT) weapons and electronic warfare capabilities. By spreading functionality across many satellites, the U.S. aims to maintain space superiority even in a conflict scenario.

IMAGES

A Total Lunar Eclipse & the Milky Way : NOIRLab

Millimeter-Sized Spherules on Martian Rocks : NASA’s Mars Perseverance Rover

Herbig-Haro 49/50 : NIRCam & MIRI Image, James Webb Space Telescope

NGC 4900 Spiral Galaxy : Hubble Space Telescope

Einstein Ring in the SMACSJ0028.2-7537 Galaxy Cluster : SLICE Survey, James Webb Space Telescope

SCIENCE

OroraTech, Google Deploy Satellite Constellations to Enhance Space-Based Wildfire Detection

German aerospace startup, OroraTech has successfully launched what it’s calling the world’s first satellite constellation dedicated to wildfire detection and monitoring. The initial deployment of eight satellites, built in collaboration with Spire Global, was carried out by Rocket Lab’s Electron rocket from New Zealand on a mission titled, “Finding Hot Wildfires Near You”. These satellites, placed into sun-synchronous orbits at an altitude of 550 kilometers, are equipped with advanced thermal sensors capable of detecting fires as small as 4x4 meters, providing real-time data during critical periods, such as afternoons and nights, when wildfires are most intense.

This constellation expands OroraTech’s network, which already integrates over 25 satellites, and aims to grow to 100 satellites by 2028. The system delivers near-instant alerts and high-resolution imagery to emergency responders, governments, and fire organizations, enhancing situational awareness and response capabilities.

This development comes in the wake of Google Research launching the first satellite in its FireSat constellation on March 14, 2025, aboard SpaceX’s Transporter-13 mission. FireSat was developed in collaboration with partners like Muon Space and the Earth Fire Alliance, and uses AI to detect wildfires as small as 5x5 meters within 20 minutes, offering high-resolution imagery updated globally every 20 minutes.

China Deploys Tianlian II-04 Communications Satellite to Support Crewed Spacecraft Operations

China successfully launched the Tianlian II-04 data relay satellite on March 26, 2025, aboard a Long March-3B rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan Province. This marks the 565th mission of the Long March rocket series and continues China’s advancements in space infrastructure. The Tianlian II-04, part of China’s second-generation geosynchronous orbit relay satellites, is designed to provide telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C) services for manned spacecraft, including spaceships and space stations, as well as medium and low-Earth orbit resource satellites. Once maneuvered into position at around 35,786 kilometers above the equator, it will also support spacecraft launches, enhancing communication and operational capabilities.

The Tianlian II series represents a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the Tianlian I, with improved capabilities, heavier payload capacity, and longer operational lifespans.

Shenzhou-19 Astronauts Install Final Debris Shielding on Tiangong Space Station to Conclude Third Spacewalk

Chinese astronauts aboard the Tiangong space station have completed their third extravehicular activity (EVA) as part of the Shenzhou-19 mission. On March 21, astronauts Cai Xuzhe and Song Lingdong spent seven hours outside the Wentian science module, installing the final debris shielding and auxiliary facilities. This effort concludes a series of missions aimed at enhancing the station's protection against space debris. Cai also conducted photographic inspections using Tiangong’s robotic arm, while Wang Haoze, China’s first female space engineer, supported operations from inside the station.

The Shenzhou-19 crew, nearing the end of their six-month mission, has conducted diverse scientific experiments, including protein crystallization and materials science studies. The mission also introduced a new astronaut health monitoring system integrating traditional Chinese and Western medicine.

New Geologic Map Tracks Meteorites & Asteroids Back to Their Origin in the Solar System

Astronomers have unveiled the first geologic map of the asteroid belt, tracing meteorites back to their origins in specific asteroid families. This decade-long effort, led by Peter Jenniskens of the SETI Institute and NASA Ames Research Center, utilized a global network of all-sky cameras and citizen science contributions to track meteorite paths. The project identified 75 meteorites with impact orbits, revealing patterns in their approach to Earth. Most meteorites originate from debris fields formed by collisions between larger asteroids, such as the Koronis and Massalia families, while several were traced to previously unidentified source regions in the asteroid belt. 

By analyzing cosmic-ray exposure ages and dynamical ages of debris fields, researchers linked meteorites to clusters within the asteroid belt, providing insights into their formation and evolution. This mapping effort not only enhances understanding of the solar system's history but also informs planetary defense strategies by identifying the origins and compositions of potential asteroid threats. The findings mark a significant step in asteroid belt research. The findings were published in the journal Meteoritics & Planetary Science.

California Invests $95 Million in Satellite Monitoring to Curb Methane Emissions

California has committed $95 million to a three-year contract aimed at monitoring methane emissions via satellite technology. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) awarded the contract to Carbon Mapper, a nonprofit organization, which will utilize data from Planet Labs’ Tanager hyperspectral-imaging satellites. These satellites are equipped to detect methane plumes with high spatial resolution, enabling precise identification of emission sources across sectors like energy, agriculture, and waste management. An additional $5 million has been allocated to help communities apply the data to mitigate pollution.

This initiative aligns with California’s ambitious climate goals, including a 40% reduction in methane emissions by 2030 compared to 2013 levels. While the program showcases the integration of cutting-edge technology and policy, critics question its scalability and reliance on philanthropic funding for satellite development. As methane remains a potent greenhouse gas, California’s approach could serve as a model for other states and nations tackling climate change.

GOVERNANCE

NASA Terminates $420 Million in Contracts to Refocus Priorities

NASA is terminating $420 million in contracts deemed misaligned with its core mission priorities, as part of a broader effort to optimize resources and align with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) guidelines. The cuts include consulting agreements and other vendor contracts, with $45 million allocated to three firms for change management services. NASA’s press secretary emphasized that the streamlining aims to direct taxpayer funds toward high-impact projects while maintaining essential functions. However, critics have raised concerns about the lack of transparency in determining which contracts were misaligned and the potential impact on scientific research and workforce stability.

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has fallen behind on updating its promised list of savings from canceled contracts, grants, and leases. Although updates were initially planned for twice a week, the website is now updated weekly, with the most recent update on March 19. Currently, the site lists 17 terminated NASA contracts valued at $44.5 million, but actual savings amount to only $26.1 million. Notably, only four contracts contribute savings, while the rest, marked with $0 savings, appear to have already been fully paid before cancellation, according to SpaceNews.

The terminations reflect broader political and fiscal pressures, with DOGE, led by Elon Musk, pushing NASA to prioritize Mars exploration over initiatives like climate science and diversity programs. This shift has sparked debates about the agency’s evolving role and the implications for its leadership in space exploration. While NASA’s actions align with efficiency goals, they highlight the challenges of balancing innovation, inclusivity, and scientific advancement in a polarized political landscape.

MILITARY

US Congress Supports Space Force’s Commercial Engagement Despite Budget Strain

The U.S. Space Force is navigating a complex landscape of budget constraints, strategic priorities, and partnerships with the commercial space sector.

The U.S. Congress recently allocated $40 million to the Space Force’s Commercial Space Office (COMSO) to enhance its engagement with private companies, supporting initiatives like hybrid satellite architectures that integrate commercial and military systems. This funding reflects growing confidence in leveraging commercial innovation to address national security needs. COMSO's “Front Door” portal allows commercial space companies to propose offerings to military leaders, with due diligence conducted to avoid ties to Russia, China, or illicit funding. Over 800 vendors have joined the initiative according to SpaceNews.

In parallel, the Commercial Augmentation Space Reserve (CASR) program, designed to establish a reserve fleet of commercial satellites for crisis scenarios, has also gained traction. However, the Space Force has opted not to publicly disclose participating companies, citing concerns over potential adversary targeting.

Meanwhile, General Chance Saltzman, Chief of Space Operations, has expressed concerns about the Space Force’s shrinking budget, which stands at $28.7 billion for fiscal year 2025—$800 million less than requested. Saltzman warned that these cuts could hinder the Space Force’s ability to compete with adversaries like China, which continues to expand its space capabilities.

US Space Force Certifies ULA Vulcan, Taps Potential New Providers for National Security Launches

Recent developments with the U.S. Space Force reflect its strategy to diversify its launch options, leveraging both established and emerging providers to enhance resilience and reduce costs.

The U.S. Space Force has officially certified United Launch Alliance’s (ULA) Vulcan Centaur rocket for National Security Space Launch (NSSL) missions. This certification follows a rigorous multi-year evaluation process, including two test flights in 2024 and extensive hardware and software audits. Vulcan now joins SpaceX as one of two providers certified for NSSL missions, enhancing the nation’s access to space. Designed to replace ULA’s Atlas V and Delta IV rockets, Vulcan offers increased launch capacity, flexibility, and resilience, supporting critical national security payloads.

In parallel, the Space Force has expanded its NSSL Phase 3 Lane 1 program by adding Rocket Lab and Stoke Space to its pool of launch providers. Both companies received $5 million task orders to assess their capabilities and develop tailored mission assurance processes. Lane 1 focuses on commercial-like missions with fewer certification requirements, aiming to foster competition and innovation. Rocket Lab’s Neutron rocket and Stoke Space’s fully reusable Nova rocket, both still in development, are expected to conduct maiden flights later this year.

US NRO Strengthens Satellite Intelligence with Consecutive Falcon 9 Launches

The United States National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) has expanded its spy satellite network with back-to-back launches by SpaceX, marking a significant milestone in U.S. space intelligence capabilities. On March 24, 2025, SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket successfully launched the classified NROL-69 mission from Cape Canaveral, Florida, coinciding with the company’s 19th anniversary. This mission follows the NROL-57 launch on March 21, both contributing to the NRO’s proliferated architecture—a shift toward deploying numerous smaller, cost-effective satellites for enhanced resilience and responsiveness.

The NROL-69 launch also created a striking visual phenomenon over Europe, as frozen exhaust particles from the rocket’s upper stage formed a glowing blue spiral in the night sky. While captivating observers, this event highlights the growing visibility of space activities.

Gravitics Secures SpaceWERX Funding for Orbital Carrier to Enable Rapid In-Space Threat Response

Gravitics, a space infrastructure company, has secured a Strategic Funding Increase (STRATFI) award from SpaceWERX, the innovation arm of the U.S. Space Force, to develop its Orbital Carrier platform. The funding, potentially reaching $60 million through a mix of government, Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR), and private investments, will support the demonstration and deployment of this tactically responsive space system. Designed as a pre-positioned launch pad in orbit, the Orbital Carrier will house multiple maneuverable space vehicles, enabling rapid deployment to address emerging threats. This capability bypasses traditional launch constraints, offering flexibility and speed for in-space operations.

While the Orbital Carrier aligns with the Space Force’s focus on enhancing resilience and responsiveness in the increasingly contested orbital environment, it raises legal questions given international laws like the Outer Space Treaty of 1967. This treaty prohibits the placement of nuclear weapons or weapons of mass destruction in orbit but leaves room for ambiguity in regulating conventional weapons or dual-use technologies. The treaty does not explicitly ban conventional weapons or other forms of militarization in space, leading to ongoing debates about its interpretation. Efforts to expand these regulations, such as the Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space (PAROS) initiative, have faced challenges due to differing national interests.

As military reliance on space grows, these legal interpretations will remain a critical discussion point. Gravitics, known for its expertise in large space structures, aims to demonstrate the platform by 2026.

China Launches TJS-16 Satellite Amid Speculation Over Military Applications

China launched the classified TJS-16 satellite on March 29, 2025, aboard a Long March 7A rocket from the Wenchang Satellite Launch Center. Officially described by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) as a communication technology experiment satellite, TJS-16 is part of an opaque series of missions believed to support military objectives, such as signals intelligence and satellite inspection. Developed by the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology, the satellite operates in geostationary orbit, with limited technical details disclosed.

Notably, the launch follows the deployment of TJS-15 earlier in March, which has since been accompanied by an unidentified object exhibiting low-thrust propulsion capabilities. This behavior echoes earlier TJS missions, raising speculation in the U.S. about dual-use technologies and potential intelligence applications. The TJS series highlights China’s growing focus on advanced space capabilities amid increasing global competition. However, the lack of transparency surrounding these missions has drawn scrutiny, underscoring the challenges of interpreting space activities in a geopolitically charged environment.

Booz Allen Proposes Brilliant Swarms Satellite Network to Support US Golden Dome Defense Strategy

Booz Allen Hamilton has introduced "Brilliant Swarms," a concept for a mega-constellation of up to 2,000 satellites designed to enhance space-based missile defense capabilities, that fill the “critical gap in the Trump Administration’s Golden Dome for America”. Operating in low Earth orbit, these satellites would use artificial intelligence and machine learning to autonomously detect, track, and intercept missile threats, including ballistic and hypersonic missiles. Unlike traditional ground-based systems, Brilliant Swarms offers a multi-shot capability, targeting threats during their boost and mid-course phases.

The system integrates peer-to-peer communication and advanced sensors, enabling satellites to function as both trackers and kinetic interceptors. This approach aims to address vulnerabilities in existing missile defense systems, particularly against emerging threats from advanced adversaries. Booz Allen estimates development costs at $25 billion, significantly lower than the $65 billion spent on current systems focused on threats from North Korea and Iran, and projects full deployment within five to seven years. Chris Bogdan, Booz Allen's space division leader, likened Brilliant Swarms to Ukraine’s GIS Arta system, which efficiently integrates data and artillery for precise strikes. Brilliant Swarms aims to address diverse threats outlined in the Golden Dome initiative, including ballistic missiles, hypersonic glide vehicles, and aerial drones.

COMMERCIAL

Spanish Startups Pangea & Sateliot Secure Funds to Drive Advances in Sustainable Rocket Engines & Global Connectivity

Spain’s space sector is gaining momentum with significant investments in two innovative companies. Pangea Aerospace, a Barcelona-based startup specializing in advanced propulsion systems, has secured €23 million/$25 million in Series A funding. Led by the Madrid-based, aerospace, cyber and defense focused Hyperion Fund and supported by investors like Primo Space Fund and former ArianeGroup CEO André-Hubert Roussel, the funding will accelerate Pangea’s expansion in Europe. The company focuses on sustainable and reusable rocket propulsion technologies, including its ARCOS aerospike engine, which aims to reduce costs for launchers and satellites.

Meanwhile, Sateliot, another Spanish startup, received €13.8 million/$15 million from the Spanish government as part of its Series B funding round, bringing its total to nearly €60 million of a €70 million target. Sateliot is building a constellation of low-Earth orbit nanosatellites to provide 5G-compatible connectivity for remote areas. With six satellites already in orbit and plans to expand to 100 by 2028, the company aims to bridge connectivity gaps for critical sectors like defense, logistics, and infrastructure. This investment aligns with Spain’s goal of enhancing regional technological independence and space capabilities.

Sateliot plans to deploy 250 satellites to provide near real-time messaging services directly to standard smartphones. Supported by funding from Spain's newly established. state-backed, Spanish Society for Technological Transformation (SETT), Sateliot joins competitors like OQ Technology, SpaceX, AST SpaceMobile, and Lynk Global in targeting the emerging direct-to-device market.

Maxar Unveils Raptor Suite, GPS-Free Navigation System for Military & Commercial Drones

Maxar Intelligence has introduced Raptor, a software suite designed to enable drones to navigate without GPS, addressing vulnerabilities like jamming and spoofing in military and commercial operations. Raptor uses Maxar’s extensive 3D global terrain data, covering over 90 million square kilometers, to provide precise navigation and ground coordinate extraction. The software integrates with existing drone cameras, eliminating the need for additional hardware and reducing costs.

The suite includes Raptor Guide for vision-based positioning, Raptor Sync for real-time intelligence sharing, and Raptor Ace for extracting ground coordinates. These tools allow drones to operate effectively in GPS-denied environments, including at night and in complex terrains. This innovation reflects a broader shift toward reducing reliance on satellite-based systems, particularly in conflict zones like Ukraine, where electronic warfare disrupts traditional navigation.

Thales Alenia to Lead Development of ESA’s Digital Twin Earth Initiative to Strengthen Agriculture Strategies

The European Space Agency (ESA) has awarded Thales Alenia Space the lead role in the SaveCrops4EU project, part of ESA’s Digital Twin Earth program. This initiative aims to enhance the resilience of European agriculture against climate change by leveraging advanced Earth observation and data analytics. The digital twin will provide real-time crop monitoring, regional yield forecasting, and scenario testing for various climate-induced stresses, such as drought and extreme heat. These tools will support sustainable farming practices aligned with the European Green Deal and the Common Agricultural Policy.

The system will undergo validation in Belgium, Germany, Hungary, and Spain, ensuring its adaptability to diverse agricultural needs. By integrating satellite data with agronomic models, SaveCrops4EU offers actionable insights for optimizing irrigation, fertilization, and other management strategies. This project builds on ESA’s broader efforts, such as Destination Earth, to create digital replicas of the planet for monitoring environmental changes and informing policy decisions.

US GAO Upholds Space Traffic Contract Award to Slingshot Aerospace, Rules Against Kayhan Space Protest

The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) has denied a protest filed by Kayhan Space Corporation regarding the award of a contract for the Traffic Coordination System for Space (TraCSS). The contract, issued by the Department of Commerce’s Office of Space Commerce, was awarded to Slingshot Aerospace. Kayhan Space alleged that the agency had evaluated proposals unfairly, introduced ambiguities in the solicitation, and failed to assess unbalanced pricing in Slingshot’s bid. However, the GAO concluded that the evaluation process adhered to the solicitation’s terms and found no evidence of disparate treatment or procedural violations.

The TraCSS initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance space traffic management, addressing the growing risks of orbital congestion due to increased commercial activity. This decision underscores the importance of transparent procurement processes as the U.S. government collaborates with private industry to develop critical infrastructure for space safety and sustainability.

Airbus Secures Contract to Build ExoMars Lander for Delayed ESA Mars Mission

Airbus Defence and Space has been awarded a £150 million/$194 million contract by the European Space Agency (ESA) and Thales Alenia Space (TAS) to design and build the landing platform for the ExoMars mission, which aims to deliver the Rosalind Franklin rover to Mars in 2030. This platform will replace the Russian-built system originally planned for the mission, which was canceled due to geopolitical tensions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Airbus will develop the mechanical, thermal, and propulsion systems required for a safe touchdown, including retro rockets to slow the descent and ramps to deploy the rover onto the Martian surface.

The Rosalind Franklin, Europe’s first Mars rover, named after the scientist who played a key role in the discovery of the structure of DNA, is equipped with a drill capable of reaching two meters below the surface and will search for signs of past or present life. The mission, delayed since 2022, is now scheduled to launch in 2028 with NASA providing the launcher and additional components.

RESEARCH SPOTLIGHT

Study Proposes Using JWST to Detect Life on Hycean Planets

Scientists at the University of California, Riverside, propose a novel approach to detecting alien life by targeting Hycean planets—hot, ocean-covered worlds with thick hydrogen atmospheres orbiting small red stars. These planets, though inhospitable to humans, may support anaerobic microbes capable of producing methyl halides, gases composed of carbon, hydrogen, and halogens like chlorine or bromine. Unlike Earth-like planets, which are challenging to observe, Hycean planets offer clearer biosignature signals due to their atmospheric composition.

Using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), researchers suggest that methyl halides could be detected in as little as 13 hours of observation, making this method efficient and cost-effective. These gases, which accumulate more readily in hydrogen-rich atmospheres, provide a promising alternative to traditional biosignatures like oxygen or methane. Future missions, such as the proposed European LIFE telescope, could further refine this search, potentially transforming our understanding of life’s prevalence in the universe. The research was published on March 11 in The Astrophysical Journal Letters.

Anomaly in Distant Galaxy’s Supermassive Black Hole Hints at Future Risks for the Milky Way

A team of astronomers from led by Christ University, Bangalore (India) have discovered a massive spiral galaxy, 2MASX J23453268−0449256, nearly a billion light-years away, hosting a supermassive black hole with jets stretching 6 million light-years. This challenges the belief that such jets disrupt spiral galaxies, as the galaxy retains its structure, including spiral arms and a stellar ring. The jets prevent star formation by heating surrounding gas, offering insights into galaxy evolution. Researchers warn that the Milky Way’s dormant black hole, Sagittarius A*, could exhibit similar activity if triggered by tidal disruption events, creating similar energetic jets in the future—with the cosmic rays, gamma rays and X-rays, potentially impacting life on Earth through radiation and altering the interstellar environment. The team's research was published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.

Curiosity Rover Uncovers Largest Organic Molecules on Mars, Hint at Chemical Evolution

NASA’s Curiosity rover has identified the largest organic molecules ever found on Mars, including decane, undecane, and dodecane, in a 3.7-billion-year-old rock sample from Gale Crater’s Yellowknife Bay. These long-chain hydrocarbons may be remnants of fatty acids, essential for life on Earth, though they could also result from non-biological processes like hydrothermal activity. The discovery suggests Mars once hosted conditions suitable for complex chemical evolution. While not definitive evidence of life, the findings bolster hopes for detecting biosignatures in future missions, particularly with plans to return Martian samples to Earth for advanced analysis. Gale Crater remains a promising site for exploration. The findings were published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Spacecraft Swarm Concept Targets Fleeting Interstellar Visitors Like ‘Oumuamua’

Researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have developed and simulated a novel concept for encountering interstellar objects (ISOs) using spacecraft swarms. Led by Hiroyasu Tsukamoto, the project introduces Neural-Rendezvous, a deep learning-driven guidance and control framework designed to autonomously navigate the high-speed, unpredictable trajectories of ISOs. These objects, which pass through the solar system only once at speeds of tens of kilometers per second, hold valuable information about primitive materials from exoplanetary systems. The findings were presented at the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Aerospace Conference this month.

In 2017, scientists discovered 'Oumuamua, the first confirmed ISO to pass through our solar system, traveling at an extraordinary speed of 196,000 miles per hour (315,431 kilometers per hour) from a distant planetary system.

Neural-Rendezvous leverages contraction theory for nonlinear control systems, ensuring mathematically proven reliability in ISO encounters. Unlike traditional mission designs, this framework enables spacecraft to respond to real-time data onboard, addressing the challenges posed by ISOs’ poorly constrained trajectories. The project, developed in collaboration with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, represents a significant step forward in ISO exploration, offering insights into the solar system’s origins and advancing autonomous spacecraft capabilities for future missions.

Despatch Out. 👽🛸