May 2026
- Science
14 Years of Hubble Data Challenge Europa Water Plume Discovery: Scientists Question 2012 Observations
A team re-analyzing 14 years of Hubble Space Telescope data has cast doubt on the 2012 claims of water vapor plumes on Jupiter's moon Europa, suggesting the original 99.9% confidence detection may have been statistical noise.
- Commercial Space
Cryptocurrency Billionaire Chun Wang Announces SpaceX's First Private Starship Mars Flyby Mission
During the Starship V3 launch countdown, SpaceX announced a private Mars flyby mission led by cryptocurrency billionaire Chun Wang, who previously completed the Fram2 polar orbit flight in 2025. No specific launch date has been set.
- China Space
Shenzhou-23 Crew Revealed: Hong Kong Payload Specialist Li Jiaying Set for First Spaceflight to China's Station
China's Shenzhou-23 crew officially unveiled on May 23, featuring Commander Zhu Yangzhu, pilot Zhang Zhiyuan, and Hong Kong payload specialist Li Jiaying, who will become the first Hong Kong astronaut to fly to space. Launch is targeted for May 24 at 23:08 BJT.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Starship V3 Completes Successful First Flight as Flight 12 Mission Reaches Indian Ocean
SpaceX successfully launched Starship Version 3 for the first time on May 22, with the Super Heavy booster and Starship upper stage splashing down in the Gulf of Mexico and Indian Ocean respectively.
- NASA
NASA to Open JPL Operations Contract for Competition for First Time in Nearly 90 Years
NASA announced on May 22, 2026 that it will for the first time open to competitive bidding the contract to operate the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, whose exclusive agreement with Caltech expires on September 30, 2028.
- Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab Electron Launches Viva La StriX Mission, Deploying 9th Synspective SAR Satellite
Rocket Lab's Electron rocket delivered the 9th StriX synthetic aperture radar satellite to sun-synchronous orbit for Japanese operator Synspective, marking the 9th launch under a 10-launch contract.
- China Space
Shenzhou-23 Completes Full-System Launch Rehearsal; Crew Training Enters Final Phase
The Shenzhou-23 crewed mission completed its full-system launch rehearsal at Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on May 20, with the crew including Hong Kong payload specialist Lai Jiaying, set to become China's first female payload expert in space.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Files for IPO at $1.75-2 Trillion Valuation; Starship V3 Debut Launch Imminent
SpaceX formally filed for an IPO on Nasdaq (ticker: SPCX) with a valuation of $1.75-2 trillion, disclosing over $15 billion in cumulative Starship R&D spending, as its first Starship V3 test flight approaches.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Launches 29 Starlink Satellites from Cape Canaveral in Pre-Dawn Jellyfish Display
SpaceX successfully launched 29 Starlink V2 Mini Optimized satellites from Cape Canaveral before sunrise on May 21, with the rocket plume illuminated by early morning light in a so-called jellyfish effect visible along the US East Coast.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Scrubs Starship V3 Debut Launch at T-40 Seconds Over Hydraulic Pin Fault
SpaceX called off the first Starship Version 3 launch attempt at T-minus 40 seconds when the hydraulic pin on the launch tower mechanical arm failed to retract, postponing the debut of the third-generation Starship.
- Science
NASA's TESS Spacecraft Releases Most Complete All-Sky Mosaic Image
NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite releases its most complete all-sky mosaic, integrating all 96 observation sectors from April 2018 to September 2025.
- Science
Hidden Fuel-Efficient Trajectory Discovered for Earth-Moon Transit
An international research team has found a more efficient route from Earth to the Moon using advanced computer modeling, saving 58.8 m/s of delta-v compared to the previously cheapest known route, potentially reducing mission costs and avoiding communication blackouts.
- NASA
NASA Psyche Spacecraft Releases Stunning Mars Close-Up Images From Flyby
NASA's Psyche mission spacecraft released its first high-resolution images of Mars taken during a close flyby at approximately 2,864 miles (4,609 km) from the Red Planet's surface.
- Science
JWST Observations Reveal Nereid's True Origin: Not from Kuiper Belt, But Neptune's Original Moon
JWST observations combined with dynamical simulations reveal that Neptune's mysterious moon Nereid is not a captured Kuiper Belt object, but an original satellite that survived Triton's chaotic capture event.
- Science
Space Debris Surge Threatens Climate Satellites as Avoidance Maneuvers Accelerate
ESA tracking data reveals 180% increase in orbital debris since 2005, with satellites forced to burn precious fuel and lose scientific data to avoid collisions. Critical climate satellite Aqua may be decommissioned this fall.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Launches Starlink 17-42 from Vandenberg
SpaceX successfully launches 24 Starlink satellites on Falcon 9 from Vandenberg Space Force Base, with booster B1103 completing its 197th drone ship landing.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Completes Starship V3 Stacking, Clears First Full-Stack Fueling Test Ahead of Maiden Flight
SpaceX stacked the first Starship Version 3 vehicle at Starbase, Texas on May 19 and successfully conducted its first full-stack fueling test, targeting May 21 for the 12th test flight.
- Science
China's Tianwen-1 Mars Orbiter Observes Dust Activity of Interstellar Object 3I/ATLAS
Chinese scientists use the Tianwen-1 Mars orbiter's HiRIC camera to capture multiple images of the third interstellar object 3I/ATLAS, providing unique observations of interstellar dust activity from Mars orbit.
- China Space
China's Commercial Space Sector Enters 'Mass Production Era' as Launch Frequency Accelerates
2026 is recognized as the 'mass production year' for China's commercial space sector, with private launch vehicles like the Lijian series achieving 100-satellite orbit milestones and reusable rocket technology entering intensive verification.
- Science
Ultrastable Lasers in Moon's Permanently Shadowed Craters Could Enable Lunar GPS System
NIST researchers propose placing ultrastable lasers inside the moon's permanently shadowed craters near the south pole, leveraging extreme cold and vacuum conditions to build a GPS-like navigation network for future Artemis astronauts and spacecraft.
- NASA
NASA Awards LOXSAT Contract to Rocket Lab for Cryogenic Propellant Demo
NASA awards Rocket Lab a contract to build and operate LOXSAT, a satellite to demonstrate cryogenic fluid management and transfer technologies for on-orbit refueling, supporting Artemis lunar landers and future Mars missions.
- China Space
SMILE Satellite Successfully Launched: China-Europe Space Science Cooperation Takes Flight
The China-Europe joint SMILE satellite successfully launched via Vega C from French Guiana on May 19, marking the first-ever X-ray imaging observation of Earth's magnetosphere.
- SpaceX
Worker Dies at SpaceX's Starbase Ahead of Starship V3 Megarocket Launch
A worker died at SpaceX's Starbase site in South Texas early Friday (May 15), prompting an OSHA investigation, as the company prepared for the debut launch of its Starship V3 megarocket.
- Commercial Space
Vast Unveils 15 kW Commercial Satellite Bus, First 10 to Launch in Late 2027
Vast announces a new line of high-power commercial satellites based on its Haven Demo space station technology, with 4 confirmed orders and an option for 200 more, first batch launching in late 2027.
- Artemis
NASA Releases Stunning HD Video of Artemis 2 Orion Service Module Separation
NASA released high-definition footage on May 15 of the Artemis 2 Orion capsule separating from its European service module, capturing the moment the spacecraft drifted away before its Pacific splashdown on April 10, 2026.
- Science
Supernova Stardust Found in Antarctic Ice Could Reveal Solar System History
Scientists discovered radioactive iron isotope iron-60 from ancient supernovas trapped in Antarctic ice, providing clues about our solar system's journey through the Local Interstellar Cloud.
- Policy & Strategy
Scientists Warn: SpaceX Starlink and Other Satellite Megaconstellations Constitute an 'Unregulated Geoengineering Experiment'
Rapid deployment of SpaceX Starlink and other large satellite constellations is affecting Earth's atmosphere, scientists warn, calling for international regulation.
- ESA
Vega C Launches European-Chinese SMILE Space Weather Mission
Vega C rocket successfully launches the European-Chinese SMILE satellite to study solar wind, entering 707 km orbit
- Artemis
Green Bank Telescope Tracks Artemis 2 Orion Spacecraft Around the Moon for Five Days
The NSF Green Bank Telescope continuously tracked NASA's Artemis 2 Orion spacecraft around the moon for five days from over 200,000 miles away, achieving tracking precision of 0.2 millimeters per second.
- Space Station
SpaceX CRS-34 Cargo Dragon Successfully Docks with International Space Station
SpaceX CRS-34 cargo Dragon spacecraft successfully docked with the ISS on May 17, delivering approximately 6,500 pounds of science research materials and supplies.
- Science
Astronomers Discover 'Hidden' Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS in Pre-Discovery Archival Images
Astronomers have found that interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS was captured in Vera C. Rubin Observatory data between June 21 and July 2, 2025 — over a week before its official discovery.
- Science
Mars Express Orbiter Releases Stunning Images of Ancient Flood Carved Terrain
The ESA-Roscosmos Mars Express orbiter releases high-resolution images revealing chaos craters and valley networks carved by ancient floods, providing new evidence that Mars was once far warmer and wetter.
- China Space
Shenzhou 23 Spaceship-Rocket Assembly Transferred to Launch Area Ahead of Imminent Launch
On May 16, 2026 (Beijing Time), the Shenzhou 23 crew spacecraft and Long March 2F Y23 carrier rocket assembly were transferred to the launch area at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, with launch planned in the coming days.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Starship V3 vs Its Predecessors: A Detailed Comparison of the World's Biggest Rocket
SpaceX publishes a detailed technical breakdown comparing Starship V3 with previous versions, highlighting major upgrades in thrust, payload capacity and design ahead of the targeted May 19 maiden flight.
- SpaceX
SpaceX CRS-34 Cargo Mission Launches Successfully, 6,500 Pounds Bound for ISS
SpaceX successfully launched the CRS-34 cargo mission on May 15, delivering approximately 6,500 pounds of science and supplies to the International Space Station after two prior weather scrubs.
- Science
JWST Maps Universe's Largest Structure in Unprecedented Detail Spanning 13.7 Billion Years
NASA's James Webb Space Telescope, via the COSMOS-Web survey, has produced the most detailed map of the cosmic web ever made, spanning from just 1 billion years after the Big Bang to the nearby universe.
- China Space
Li Jian-1 Yao-13 Launches Five Satellites as Series Reaches 100-Orbit Milestone
On May 15, 2026 at 04:33 UTC, CAS Space's Li Jian-1 Yao-13 rocket successfully placed five satellites into orbit from the Dongfeng Commercial Space Innovation Experimental Zone, marking the Li Jian series' 100th satellite delivered to orbit.
- Science
Scientists Propose New Approach to Alien Life Search: Europa Clipper Could Lead the Way
Researchers find that searching for alien life requires not just detecting biosignatures but analyzing how they are organized — and Europa Clipper's MASS instrument may already have the capability.
- Japan
Japan's Intelligence Satellite Constellation Now Operational: Boosting Counterstrike Capabilities
Japan's Defense Affairs Vice Minister Wakabayashi Yohei announced on May 14 that the intelligence-gathering satellite network 'Satellite Constellation' has been operational since April, designed to ensure the effectiveness of long-range missiles as part of Japan's 'counterstrike capability'.
- NASA
NASA, Eta Space Partner on In-Orbit Cryogenic Fluid Management Demo
NASA partners with Eta Space to demonstrate key cryogenic fluid management technologies for in-space propellant depots supporting future deep space missions.
- NASA
NASA Issues Mars Telecommunications Network RFP, Seeks Industry Partners for 2030 Deployment
NASA releases a formal Request for Proposal for the Mars Telecommunications Network, seeking industry collaboration with a budget of approximately $700 million and a target operational date around 2030.
- NASA
NASA-Supported 3D Printing Tech Advances Earthly Construction
A 3D printing process that advanced NASA's approach to outfitting a lunar habitat is now making buildings on Earth more beautiful, efficient, and sustainable.
- Science
NASA's Asteroid-Bound Psyche Probe Captures Mars 'Eclipse' View During Flyby
NASA's Psyche spacecraft captured a rare image of Mars appearing to eclipse the Sun during a flyby on May 14, 2026 — the first time a Mars eclipse has been photographed from the perspective of an asteroid-bound probe.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Reportedly Exploring International Launch Sites for Starship Rocket
SpaceX is in discussions with multiple countries to establish Starship launch facilities outside the United States, according to sources familiar with the matter, as the company prepares for the rocket's third integrated flight test.
- Commercial Space
Hong Kong's First Space Science Payload 'Tianyun Camera' Arrives at China's Space Station aboard Tianzhou-10
The Multispectral Imaging Carbon Observer (MUSICO), developed by HKUST, becomes Hong Kong's first scientific payload on China's Tiangong space station, designed to monitor global CO2 and methane emissions.
- Commercial Space
ULA Completes Critical Solid Rocket Booster Test, Advancing Vulcan Return-to-Flight
ULA successfully conducted a static fire test of the GEM 63XL solid rocket booster on April 15, validating nozzle design improvements and advanced propellant technology as part of the Vulcan rocket's anomaly investigation following the USSF-87 mission in February 2026.
- China Space
Yixian-3 VTVL Rocket Test Success: China's First University-Led Symmetric Reusable Liquid Rocket
Sun Yat-sen University successfully completed a low-altitude Vertical Takeoff and Vertical Landing (VTVL) test of the Yixian-3 reusable liquid rocket on May 14, 2026 in Yangjiang, Guangdong. The 4.5-meter, 1-ton rocket completed a 30-second flight sequence, marking China's first university-led symmetric reusable liquid rocket.
- Commercial Space
Landspace's Zhuque-2E Y5 Successful with 2.8-ton Payload to 900km Orbit
Landspace's Zhuque-2E Y5 rocket successfully launched on May 14, 2026, placing a 2.8-ton customized test payload into a 900km orbit, marking the seventh flight of the Zhuque-2 series.
- Artemis
Blue Origin's Blue Moon Lander Mockup Assembled at NASA JSC for Artemis Training
Blue Origin's full-scale Blue Moon Mark 2 crew lander mockup has been assembled at NASA's Johnson Space Center, ready for Artemis 3 astronaut training ahead of their mission.
- Science
Amaterasu Particle and Cosmic Ray Origins: 60-Year Mystery May Be Solved
The Amaterasu particle, the second most powerful cosmic ray ever detected, struck Earth in 2021 with the kinetic energy of a tennis ball. New research suggests it may originate from atomic nuclei heavier than iron, potentially solving a 60-year-old cosmic ray mystery.
- SpaceX
NASA, SpaceX Scrub CRS-34 Launch Again Due to Weather, Now Targeting May 15
NASA and SpaceX called off the CRS-34 cargo mission for the second time due to persistent poor weather at Cape Canaveral, with the next launch opportunity targeted for May 15 at 6:05 p.m. EDT.
- Policy & Strategy
CBO Estimates US Golden Dome Missile Defense Could Cost $1.2 Trillion Over 20 Years
The US Congressional Budget Office estimates Trump's Golden Dome space-based missile defense system could cost $1.2 trillion over 20 years, far exceeding the administration's $185 billion estimate, with space-based interceptors accounting for 60% of costs.
- Commercial Space
Google in Talks with SpaceX Over Orbital Data Center Launch Deal
Google is negotiating a rocket launch agreement with SpaceX to support its Project Suncatcher orbital data center program, targeting prototype launches by 2027.
- Artemis
NASA Outlines Preliminary Artemis III Plans: 2027 Earth Orbit Rendezvous Test
NASA released preliminary Artemis III mission plans on May 13, 2026, downgrading the objective from a crewed lunar landing to a low Earth orbit rendezvous and docking test with commercial landers, planned for 2027.
- NASA
NASA ISS Research: How Space Bacteria That Cause Pneumonia Damage the Heart
Expedition 74 astronauts aboard the ISS are uncovering how pneumonia-causing bacteria lead to long-term heart damage in microgravity, offering new insights for cardiovascular disease treatment on Earth.
- China Space
World First: Artificial Human Embryos Enter Space Experiment Phase on China's Space Station
Samples of an artificial human embryo experiment carried to space aboard Tianzhou-10 cargo spacecraft have been installed in a China Space Station experiment module, marking the world's first such experiment in orbit.
- Science
Laser Detection Technique Reveals Environmental Impact of Falling Space Debris
Germany's Leibniz Institute of Atmospheric Physics uses three green laser beams to detect metal vapor clouds generated by decaying satellites and rocket bodies, quantifying their potential impact on Earth's atmosphere.
- SpaceX
NASA, SpaceX Scrub CRS-34 Launch Due to Poor Weather, Target May 13
NASA and SpaceX call off the 34th Commercial Resupply Services mission from Cape Canaveral due to unfavorable weather conditions, with a retry targeted for May 13.
- NASA
NASA's Next-Gen Space Processor Enters Testing: 100x Computing Power for Moon and Mars Missions
NASA's High Performance Spaceflight Computing chip, palm-sized yet delivering 100x the computing power of current space computers, enters radiation and thermal testing ahead of Artemis and Mars missions.
- Science
NASA Perseverance Rover Snaps New Selfie at Mars' Western Frontier
NASA's Perseverance rover captured a new selfie mosaic at Mars' Western Frontier, setting a new record for the number of Mars selfies, composed from multiple WATSON camera images.
- China Space
China Launches Qianfan-09 Polar Orbit Satellites on Long March 6 Modified Rocket
On May 12, 2026 at 19:59 Beijing Time, China successfully launched the Qianfan-09 polar orbit satellite group from Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center using a Long March 6 Modified (LM-6改) rocket, placing the satellites into their planned orbits. This was the 642nd flight of the Long March rocket series.
- Science
Satellites Spy Russia's Most Active Volcano Melting Snow From the Inside Out
New Landsat 9 satellite images reveal volcanic heat carving dark scars through snow on Russia's Shiveluch volcano on the Kamchatka Peninsula.
- Commercial Space
Star Catcher Raises $65 Million Series A to Build World's First Space Power Grid
Star Catcher Industries has raised $65 million in an oversubscribed Series A funding round to develop the world's first in-space power grid, beaming solar energy to client satellites via laser.
- China Space
Tianzhou-10 Delivers 67 Scientific Payloads to Tiangong Space Station
China's Tianzhou-10 cargo spacecraft carries 67 research products and 41 scientific experiments to Tiangong Space Station, covering space life science, microgravity physics, new space technologies, and astronomy & Earth science.
- China Space
China's Tianzhou-10 Delivers New Space Treadmill to Tiangong Space Station
Tianzhou-10 cargo spacecraft delivers a new upgraded space treadmill to China's Tiangong space station, joining bicycles, resistance trainers and core muscle devices to form a complete 'space gym' for astronauts.
- Science
New Study Suggests Uranus and Neptune Are Rockier Than Expected, Challenging Ice Giant Classification
Researchers found that the outer atmospheres of Uranus and Neptune are primarily composed of rock rather than ice, challenging the long-held 'ice giant' classification.
- Policy & Strategy
US Space Force Releases Officer Career Development Path Document
The US Space Force published the Officer Career Development Path document, outlining a 20-year 'career delta' for newly commissioned officers, emphasizing a 'Guardians first, specialists second' philosophy.
- Commercial Space
Cowboy Space Raises $275 Million to Deploy AI Data Centers in Earth Orbit
American space computing company Cowboy Space (formerly Aetherflux) closes $275 million Series B to build and operate AI data centers in Earth orbit, with first launch targeted for late this year.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Targets May 19 for Starship V3 Debut from Launch Pad 2
After completing integrated tanking test, SpaceX announces V3 will launch no earlier than May 19 from new Pad 2, marking transition to high-frequency V3 operations
- Artemis
How NASA Lunar Scientists Taught Artemis 2 Astronauts to See the Moon with Different Eyes
NASA lunar science teams trained Artemis 2 astronauts in specialized observation techniques to prepare them for future lunar missions.
- Artemis
Artemis III SLS Core Stage Arrives at Kennedy Space Center for Final Assembly
NASA announces Artemis III SLS rocket core stage has been lifted into Vehicle Assembly Building High Bay 2 at Kennedy Space Center, ahead of engine attachment and final integration for a 2027 launch
- Science
James Webb Telescope Images Reveal How Massive Star Clusters Reshape Galaxies
NASA released new James Webb Space Telescope imagery on May 11, 2026, showing how massive star clusters influence their host galaxies' evolution through feedback mechanisms.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Launches NRO Reconnaissance Satellite Constellation Batch 13 from Vandenberg
SpaceX successfully launched the 13th batch of NRO reconnaissance satellites on a Falcon 9 from Vandenberg Space Force Base on May 11, with booster landing on drone ship
- China Space
China Unveils Shenzhou-23 Crewed Mission Badge: Circular Emblem Blends Tradition and Modernity
China's Manned Space Agency officially released the mission badge for the Shenzhou-23 crewed flight, featuring a circular design with the Long March 2F rocket, a flying apsaras figure, and golden auspicious clouds, symbolizing the three crew members.
- Science
M5.7 Solar Flare and CME Trigger Atlantic Radio Blackouts
On May 11, 2026, an M5.7-class solar flare accompanied by a coronal mass ejection triggered radio blackouts over the Atlantic, raising chances of northern lights across the Northern Hemisphere.
- China Space
Tianzhou-10 Cargo Spacecraft Docks with Tiangong Space Station
On May 11, 2026, the Tianzhou-10 cargo spacecraft successfully docked with China's Tiangong space station complex approximately 6 hours after launch, delivering 6.3 tonnes of supplies and 700 kg of propellant.
- China Space
Tianzhou-10 Cargo Spacecraft Launches Successfully
China successfully launched the Tianzhou-10 cargo spacecraft aboard a Long March 7 rocket from Wenchang Space Launch Site on May 11, 2026 at 08:14 Beijing Time (00:14 UTC).
- China Space
Tianzhou-10 Sets 12-Month Space Station Docking Record, China's Cargo Resupply Enters 'Annual Mode'
Tianzhou-10 cargo spacecraft will remain docked to Tiangong for 12 months, setting a new record for the Tianzhou series and marking China's space station supply chain entering an annual resupply era.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Completes First Starship V3 Wet Checkout: Over 5,000 Ton Propellant Load Marks Final Pre-flight Milestone
On May 11, 2026, SpaceX performed the first full-stack propellant load of the Starship Version 3 at Starbase, Texas, loading over 5,000 metric tons of liquid oxygen and methane — a key pre-flight milestone ahead of the IFT-12 launch targeting May 15.
- Artemis
Artemis 2 Commander, Astrophotographer Team Up for First-Ever True-Color Photos of the Moon's Far Side
NASA astrophotographer Andrew McCarthy collaborated with Artemis 2 commander Reid Wiseman to process astronaut-captured lunar images using stacking techniques, producing the first high-fidelity true-color photographs of the Moon's far side.
- Artemis
Artemis 2 Orion Spacecraft Shows Off Charred Heat Shield in First Public Appearance After Moon Mission
NASA releases first photos of Artemis 2 Orion capsule since its April return from a 10-day lunar flyaround, revealing the extreme thermal abuse its heat shield endured reentering Earth's atmosphere at nearly 24,000 mph.
- China Space
China's Space Cloud Initiative Unites 100+ Organizations for Integrated Satellite Services
At the 2nd Aerospace Information Technology Conference, China's Aerospace Institute joined over 100 organizations to launch the Space Cloud Ecosystem Initiative, integrating communications, remote sensing, navigation and computing satellites.
- NASA
NASA's Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory Gets Critical Rescue Mission Update
NASA's Link spacecraft, designed to rescue the aging Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory from orbital decay, passes key environmental testing at Goddard Space Flight Center ahead of a planned 2026 launch.
- Policy & Strategy
Pentagon Releases First Tranche of Declassified UFO Files, Including Nearly 30 Secret Videos
The Pentagon released its first batch of 161 declassified UFO files on May 8, 2026, including nearly 30 secret videos captured by various military platforms, marking the largest UFO disclosure in U.S. government history.
- Science
NASA Voyager Probes Power Dwindling; 'Big Bang' Maneuver Planned to Extend Mission Life
NASA reveals on May 9, 2026 that the twin Voyager spacecraft, launched in 1977, are running low on power and the mission team is preparing a risky 'Big Bang' maneuver to extend their operational lives.
- Artemis
Artemis 2 Crew Witnesses Impact Flashes on the Far Side of the Moon
NASA Artemis 2 astronauts observed multiple meteoroid impact flashes on the lunar far side during their April 6 flyby, the first direct human observations of such phenomena in cislunar space.
- Blue Origin
Blue Origin's Endurance Lander Completes NASA Center Tests, Targeting Late 2027 Launch
Blue Origin's Endurance test lander completed vacuum chamber testing at NASA's Johnson Space Center and has been shipped to Blue Origin's Huntsville facility, advancing toward a late 2027 launch target for the NASA lunar landing system mission.
- NASA
NASA's Curiosity Rover Held Hostage by 29-Pound Mars Rock for 6 Days
NASA's Curiosity rover accidentally extracted an entire rock nicknamed 'Atacama' while drilling on April 25, with the 13-kilogram rock stubbornly stuck to the drill sleeve for 6 days before engineers could free it.
- Science
Machine Learning Discovers Over 10,000 Candidate Exoplanets in NASA Survey Data
Scientists applied machine learning to NASA's TESS satellite data, scanning 83 million faint stars and identifying 10,091 new candidate exoplanets in a single survey—a haul that could more than double humanity's known exoplanet catalog.
- Science
Black Holes Slamming into Wolf-Rayet Stars May Explain the Universe's Most Mysterious Blue Flashes
Astronomers propose a new theory: Luminous Fast Blue Optical Transients (LFBOTs) — the universe's brightest and fastest blue optical explosions — may be caused by black holes or neutron stars slamming into Wolf-Rayet stars at extreme speeds.
- NASA
NASA Tests Regenerative Fuel Cell System for Sustainable Energy Storage on the Moon
NASA Glenn Research Center successfully tested a regenerative fuel cell system that converts hydrogen and oxygen into electricity and can be recharged by splitting water, designed for long-term Artemis lunar missions.
- NASA
NASA, Industry Partner to Advance High Performance Spaceflight Computing
NASA teams with industry partners to advance High Performance Spaceflight Computing system-on-chip, enabling next-gen deep space missions.
- China Space
Tianzhou-10 Cargo Spacecraft Transferred to Launch Pad Ahead of Imminent Launch
China's Tianzhou-10 cargo spacecraft and Long March-7 Y11 rocket combination was vertically transferred to the launch site at Wenchang on May 8, marking final preparations for launch.
- Artemis
Artemis 2 Launch Draws Nearly 350,000 Visitors to Florida Space Coast
NASA's Artemis 2 crewed lunar mission launch on April 1, 2026 attracted approximately 346,000 U.S. visitors to Florida's Space Coast, far exceeding the 226,000 visitors from the uncrewed Artemis 1 launch in 2022.
- ESA
Europe's Space Rider Reusable Spacecraft Passes Extreme Heat Test, One Step Closer to Flight
ESA's Space Rider reusable spacecraft completes thermal protection system testing under extreme conditions while full-scale drop-test model finishes assembly, marking a key milestone for Europe's first reusable orbital vehicle.
- Artemis
Blue Origin Blue Moon Mark 2 Crew Cabin Mockup Arrives at NASA Johnson Space Center
A full-scale mockup of the crew cabin for Blue Origin's Blue Moon Mark 2 lander arrived at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston for astronaut training under the Artemis program.
- Science
NASA's CHAPEA Mission 2 Crew Marks 200 Days in Mars Habitat Simulation
The four crew members of NASA's Crew Health and Performance Exploration Analog (CHAPEA) Mission 2 marked 200 days inside the Mars-analog habitat at Johnson Space Center, passing the halfway point of their 378-day mission.
- NASA
NASA Next-Gen Mars Helicopter Rotor Blades Break Sound Barrier in Key Test
NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory successfully accelerated next-generation Mars helicopter rotor blades to supersonic speeds in March tests, marking a major milestone for Mars aerial exploration.
- Artemis
Paraguay Signs Artemis Accords, Becomes 67th Signatory
The Republic of Paraguay signed the Artemis Accords during a ceremony in Asunción on May 7, 2026, becoming the 67th nation to commit to shared principles for civil space exploration.
- Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab Signs Five-Launch Neutron Deal, Confirms Late 2026 Debut Target
Rocket Lab announces a five-launch Neutron contract with a mystery customer while reporting $2.2 billion in backlog and reaffirming Q4 2026 first flight.
- NASA
NASA-Backed SNAPPY CubeSat Launches to Test Solar Neutrino Detector
A NASA-supported CubeSat called SNAPPY launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 from Vandenberg to test a prototype solar neutrino detector in low Earth orbit.
- Science
New Study Reveals Moon's Largest Impact Basin Formed by 'Decapitated' Asteroid
High-resolution 3D simulations by Purdue researchers show the South Pole-Aitken basin on the Moon's far side was formed by a differentiated asteroid striking at a shallow angle, decapitating its outer layers.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Static-Fires 33-Engine Starship V3 Super Heavy Booster Ahead of May 15 Launch
SpaceX conducted a full-duration, full-thrust static fire test of all 33 Raptor engines on the V3 Super Heavy booster at Starbase, Texas on May 7, targeting Flight 12 for May 15.
- Commercial Space
China Approves First Commercial Satellite IoT Trial with Tianqi Constellation
China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has approved Beijing Guodian Gaoke Technology to conduct a two-year commercial pilot for satellite-based IoT services, making the Tianqi Constellation the country's first approved LEO satellite IoT constellation for commercial use.
- China Space
Tianzhou-9 Cargo Spacecraft Re-enters Atmosphere
China's Tianzhou-9 cargo spacecraft re-entered the Earth's atmosphere in a controlled manner at 7:49 a.m. Beijing Time on May 7, with a small amount of debris falling into designated safe waters.
- Blue Origin
Blue Origin Targets 60 New Glenn Upper Stages Per Year by 2028
Blue Origin reveals production ramp roadmap for New Glenn rocket upper stages, targeting 60 units annually by Q3 2028 and 100 by 2029, alongside Quattro upgrade to 9x4 heavy-lift configuration.
- Blue Origin
Blue Origin Revamps Employee Incentive Plan Amid SpaceX IPO Threat
Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin unveils new employee stock plan with $9.50 strike price and cash settlement mode to counter talent drain as SpaceX targets $1.75T IPO in June 2026.
- China Space
China's Astronaut Center Recruits Volunteers for 60-Day Bed Rest Study
China's Astronaut Research and Training Center launched recruitment for the 'Dixing-3' bed rest experiment, seeking male volunteers aged 30-55 to spend 15-60 days in head-down bed rest to study physiological effects of microgravity.
- Science
JWST Reveals Exoplanet Odd Couple That Migrated Inward Together
Observations of the TOI-1130 system by the James Webb Space Telescope have uncovered a rare pair—a hot Jupiter and a mini-Neptune—that both formed in the outer reaches of their star system before migrating inward, offering new insights into planetary evolution.
- Space Station
ISS Zvezda Module Cracking Remains Unresolved
NASA and Roscosmos continue joint investigation into structural cracks in the Zvezda service module's PrK vestibule, with sealant successfully stopping air leaks but root cause still unidentified.
- NASA
New NASA Technology Simulates Extreme Cold of the Lunar Night
A NASA Glenn team has developed a groundbreaking ground-test method that can replicate the extreme cold of the lunar night, reaching temperatures as low as -173°C, to verify materials and systems for lunar surface operations.
- NASA
NASA's Roman Space Telescope Set to Revolutionize Hunt for Elusive Neutron Stars
NASA's Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will systematically search the Milky Way for isolated neutron stars using its revolutionary wide-field infrared capabilities, targeting a launch after September 2026.
- Science
Solar Activity Causes Space Junk to Crash to Earth Faster
Scientists studying 36 years of orbital debris data find that increased solar activity causes space junk to fall into Earth's atmosphere at an accelerated rate, offering key insights for sustainable space operations.
- China Space
Tianzhou-9 Cargo Spacecraft Undocks from Tiangong Space Station
The Tianzhou-9 cargo spacecraft successfully undocked from the Tiangong Space Station on May 6, 2026, and will conduct a controlled re-entry into Earth's atmosphere in the coming days.
- Artemis
NASA's Revised Moon Plan: Can Crewed Landing Happen in 2028?
NASA unveils revised Artemis plan: Artemis 3 becomes Earth-orbit test, crewed landing pushed to Artemis 4 in late 2028; both SpaceX Starship HLS and Blue Origin Blue Moon face tight 2027 milestones.
- Artemis
NASA Releases 12,000 Photos from Artemis II Mission, Showcasing Pre-Launch Preparations
NASA published approximately 12,000 photos from the Artemis II mission, documenting astronaut training and preparation activities inside the Orion spacecraft.
- Science
NASA's New Ion Thruster Passes 120-Kilowatt Test, Advancing Crewed Mars Missions
A NASA/JPL magnetoplasmadynamic thruster using lithium metal vapor propellant achieved 120 kilowatts in first tests — the first time the US has operated electric propulsion at such power levels.
- Policy & Strategy
Former NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine Named CEO of Quantum Space
Former NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine (2018–2021) has been appointed CEO of Quantum Space, a company developing Ranger spacecraft for military and commercial operations from LEO to cislunar space.
- Commercial Space
US and Australian Startups Partner for Commercial Space Debris Removal Service by 2027
Portal Space Systems of the US and Australian startup Paladin Space announce partnership to offer commercial Debris Removal as a Service (DRAAS) using the maneuverable Starburst spacecraft, targeting operational launch in 2027.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Falcon 9 Launches Starlink 17-29 Mission from Vandenberg
SpaceX's Falcon 9 launched the Starlink 17-29 mission on May 5, 2026, deploying 24 Starlink satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base. Booster B1081 completed its 24th flight and successfully landed on drone ship Of Course I Still Love You.
- Blue Origin
Blue Origin's Blue Moon Mark 1 Completes NASA Thermal Vacuum Testing
Blue Origin's Blue Moon Mark 1 (MK1) lunar lander has completed full environmental testing inside NASA's Thermal Vacuum Chamber A at Johnson Space Center, paving the way for its CLPS mission to the lunar South Pole.
- Artemis
Ireland Becomes 66th Artemis Accords Signatory, Joining NASA in Lunar Exploration Commitment
Ireland signed the Artemis Accords on May 4, 2026, becoming the 66th signatory and completing all 23 ESA member state adoptions of the principles for responsible space exploration.
- Science
JWST Makes First Direct Observation of an Exoplanet's Surface: 'A Dark, Hot, Barren Rock'
NASA's James Webb Space Telescope has directly observed the surface of exoplanet LHS 3844b, revealing it as a dark, super-heated rock with no atmosphere, marking a new era in exoplanet surface geology.
- Commercial Space
Lockheed Martin Joins Firefly Aerospace and Seagate Space for Offshore Launch Collaboration
Lockheed Martin announced it is joining Firefly Aerospace and Seagate Space's offshore launch collaboration, supporting Alpha rocket launches from the Seagate Space Gateway floating platform.
- Artemis
Malta Becomes 65th Artemis Accords Signatory, Joining NASA's Lunar Coalition
Malta signed the Artemis Accords on May 4 in Kalkara, becoming the 65th signatory and reinforcing international commitments to peaceful and responsible space exploration under NASA's leadership.
- NASA
NASA's LAGEOS-1 Celebrates 50 Years in Earth Orbit: A Legacy of Geodynamic Science
NASA's Laser Geodynamic Satellite (LAGEOS-1), launched on May 4, 1976, marks its 50th anniversary in orbit — the oldest human-made object still fully operational in Earth orbit, serving as a precise reference point for geodesy and geophysics research.
- NASA
NASA Fosters Lunar Resource-Seeking Technologies for Sustainable Deep Space Exploration
NASA and industry partners are developing technologies to extract critical resources — including hydrogen and helium-3 — from the lunar surface, supporting long-duration missions to the Moon and Mars under the Artemis framework.
- Policy & Strategy
Planetary Society CEO Slams NASA Budget Proposal as 'Horrible Threat to Our Future' in Space
Planetary Society's new CEO Jennifer Vaughn calls Trump's FY2026 NASA budget proposal a 'horrible threat' and 'lazy,' vowing to lobby Congress to restore funding
- SpaceX
SpaceX Falcon 9 Launches CAS500-2 Korean Earth Observation Satellite from Vandenberg
On May 3, 2026, SpaceX's Falcon 9 successfully launched the CAS500-2 Earth observation satellite for South Korea from Vandenberg Space Force Base.
- Commercial Space
Dahang Yaqian Raises 500M RMB in Series A, Accelerating China's First Tower-Capture Reusable Rocket
Shanghai-based Dahang Yaqian secures 500M RMB A-round funding to advance the Yueqian-1, China's first tower-capture reusable launch vehicle, targeting maiden flight in 2027.
- China Space
Hainan Commercial Spaceport Phase 2 Construction Accelerates, Launch Pad 3 Over 80% Complete
CCTV highlights rapid progress at Hainan Commercial Spaceport Phase 2, with launch pads 3 and 4 advancing steadily; once completed, annual launch capacity will reach 60 missions.
- China Space
Pakistani Astronauts Photographed Wearing Chinese Space Suits: 'Feitian' Intravehicular Suit Makes an Impressive Debut
As preparations for the Shenzhou-23 launch enter their final phase, two Pakistani astronauts have been photographed wearing China's domestically developed 'Feitian' intravehicular spacesuit, showcasing the deep friendship of China-Pakistan space cooperation and the international recognition of Chinese space equipment.
- Space Station
Shenzhou-21 Crew Marks Six Months on China's Space Station
Astronauts Zhang Lu, Wu Fei and Zhang Hongzhang complete six months on orbit, conducting brain-computer experiments and preparing for Tianzhou-10 and Shenzhou-23 missions.
- China Space
Shenzhou-23 Countdown: China's Space Station Crew Milestone, Global Launch Updates
Commander Zhang Lu surpasses 500 cumulative days in orbit as Shenzhou-23 launch approaches, while Wenchang commercial launch site expands and SpaceX Falcon Heavy delivers ViaSat-3 F3 satellite.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Fleet Surpasses 600 Rocket Recoveries, Saving Approximately $16.8 Billion in Costs
As of early May 2026, SpaceX's Falcon rocket fleet has exceeded 600 reuses with approximately 607 total landings, including four boosters with over 40 reuses each, delivering cumulative cost savings of about $16.8 billion.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Plans Largest Ever IPO at $1.75 Trillion Valuation
SpaceX's代号「Apex」IPO is targeting a $1.75 trillion valuation with a $75 billion fundraising round, set to become the largest IPO in history.
- SpaceX
80 Texas Residents Sue SpaceX Over Rocket Sonic Boom Property Damage, Seeking Millions in Compensation
On May 3, 2026, 80 Texas residents filed a federal lawsuit against SpaceX, alleging that sonic booms from 11 rocket tests between April 2023 and October 2025 caused significant property damage to their homes near the Boca Chica Starbase facility.
- NASA
Trump Administration Proposes 24% NASA Budget Cut, Largest Single-Year Reduction in Agency History
The Trump administration's FY2026 budget proposal would slash NASA's funding by $6 billion, reducing it from $24.8 billion to $18.8 billion — returning the agency to 1980 spending levels in real terms.
- Commercial Space
Foxconn's Second-Generation LEO Satellites Successfully Launched, PEARL-1A and PEARL-1B Enter Predetermined Orbits
Foxconn's second-generation LEO satellites were successfully launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from California, with PEARL-1A and PEARL-1B entering their predetermined orbits to begin a five-year mission.
- Blue Origin
Blue Origin Unveils Quattro Upgrade for New Glenn: 9x4 Super Heavy Configuration to Debut Next Year
Blue Origin announced on May 1, 2026 its Quattro second-stage upgrade program for the New Glenn rocket, upgrading from the current 7x2 to a 9 BE-4 first stage + 4 BE-3U second stage 9x4 super heavy configuration, with first flight expected as early as next year.
- China Space
CNSA Hosts Commercial Space High-Quality Development Enterprise Roundtable
CNSA Director Shan Zhide chaired a commercial space development enterprise roundtable with 14 companies from rocket manufacturing, satellite production, launch services, and satellite applications.
- ESA
ESA Completes First Full-Size Space Rider Test Model Assembly
ESA announces the assembly of the first full-scale test model of Space Rider, Europe's reusable space transportation system, marking a key milestone toward European independent reusable space cargo capability.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Falcon 9 Derelict Upper Stage Set for Lunar Impact on August 5: Scientists Warn of Deep-Space Debris Crisis
Astronomers confirm a defunct SpaceX Falcon 9 upper stage will strike the Moon near Einstein Crater on August 5, 2026, at ~2.43 km/s, highlighting growing concerns over deep-space orbital debris management.
- Science
NASA's Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope Completes Assembly, Set for September Launch
NASA announces its next-generation Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope has completed full assembly and testing, scheduled to launch in September 2026 aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket.
- SpaceX
SpaceX IPO Filing Reveals Over $15B Invested in Starship, $1.75T Valuation
Reuters reports SpaceX's confidential IPO filing shows the company has invested over $15 billion in Starship development, valued at $1.75 trillion, with Starlink V3 satellites planned for launch in H2 2026.
- Artemis
Artemis III Core Stage Arrives at Kennedy, SLS Rocket Enters Final Assembly Phase
NASA's SLS rocket Artemis III Core Stage transported in two stages from Michoud to Kennedy Space Center, marking the final sprint toward US crewed lunar return.
- Artemis
NASA Artemis II Crew Rings Nasdaq Closing Bell
The crew of NASA's Artemis II mission rang the Nasdaq closing bell in New York, celebrating the successful completion of humanity's first crewed lunar flyby mission in nearly 50 years.
- China Space
Dahang Yuetqian Raises 500 Million RMB in New Funding Round to Accelerate Reusable Rocket Development
Shanghai-based commercial space company Dahang Yuetqian has completed a 500 million RMB (approximately $69 million) financing round to advance its first orbital-class reusable rocket, the Yuetqian-1, with a planned maiden flight in 2027.
- China Space
Hainan Commercial Spaceport Phase II Enters Final Sprint, Launch Pad 3 Over 80% Complete
During China's May 1st Labor Day holiday, hundreds of workers pressed ahead with construction of the Hainan Commercial Spaceport Phase II project. The lightning tower has completed its 8th section installation, prefab equipment buildings have topped out, and overall progress exceeds 80%, with completion targeted for end of May.
- NASA
NASA Kennedy Space Center Director Janet Petro Announces Retirement Plans
NASA Kennedy Space Center Director Janet Petro announced her retirement plans, having led the center's transformation into a premier commercial spaceport.
- China Space
First Foreign Astronauts Announced: Two Pakistani Astronauts Begin Training at China's Space Program
On April 24, 2026, China announced the selection of its first foreign astronauts — two Pakistani pilots who have now begun training at the China Astronaut Research and Training Center, with one scheduled to fly to Tiangong Space Station in October–November 2026.
- China Space
Shenzhou-21 Crew Celebrates May Day in Space, Return Planned for May
China's Shenzhou-21 crew members Zhang Lu, Wu Fei and Zhang Hongzhang completed three EVAs totaling approximately 20 hours and 47 minutes during their extended mission, setting a new record for Chinese spacewalk duration. The crew is scheduled to return to Earth in May 2026.
- Launches
Russia Conducts First Launch of Soyuz-5 Rocket from Baikonur
On May 1, 2026, Roscosmos announced that Russia's next-generation Soyuz-5 medium-lift launch vehicle conducted its inaugural launch from the Baiterek complex at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, with the test flight proceeding as planned.
- SpaceX
SpaceX IPO Filing Reveals Starship Expenditure Exceeds $15 Billion
SpaceX's IPO registration filing shows cumulative Starship spending has exceeded $15 billion, with $3 billion in R&D last year, and plans to launch first Starlink V3 satellites in H2 2026.
- China Space
Tianhe Core Module Marks 5th Anniversary; China Space Station to Undergo Second Expansion
April 29 marked the 5th anniversary of the Tianhe core module's launch. With expanding scientific missions and international cooperation, the China Space Station is set to undergo a major 'second expansion' forming a cross-shaped configuration.
- China Space
China's Wukong Satellite Reveals Key Mechanism of Cosmic Ray Acceleration
An international research team led by the Purple Mountain Observatory of the Chinese Academy of Sciences published a landmark finding in Nature on April 29, 2026, discovering a charge-dependent pattern in cosmic ray acceleration limits using data from the Wukong dark matter particle detection satellite.
- Launches
Arianespace Ariane 64 Launches Second Batch of Amazon LEO Satellites, Two Launches in Three Days
On April 30, 2026, Arianespace successfully launched a second batch of 32 Amazon LEO satellites into low Earth orbit using the Ariane 64 rocket with four boosters, marking the second Amazon constellation launch within three days.
- China Space
Five SOEs Jointly Establish Offshore Launch Company, Completing Shanghai Commercial Space Value Chain
On April 30, 2026, Shanghai Commercial Space Offshore Launch Technology Co., Ltd. was officially established with a registered capital of 1.1 billion RMB, co-founded by five state-owned enterprises covering satellite operations, rocket manufacturing, offshore platforms, industrial parks, and state capital.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Falcon Heavy Successfully Launches ViaSat-3 F3 Communications Satellite After 18-Month Hiatus
On April 29, 2026, SpaceX's Falcon Heavy successfully launched the ViaSat-3 F3 communications satellite from Kennedy Space Center, marking the rocket's 12th flight and first launch since October 2024.
- China Space
Long March 10-Yi Rocket Successful Maiden Flight, Tests World's First Marine Flexible Net Recovery Technology
On April 28, 2026, the Long March 10-Yi carrier rocket successfully made its maiden flight from Wenchang Space Launch Center, Hainan, simultaneously validating the world's first marine flexible net capture and recovery technology.
- Blue Origin
Blue Origin's New Glenn Suffers Third Mission Failure as Upper Stage Anomaly Sends BlueBird 7 to Wrong Orbit
On April 19, 2026, Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket suffered a failure on its third orbital mission (NG-3) when the upper stage malfunctioned, delivering the BlueBird 7 satellite to an incorrect orbit from which it cannot maintain operations and will re-enter Earth's atmosphere.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Falcon 9 Completes 600th Booster Recovery, Reusability Enters Maturity Phase
On April 20, 2026, SpaceX completed its 600th orbital rocket recovery using a Falcon 9 booster, just 7 months after reaching 500th recovery, marking reusability as a routine operation.
April 2026
- China Space
Dahang Yuetian Raises 500M RMB in Funding to Accelerate China's First Tower-Catch Reusable Rocket
On April 30, Dahang Yuetian, China's only private rocket company focused on tower-catch recovery technology, announced the completion of a 500 million RMB funding round to accelerate development of the Yueqian-1 reusable launch vehicle.
- Science
DAMPE Satellite Discovers Cosmic Ray Spectral 'Bump' Structure, Revealing Charge-Dependent Acceleration Limit
China's DAMPE (Wukong) dark matter particle detection satellite has directly confirmed for the first time, using 9 years of orbital observation data, that cosmic rays exhibit a 'bump' structure with particle counts sharply decreasing near a certain high-energy threshold, with the threshold value proportional to particle charge.
- China Space
LandSpace Zhuque-3 Yao-2 Enters Factory Exit Phase After Problem Resolution, Targeting Q2 Launch
LandSpace's Zhuque-3 Yao-2 reusable liquid rocket has completed problem resolution and entered the factory exit phase, targeting a Q2 2026 maiden launch from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center with first-stage vertical recovery.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Falcon Heavy Successfully Launches ViaSat-3 F3 Satellite, ~1 Tbps Capacity Sets Global Record
After a weather-related scrub, SpaceX successfully launched the ViaSat-3 Flight 3 communications satellite on a Falcon Heavy rocket on April 28, marking the Heavy's first flight in 18 months.
- Artemis
NASA Administrator Confirms: SpaceX Starship and Blue Origin Blue Moon Lunar Landers Not Ready Until Late 2027
On April 27, 2026 (EST), NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman told the House Appropriations Committee that both SpaceX's Starship HLS and Blue Origin's Blue Moon lunar lander contractors have confirmed they will not be ready until late 2027 at the earliest, for Artemis III Earth-orbit rendezvous and docking tests.
- China Space
Commercial Space Recoverable Rocket Development Window Forum Successfully Held in Beijing
A forum on the development window for commercial recoverable rockets was successfully held in Beijing on April 29, bringing together representatives from major domestic commercial rocket companies and research institutions.
- China Space
China Space Station to Undergo Second Expansion, Transforming from T-Shaped to Cross-Shaped Configuration
On the 5th anniversary of the Tianhe core module's orbital operations, experts revealed China's space station will undergo a second expansion, adding a larger expansion module at the front docking port to form a cross-shaped configuration.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Falcon Heavy Successfully Launches Viasat-3 F3 Satellite
SpaceX's Falcon Heavy rocket conducted its 12th mission, successfully deploying the Viasat-3 ultra-high-throughput communications satellite to orbit on April 29, marking the vehicle's first flight in 18 months.
- China Space
Academician Ma Weiming Proposes Electromagnetic Launch Track on Qinghai-Tibet Plateau
Chinese Academy of Engineering academician Ma Weiming has proposed building an electromagnetic launch track on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau to directly 'fling' rockets into space using electromagnetic force, potentially reducing launch costs by 90%.
- China Space
MicroNano Star Completes IPO Coaching and Acceptance
On April 29, 2026, Beijing MicroNano Star Technology Co., Ltd. completed its IPO coaching and acceptance, with Guotai Haotong Securities as the coaching institution. MicroNano Star is a leading Chinese commercial satellite manufacturing company.
- China Space
Shenzhou-23 Launch Countdown Underway as Jiuquan Prepares for Mission
Shenzhou-23 crewed spacecraft launch enters critical preparation phase as Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center completes rocket ground testing, spacecraft fueling drills, and emergency search and rescue exercises.
- NASA
NASA and Boeing Modify Commercial Crew Contract: Starliner-1 Now Cargo-Only Mission
On April 29, 2026, NASA and Boeing formally modified the Starliner commercial crew contract, converting the first operational mission Starliner-1 from crewed to a cargo-only verification flight.
- Space Station
Tianhe Core Module Marks Five Years of Stable Operation, China's Space Station Yields Rich Scientific Returns
On April 29, 2026, China's Tiangong Space Station Tianhe Core Module celebrated five years of stable in-orbit operation, completing 267 scientific experiments and generating over 450TB of data.
- China Space
China (Beijing) Space Science Center Opens, Marking New Landmark for Science-Tourism Integration
On April 28, 2026, the China (Beijing) Space Science Center officially opened at the Chaoji Heshenghui complex in Beijing's Changping District, featuring 3,700 m² of immersive space science exhibits.
- China Space
CAS Space's Lijian-2 Super Factory Fully Completed, Mass Production Line Officially Commissioned
On April 28, 2026, CAS Space's Lijian-2 large liquid launch vehicle super factory in Keqiao District, Shaoxing was fully completed and put into operation, marking China's commercial space industry entering a new phase of mass production with an annual capacity of 12 Lijian-2 vehicles.
- China Space
Long March 10Yi Successfully Completes Maiden Flight, World-First Maritime Net Recovery Technology Verified
On April 28, 2026, the Long March 10Yi (CZ-10B) rocket successfully conducted its maiden flight from Wenchang Commercial Space Launch Site in Hainan, simultaneously verifying the world's first maritime net-based recovery technology, with a LEO capacity of 16 tonnes.
- China Space
Long March 2F Emergency Launch Team Honored with China Youth May 4 Medal Collective Award
On April 27, 2026, the Long March 2F launch vehicle emergency launch task team at China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology was honored with the 'China Youth May 4 Medal Collective' award, maintaining a 100% product delivery success rate for Shenzhou crewed spacecraft missions.
- China Space
China to Launch World's First GEO Microwave Atmospheric Sounding Satellite
China's Meteorological Administration announced at a State Council Information Office press conference that the country will launch the world's first geostationary orbit microwave atmospheric sounding satellite (Fengyun-4 Microwave Satellite) during the 15th Five-Year Plan period, targeting launch around 2026.
- China Space
FutureX Unveils FX Series Commercial Spacecraft for Satellite Deployment and Orbital Services
On April 28, 2026, Chinese commercial space company FutureX unveiled the FX series of space vehicles in Xiong'an New Area, China's first commercial spacecraft line serving both satellite constellation deployment and orbital services, with FX-1 maiden flight planned for Q3 2026.
- Launches
ULA Atlas V Launches 29 Amazon Kuiper Internet Satellites
United Launch Alliance's Atlas V rocket successfully placed 29 Amazon Project Kuiper internet satellites into low Earth orbit on April 27, marking another milestone in the Kuiper constellation deployment.
- Artemis
Artemis II Astronauts Observe Lunar Meteoroid Impacts During Mission
During the Artemis II mission in early April, astronauts observed flashes of light from meteoroids hitting the lunar surface while Earth-based volunteers simultaneously tracked the same impacts.
- China Space
CNSA Holds Enterprise Roundtable on High-Quality Commercial Space Development
On April 21, 2026, CNSA Administrator Shan Zhongde chaired a roundtable with 14 commercial space enterprise leaders to discuss R&D, licensing, launch applications, and other key issues.
- NASA
NASA Invites Public to Join Citizen Science: Everyone Can Be Part of Space Exploration
NASA published an article on April 27 introducing how the public can participate in space exploration through citizen science projects, including lunar flash observations during Artemis II and pepper plant cultivation experiments for future deep space missions.
- Science
NASA Develops Space IV Technology: IVGEN Mini Converts Drinking Water to Intravenous Fluid On Demand
NASA has released details of the IVGEN Mini system, which can produce medical-grade intravenous fluid on demand from drinking water aboard the International Space Station, solving the limited shelf-life problem for deep space missions.
- Science
NASA's Curiosity and Perseverance Rovers Release Simultaneous 360-Degree Panoramas of Mars
NASA's Curiosity and Perseverance rovers released simultaneous 360-degree panoramic images of Mars, revealing billions of years of geological history and ancient habitable conditions on the Red Planet.
- NASA
NASA's X-59 Supersonic Test Aircraft Unveils 'Freedom 250' Livery to Celebrate America's 250th Anniversary
On April 27, 2026, NASA announced that its X-59 quiet supersonic technology aircraft has received a special 'Freedom 250' livery to celebrate America's 250th anniversary of independence. The X-59 is the centerpiece of NASA's Quesst project, aiming to reduce the sonic boom from commercial supersonic flight to acceptable levels.
- Artemis
I Am Artemis: Peter Rossoni and Orion's Optical Communications System
NASA's Artemis II mission flight manager Peter Rossoni grew up watching Apollo launches with his family and now leads the optical communications system for the Orion spacecraft on humanity's return to the Moon.
- Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab Completes Spacecraft Commissioning for NASA's ESCAPADE Mars Mission
Rocket Lab announces successful completion of commissioning for the twin satellites of NASA's ESCAPADE Mars mission, now operating at Earth-Sun Lagrange Point L2 and preparing for handover to UC Berkeley.
- Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab Secures $190M HASTE Contract for 20 Hypersonic Test Flights
Rocket Lab signs its largest ever launch agreement: a $190 million contract for 20 HASTE hypersonic test flights with the US Department of Defense Test Resource Management Center.
- Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab Solar Technology Powers NASA's Artemis II Orion Spacecraft
Rocket Lab's gallium arsenide solar cell arrays power NASA's Artemis II Orion spacecraft, marking the first application of this technology on a crewed deep space mission.
- China Space
Space Metal Additive Manufacturing Technology Demonstrated on Light Ark Test Spaceship
Chinese researchers successfully demonstrated space metal additive manufacturing (3D printing) technology aboard the Light Ark test spaceship, completing metal melting and deposition using laser wire feeding at 600 km orbit.
- China Space
China Successfully Launches Tianlian-2 05 Data Relay Satellite
China successfully launched the Tianlian-2 05 satellite to further improve the Tianlian relay satellite system, providing data relay and TT&C services for crewed spacecraft and satellites.
- NASA
Artemis II Crew Captures Stunning 'Earthset' Photo from Orion Spacecraft
NASA Artemis II astronauts captured a breathtaking image of Earth setting behind the Moon on April 6, 2026, from the Orion spacecraft. NASA Science described it as 'one of the most spectacular views of our home planet.'
- China Space
China Achieves Record 92 Space Launches in 2025, Commercial Sector Accounts for Over 50%
China's National Bureau of Statistics reports 92 orbital launches in 2025, a historic high and a 35% increase over 2024, with commercial launches accounting for 50 of them.
- China Space
Galaxy Aerospace Celebrates 8th Anniversary as China's First Commercial Space Unicorn
On April 24, 2026, a satellite internet technology test satellite developed by Galaxy Aerospace was successfully launched into orbit aboard a Long March 2D rocket. The same day marked the company's 8th anniversary, having become China's first commercial space unicorn with 40+ self-developed satellites launched and the nation's first LEO broadband communication test constellation operational.
- Space Station
Russia Launches Progress MS-34 Cargo Spacecraft to ISS
Russia's Progress MS-34 cargo spacecraft lifted off aboard a Soyuz-2.1a rocket from Baikonur Cosmodrome, delivering over 2.5 tonnes of supplies to the International Space Station, with docking scheduled for April 28.
- Commercial Space
Nayuta Space's Qianniao-R Full-Scale Test Rocket Unveiled, China's Aerodynamic Recovery Tech Advances
Nayuta Space's Qianniao-R, China's only rocket using aerodynamic deceleration for recovery, has completed its full-scale test vehicle and control surface electrical integration tests, adopting a unique 'aerodynamic deceleration + horizontal landing' technology route with a planned maiden flight in H1 2027.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Completes 50th Falcon 9 Launch of 2026
SpaceX successfully completed its 50th Falcon 9 launch of 2026 on April 26, deploying 25 Starlink V2 Mini satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base and marking the 603rd booster recovery in company history.
- NASA
Artemis II Crew Captures Spectacular Milky Way Photo from Beyond the Moon
NASA's Artemis II crew captured a stunning photo of the Milky Way galaxy on April 7, 2026, during their journey around the Moon aboard the Orion spacecraft, marking the first human presence beyond low Earth orbit in over 50 years.
- China Space
China Discovers Two New Lunar Minerals in Chang'e-5 Samples — Magnesium and Cerium Chang'e Stones
China announced on April 24, 2026, the discovery of two new lunar minerals — magnesium Chang'e stone and cerium Chang'e stone — in Chang'e-5 lunar samples, marking the 7th and 8th new minerals found in returned lunar regolith globally.
- China Space
2026 China Aerospace Conference Main Forum Opens in Chengdu
The 2026 China Aerospace Conference main forum opened in Chengdu, Sichuan on April 24, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of China's aerospace industry, under the theme 'Seven Decades of Space Exploration, Hand in Hand to the Stars'.
- SpaceX
SpaceX, Lockheed Martin Among 12 Companies Awarded $3.2B U.S. Space-Based Interceptor Contracts
The U.S. Space Force awarded 12 companies, including SpaceX and Lockheed Martin, contracts worth up to $3.2 billion to develop space-based interceptor prototypes under the Trump administration's Golden Dome missile defense program, with capabilities to be demonstrated by 2028.
- China Space
China Launches Pakistan's PRSC-EO3 Satellite on Long March 6 Rocket
On April 25, 2026 at 20:15 Beijing Time, China successfully launched Pakistan's PRSC-EO3 satellite using a Long March 6 carrier rocket from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center, marking the 640th flight of the Long March series.
- China Space
China's First Foreign Astronauts Arrive for Training at Astronaut Center
On April 24, 2026, two Pakistani astronauts officially entered the Astronaut Center of China in Beijing to begin training alongside their Chinese peers, marking the first time China has hosted foreign astronauts for systematic training.
- Commercial Space
Weiguang Qihang Unveils World's First All-Carbon Fiber Launch Vehicle at CSC2026
At the 2026 China Aerospace Conference (CSC2026) held in Chengdu from April 23-26, Beijing Weiguang Qihang Technology Co., Ltd. unveiled its core product, the 'Weiguang-1' all-carbon fiber launch vehicle, attracting widespread industry attention.
- China Space
Chang'e-7 Lunar South Pole Mission to Launch This Year
China announces Chang'e-7 lunar south pole mission will launch in 2026, marking a new phase of China's lunar exploration program.
- China Space
11th China Space Day: 70 Years of Journey to the Stars
April 24, 2026 marks the 11th China Space Day, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of China's space industry. Tianwen-3 Mars sample return officially unveiled, Chang'e-7 to launch this year, Beidou精度 and next-gen crew spacecraft progressing steadily.
- China Space
China's Space Program: 70 Years of Historic Achievements and the Path to Becoming a Space Power
April 24 marks the 11th China Space Day, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of China's space endeavors. Highlights include Shenzhou-21 crew setting new EVA records, a 16-day emergency launch response capability, and China's space station operating routinely.
- China Space
2026 Marks China's Commercial Space Mass Production Era with 100 Plus Launches Projected
In 2026, China targets over 100 total launches with commercial launches exceeding 60. Blue Arrow Space and CAS Space are both filing for STAR Market IPOs as commercial space enters its "mass production era".
- China Space
CNSA and SAMR Jointly Release Commercial Space Standard System (Version 1.0)
China's National Space Administration and State Administration for Market Regulation jointly released the Commercial Space Standard System (Version 1.0) at the 11th China Space Day ceremony, covering the full industry chain with over 1,000 planned standard projects.
- China Space
China Space Conference Releases 2026 Top 10 Scientific and Technological Challenges in Astronautics
The China Space Conference 2026 (CSC2026) released its annual top 10 scientific and technological challenges in astronautics on April 23, covering cislunar spatiotemporal reference frames, lunar regolith in-situ power generation, space traffic management, LEO megaconstellations, extraterrestrial robots, POGO suppression, nuclear thermal propulsion, cryogenic infrared hyperspectral imaging, space-based ocean profile observation, and low-cost satellite manufacturing.
- Science
Hubble Space Telescope Releases New Image of Trifid Nebula, Marking 36th Launch Anniversary
NASA's Hubble Space Telescope releases a high-resolution image of the Trifod Nebula, celebrating its 36th launch anniversary on April 24.
- China Space
Long March 2D Launch Successful
Long March 2D rocket successfully launched from Xichang Satellite Launch Center on April 24, 2026 at 06:25 UTC, placing its payload into orbit.
- NASA
NASA Astronauts to Answer Questions from Missouri Students from Space Station
NASA announces that astronauts Jessica Meir and Jack Hathaway will answer pre-recorded STEM questions from Missouri students during their space station mission.
- NASA
NASA's University Leadership Initiative Celebrates a Decade of Breakthrough Aviation Innovation
NASA announces the 10th anniversary of its University Leadership Initiative (ULI), which has helped NASA produce breakthrough innovations in aviation while fostering the next generation of aviation workforce.
- China Space
China Launches Satellite Internet Technology Test Satellites via Long March 2D
On April 24, 2026, China successfully launched four satellite internet technology test satellites aboard a Long March 2D rocket from Xichang Satellite Launch Center, marking a breakthrough in direct-to-cell satellite broadband technology.
- China Space
China Space Public Welfare Ambassador Visits Sichuan University
On April 24, the China Space Public Welfare Ambassador campus event was held at Sichuan University, featuring Beidou deputy chief designer Xie Jun, CAS academician Zhang Bing, and Shenzhou-17 astronaut Jiang Xinlin with over 400 teachers and students.
- China Space
Tianwen-3 Mars Sample Return: Launch Planned for ~2028, Return with Samples by ~2031
CNSA officially unveiled Tianwen-3 mission plan at the 11th China Space Day: launch around 2028, return with Mars samples around 2031, with an open international cooperation call offering 20 kg of payload mass.
- China Space
China Opens Xihe-2 Solar Observatory to International Cooperation
CNSA releases international cooperation opportunity announcement for Xihe-2 solar mission, offering approximately 15kg of payload resources for international partners.
- China Space
China Space Public Welfare Ambassador Visits Sichuan University
On April 24, China's Space Public Welfare Ambassadors visited Sichuan University, where astronaut Jiang Xinlin and space experts engaged with over 400 students and faculty.
- Launches
Russia Successfully Launches Angara-1.2 Rocket with Military Satellite
On April 23, 2026 at 11:29 Moscow Time, Russia's Angara-1.2 light rocket successfully lifted off from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome carrying a military satellite, which entered its designated orbit.
- China Space
China Space Conference 2026 (CSC2026) Opens in Chengdu
The China Space Conference 2026 (CSC2026) officially opened on April 23 in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, celebrating the 70th anniversary of China's space industry with the theme '70 Years of Space Exploration, Together We Reach for the Stars'.
- Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab 85th Mission Successfully Deploys JAXA Rideshare Satellites
Rocket Lab's 85th mission successfully deployed 8 Japanese satellites including educational cubesats, an ocean monitoring satellite and multispectral camera demonstrator from New Zealand
- NASA
NASA Johnson Space Center Leaders Honored by National Space Club & Foundation
Two outstanding leaders from NASA's Johnson Space Center were recognized by the National Space Club & Foundation for their contributions to human spaceflight.
- Artemis
Jordan Signs Artemis Accords, Becomes 63rd Signatory Nation
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan signed the Artemis Accords during a ceremony at NASA headquarters, becoming the 63rd signatory nation and further expanding international participation in the Artemis program.
- Science
NASA's Chandra Finds Young Sun-like Stars Dim Quickly in X-rays
A new study using NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory reveals that young Sun-like stars emit far less X-ray radiation than expected, potentially benefiting the development of life-sustaining conditions around exoplanets in their orbit.
- NASA
NASA Announces SpaceX Crew-13 Mission Assignments
NASA assigns four crew members from three space agencies for the SpaceX Crew-13 mission to the International Space Station, launching no earlier than mid-September 2026.
- Science
NASA's Dragonfly Rotorcraft Enters Final Assembly and Testing Phase
NASA's Dragonfly mission to Saturn's moon Titan enters final assembly and testing phase, with the team beginning installation of panels that make up the rotorcraft lander's body, planned for launch no earlier than 2027.
- NASA
NASA Develops IV Fluid Technology for Space, Enabling Deep Space Human Missions
NASA is developing a system that can produce intravenous fluids in microgravity, addressing the challenge of storing liquid medications during long-duration deep space missions.
- Science
NASA Tests IVGEN Mini System to Produce IV Fluid Aboard ISS
NASA's IVGEN Mini system successfully demonstrated aboard the ISS in April 2026, producing IV fluid on-demand to address the challenge of limited shelf life for pre-packed medical supplies on deep space missions.
- NASA
NASA Johnson Leaders Honored by National Space Club & Foundation
Two leaders from NASA's Johnson Space Center were recognized at the 69th Annual Robert H. Goddard Memorial Dinner, with Orion Program Manager Howard Hu receiving the Norman L. Baker Astronautics Engineer Award.
- NASA
NASA Releases LAVA Aerodynamics Software to US Aerospace Industry
NASA has released its internal Launch, Ascent, and Vehicle Aerodynamics (LAVA) software to the US aerospace industry to help solve aerodynamic design challenges for advanced vehicles such as scramjet-powered aircraft.
- NASA
NASA Kennedy Prepares Facility for Roman Space Telescope Arrival
NASA's Kennedy Space Center is preparing facilities for the arrival of the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, scheduled to launch no earlier than September on a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket.
- NASA
NASA Earth Observatory: Seasonal Fires Shroud Northern Thailand
NASA Earth observation satellite captures smoke from seasonal fires shrouding northern Thailand and Southeast Asia
- Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab Completes 85th Mission and First Dedicated Launch for European Space Agency
On April 23, 2026, Rocket Lab successfully completed the 85th Electron launch from Launch Complex 1 in Mahia Peninsula, New Zealand, carrying the JAXA Kakushin Rising rideshare satellite.
- China Space
2026 Space Art and Culture Forum Held in Chengdu
The 2026 Space Art and Culture Forum was held in Chengdu, Sichuan Province on April 23, 2026, themed on inspiring innovation and creativity in space culture.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Launches Starlink Group 17-14 Mission
On April 23, 2026 UTC, SpaceX successfully launched the Starlink Group 17-14 mission with 20 satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base aboard a Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket.
- Artemis
NASA Releases Artemis II Image and Video Recap: Key Mission Milestones
NASA publishes a comprehensive image and video recap of the Artemis II mission, highlighting Orion spacecraft's journey since its April 1 launch, covering launch preparation through translunar injection.
- Science
NASA Earth Observatory Image: Green Belts in Washington Suburbs
NASA Earth Observatory releases an ISS astronaut photograph showing green spaces weaving through the developed landscape along the Capital Beltway in Maryland, published as Image of the Day on Earth Day 2026.
- China Space
2026 China Space Conference (CSC2026) to Open in Chengdu on April 23
The 2026 China Space Conference (CSC2026) will be held in Chengdu from April 23-26, themed "70 Years of Space Exploration, Together for the Stars," marking the 70th anniversary of China's space program. Major announcements on deep-space exploration and commercial space policy are expected.
- Science
Curiosity Rover Sols 4867-4872: Exploring Antofagasta Crater and Selecting Next Drill Target
During sols 4867-4872, NASA's Curiosity rover explored the rim of the 10-meter Antofagasta crater on Mars. Due to excessive sand fill at the crater bottom posing a stuck-risk, the mission team abandoned drilling plans and instead conducted detailed imaging and compositional analysis of polygonal bedrock features on the crater rim.
- China Space
Long March 4C Successfully Launches Atmospheric Monitoring Satellite
On April 17, 2026, China's Long March 4C rocket successfully launched the Daqi-2 (AEMS) atmospheric environment monitoring satellite from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center.
- ESA
NASA Selects SpaceX Falcon Heavy to Launch ESA Rosalind Franklin Mars Rover
NASA announced on April 16, 2026, that it has begun implementation to launch ESA's Rosalind Franklin Mars rover in 2028 aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket, resolving years of launch uncertainties for the rover.
- Blue Origin
FAA Grounds Blue Origin's New Glenn After Launch Fails to Deliver Payload to Correct Orbit
The FAA has ordered Blue Origin to cease New Glenn launches pending investigation after the rocket's third flight on April 20 failed to deliver its payload to the intended orbit due to one of two second stage engines malfunctioning.
- China Space
China's First Batch of International Astronauts Selected
China's manned space program completed its first selection of international astronauts in April 2026, with two Pakistani candidates selected to begin training.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Successfully Launches GPS III SV10 Satellite
SpaceX's Falcon 9 successfully launched the GPS III SV10 satellite for the US Space Force from Cape Canaveral, the fourth GPS III launch in 2026.
- Launches
Rocket Lab HASTE Mission Success: Bubbles Scientific Payload Completes Suborbital Flight
Rocket Lab launched the HASTE mission on April 22, 2026 at 00:00 UTC (Hypersonic Accelerator Suborbital Test Experiment) mission with the Bubbles scientific payload aboard an Electron rocket from Wallops Flight Facility, Virginia.
- Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab HASTE Successfully Launches Hypersonic Test Mission
Rocket Lab launched the second HASTE hypersonic test mission from Wallops Flight Facility, Virginia on April 22, 2026
- NASA
Infineon Radiation-Hardened Semiconductors Pass Space Validation on Artemis II Mission
Infineon reports that its radiation-hardened semiconductors supplied for NASA's Artemis II Orion spacecraft maintained zero failure during the deep-space mission, successfully supporting power management, system control, and data communications.
- Artemis
Jordan Officially Signs Artemis Accords, Becomes 63rd Signatory
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan officially signed the Artemis Accords during a ceremony at NASA Headquarters on April 23, becoming the 63rd signatory globally.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Drone Ship JRTI Completes Final Falcon 9 Landing
SpaceX's drone ship Just Read the Instructions (JRTI) completed its 156th Falcon booster recovery on April 21, marking the end of JRTI's Falcon 9 recovery era as the ship transitions to support Starship operations.
- NASA
NASA's Modified Boeing 777 Returns to Fleet as Next-Generation Airborne Science Laboratory
NASA's Boeing 777 has returned to the agency's fleet after undergoing heavy structural modifications to become NASA's next-generation airborne science laboratory.
- NASA
NASA to Host News Conference with Astronaut Anil Menon on Upcoming ISS Mission
NASA will host a news conference at Johnson Space Center on April 29 to preview astronaut Anil Menon's upcoming mission to the International Space Station.
- Science
NASA Earth Observatory Releases Satellite Image of Green Spaces in Washington Suburbs
NASA Earth Observatory publishes an astronaut photograph from the International Space Station showing the distribution of green spaces along the Capital Beltway in Maryland, including the historic planned community of Greenbelt and NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center.
- NASA
NASA Releases New Earth Views from Artemis II Mission: Phytoplankton Blooms and Auroras Captured
NASA releases new Earth imagery captured during the Artemis II lunar flyby, showing phytoplankton blooms off the Kamchatka Peninsula and auroras, showcasing Earth's dynamic ocean and atmosphere.
- NASA
NASA Invests $16.3 Million to Support Small and Medium Space Enterprises
NASA awards approximately $16.3 million in seed funding to over 30 small businesses through SBIR/STTR programs to develop innovative technologies for lunar exploration, Mars missions, and Earth applications.
- NASA
NASA at SXSW: Johnson Director Vanessa Wyche on Why Artemis Changes Everything
NASA Johnson Space Center Director Vanessa Wyche outlined NASA's Artemis program and humanity's next steps into deep space at SXSW 2026, emphasizing the program's role in returning humans to the Moon and building the foundation for Mars missions.
- NASA
NASA Wins Two Webby Awards and Five People's Voice Awards at 30th Annual Ceremony
NASA was recognized at the 30th Annual Webby Awards with two Webby Awards and five People's Voice Awards, highlighting the agency's excellence in digital communication and public engagement across its online platforms.
- Commercial Space
Blue Origin's New Glenn Rocket Fails to Reach Orbit
Blue Origin's New Glenn heavy-lift rocket failed during the BlueBird Block 2 #2 mission on April 19, marking the second major setback for the rocket.
- NASA
NASA Releases Earth Day Image Captured by Artemis II Crew
NASA releases a stunning image of Earth's terminator — the line between day and night — captured by the Artemis II crew during their lunar flyby, released on Earth Day 2026.
- Commercial Space
Rocket Lab Completes Mynaric Acquisition, Bolstering Laser Communications Portfolio
Rocket Lab announces the completion of its acquisition of Mynaric, incorporating laser optical communications technology into its growing space systems portfolio.
- NASA
NASA Targets Early September for Roman Space Telescope Launch
NASA announced its Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope team is now targeting launch as soon as early September 2026, ahead of the agency's commitment to flight no later than its scheduled date.
- China Space
Tiankong Constellation Officially Launched: China's First 220-Satellite Infrared Constellation Plan Unveiled
On April 22, the first Tiankong Infrared Satellite Industry Conference was held in Shanghai, where Weixing Technology announced the launch of the Tiankong Constellation — China's first commercial infrared satellite constellation planned with 220 satellites. Featuring sensing-computing integrated design, the constellation will enable second-level target identification and minute-level early warning, with first batch of 10 satellites slated for launch by end of 2026.
- Policy & Strategy
CNSA Holds Enterprise Roundtable on High-Quality Commercial Space Development
On April 21, CNSA Administrator Shan Zhongde chaired a roundtable with 14 commercial space enterprises to discuss R&D, licensing, launch applications, and other key issues for high-quality development.
- Science
NASA Hubble Releases Stunning New Image of the Crab Nebula on Its 36th Anniversary
NASA's Hubble Space Telescope captures its most detailed image of the Crab Nebula supernova remnant, revealing filament expansion at 3.4 million miles per hour and a new era of multi-telescope observations.
- Science
Curiosity Rover Finds Most Diverse Collection of Organic Molecules Ever Discovered on Mars
NASA's Curiosity Mars rover has discovered the greatest diversity of organic molecules ever found on Mars, including seven compounds detected for the first time on the Red Planet, in a rock sample drilled in 2020.
- Launches
SpaceX Launches Final GPS III Satellite for U.S. Space Force
SpaceX Falcon 9 successfully launches GPS III-8 (SV10 「Hedy Lamar」), the last satellite in the GPS III constellation
- Launches
SpaceX Successfully Launches GPS III SV10: Final GPS III Satellite Reaches Orbit Named After Hedy Lamar
SpaceX successfully launched GPS III SV10, the tenth and final satellite in the U.S. GPS III constellation upgrade program, aboard a Falcon 9 rocket on April 21, 2026, further enhancing GPS accuracy and anti-jamming capabilities.
- Artemis
What Are Ames' Contributions to Artemis II?
NASA's Ames Research Center played key roles in the Artemis II mission, providing heat shield sensors, SLS rocket vibration analysis, crew science training, and mission assurance support.
- Science
NASA Partners with Organ Sharing Network UNOS to Study Faster Organ Transport
NASA's Langley Research Center partners with the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) to explore aerospace technologies for accelerating organ transport, with the goal of improving transplant success rates.
- Artemis
NASA Releases Initial Artemis II Post-Flight Assessment: Orion Heat Shield Outperforms Expectations
On April 20, 2026, NASA released its initial post-flight assessment for the Artemis II mission, finding that Orion's heat shield performed better than expected with significantly reduced char loss compared to Artemis I, providing critical data for the planned 2027 crewed lunar landing.
- Artemis
NASA Rolls Out Artemis III SLS Core Stage for Moon Mission
NASA rolled out the SLS core stage for the Artemis III crewed Moon landing mission on April 20, 2026, transporting the 212-foot stage from Michoud Assembly Facility to Kennedy Space Center via Pegasus barge.
- China Space
China Space Day 2026 Activities Announced
The 11th China Space Day on April 24, 2026 coincides with the 70th anniversary of China's space industry and the 10th anniversary of the Space Day. The main event will be held in Chengdu, Sichuan, with Brazil as the guest of honor.
- Science
NASA Hubble Telescope Releases New Image of Trifid Nebula for 36th Launch Anniversary
NASA's Hubble Space Telescope released a new image of the Trifid Nebula on April 24, 2026, its 36th launch anniversary, capturing a star-forming region in the constellation Sagittarius with unprecedented detail.
- Artemis
Latvia Signs Artemis Accords, Becomes 62nd Signatory
On April 20, 2026, Latvia's Minister for Education and Science Dace Melbārde signed the Artemis Accords at NASA Headquarters, officially becoming the 62nd signatory of the international space exploration cooperation framework.
- Space Station
NASA Invites Media to SpaceX's 34th Commercial Resupply Mission, Targeting May 12 Launch
On April 20, 2026, NASA released a media advisory inviting media to cover SpaceX's 34th Commercial Resupply Services (CRS-34) mission, targeted for launch no earlier than May 12 from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, delivering over 5 metric tons of science investigations, supplies, and equipment to the International Space Station.
- NASA
NASA's X-59 Quiet Supersonic Aircraft Completes Wheel-Up Flight Tests
NASA's X-59 quiet supersonic research aircraft completed its highest and fastest flights to date on April 14, 2026, marking a key transition from ground roll to wheels-up flight operations over the Mojave Desert.
- Blue Origin
Blue Origin's Third New Glenn Flight Fails to Reach Target Orbit
Blue Origin's third New Glenn rocket successfully recovers a reused booster, but the payload falls short of its intended orbit
- Blue Origin
Blue Origin New Glenn Suffers First Launch Failure on BlueBird Block 2 Mission
On April 19, 2026, Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket experienced an anomaly during its fourth flight, failing to deliver the AST SpaceMobile BlueBird Block 2 satellite to orbit. This marked the first launch failure for the New Glenn vehicle since its maiden flight in January 2025.
- Launches
Blue Origin New Glenn NG-3 Mission Success with First Booster Reuse
Blue Origin successfully launched its third New Glenn rocket on NG-3 mission, carrying AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird 7 satellite to orbit while achieving the company's first booster reuse milestone.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Completes 600th Falcon Booster Landing Milestone
SpaceX successfully completed its 600th Falcon booster landing during the Starlink 17-22 mission from Vandenberg, with the 191st landing on drone ship Of Course I Still Love You.
- Blue Origin
Giant BlueBird 7 Mobile Phone Satellite to Be Deorbited After Blue Origin New Glenn Places It in Wrong Orbit
AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird 7 satellite, launched on Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket, was deployed into an incorrect orbit and will need to be deorbited.
- China Space
China Launches High-Precision Greenhouse Gas Detection Satellite on Long March-4C
China successfully launched a high-precision greenhouse gas detection satellite from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center using a Long March-4C rocket.
- Artemis
NASA's Mobile Launcher Returns to VAB Ahead of Artemis III Mission
NASA transported the Mobile Launcher 1 used in the Artemis II mission from Launch Pad 39B to the Vehicle Assembly Building at Kennedy Space Center, preparing for Artemis III crewed lunar landing operations.
- Science
NASA's SPHEREx Observatory Maps Interstellar Ice in Milky Way
NASA's SPHEREx mission has captured the chemical signatures of water ice and complex organic molecules in the Cygnus X star-forming region, providing new insights into the universe's water reservoirs and the chemistry of life.
- China Space
Shenzhou 21 Crew Completes Third EVA, Commander Zhang Lu Sets New Record
Shenzhou 21 astronauts Zhang Lu, Wu Fei and Zhang Hongzhang successfully completed their third extravehicular activity, installing space debris shielding and inspecting external equipment, with Zhang Lu now holding China's record for most spacewalks.
- Science
NASA Shuts Off Instrument on Voyager 1 to Keep Spacecraft Operating
NASA announced the shutdown of the Low-energy Charged Particles experiment (LECP) aboard Voyager 1 to conserve power and extend the mission of humanity's first interstellar explorer.
- Science
SOHO Coronagraph Captures Sungrazer Comet Disintegrating Near the Sun
On April 4, 2026, Comet C/2026 A1 (MAPS), a Kreutz sungrazing comet, disintegrated during its approach to the Sun, with NASA's and ESA's SOHO spacecraft capturing the event.
- Science
NASA's Parker Solar Probe Finds Surprises in Solar Explosion
NASA's Parker Solar Probe captured unprecedented data on magnetic reconnection during a 2022 solar flyby, revealing that protons and heavy ions accelerate differently—contrary to theoretical predictions.
- Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab Unveils New Gauss Hall-Effect Propulsion System Designed for Mass Production Constellations
Rocket Lab introduces the Gauss series of new Hall-effect satellite thrusters on April 14, 2026, designed for high-volume production to meet the growing demand for reliable satellite positioning across mega-constellations from hundreds to tens of thousands of satellites.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Deploys 1,000th Starlink Satellite of 2026
SpaceX successfully launched its 1,000th Starlink satellite of 2026 via Falcon 9, marking the company's 37th dedicated Starlink mission of the year with 1,002 total Starlink satellites deployed in 2026.
- Space Station
Cygnus XL Cargo Spacecraft Docks with ISS
Northrop Grumman's second Cygnus XL cargo spacecraft successfully docked with the International Space Station, delivering approximately 5,800 pounds of supplies and scientific experiment equipment.
- Commercial Space
Rocket Lab CSD Satellite Dispensers Successfully Deploy CubeSats on Artemis II
Rocket Lab's Canisterized Satellite Dispensers successfully deployed 4 CubeSats on NASA's Artemis II mission, including Korea's KASA K-Rad Cube, operating at altitudes up to 40,000 km.
- Artemis
Artemis II Successful Splashdown: Historic Crewed Lunar Mission Completes
NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and CSA astronaut Jeremy Hansen safely complete the first crewed lunar flyby in over 50 years, Orion spacecraft splashes down in Pacific Ocean.
- Artemis
Artemis II Science Underway as Orion Begins Return Trip to Earth
Artemis II crew captured over 175 GB of images during lunar flyby; experimental laser comms payload returned 20 GB in 45 minutes. Splashdown set for April 10, 8:07 PM EDT off San Diego.
- China Space
Chang'e-7 Spacecraft Arrives at Wenchang Launch Site, Planned for Launch in Second Half of 2026
China's Chang'e-7 spacecraft has safely arrived at Wenchang Satellite Launch Center, scheduled for launch in the second half of 2026, conducting lunar south pole exploration and resource survey.
- China Space
China Launches Long March Rockets for Thousand Sails and Guowang Megaconstellations
China conducted two Long March launches this week, adding 18 satellites to the Thousand Sails constellation (126 total) and the 21st group to Guowang (168 operational satellites).
- Commercial Space
ESA's Celeste Satellite Successfully Broadcasts First Navigation Signal, Launching New LEO Navigation Era
ESA's Celeste satellite successfully broadcasts first navigation signal from low Earth orbit, marking a significant milestone for Europe's low-orbit navigation system.
- Artemis
NASA Confident in Artemis II Heat Shield: Orion Spacecraft Thermal Protection System Ensures Safe Return
NASA confirms Artemis II Orion spacecraft heat shield performance reliable, thermal protection will guarantee crew safety during 24,000 mph atmospheric re-entry.
- Commercial Space
Isar Aerospace Spectrum Rocket Set for Second Test Flight, a Key Test for European Commercial Launch
German launch startup Isar Aerospace plans to launch its Spectrum rocket on a second test flight from Norway's Andøya Spaceport on April 9, carrying 5 CubeSats and 1 technology payload, after three prior delays.
- Rocket Lab
iQPS Books Three Additional Electron Launches, Deepening Multi-Year Partnership with Rocket Lab
On April 9, 2026, Japanese SAR satellite operator iQPS signed an agreement with Rocket Lab for three additional Electron launches, further deepening their years-long partnership.
- China Space
China Launches 21 Satellite Internet LEO Satellites
On April 9, 2026 at 03:38 UTC, China successfully launched a batch of 21 low-Earth-orbit satellites for its satellite internet constellation, using the Long March 6 Modified rocket from Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center.
- ESA
China-ESA Joint SMILE Satellite Launch Postponed Due to Vega-C Technical Issue, New Date TBC
ESA announced the postponement of the SMILE science satellite launch, originally scheduled for April 9 on a Vega-C rocket, due to a technical issue with a subsystem component. A new launch date is yet to be determined.
- China Space
Chang'e 7 Probe Arrives at Wenchang Launch Center for Planned 2026 Launch
Chang'e 7 probe has safely arrived at Wenchang launch center, targeting breakthrough technologies for lunar south pole exploration
- China Space
Long March-6A Launches Mega Constellation Satellites, Successfully Deploys 21 Low-Earth Orbit Satellites
At 03:38 Beijing Time on April 9, 2026, Long March-6A YA-17 rocket successfully deployed 21 low-Earth orbit satellite internet satellites into the intended polar orbit.
- Space Station
Northrop Grumman CRS-24 ISS Resupply Mission Delayed Again to April 11
NG-24 launch has been postponed three times from its original April 8 date to NET April 11, 7:41 a.m. EDT. The Cygnus cargo spacecraft will carry over 8,000 lbs of science and supplies to the ISS.
- Artemis
Artemis II Completes Lunar Flyby: Breaks Apollo 13 Distance Record at 406,771 km from Earth
Artemis II crew successfully completed the lunar flyby, with Orion passing about 6,500 km above the Moon's far side and surpassing Apollo 13's crewed distance record at 406,771 km from Earth.
- NASA
NASA Completes First Return Correction Burn for Artemis II Mission, Progressing Smoothly
NASA successfully completed the first return correction burn on Artemis II mission day 7, with Orion spacecraft adjusting return trajectory as astronauts conduct various flight tests.
- Commercial Space
Hungary Taps Northrop Grumman for First National GEO Communications Satellite HUSAT
Hungary signed a contract with Northrop Grumman to build HUSAT, its first national geostationary communications satellite, developed jointly with Hungary's 4iG Group and targeting a 2028 launch.
- NASA
NASA Administrator Isaacman Defends Steep Budget Cuts, Pledges Focus on 'Bold Goals'
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman defended the Trump administration's proposed ~20% budget cut to NASA during congressional hearings, arguing the agency will be more efficient and focus on bold exploration goals.
- NASA
NASA Halts Work on SLS Mobile Launcher 2, Casting Doubt on Artemis IV and Beyond
NASA has ordered a stop-work on Mobile Launcher 2 (ML-2) built by Bechtel, with the project exceeding $1 billion in spending amid massive cost overruns and delays, threatening the Artemis IV timeline.
- China Space
Long March 8 Launches Qianfan Constellation Batch 7 with 18 Satellites
On April 7, 2026 at 21:32 UTC, a Long March 8 rocket launched the seventh batch of 18 Qianfan LEO satellite internet constellation satellites from the Hainan Commercial Space Launch Site.
- Commercial Space
Starfish Space Raises Over $100 Million to Advance Otter On-Orbit Servicing Vehicle
In-orbit servicing startup Starfish Space closed a new funding round exceeding $100 million, aimed at accelerating development of its Otter servicing spacecraft and its first GEO mission.
- China Space
China Manned Space Program Officially Releases Tianzhou 10 Mission Identifier
The China Manned Space Engineering Office officially released the mission identifier for Tianzhou 10, featuring a circular design symbolizing harmony between heaven and Earth, with golden gradient lines representing aerospace power.
- China Space
2026 China Space Conference (CSC2026) to be Held in Chengdu on April 23-26
The 2026 China Space Conference (CSC2026), themed 'Seventy Years Exploring the Heavens, Journeying the Nine Realms Together,' will be held in Chengdu from April 23-26, 2026, inviting renowned experts, scholars, and managers from domestic and international aerospace fields to discuss the blueprint for high-quality aerospace development.
- Artemis
Artemis II Flight Day 4: Deep-Space Flying, Lunar Flyby Prep as Glover Takes Manual Control
On Flight Day 4, the Artemis II crew is approximately 169,000 miles from Earth. Victor Glover will manually pilot Orion to test deep-space handling qualities, and the crew is preparing for Monday's lunar flyby.
- Artemis
Artemis II Orion Spacecraft Toilet Malfunction: Frozen Waste Line and Burning Smell En Route to Moon
Orion spacecraft experienced a burning odor and frozen waste vent on Flight Day 3 of Artemis II. Crew temporarily using emergency urine bags while ground control works on a de-icing plan.
- Science
Chang'e-4 Data Reveals 'Cosmic Ray Cavity' in Cislunar Space
A Shandong University team discovers a significant reduction in galactic cosmic ray flux near lunar orbit using three years of Chang'e-4 data, offering new insights for deep space radiation protection.
- Science
China Achieves First Precise Thermal Conductivity Measurement of Single Lunar Soil Particles
A joint research team measured Chang'e-5 lunar soil single-particle thermal conductivity, discovering agglutinate particles with conductivity as low as ~8 mW·m⁻¹·K⁻¹, rivaling synthetic aerogels.
- Artemis
Saudi Arabia's 'Shams' Satellite Launches Aboard Artemis II on First National Space Weather Mission
The Saudi-developed Shams satellite has established initial communication after launching on Artemis II, marking the kingdom's first national-level space weather monitoring mission.
- China Space
Shenzhou-21 Crew Surpasses Five Months in Orbit, Space Station Experiments Progress
Shenzhou-21 crew members Zhang Lu, Wu Fei, and Zhang Hongzhang have been in orbit for over five months, completing multiple space medicine experiments and station maintenance tasks.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Starship V3 First Flight Delayed to May — Third Consecutive Postponement
Elon Musk announced Starship V3's maiden flight is delayed another 4-6 weeks, pushing from April to early May in the third delay this year.
- Commercial Space
LandSpace's Zhang Xiaodong: Zhuque-3 to Sprint for Reuse Testing in First Half of 2026, Building Low-Cost 'Bus' for Space Computing
At the 2026 Space Computing Industry Conference, Zhang Xiaodong, chief designer of LandSpace's reusable Zhuque-3 rocket, announced plans for recovery tests in H1 2026 and aiming for the first reusable flight by Q4 2026.
- Artemis
Artemis II Flight Day 3: Crew More Than Halfway to the Moon, Koch Sights Moon from Docking Hatch
Artemis II is more than halfway to the Moon. The trajectory correction burn was cancelled, Christina Koch spotted the Moon from the docking hatch, and the crew is preparing for the April 6 lunar flyby.
- Commercial Space
Atlas V Launches 29 Amazon Leo Satellites on LA-05 Mission, Accelerating Constellation Buildout
ULA Atlas V 551 successfully launched 29 Amazon Leo broadband internet satellites from Cape Canaveral SFS on the LA-05 mission.
- Space Station
Northrop Grumman CRS-24 Resupply Mission Targeting April 8 Launch to ISS
NASA, Northrop Grumman, and SpaceX are targeting April 8 for the CRS-24 launch, delivering approximately 11,000 pounds of science and cargo to the International Space Station.
- China Space
Shenzhou-21 Crew Completes Second EVA, Approaching 150-Day On-Orbit Milestone
Taikonauts Zhang Lu, Wu Fei, and Zhang Hongzhang have completed their second spacewalk and continue science experiments aboard the Tiangong space station, nearing 150 days in orbit.
- Science
China-ESA SMILE Satellite Completes Launch Preparations, Set for April 9 Vega-C Liftoff
The SMILE satellite, jointly developed by CAS and ESA, has completed all launch preparations at Kourou and is scheduled for launch on April 9 aboard a Vega-C rocket.
- Launches
Soyuz-5 (Irtysh) Medium-Launch Vehicle Flight Test from Baikonur
Russia's next-generation medium-class launch vehicle Soyuz-5, also known as Irtysh, conducted its first test flight from Baikonur Cosmodrome on April 3. Launch result pending official confirmation.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Files Confidential IPO Registration with SEC, Targeting Record-Breaking Public Offering
SpaceX has confidentially filed for an IPO with the SEC, aiming for a valuation exceeding $1.75 trillion and potentially raising up to $50 billion — which would surpass Saudi Aramco as the largest IPO in history.
- Commercial Space
Tianlong-3 Maiden Flight Fails: China's Falcon 9-Class Commercial Rocket Loses Control After Liftoff
Space Pioneer's Tianlong-3 rocket launched from Jiuquan on April 3 but experienced an anomaly ~33 seconds after liftoff, resulting in loss of the vehicle. The company has initiated a failure investigation.
- Artemis
Artemis II Flight Day 2: TLI Burn Complete, Orion Officially En Route to the Moon
NASA's Orion spacecraft successfully completed the translunar injection burn at 7:49 PM EDT, firing for 5 minutes and 50 seconds. The four astronauts are now on their way to the Moon for the first time in 53 years.
- Artemis
Artemis II Successfully Launches: First Crewed Lunar Mission in Over 50 Years
NASA's Artemis II launched on April 1, 2026, at 6:35 PM EDT from Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39B, sending four astronauts on an approximately 10-day journey around the Moon — the first crewed lunar flight since Apollo 17 in 1972.
- China Space
Chinese Startup Sustain Space Validates Flexible Robotic Arm On-Orbit, Advancing Servicing Capabilities
Sustain Space's Xiyuan-0 satellite successfully completed on-orbit demonstrations of a flexible robotic arm, verifying four operation modes including autonomous refueling simulation, teleoperation, and force-controlled manipulation.
- China Space
CAS Space's Lijian-2 (Yao-1) Rocket Scores Maiden Flight Success, Places Three Satellites in Orbit
On March 30, 2026 at 19:00 Beijing Time, CAS Space's Lijian-2 (Yao-1) carrier rocket successfully completed its maiden flight from the Dongfeng Commercial Space Innovation Test Zone, placing three satellites — Xinzhengcheng-01, Xinzhengcheng-02, and Tianshi-01 — into their target orbits.
March 2026
- Artemis
Artemis II Launch Countdown Officially Underway, T-2 Days to Historic Moon Mission
NASA's Artemis II launch countdown has begun at Kennedy Space Center, with the clock ticking toward an April 1 target launch time of 6:24 p.m. EDT for the first crewed Moon mission in over 50 years.
- Artemis
X1.4 Solar Flare Poses No Threat to Artemis II Launch, NASA Confirms
A massive X1.4-class solar flare erupted from the Sun on March 29, triggering radio blackouts over Asia and Australia, but NASA says space weather will not affect the Artemis II crewed Moon launch on April 1.
- Space Station
ISS Expedition 74 Crew Kicks Off Week With Cygnus Cargo Training and Spacewalk Cleanup
Expedition 74 astronauts trained for the upcoming Northrop Grumman Cygnus XL cargo mission, serviced spacesuits from last week's EVA, and conducted emergency medical drills aboard the International Space Station.
- Commercial Space
Rocket Lab Receives Regulatory Approval to Acquire Mynaric, Bringing Laser Communications In-House
Rocket Lab has received German regulatory approval to acquire Mynaric AG, a leading provider of laser optical communications terminals. The deal is expected to close in April 2026.
- Artemis
Final Preparations Underway for Artemis II Moon Mission, 80% Go Weather Forecast
NASA teams at Kennedy Space Center are making final preparations for the Artemis II launch countdown, with an 80% chance of favorable weather for the April 1 target.
- Commercial Space
Lift-2 Maiden Flight Success: China's First CBC-Configuration Rocket Reaches Orbit
CAS Space's Lift-2 rocket completed its maiden flight on March 30, 2026, deploying three satellites. The 625-ton vehicle is China's first Common Booster Core configuration launch vehicle.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Set to Launch 119 Payloads on Transporter-16 Rideshare Mission From Vandenberg
On March 30, 2026, SpaceX's Falcon 9 will launch the Transporter-16 rideshare mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base, carrying 119 payloads to orbit.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Fires Up Next-Gen V3 Starship for First Time Ahead of April Launch
SpaceX completed the first static fire test of its next-generation V3 Starship in March 2026, preparing for an April launch attempt.
- Artemis
Artemis II Crew Answers Media Questions as Launch Week Begins
On March 29, 2026, the Artemis II crew answered reporters' questions from quarantine while NASA officials provided a mission status update, three days before the planned April 1 launch.
- Artemis
Artemis II Crew Arrives at Kennedy Space Center Ahead of Moon Mission
The four Artemis II astronauts and their backups arrived at Kennedy Space Center on March 27, 2026, ahead of their historic flight around the Moon scheduled for April 1.
- ESA
ESA's First Celeste Satellites Successfully Launched — Europe's LEO Navigation Augmentation Era Begins
On March 28, 2026, ESA's first two Celeste satellites were successfully launched aboard Rocket Lab's Electron rocket from New Zealand, marking the beginning of Europe's LEO-PNT era.
- Space Station
NASA Astronaut Mike Fincke Shares Details About Medical Event That Ended Crew-11 Mission Early
NASA astronaut Mike Fincke has revealed more about the medical event that caused the Crew-11 mission to return to Earth more than a month ahead of schedule in January 2026.
- NASA
NASA Unveils Artemis II Crew's Survival Suits
NASA reveals the Orion Crew Survival System suits that the four Artemis II astronauts will wear for the first crewed lunar flight since Apollo.
- Artemis
NASA Artemis II Crewed Lunar Mission Enters Final Week Countdown
On March 27, 2026, NASA Artemis II is one week from launch — the first crewed lunar orbit flight since Apollo 17 in 1972.
- China Space
China-Europe SMILE Satellite Completes Pre-Launch Preparations Ahead of April 9 Launch
The China Academy of Sciences announced on March 26, 2026 that the China-ESA joint SMILE satellite has completed all pre-launch preparations at the Kourou Launch Center, scheduled for April 9 local time aboard Vega-C.
- China Space
China Launches Shiyan-33 Satellite for Space Environment Testing
China successfully launched the Shiyan-33 satellite on March 27, 2026, using a Long March 2C rocket with Yuanzheng-1S upper stage from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center.
- Artemis
How Europe Will Power the Journey to the Moon and Back - ESA Artemis II Service Module Video
On March 27, 2026, ESA released a video explaining the European Service Module for Artemis II - providing propulsion, power, and life support for the crewed lunar orbit mission.
- ESA
ESA's First Celeste Satellites Set for Launch Aboard Rocket Lab Electron
On March 27, 2026, ESA announced the first two Celeste satellites will launch on March 28 at 10:14 CET aboard a Rocket Lab Electron rocket from New Zealand — Europe's first LEO-PNT demonstration mission.
- NASA
NASA Developing First Nuclear-Powered Interplanetary Spacecraft
NASA is working on the first nuclear-powered interplanetary spacecraft, marking a new era in deep space exploration capabilities.
- China Space
China launches Siwei Gaojing-2 05 & 06 satellites
Long March 2D lifts off from Taiyuan on March 26, 2026, placing two commercial radar Earth-observation satellites into orbit; 634th Long March family flight.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Starlink 17-17 launch from Vandenberg
Falcon 9 lifts 25 Starlink satellites from Vandenberg SFB on March 26, 2026; booster B1081 lands on OCISLY.
- Commercial Space
Commercial Space Station Companies Push Back on NASA's New Plan at House Hearing
Companies developing commercial space stations to replace the ISS told a House subcommittee they want NASA to 'stick with the plan' and not make changes that are 'sowing confusion' in the industry.
- Space Station
Progress 94 cargo ship docks to the ISS for Expedition 74
Progress 94 launched from Baikonur on Mar. 22, 2026, and docked to the Poisk module on Mar. 24; TORU manual control was used after a KURS antenna failed to deploy.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Starlink 10-62 launch from Cape Canaveral
Falcon 9 lifts 29 Starlink V2 Mini Optimized satellites from Cape Canaveral SFS on March 22, 2026; booster B1078 lands on ASOG.
- ESA
Rocket Lab launches Strix Earth observation radar satellite
Electron rocket launches Strix satellite for Japan's Synspective from New Zealand on March 20, 2026.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Starlink 17-15 launch from Vandenberg
Falcon 9 lifts 25 Starlink V2 Mini Optimized satellites from Vandenberg SFB on March 20, 2026; booster B1100 lands on OCISLY.
- Artemis
Artemis II SLS rocket rolls out to launch pad
NASA rolls SLS rocket from VAB to Pad 39B on March 19, 2026, ahead of first crewed lunar orbit mission planned for April.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Starlink 10-33 launch from Cape Canaveral
Falcon 9 lifts 29 Starlink V2 Mini satellites from Cape Canaveral SFS on March 19, 2026; booster B1077 lands on JRTI.
- Space Station
NASA astronauts complete ISS US EVA 94
NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Chris Williams complete US EVA 94 outside the ISS on March 18, 2026.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Starlink 10-46 launch from Cape Canaveral
Falcon 9 lifts 29 Starlink V2 Mini Optimized satellites from Cape Canaveral SFS on March 17, 2026; booster B1090 lands on ASOG.
- China Space
Kuaizhou-11 Yaoyi-7 rocket launches with 8 satellites
Kuaizhou-11 Yaoyi-7 rocket launches from Jiuquan on March 16, 2026, carrying 8 satellites including Juntian-1 04A and others.
- China Space
Shenzhou-21 crew completes second EVA
Shenzhou-21 crew members Zhang Lu, Wu Fei, and Zhang Hongzhang complete second extravehicular activity on March 16, 2026.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Starlink 17-24 launch from Vandenberg
Falcon 9 lifts 25 Starlink satellites from Vandenberg SFB on March 16, 2026; booster B1088 lands on OCISLY; SpaceX Starlink reaches 10,000 satellites in orbit.
- China Space
China launches Yaogan-50 02 remote sensing satellite
On Mar. 15, 2026, a modified Long March-6 lifted Yaogan-50 02 from Taiyuan; the flight was the 633rd mission of the Long March series.
- China Space
Long March 8A maiden flight success
Long March 8A rocket makes successful maiden flight from Hainan Commercial Space Launch Site on March 13, 2026, delivering 20 satellite internet LEO satellites.
- China Space
Two Long March launches within three hours in China
On Mar. 13, 2026, Long March-8A lifted off from Hainan and Long March-2D from Xichang, deploying a LEO satellite internet batch and Shiyan 30C/30D satellites.
- China Space
Shiyan-30 03 & 04 satellites launched
Long March 2D rocket launches Shiyan-30 03 & 04 satellites from Xichang on March 13, 2026.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Starlink 17-31 launch from Vandenberg
Falcon 9 lifts 25 Starlink V2 Mini Optimized satellites from Vandenberg SFB on March 13, 2026; booster B1071 lands on OCISLY.
February 2026
January 2026
December 2025
November 2025
- China Space
Shenzhou 22 Crewed Spacecraft Successfully Launched
On November 25, 2025, China's Shenzhou 22 crewed spacecraft was successfully launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, carrying a new crew of astronauts to the Tiangong Space Station.
- Commercial Space
Blue Origin's New Glenn Completes First Mission
On November 13, 2025, Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket successfully completed its first operational mission, launching NASA's EscaPADE Mars probe.
October 2025
- SpaceX
SpaceX Starship Flight 11 Achieves Success
On October 13, 2025, SpaceX's Starship Flight 11 (IFT-11) successfully completed all primary objectives, with both the rocket and spacecraft achieving controlled recovery.
- China Space
Gravity-1 Rocket Achieves Maiden Flight Success
On October 11, 2025, the Gravity-1 rocket developed by Orienspace successfully completed its maiden flight from a coastal launch site in Haiyang, Shandong Province, placing 3 satellites into orbit.
August 2025
- SpaceX
SpaceX Starship Flight 10 Achieves Success
On August 26, 2025, SpaceX's Starship Flight 10 (IFT-10) successfully completed all primary objectives, with the rocket achieving a controlled landing.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Crew-11 Successfully Launched
On August 1, 2025, SpaceX's Crew-11 mission successfully launched from Kennedy Space Center, carrying 4 astronauts to the International Space Station.
July 2025
May 2025
- China Space
Tianwen-2 Probe Successfully Launched
On May 28, 2025, China's Tianwen-2 probe was successfully launched aboard a Long March 3B rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center, beginning China's first asteroid sample return mission.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Starship Flight 9 Experiences Setback
On May 27, 2025, SpaceX's Starship Flight 9 (IFT-9) experienced an anomaly during flight and did not complete all planned mission objectives.
- China Space
World's First Space Computing Constellation Successfully Launched
On May 14, 2025, China successfully launched the world's first space computing satellite constellation aboard a Long March-2D rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center.
- China Space
China Launches Tongce-19 Communications Test Satellite
On May 13, 2025, China successfully launched the Tongce-19 communications technology test satellite aboard a Long March-3C rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center.
- China Space
China Launches Yaogan-40 02 Satellite Group
On May 11, 2025, China successfully launched the Yaogan-40 02 satellite group aboard a Long March-6 modified rocket from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center.
- China Space
Chang'e-5 Lunar Samples Arrive in UK
In May 2025, lunar samples collected by China's Chang'e-5 mission arrived in the UK, with The Open University becoming the first international institution granted access to study the material.
April 2025
- China Space
Shenzhou 20 Crewed Spacecraft Successfully Launched
On April 24, 2025, China's Shenzhou 20 crewed spacecraft was successfully launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, carrying astronauts to the Tiangong Space Station.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Fram2 Mission Makes History
On April 1, 2025, SpaceX's Fram2 mission successfully launched from Kennedy Space Center — the first time humans traveled to a polar orbit aboard a spacecraft.
March 2025
- SpaceX
NASA announces SpaceX Crew-11 crew assignments
NASA names four crew members for the next SpaceX Crew Dragon rotation to the ISS, targeting launch no earlier than July 2025 (RELEASE 25-010).
- China Space
China launches Tianlian II-04 data-relay satellite
Long March 3B lifts off from Xichang on March 26, 2025, placing the Tianlian II-04 GEO relay satellite into planned orbit; 565th Long March family flight.
- Space Station
NASA and Northrop cancel Cygnus NG-22 cargo mission
Pressurized cargo module damage in transit leads NASA and Northrop Grumman to drop the planned June Cygnus NG-22 ISS flight; NG-23 targeted no earlier than fall 2025.
- ESA
Rocket Lab launches eight OroraTech wildfire satellites
Electron deploys eight OTC-P1 satellites for Germany’s OroraTech from New Zealand; Phase 1 of a planned larger constellation for wildfire monitoring.
- SpaceX
SpaceX Starlink launch from Vandenberg
Falcon 9 lifts Starlink satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, with booster landing at sea (press coverage).