Issue 45 | Breaking Space News: Apr 06 - Apr 12, 2025

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Hope you find this Space insightful.

• PRIMER

  • Black Hole Cosmology

• IMAGES

  • Eagle, Lunar Terrain Vehicle : Lunar Outpost

  • NGC 346, Star Cluster in the Small Magellanic Cloud

• SCIENCE

  • NASA, Roscosmos Continue Cooperation on ISS Missions Amid Tensions

  • Industry Calls for Steady Investment to Advance Space Nuclear Power and Propulsion Technologies

  • South Korea will Transform Abandoned Coal Mines into Lunar Testing Facilities

  • ISRO Deorbits Experimental Mission POEM-4 to Prevent Orbital Debris, in Line with Space Sustainability Goals

  • Early Polar Vortex Displacement Alter Northern Hemisphere Weather Conditions

  • China's Chang’e 8 Mission to 3D Print Lunar Bricks Using Sunlight and Regolith

  • Scientists Trace Source of Record Helium-3 Emissions to Rare Solar Event

  • Chang’e 6 Findings Support Theory of Moon's Origin from Ancient Earth Collision

• GOVERNANCE

  • UN Agencies Call for Action to Protect Satellite Navigation from Interference

  • Challenges Mount for NASA: Restructuring, Massive Budget Cuts, DOGE's Controversial Access Policies Amid Moon, Mars Ambitions

  • Rocket Landing Pads on Johnston Atoll Wildlife Refuge Raise Conservation Concerns

  • European Initiatives Aim to Reduce Dependence on US Satellite Systems

  • NOAA’s Critical Role in Space Weather Under Budgetary Strain

• MILITARY

  • Classified Chinese Satellites & US Defense Launches Expand Orbital Capabilities Amid Growing Space Rivalries

  • US Space Force will Revamp Training Programs to Prepare for Space Conflicts

  • The US Wants to Put Orbital Interceptors in Space to Project its Military Power

  • Golden Dome Initiative: Pentagon Opens Doors to Commercial Firms for Boost-Phase Orbital Missile Defense

  • Umbra, LeoLabs Enhance Maritime & Space Surveillance Technologies

  • Foo Fighter Satellite Program, US Space Force's Space-Based Missile Tracking System, Reaches Key Design Milestone

• COMMERCIAL

  • Growing International Interest in Vast’s Haven-1 Commercial, On-Orbit Research Facility

  • Aitech's IQSat & GomSpace-Neuraspace Partnership Highlight AI-Driven Progress in Satellite Technology

  • Growing Demand for Lunar Landers Beyond NASA Missions Drives Market for Diverse Stakeholders

  • India's Bellatrix Taps Into US Market for Satellite Propulsion Growth

  • Space Forge’s US Semiconductor Operations will Leverage LEO Manufacturing to Reduce US Dependence on Foreign Chips

  • Axiom Space's Orbital Data Centers on Kepler Satellites to Advance Space-Based Cloud Computing

• RESEARCH SPOTLIGHT

  • Indian Scientists Develop Bacteria-Based Method to Repair Lunar Bricks

  • Geoscientists Detect Rock Dripping into the Earth’s Mantle Beneath North America’s Crust

PRIMER

Black Hole Cosmology

Black hole cosmology, or Schwarzschild cosmology, posits that our observable universe could be situated within a black hole in a larger parent universe. This concept was initially proposed by theoretical physicist Raj Kumar Pathria and mathematician I. J. Good.

The theory suggests that the "Schwarzschild radius" or event horizon—the boundary beyond which nothing can escape a black hole, not even light—is analogous to the horizon of the visible universe. This implies that black holes within our universe might serve as gateways to other "baby universes." These baby universes remain unobservable because they lie beyond their event horizons, trapping light and preventing information from escaping to external observers.

Polish theoretical physicist Nikodem Poplawski of the University of New Haven has been a prominent advocate for this theory. He posits that each black hole could potentially give rise to a new universe, expanding our understanding of cosmic structures and the nature of our own universe.

In general relativity, a massive object collapsing under its own gravity becomes a Schwarzschild black hole, with a singular point at its center. However, the Einstein-Cartan theory suggests this collapse forms a regular wormhole, instead of a singularity.

This theory also proposes that the Big Bang could have been a "Big Bounce," meaning the universe didn't start from a singular point but from a minimum size. It could also mean that our universe emerged from a supermassive white hole formed by a black hole in a parent universe. This idea challenges traditional cosmological theories and offers a new perspective on how our universe might have formed.

IMAGES

Eagle, Lunar Terrain Vehicle : Lunar Outpost

NGC 346, Star Cluster in the Small Magellanic Cloud : Hubble Space Telescope

SCIENCE

NASA, Roscosmos Continue Cooperation on ISS Missions Amid Tensions

NASA astronauts continue to collaborate with Roscosmos, despite geopolitical tensions, as part of ongoing International Space Station (ISS) missions. On April 8, NASA astronaut Jonny Kim, along with cosmonauts Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritsky, arrived at the ISS aboard the Soyuz MS-27 spacecraft. Kim, a former Navy SEAL and medical doctor, is the first Korean-American astronaut to reach the ISS. The crew will spend eight months conducting scientific research and technology demonstrations as part of Expeditions 72 and 73.

Later this year, rookie NASA astronaut Chris Williams will join the ISS aboard the Soyuz MS-28 spacecraft, alongside cosmonauts Sergey Kud-Sverchkov and Sergei Mikaev. Williams, a physicist and medical researcher, will serve as a flight engineer for Expedition 74. These missions highlight the enduring importance of international cooperation in space exploration, as astronauts and cosmonauts work together to advance scientific knowledge and maintain the ISS as a hub for global collaboration.

Industry Calls for Steady Investment to Advance Space Nuclear Power and Propulsion Technologies

Space nuclear power and propulsion technologies are at a pivotal moment, with industry leaders urging consistent government investment to transition from development to operational systems. L3Harris Technologies, a key player in this field, highlights advancements in nuclear electric propulsion (NEP) and nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP), which could be ready for flight within five years. NEP offers exceptional efficiency for long-duration missions, while NTP provides high thrust for faster travel, reducing astronauts' exposure to cosmic radiation.

NASA’s Fission Surface Power program is also progressing, aiming to develop systems capable of generating 40 kilowatts of continuous power for lunar and Mars operations. Typical power requirements for lunar habitats range from 20 to 50 kilowatts, depending on the size and duration of the mission. For Mars missions, power needs can vary widely, but at least 10 kilowatts is required for basic operations, with larger missions demanding significantly more.

This initiative, alongside the Multi-Mission Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator for the Dragonfly mission to Titan, makes evident the growing role of nuclear power in deep-space exploration. As national security and scientific applications expand, steady funding remains crucial to harness the potential of nuclear technologies for propulsion and power in space exploration.

South Korea will Transform Abandoned Coal Mines into Lunar Testing Facilities

South Korea is repurposing abandoned coal mines into testing grounds for lunar exploration technologies, reflecting its growing ambitions in space resource development. The Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM) recently conducted demonstrations at the former Hamtae mine in Taebaek, deploying prototype lunar rovers equipped with autonomous navigation, sample collection, and remote sensing capabilities. These efforts aim to establish a space resource convergence demonstration complex to support future lunar mining operations.

This initiative aligns with South Korea’s broader space strategy, which includes the Danuri lunar orbiter launched in 2022 and plans for a robotic lunar landing by 2032. Taebaek, once a hub for coal mining during Korea’s industrialization, symbolizes the transition from terrestrial energy extraction to off-world resource exploration. By developing independent space resource technologies, South Korea seeks to compete in the global race for lunar resources, leveraging national collaboration to advance its capabilities in space exploration and mining.

ISRO Deorbits Experimental Mission POEM-4 to Prevent Orbital Debris, in Line with Space Sustainability Goals

India’s PSLV Orbital Experimental Module 4 (POEM-4) successfully concluded its mission with a controlled reentry into the Indian Ocean on April 4, 2025. Launched on December 30, 2024, aboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), POEM-4 served as a platform for 24 scientific payloads, including experiments from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and non-governmental entities. During its mission, POEM-4 supported India’s Space Docking Experiment (SPADEX), which demonstrated the country’s first autonomous docking in space—a significant milestone for future space station initiatives.

To prevent space debris, ISRO deorbited POEM-4 by venting remaining propellant and directing the module into a safe collision course with the ocean. Part of ISRO’s Debris Free Space Mission (DFSM) initiative, this mission reflects ISRO’s proactive approach to addressing sustainable space operations.

Early Polar Vortex Displacement Alter Northern Hemisphere Weather Conditions

A major disruption to the Arctic polar vortex has caused it to shift away from the North Pole, triggering significant weather changes across the Northern Hemisphere. The polar vortex, a ring of strong, cold winds in the stratosphere, typically reverses direction in mid-April as seasonal warming occurs. However, this year’s reversal struck unusually early on March 9, following a sudden stratospheric warming event. This phenomenon, caused by atmospheric Rossby waves, weakened the vortex and displaced it toward Northern Europe.

As the vortex dissipates, colder-than-average temperatures are expected in Northern Europe, parts of Asia, and the eastern United States. In the U.S., the collapse of the vortex is driving Arctic blasts into the Northeast and Great Lakes regions, with temperatures dropping 15 to 25°F below normal. These shifts highlight the complex interplay between atmospheric dynamics and climate patterns, raising questions about the potential influence of global warming on polar vortex behavior

China's Chang’e 8 Mission to 3D Print Lunar Bricks Using Sunlight and Regolith

China is advancing its lunar exploration ambitions with plans to 3D-print bricks using lunar soil, a key step toward establishing a permanent base on the moon. The Chang’e 8 mission, scheduled for 2028, will test this innovative technology, which utilizes concentrated sunlight as an energy source. This sunlight is directed through specialized lenses or mirrors to generate the high temperatures necessary to melt lunar regolith, which is then shaped into bricks via 3D printing. This method leverages the moon's abundant sunlight, eliminating the need for transporting traditional energy sources from Earth.

China has already tested bricks made from lunar soil simulants aboard its Tiangong space station to evaluate their durability under harsh space conditions. The Chang’e 8 mission will build on these efforts, paving the way for the proposed International Lunar Research Station at the moon’s south pole. This initiative emphasizes the global interest in resource-efficient off-world construction

Scientists Trace Source of Record Helium-3 Emissions to Rare Solar Event

Scientists at the Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) have traced the source of the largest-ever concentration of helium-3 (³He), a rare isotope emitted by the Sun. Detected by the NASA/ESA Solar Orbiter, this event marked a 200,000-fold increase in ³He levels compared to typical solar emissions. The phenomenon was linked to a small solar jet at the edge of a coronal hole, a region characterized by weak magnetic fields. This finding supports theories suggesting that ³He enrichment occurs in minimally turbulent plasma environments.

³He’s unique charge-to-mass ratio allows it to be preferentially accelerated to high speeds, unlike heavier elements such as iron. Interestingly, this event showed increased levels of lighter elements like carbon and nitrogen, deviating from usual patterns. With only 19 similar occurrences recorded in 25 years, this discovery underscores the importance of spacecraft operating near the Sun to unravel the mechanisms behind these rare solar energetic particle events.

On Earth, ³He is valued for uses in nuclear fusion, energy research, cryogenics, quantum computing, and medical imaging, but it is more abundant on the moon, where the lack of a magnetic field allows solar particles to settle, sparking interest in lunar harvesting for future technologies.

Chang’e 6 Findings Support Theory of Moon's Origin from Ancient Earth Collision

China’s Chang’e 6 mission has provided new evidence supporting the theory that the Moon formed from debris following a colossal collision between early Earth and a Mars-sized protoplanet 4.5 billion years ago. Samples collected from the South Pole–Aitken Basin on the Moon’s far side revealed significantly lower water content in the mantle compared to the nearside.

This disparity aligns with models predicting regional differences caused by the giant impact, according to HU Sen, a professor at the Institute of Geology and Geophysics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The findings, reported on April 9 in the journal Nature, also highlight the Moon’s geological diversity, offering insights into its formation and evolution.

GOVERNANCE

UN Agencies Call for Action to Protect Satellite Navigation from Interference, Jamming and Spoofing Threat

Satellite navigation systems, critical for aviation, maritime, and telecommunications, face increasing threats from jamming and spoofing, according to a joint statement by the three United Nations agencies- International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and International Maritime Organization (IMO). These disruptions compromise Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), which provide essential positioning, navigation, and timing services. Interference can impact aircraft operations across multiple regions, posing significant safety risks.

Recent incidents include GPS interference affecting aviation safety, such as a crash in Kazakhstan linked to jamming, and the hijacking of satellite TV broadcasts for propaganda purposes. The accessibility and low cost of jamming technology make it an attractive tool for state and non-state actors, raising concerns about its widespread use.

The UN agencies outlined five key actions for member states: protecting GNSS from harmful interference, strengthening system resilience, maintaining conventional navigation infrastructure for contingencies, enhancing collaboration among regulatory and enforcement authorities, and implementing robust interference reporting mechanisms. ICAO emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to safeguard these systems, which are vital for civilian and humanitarian operations.

Challenges Mount for NASA: Restructuring, Massive Budget Cuts, DOGE's Controversial Access Policies Amid Moon, Mars Ambitions

NASA faces a turbulent period marked by budget uncertainties, leadership transitions, and policy shifts. Acting Administrator Janet Petro speaking the at Space Symposium 2025 in Colorado Springs, Colorado (U.S.) last week, described the agency as being in an “unsettling”, "weird period," with layoffs, program terminations, and the removal of diversity initiatives. Amid these challenges, Jared Isaacman, the nominee for NASA Administrator, at a confirmation hearing by the Senate Commerce Committee, advocated for pursuing Moon and Mars missions simultaneously, as a way to maintain U.S. leadership in space exploration.

The draft budget proposal sent to NASA by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) on April 10 outlines significant funding reductions for fiscal year 2026. The proposal includes a 20% overall cut to NASA’s budget, reducing it from $25 billion to $20 billion. The Science Mission Directorate faces the steepest cuts, with funding slashed by nearly 50%, dropping from $7.5 billion to $3.9 billion. Specific divisions, such as astrophysics and heliophysics, would see reductions of over two-thirds, while Earth science funding would be halved to $1.033 billion. Planetary science would also experience a 30% cut, bringing its budget down to $1.929 billion.

These cuts threaten key missions, including the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, the Mars Sample Return program, and the DAVINCI mission to Venus. Additionally, the proposal suggests closing the Goddard Space Flight Center, potentially laying off 10,000 staff. Earth science missions have been asked to prepare termination plans, raising concerns about the future of climate research. NASA has 72 hours to appeal the proposed budget before it is finalized.

The proposed budget cuts to NASA's Earth science programs could significantly hinder climate research, disaster monitoring, and environmental management. These programs have historically driven groundbreaking innovations. For example, the Landsat program, operational since 1972, revolutionized land-use monitoring and agricultural planning. The GRACE satellites provided critical data on groundwater depletion, influencing water resource management globally. Similarly, the Terra and Aqua satellites advanced our understanding of Earth's climate systems, aiding in weather prediction and environmental policy.

Reducing funding could jeopardize ongoing and future missions, limiting our ability to monitor climate change, track natural disasters, and manage ecosystems effectively. This would have far-reaching consequences for scientific progress and global sustainability efforts.

Compounding these issues, Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has been criticized for its influence on NASA operations. In a letter, addressed to NASA Acting Administrator Janet Petro, three U.S. House Democrats expressed alarm over three DOGE personnel's unrestricted access to sensitive NASA systems, citing potential conflicts of interest and ethical concerns. The named individuals are Scott M. Coulter, Riley J. Sennott and Alexander Simonpour. DOGE's use of AI to monitor federal employees has further fueled transparency and privacy debates.

NASA is developing restructuring options to adapt to these pressures, aiming to optimize operations and maintain focus on flagship programs like Artemis. However, the agency's workforce faces uncertainty, with fears of further layoffs and reduced scientific capabilities.

Rocket Landing Pads on Johnston Atoll Wildlife Refuge Raise Conservation Concerns

The U.S. Department of the Air Force has proposed constructing two rocket landing pads on Johnston Atoll, a remote Pacific wildlife refuge, as part of its Rocket Cargo Vanguard program. This initiative aims to develop technologies for rapid cargo delivery of upto 100 tons using commercial rockets, with SpaceX’s Starship as the leading contender.

In a statement, conservationists, including the American Bird Conservancy (ABC), have raised concerns about the ecological risks posed by the project. Johnston Atoll, home to nearly 1.5 million seabirds across 15 species, and the world’s largest colony of Red-tailed Tropicbirds, is a designated a wildlife refuge since 1926, and has seen decades of restoration efforts following its use for nuclear and chemical weapons testing.

The atoll’s isolation makes it a critical nesting site for tropical seabirds, many of which are endangered globally. Conservationists argue that the proposed rocket pads could reverse progress in seabird population recovery and warn that rocket landings could disrupt nesting behaviors and introduce hazardous debris. They urge the Air Force to consider alternative sites to avoid jeopardizing this vital habitat, emphasizing the need for sustainable development in sensitive ecosystems. The Air Force has committed to environmental reviews, but ABC points out that these measures are insufficient, urging a full Environmental Impact Statement.

European Initiatives Aim to Reduce Dependence on U.S. Satellite Systems, Push for Strategic Space Autonomy Amid Geopolitical Shifts

Europe is intensifying efforts to achieve strategic autonomy in space amidst shifting geopolitical landscapes. The continent’s reliance on U.S.-based satellite networks, particularly SpaceX’s Starlink, has prompted initiatives to develop sovereign alternatives. Starlink’s role in Ukraine’s defense against Russia has underscored the importance of satellite connectivity for national security, but concerns over long-term dependency have fueled demand for European solutions. The European Commission’s IRIS² project, a multi-orbit broadband constellation, aims to deploy over 290 satellites by 2031, reducing reliance on foreign systems. However, skepticism remains regarding its timeline and ability to compete with Starlink’s capabilities.

In the backdrop of the March 6 launch of the CSO-3 French reconnaissance satellite on an Ariane 6 rocket, this push for autonomy aligns with broader European strategies to bolster defense infrastructure, including the ReArm Europe initiative, an €800 billion plan unveiled in March 2025. The plan emphasizes reducing dependence on external powers and enhancing self-reliance in critical sectors. As nations prioritize sovereign satellite networks, regional operators like Eutelsat and OneWeb are gaining traction, offering alternatives to U.S.-dominated systems. Yet, challenges persist, including scaling operations and addressing cost disparities.

Europe’s pursuit of strategic autonomy reflects a growing recognition of space as a vital component of national security and economic resilience. Balancing innovation with geopolitical realities will be crucial as the continent navigates this transformative period.

NOAA’s Critical Role in Space Weather Under Budgetary Strain

The Trump administration’s budget proposal for fiscal year 2026 has sparked concerns over its impact on NOAA’s space-related programs and workforce. Massive layoffs earlier this year affected over 800 NOAA employees, including those at the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC), which monitors solar storms and their effects on communication systems and power grids. The proposed budget further threatens NOAA’s Geostationary Extended Observations (GeoXO) program, aimed at developing next-generation weather satellites. Key instruments focusing on climate data, such as atmospheric composition and ocean color studies, may be removed to cut costs.

Additionally, the proposal suggests transferring SWPC responsibilities to the Department of Homeland Security, raising questions about NOAA’s ability to manage critical space weather data. These changes could undermine NOAA’s capacity to provide accurate forecasts and support industries reliant on space weather services.

The Gannon Storm of May 2024, classified as an extreme geomagnetic event (G5), and the most intense since 2003, made evident the critical role of space weather forecasting in mitigating impacts on essential systems. While it created stunning auroras visible at mid-latitudes, it also caused significant disruptions to technology across industries. Sectors reliant on SWPC—including power grids, aviation, emergency management, human spaceflight, and agriculture—faced challenges from radio blackouts and geomagnetic disturbances. SWPC played a vital role in mitigating these impacts and critics argue that such cuts jeopardize national resilience and global leadership in climate and space research.

MILITARY

Classified Chinese Satellites & US Defense Launches Expand Orbital Capabilities Amid Growing Space Rivalries

China and the United States continue to expand their orbital capabilities, reflecting the intensifying global competition in space. On April 10, China launched the TJS-17 satellite aboard a Long March 3B rocket, marking its 19th orbital mission of 2025. Part of a classified geostationary satellite series, TJS-17 is believed to support military applications such as signals intelligence and satellite inspection. This launch follows two recent additions to the TJS series, highlighting China’s focus on enhancing its geostationary presence.

Meanwhile, SpaceX has been advancing U.S. space infrastructure with two significant developments. On April 12, the company launched the ninth batch of reconnaissance satellites under the National Reconnaissance Office’s (NRO) proliferated architecture program. This initiative aims to deploy a network of small, cost-efficient satellites to improve data delivery and resilience. Additionally, SpaceX secured seven of nine National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 3 missions for fiscal year 2025, valued at $845.8 million. The remaining two missions valued at $427.6 million, went to United Launch Alliance (ULA). These missions include payloads for the NRO and U.S. Space Force.

US Space Force will Revamp Training Programs to Prepare for Space Conflicts

The U.S. Space Force is revamping its training programs to address emerging threats in space and prepare for potential conflicts. Under the Operational Test and Training Infrastructure (OTTI) program, the Space Force plans to invest over $600 million in advanced simulators, range assets, and live operational exercises. This marks a significant increase from the program's initial $40 million budget, reflecting the growing need for cutting-edge technologies to counter adversaries like Russia and China.

Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman emphasized that traditional training focused on satellite operations is insufficient for modern challenges. The new force generation model will require specialized training, enhanced simulators, and realistic adversarial scenarios. STARCOM, the Space Force’s Training and Readiness Command, is acquiring hardware and software for wargaming platforms and cyber testing ranges. These efforts aim to ensure that Space Force service persons, also known as guardians, are equipped to operate in contested environments and maintain U.S. space superiority amid rising global competition.

The US Wants to Put Orbital Interceptors in Space to Project its Military Power

U.S. Space Command Chief Gen. Stephen Whiting, speaking at the 40th Space Symposium in Colorado, has emphasized the urgent need for orbital interceptors to deter and address potential conflicts in space. These interceptors, described as weapons, are intended to protect U.S. satellites and assets from adversaries like China and Russia, who are rapidly advancing their space capabilities. Whiting noted the importance of "space superiority capabilities" to ensure operational control and resilience in contested environments.

The call for orbital interceptors marks a shift in U.S. policy, breaking decades-long reluctance to openly discuss weaponization in space. Whiting stressed that while peaceful exploration remains the desired outcome, the U.S. must prepare for sustained space maneuvers and dynamic operations to counter threats. This includes developing technologies for satellite refueling, repair, and maneuverability. As global competition intensifies, the U.S. Space Force is investing in innovative solutions to maintain dominance and safeguard the future of space as a strategic domain.

Golden Dome Initiative: Pentagon Opens Doors to Commercial Firms for Boost-Phase Orbital Missile Defense

The Pentagon's Missile Defense Agency (MDA) is advancing its ambitious "Golden Dome" missile defense system, aiming to develop space-based interceptors capable of destroying missiles during their boost phase, to protect the U.S. from ballistic and hypersonic threats. This initiative revives space-based defense concepts from the Reagan-era Strategic Defense Initiative, leveraging modern technology to overcome past limitations. To overcome technological and economic challenges, the MDA is actively seeking innovative solutions from non-traditional defense contractors, with a conference scheduled later this month that will explore concepts for boost-phase missile interception during a missile's initial ascent, as well as post-boost and midcourse capabilities.

Recent advancements in space technology have renewed interest in orbital defense systems, which would require a constellation of specialized satellites and robust command-and-control architecture. L3Harris Technologies, a key player, is integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into the Golden Dome framework. Collaborations with firms like Palantir Technologies aim to create a "collaborative autonomous network" capable of processing data from hundreds of sensors and coordinating interceptors with unprecedented precision. While promising, the project faces technological and organizational hurdles, requiring a constellation of specialized satellites and robust command systems. The Golden Dome represents a significant leap in U.S. missile defense capabilities.

Umbra, LeoLabs Enhance Maritime & Space Surveillance Technologies

Umbra and LeoLabs are advancing space-based and ground-based surveillance technologies to address evolving security and operational challenges.

Umbra, a California-based satellite manufacturer, has been selected under the Strategic Funding Increase (STRATFI) program to develop next-generation synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites for maritime surveillance. These satellites, designed to operate in all weather conditions and through darkness, will enhance the U.S. military's ability to monitor vast ocean areas, detect unauthorized vessels, and support search and rescue missions in the Indo-Pacific region. The program, valued at up to $60 million, reflects growing interest in leveraging SAR technology for comprehensive, wide-area maritime monitoring.

Meanwhile, LeoLabs has unveiled its Scout-class radar, a mobile and modular system designed for rapid deployment to support space domain awareness (SDA) missions. The Scout radar, part of LeoLabs' Global Radar Network, can be transported to any location worldwide to monitor foreign launches and track space objects. This innovation addresses the increasing congestion and unpredictability of the space environment, offering adaptable solutions for real-time surveillance. Together, these initiatives highlight the critical role of advanced surveillance technologies in enhancing situational awareness and operational resilience across maritime and space domains, as global security challenges continue to evolve.

Foo Fighter Satellite Program, US Space Force's Space-Based Missile Tracking System, Reaches Key Design Milestone

Millennium Space Systems, a Boeing subsidiary, has reached a critical design milestone for the U.S. Space Force’s Foo Fighter missile-tracking satellite program. This constellation of eight satellites, equipped with advanced infrared sensors from L3Harris Technologies, is designed to detect and track hypersonic and evasive missile threats. The program, developed under a $414 million contract with the Space Development Agency (SDA), is part of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture, a growing network of low Earth orbit satellites aimed at enhancing global surveillance and secure communications, reflecting the U.S.'s focus on bolstering space-based defense capabilities.

The successful completion of the Critical Design Review (CDR) marks the transition to production, with deployment planned for 2027. Millennium Space Systems is also constructing a new facility in California to support the accelerated production timeline.

COMMERCIAL

Growing International Interest in Vast’s Haven-1 Commercial, On-Orbit Research Facility

Vast has announced three new payload partners for its Haven-1 Lab, the world’s first commercial crewed microgravity research and manufacturing facility, set to launch in May 2026. Japan Manned Space Systems Corporation (JAMSS), French biotech startup, Interstellar Lab, and Exobiosphere, a biotech firm based in Luxembourg, join existing collaborators, the U.S.-based space infrastructure provider, Redwire and Yuri, a German-Luxembourg space biotech, bringing expertise in space systems, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical research. JAMSS will develop a multi-purpose payload facility for microgravity experiments, while Interstellar Lab focuses on plant biology with its Eden 1.0 module. Exobiosphere plans to conduct pharmaceutical testing using advanced biotech screening.

Haven-1 is equipped to host 10 middeck lockers for research payloads, adhering to the same standards used on the ISS. However, it introduces a fresh aesthetic design to create a more comfortable and relaxed environment for researchers. Haven-1 expects to enhance international collaboration and speed up scientific breakthroughs in low Earth orbit (LEO). Nearly all payload slots are reserved, reflecting growing interest in off-ISS research platforms.

This initiative marks a significant step in redefining the role of commercial space stations in advancing science and innovation.

Aitech's IQSat & GomSpace-Neuraspace Partnership Highlight AI-Driven Progress in Satellite Technology

This week saw the increasing role of AI in advancing satellite technology for diverse applications. U.S.-based military and aerospace electronics provider Aitech unveiled IQSat, an AI-enabled picosatellite platform, designed for low Earth orbit missions. The compact satellite integrates artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities and is expected to deliver rapid, actionable insights across various sectors, including agriculture, defense, and environmental monitoring. Deployable in constellations ranging from five to thousands, IQSat offers on-orbit programmability and flexible payload options, enabling applications such as space situational awareness, anomaly detection, and real-time data analysis. Its low-cost, scalable design aims to make space-based intelligence more accessible for diverse industries.

Meanwhile, GomSpace, a Danish smallsat manufacturer, has partnered with Portugal’s Neuraspace to enhance satellite collision avoidance. Neuraspace’s AI-driven space traffic management tools will be integrated into GomSpace’s Hands-Off Operations Platform (HOOP), automating satellite tracking and collision-avoidance maneuvers. This collaboration addresses the growing risk of orbital congestion as satellite constellations expand, reducing operational costs and minimizing human error.

Growing Demand for Lunar Landers Beyond NASA Missions Drives Market for Diverse Stakeholders

Commercial lunar lander operators are experiencing increasing demand from international space agencies, universities, and private companies, diversifying beyond NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program. Intuitive Machines, a key CLPS participant, has secured contracts with other space agencies for payload delivery, pointing to the growing interest in affordable lunar access. These missions often involve smaller instruments, enabling organizations with limited budgets to participate in lunar exploration, as was the case with Intuitive Machine’s previous mission IM-2 earlier this year.

The commercial market is also expanding into resource extraction and cislunar communications. Companies like Firefly Aerospace and ispace are exploring regolith sample collection as a precursor to mining and eventual human habitation. Intuitive Machines has further diversified by offering rideshare opportunities and developing a lunar data network to support satellites operating at lunar distances.

SpaceX will launch Intuitive Machines’ fourth lunar lander, IM-4, in 2027, alongside two lunar relay satellites to support NASA’s Near Space Network Services. This mission builds on previous successes and setbacks, including the IM-2 lander’s crash near the lunar south pole. The relay satellites will expand Intuitive Machines’ pay-by-the-minute data service, scaling operations to support NASA and commercial lunar activities.

While the market remains nascent, repeated lunar missions are expected to reduce costs and risks, fostering broader participation.

Indian Propulsion Startup, Bellatrix Taps Into U.S. Market for Satellite Propulsion Growth

Bellatrix Aerospace, an Indian satellite propulsion manufacturer, is expanding into the U.S. market by establishing a subsidiary in Delaware. This move aims to strengthen its position in the global commercial space sector, leveraging its successful propulsion missions and innovative technologies. Bellatrix plans to open a manufacturing facility to support localized production, testing, and delivery of propulsion systems, enabling faster turnaround times and closer collaboration with U.S.-based customers.

The company’s electric Hall-effect thrusters and green propulsion alternatives have been space-qualified through missions with India’s space agency, ISRO. Bellatrix’s expansion aligns with the growing demand for propulsion systems in the U.S., which attracted 72% of global investments in space infrastructure over the past three years. With a Memorandum of Understanding signed with a prominent satellite manufacturer, Bellatrix aims to redefine space propulsion by offering cost-efficient, reliable solutions. This marks a significant milestone in its international growth journey.

Last months, Bellatrix Aerospace and Astroscale Japan signed an MoU to collaborate on space sustainability and in-orbit mobility, focusing on satellite servicing, debris removal, and sustainable operations, while facilitating Bellatrix's entry into Japan and Astroscale's expansion in India.

Space Forge’s US Semiconductor Operations will Leverage LEO Manufacturing to Reduce US Dependence on Foreign Chips

Space Forge, a British in-orbit manufacturing startup, is aiming to capitalize on the U.S.'s push for semiconductor independence by leveraging Low Earth Orbit (LEO) for next-generation chip production. The company has appointed materials scientist Atul Kumar to lead its U.S. semiconductor operations, focusing on developing high-quality substrates for radio frequency, power, and photonics applications. Space Forge plans to utilize microgravity, vacuum, and extreme temperature gradients in space to produce materials with superior crystal quality, enabling innovations in quantum computing and other emerging technologies.

This initiative aligns with the U.S. CHIPS and Science Act, which has invested billions to bring back semiconductor production to the U.S. amid supply chain disruptions and trade tensions. Meanwhile, Space Forge’s ForgeStar-1 spacecraft, set to launch later this year, will demonstrate in-space manufacturing capabilities and test reentry technologies. As the U.S. seeks to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, Space Forge’s expansion highlights the growing role of space-based manufacturing in bolstering economic and technological resilience.

Axiom Space's Orbital Data Centers on Kepler Satellites to Advance Space-Based Cloud Computing

Axiom Space is set to launch its first two Orbital Data Center (ODC) nodes to low Earth orbit (LEO) by the end of 2025, marking a significant step in space-based cloud computing. These ODC nodes, developed in collaboration with Kepler Communications, will integrate with Kepler’s optical data relay network to provide secure, scalable data storage and processing capabilities. Designed to operate independently of terrestrial infrastructure, the nodes will support applications such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and real-time decision-making for satellites and other space assets. The nodes will communicate with satellites in the Kepler network and other spacecraft using U.S. Space Development Agency-compliant optical terminals. They will enable real-time data processing and AI-driven analysis, while also offering "Earth-independent endpoint detection and response" for enhanced cybersecurity.

The initiative aims to address growing data demands across national security, commercial, and international sectors. By reducing reliance on Earth-based systems, the ODCs enhance resiliency and enable lower-latency operations.

RESEARCH SPOTLIGHT

Indian Scientists Develop Bacteria-Based Method to Repair Lunar Bricks

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed a bacteria-based technique to repair bricks for lunar habitats, addressing challenges posed by the Moon’s extreme environment. Using the bacterium Sporosarcina pasteurii, the method involves injecting a slurry of bacteria, guar gum, and lunar soil simulant into cracks in sintered bricks. The bacteria produce calcium carbonate and biopolymers, effectively sealing the cracks and restoring strength. This innovation extends the lifespan of lunar structures, reducing the need for replacements. Future tests aboard India’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission, aim to study the bacteria’s behavior in microgravity, advancing sustainable construction for extraterrestrial habitats. The research was published on March 27 in the journal Frontiers in Space Technologies.

Geoscientists Detect Rock Dripping into the Earth’s Mantle Beneath North America’s Crust

Geoscientists at the University of Texas, Austin, have uncovered a rare phenomenon beneath North America, where blobs of rock are slowly "dripping" from the continent's underside into the Earth's mantle. This process, known as cratonic thinning, is driven by remnants of the ancient Farallon Plate, which has been subducting beneath North America for millions of years. Concentrated under the U.S. Midwest, the thinning is altering the flow of mantle material and weakening the craton, a stable core of continental crust. Using advanced seismic imaging, researchers observed this geological change in real time, offering new insights into the evolution, recycling, and stability of Earth's continents. The new study was published March 28 in the journal Nature Geoscience.

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