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  • Issue 34 | Breaking Space News: Jan 19 - 25, 2025

Issue 34 | Breaking Space News: Jan 19 - 25, 2025

Europe & China Collaborate on Space Weather Probe. This Week in Space News: The Stunning Andromeda Galaxy, Extremely Large Telescope, Chinese Launches and Laser Power Transmission Proposal, Call for Ban on Space Advertisement, JWST Faces Budget Cuts, US Space Force's $2.3B Satellite Services Contracts, Interlune's Helium-3 Mining Plans on Moon, 3D Map of the Iconic Ring Nebula & Much More.

Explorer, welcome back!🚀

This week we have some groundbreaking research, plenty of launches and innovations in space science, curated for you. And as always, some stunning images from across the Universe! Don’t forget to go here for the best reading experience/in case your newsletter gets clipped at the bottom.

Talk to us. We talk back on Discord, Instagram, LinkedIN, and TikTok.

Hope you enjoy this Space!

IMAGES

 

Andromeda Galaxy, Panoramic Photomosaic : Hubble Space Telescope

This is the largest photomosaic from Hubble Space Telescope observations, showing a panoramic view of the Andromeda galaxy, , located 2.5 million light-years away, assembled from over 600 overlapping snapshots taken over 10 years. Spanning 2.5 billion pixels, this mosaic captures the glow of 200 million stars, helping astronomers study the galaxy's history, including mergers with smaller galaxies. The galaxy is so close to us, that in angular size it is six times the apparent diameter of the full Moon, and can be seen with the unaided eye. (Credit: NASA, ESA, Benjamin F. Williams (UWashington), Zhuo Chen (UWashington), L. Clifton Johnson (Northwestern); Image Processing: Joseph DePasquale (STScI))

The vast Andromeda galaxy is the nearest galaxy to our own Milky Way, and is seen almost edge-on, tilted by 77 degrees relative to Earth’s view. Hubble resolves an estimated 200 million stars that are hotter than our Sun, but still a fraction of the galaxy’s total estimated stellar population.

Interesting regions include: (a) Clusters of bright blue stars embedded within the galaxy, background galaxies seen much farther away, and photo-bombing by a couple bright foreground stars that are actually inside our Milky Way; (b) NGC 206 the most conspicuous star cloud in Andromeda; (c) A young cluster of blue newborn stars; (d) The satellite galaxy M32, that may be the residual core of a galaxy that once collided with Andromeda; (e) Dark dust lanes across myriad stars. (Credit: NASA, ESA, Benjamin F. Williams (UWashington), Zhuo Chen (UWashington), L. Clifton Johnson (Northwestern); Image Processing: Joseph DePasquale (STScI))

 

 

Extremely Large Telescope Under-Construction, Dome Completion : ESO

This aerial photo, shows ESO's Extremely Large Telescope under construction in Chile's Atacama Desert. The ELT will be the largest optical telescope on Earth once finished by the end of this decade. The telescope is located in Cerro Armazones, a hill on the Atacama Desert which is almost 3000 meters above sea level. Cerro means "mountain" or "hill" in Spanish, while the term "armazones" usually refers to a "scaffolding". The hill is indeed the scaffolding of the ELT. Thanks to its height and remote location, far from sources of light pollution, and the clear skies of the desert, it provides one of the Earth's best windows to the Universe. (Credit: ESO/G. Vecchia)

Credit: ESO/G. Vecchia

With a 93-meter diameter, the dome of the telescope is as large as a football field. The frame of the dome is now completed, but its outer shell is still in progress. Once finished, it will be fully covered in plates of aluminium, perfect for keeping the telescope thermally protected from the extremely changing temperatures of the Atacama desert. (Credit: ESO/G. Vecchia)

This drone shot, dating from early January 2025, peers right into the dome of ESO's Extremely Large Telescope (ELT). The dome is not yet fully covered in this image. Once finished, the ELT will be the world's biggest eye on the sky, thanks to its 39 metre diameter main mirror, which will be supported by the polygon structure inside the dome. The 'spider' on top of it will hold the telescope's secondary mirror at its centre. (Credit: ESO/G. Vecchia)

The giant dome will house the telescope and its interior structure, providing protection from the extreme environment of Chile's Atacama Desert. It will be about 80 metres high and have a diameter of about 93 metres. (Credit: ESO/G. Vecchia)

This drone image shows the metal altitude structure inside the dome, which is 50 metres high and will carry the ELT's five mirrors. It rotates so that it can be pointed at different parts of the sky. The 'spider' on top will hold the telescope's secondary mirror, the perforated structure below carries the main mirror, and the central tower supports the ELT's remaining three mirrors. (Credit: ESO/G. Vecchia)

The 50-meter-tall altitude structure will carry all 5 mirrors of the ELT, including the giant M1 mirror on its base. The semicircular plate in the image is part of a hydrostatic frame that supports the altitude structure. It is perforated to allow air to flow from the mirror to the ambient air, preventing temperature differences. (Credit: ESO/G. Vecchia)

The skeleton is completed but still needs to receive all the segments that make up the main 39-m mirror, set on its honey-comb-shaped base and the other, smaller mirrors, which will be set inside the central tower. (Credit: ESO/G. Vecchia)

 

 

74 Exocomet Belts Orbiting Nearby Stars : ALMA & SMA Telescopes

Exocomet belts observed with the ALMA and SMA arrays. (Credit: ALMA (ESO/NAOJ/NRAO)/SMA/ L. MatrĂ  et al.)

“Exocomets are boulders of rock and ice, at least 1 km in size, which smash together within these belts to produce the pebbles that we observe here with the ALMA and SMA arrays of telescopes. Exocometary belts are found in at least 20% of planetary systems, including our own Solar System.”

Luca Matrà, Associate Professor in Trinity’s School of Physics, and senior author of the research article published in Astronomy and Astrophysics

Millimetre continuum images for the REASONS resolved sample of 74 belts, ordered by source RA. North is up and east is left. Bars indicate a physical scale of 50 au, and ellipses represent the synthesized beam of the observations. (MatrĂ  et al., 2025)

The millimeter continuum refers to observations or images of astronomical objects at millimeter wavelengths, often used to study cold, dense regions in space, such as dust and gas clouds. These millimeter continuum images capture the emission from solid particles or gas molecules, providing insight into the structure and composition of objects like exocomet belts or star-forming regions. This type of imagery is key to understanding the physical properties and dynamics of astronomical entities.

Source RA refers to the Right Ascension (RA) of the astronomical object being observed. Right Ascension is the celestial equivalent of longitude on Earth, measuring the object's position eastward along the celestial equator. It's expressed in hours, minutes, and seconds. Essentially, RA helps astronomers pinpoint the object's location in the sky.

Astrophysicists, led by a team from Trinity College Dublin, have imaged 74 exocomet belts around nearby stars, offering unprecedented insight into these structures. Exocomet belts are regions in space, similar to asteroid belts, but primarily composed of comets orbiting their host stars. Utilizing the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), located on the Chajnantor Plateau in northern Chile, and the Submillimeter Array (SMA), located near the summit of Maunakea in Hawaii, the REASONS (REsolved ALMA and SMA Observations of Nearby Stars) survey revealed that these belts are typically tens to hundreds of astronomical units from their central stars, where temperatures are extremely cold. An astronomical unit (AU) is the average distance between the Earth and the Sun, approximately 93 million miles or 150 million kilometers.

The study found that these belts can vary widely in structure, from narrow rings like the Edgeworth-Kuiper belt in our solar system to wide disks. High-velocity gas blobs indicated the presence of companion stars, influencing the distribution of pebbles within the belts. This landmark survey provides crucial data for understanding the evolution of planetary systems, with belts found in at least 20% of these systems. The research is published in the January 2025 issue of Astronomy and Astrophysics.

SCIENCE

 

NASA Awards Contracts to Nine Companies for Lunar Exploration Studies

Artist’s rendering of astronauts managing logistics on the lunar surface. (Credit: NASA)

NASA has announced the awarding of new study contracts to nine American companies to study logistical issues needed to support long-term lunar exploration under the Artemis program. The contracts, with a combined value of $24 million, aim to develop strategies and technologies for human life and work on the lunar surface. NASA awarded the contracts through its Next Space Technologies for Exploration Partnerships-2 (NextSTEP-2) broad agency announcement. These new studies, known as NextSTEP-2 Appendix R, address gaps in the Moon to Mars Architecture, focusing on integrating surface logistics and uncrewed mobility systems. The solicitation limits each of the seven study topics to $1 million, with a $4 million cap for multiple topics. Studies should be completed in about a year.

The nine companies selected for awards are Blue Origin, Intuitive Machines, Leidos, Lockheed Martin, MDA Space, Moonprint, Pratt Miller Defense, Sierra Space, and Special Aerospace Services. The studies cover topics like logistics carriers, surface cargo mobility, advanced robotics and trash management.

Nujoud Merancy, Deputy Associate Administrator at NASA Headquarters, emphasized the importance of these contracts in fostering innovation and expanding knowledge for future lunar missions and beyond. This initiative aligns with NASA's blueprint for deep space exploration, involving collaborations with industry, academia, and the international community.

Chinese Researchers Propose Orbital, Laser-Based Wireless Power Transmission for Lunar Exploration

The far side of the moon and distant Earth, imaged by the 2014 Chang’e-5 T1 mission service module. (Credit: Chinese Academy of Sciences)

China is exploring the use of lasers to wirelessly transmit power from lunar orbiters to supply spacecraft on the surface of the moon, addressing significant challenges such as the moon's long nights and extreme temperatures. This technology involves using high-power lasers to send energy from satellites in orbiters to surface operations, converting the laser light into electricity.

The tidal locking of the moon with Earth results in extended periods of darkness lasting approximately 14 days, accompanied by significant temperature fluctuations. While solar power can supply energy during the lunar daytime, the prolonged nights present considerable challenges. Spacecraft require both heat and power to endure the total absence of light and temperatures that can plummet to -200°C (-328°F).

Researchers at the Chinese Academy of Space Technology and the Shandong Aerospace Electronics Research Institute highlight that using the laser wireless power transmission (LWPT) approach could solve many logistical problems for lunar exploration, including operating in perpetually shadowed polar craters potentially rich in water-ice. A paper published in the Journal of Deep Space Exploration (JDSE) in October 2024, shows how LWPT might offer flexibility and scalability in vacuum conditions.

Europe Targets 2035 for High-Precision Mars Lander Mission

The European Space Agency (ESA) has announced plans for an advanced Mars lander mission targeted for 2035, which aims to develop key technologies for high-precision landings on the Martian surface. This ambitious mission follows the planned 2028 launch of the life-hunting Rosalind Franklin rover to Mars. ESA's "Advanced Entry, Descent, and Landing Capability on Mars" initiative, calls for proposals to begin early development to ensure readiness for this significant mission.

The agency highlights 2035 as the most favorable launch date within the next decade due to optimal planetary alignments, allowing for efficient fuel use. ESA's broader plans under its "Explore 2040" campaign include the LightShip, an electric propulsive tug designed to transport spacecraft, provide communication and navigation services, and carry scientific payloads to Mars.

China Undertakes Multiple Satellite Launches And Tests

China's space program has been active with several notable launches and tests. On January 23, 2025, China successfully launched the classified TJS-14 satellite into geostationary orbit (GEO) using the Long March 3B rocket. The TJS-14, aimed at testing advanced communication technologies, adds to China's growing portfolio of satellites potentially enhancing space-based capabilities. Shortly after the liftoff, the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT) announced the successful launch of this previously undisclosed communication technology experiment Satellite-14 (TJS-14) to geostationary orbit. However, one of the rocket's four strap-on side boosters fell dangerously close to a family home in Zhenyuan County, Guizhou province, exploding on impact.

A Long March 6A rocket lifts off from Taiyuan, Jan. 23, 2025, carrying 18 Qianfan satellites into polar orbit. (Credit: CASC, Zheng Fufu)

The same day, China launched a fourth batch of 18 Thousand Sails Polar orbit group 6 satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) with a Long March 6A rocket, bringing the number of satellites in the constellation to 72. These satellites are part of the larger Qianfan (Thousand Sails) megaconstellation project led by Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology (SSST or Spacesail), intending to provide global internet services from space. The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), the entity responsible for manufacturing the launcher, announced the successful launch in an officialstatement post-launch .

Ceres-1. (Credit: Galactic Energy)

Earlier, on January 20, 2025, China launched five satellites aboard a Ceres-1 rocket designed by Galactic Energy. This mission included four Yunyao-1 commercial meteorological satellites and the Jitianxing A-05 satellite equipped with a hyperspectral camera for remote sensing purposes. The Ceres-1 manufacturer and operator, announced in a statement that five satellites had been successfully inserted into preplanned orbits.

A Chinese state-owned company also recently tested the Longxing-2 reusable rocket on January 18, 2025. The high-altitude test, intended to advance reusable launch technology, left observers uncertain of its success due to the lack of official updates. This ambitious test is crucial for China's future plans to reduce costs and enhance its launch frequency. Longxing-2 is thought to be a test article for the Long March 12A reusable launcher being developed by the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology (SAST), SpaceNews reports.

Europe and China Set to Launch Joint Space Weather Mission- SMILE, in 2026 to Study Solar Wind

The European Space Agency (ESA) and the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) are set to launch the Solar Wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer (SMILE) mission in early 2026. Targeted to launch on a Vega-C rocket from Europe's Spaceport in Kourou, the 2,300 kilograms/5,070-pound SMILE spacecraft will study the interaction between solar wind and Earth's magnetosphere.

The Vega-C rocket, shown with logos from its inaugural flight (VV21), increases performance to 2.3 tons in polar orbit, compared to Vega's 1.5 tons. At nearly 35 meters tall, the 210-ton rocket features three solid propellant stages, a liquid-propellant upper stage, and a payload fairing. (Credit: ESA–J. Huart)

The mission aims to shed light on space weather processes, including what happens where the solar wind meets Earth’s magnetic shield and what causes magnetic glitches. ESA will provide the payload module, launch vehicle, and one of the scientific instruments, while CAS will handle three scientific instruments along with mission and science operations. Technical challenges, pandemic delays, and negotiation for the launch slot mark significant hurdles overcome since the mission was selected in 2015.

Innovations in Electric Propulsion Technology Enhanced by Supercomputer Simulations May Boost Space Missions

Pictured is a 6 kW Hall thruster in operation at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory. (Courtesy of NASA-JPL/CalTech)

A new research initiative at the University of Virginia, led by Assistant Professor Chen Cui, aims to enhance electric propulsion systems for spaceflight. Using advanced supercomputer simulations, Cui and his team are exploring the kinetic behavior of electrons in plasma beams generated by electric propulsion (EP) thrusters. These findings could significantly improve the efficiency and reliability of EP thruster systems, essential for long-duration space missions.

"These particles may be small, but their movement and energy play an important role in determining the macroscopic dynamics of the plume emitted from the electric propulsion thruster."

Chen Cui, Professor, University of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science

By better understanding and optimizing how the ion exhaust behaves, these simulations help protect spacecraft components from backscattered electrons. This step is crucial for ensuring the durability and performance of electric propulsion systems, where a small error in electron dynamics could damage critical parts like solar arrays and antennas. The findings were published last month in Plasma Sources Science and Technology

GOVERNANCE

 

Astronomers Call for Global Ban Space-Based Advertising

StartRocket has proposed deploying satellites designed to display corporate logos or advertisements visible from Earth. PepsiCo's Russian subsidiary was working with StarRocket to advertise an energy drink, however in 2019 the plan to use an orbital billboard was dropped. (Credit: StartRocket)

The American Astronomical Society (AAS) is urging a global ban on space-based advertising visible from Earth. Concerns focus on potential interference with astronomical observations, as bright advertisements could obstruct scientific exploration and violate principles of the Outer Space Treaty. The AAS Statement on Obtrusive Space Advertising was released at the 245th Meeting of the AAS, held in National Harbor, Maryland, U.S., earlier this month.

Moscow based Avant-Space Systems LLC, recently launched a prototype cubesat to demonstrate this technology, the statement highlights.

“This kind of use of outer space represents a presently unknown, but potentially serious, threat to the pursuit of astronomical discovery using ground-based facilities;”

From the AAS Statement on Obtrusive Space Advertising

The AAS calls for a global ban on obtrusive space advertising through appropriate international conventions, treaties, or laws. They also urge the U.S. delegation to the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) to advocate for such a prohibition.

NASA Undergoes Significant Changes During Second Trump Term

President Donald Trump addresses the audience at Kennedy Space Center following the successful Demo-2 commercial crew launch on May 30, 2020. (Credit: NASA/Bill Ingalls)

President Donald Trump's second term has brought significant changes to the U.S. space sector. The administration's space priorities include a renewed focus on lunar and Mars missions, with an emphasis on commercial partnerships and cost efficiency. Elon Musk, chairing the Department of Government Efficiency, is expected to influence space policy, potentially impacting traditional defense contracting practices.

Meanwhile, confusion marked the beginning of Trump's second term, with conflicting announcements about NASA's acting administrator. Initially, NASA's website listed Jim Free, while the White House declared Janet Petro for the role. This was resolved with Petro confirmed as acting administrator. Trump has nominated Jared Isaacman, a billionaire entrepreneur and private spaceflight veteran, as the permanent NASA administrator.

Bill Nelson, who served as NASA Administrator under President Biden, stepped down as Trump began his second term. Nelson's tenure saw the launch of several landmark missions, including the James Webb Space Telescope and Artemis 1. In his farewell letter, Nelson urged his successor to continue building on the foundation laid during his administration and emphasized the importance of commercial partnerships in achieving NASA's goals.

Additionally, in line with Trump's executive orders, NASA has shut down its diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) offices. Acting Administrator Janet Petro issued a memo to employees, stating that these programs divided Americans by race and wasted taxpayer dollars. The directive follows Trump's orders to eliminate DEIA programs across federal agencies.

These developments signal a shift in NASA's direction, with a focus on cost efficiency, commercial collaboration, and a streamlined approach to space exploration.

Angola and France Finalize Financing for High-Resolution Earth Observation Satellite Project

Angola has formalized a financing agreement with France for the construction of ANGEO-1, its first high-resolution Earth observation satellite. The deal, signed during the Angolan President’s diplomatic visit to France, marks a pivotal advancement in Angola’s space capabilities. The project, resulting from six years of bilateral cooperation, is backed by two loans from Société Générale, totaling $231.46 million (€225 million). ANGEO-1, developed in partnership with Airbus Defence and Space, will address key challenges such as agricultural productivity, environmental monitoring, and disaster management.

The initiative also prioritizes knowledge transfer and capacity building. Training programs and academic collaborations will equip Angolan specialists with the expertise needed to lead the country’s growing space industry. This agreement reflects over a decade of successful collaboration between Airbus and Angola.

Next-Gen U.S. Space Traffic System Aims for 2025 Rollout Amid Bid Protest

The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is developing the Traffic Coordination System for Space (TraCSS) through its Office of Space Commerce (OSC). TraCSS will provide essential space situational awareness (SSA) data and services to civil and private space operators, aiming to support spaceflight safety, sustainability, and international coordination. (Credit: NOAA)

The U.S. Office of Space Commerce (OSC) remains confident in rolling out its next-generation space traffic coordination platform by 2025, despite a contract bid protest from Kayhan Space. The $5.3 million contract, awarded to Slingshot Aerospace, includes options for four additional years, bringing its total potential value to $13.3 million. The platform, TraCSS.gov, aims to modernize U.S. space traffic management, enhance space situational awareness and improve the safety and sustainability of satellite operations. the Traffic Coordination System for Space initiative (TraCSS) is intended to gradually replace Space-Track.org. The phased approach starting with TraCSS 1.0 integrates TraCSS data through Space-Track. As TraCSS develops, its user interface will eventually replace Space-Track.

Kayhan Space lodged its protest with the Government Accountability Office (GAO) in December, triggering a 100-day work stoppage. The GAO is expected to resolve the allegations by March 20. Kayhan's co-founder, Araz Feyzi, expressed hope for fair competition and compliance with public procurement laws. During Space Foundation’s inaugural Finance Forum, OSC acting director Janice Starzyk acknowledged the delay, to SpaceNews, but emphasized the importance of supporting commercial space endeavors.

Finland Becomes 53rd Nation to Sign Artemis Accords

Finland has officially joined the Artemis Accords, making it the 53rd nation to sign this agreement. The signing ceremony took place during the Winter Satellite Workshop at Aalto University in Espoo. Finland's Minister of Economic Affairs, Wille Rydman, emphasized that the nation's commitment to space exploration aligns with its updated space strategy, which promotes international cooperation and partnerships.

The Artemis Accords, established by NASA and the U.S. Department of State in 2020, outline a framework for peaceful, collaborative space exploration. Since October 2024, countries like Dominican Republic, Estonia, Cyprus, Chile, Denmark, Panama, Austria, Thailand, and Liechtenstein have also joined the Accords.

This development signals Finland's dedication to advancing its space sector and contributing to future lunar and Mars missions under the Artemis program. As part of these missions, Finnish companies will provide critical technologies, such as Nokia's lunar LTE/4G communications system.

JWST Faces Potential Operational Budget Cuts Despite High Demand

An illustration of JWST in space. (Credit: NASA GSFC/CIL/Adriana Manrique Gutierrez)

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is facing potential operational budget cuts, which could impact its ability to continue delivering groundbreaking scientific discoveries. The U.S. House Appropriations Committee has expressed concerns about the telescope's high operational costs amidst growing budget pressures. NASA's senior review process, which evaluates whether to continue funding science missions, is currently being tested with JWST and other major projects like the Chandra X-Ray Observatory and Hubble Space Telescope.

“The institute is being asked to consider a significant — about 20% — cut to our operational budget for the mission.”

Tom Brown, Head of the JWST Mission Office at STScI, via SpaceNews

The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScl) reports that JWST, halfway through its five-year mission, is exceeding expectations with high demand for observing time. Despite JWST's significant contributions to astrophysics, including uncovering new insights into early galaxy formation and exoplanet atmospheres, the agency must reconsider the level of support due to overall budget constraints. NASA's director of astrophysics, Mark Clampin, emphasized the need to balance the budgets while maintaining the momentum of crucial space missions.

As the review unfolds, the future of JWST remains uncertain, with both the scientific community and space enthusiasts eager for more clarity on the telescope's trajectory.

MILITARY

 

Redwire Boosts Defense Portfolio with $925 Million Acquisition of Edge Autonomy

Rendering of a Redwire Mako sat communicating with Edge Autonomy drones and ground operators. (Credit: Redwire)

Space infrastructure company Redwire has announced a $925 million acquisition of Edge Autonomy. This move is part of Redwire's strategy to expand into the defense sector, focusing on both space and autonomous airborne platforms. The acquisition, which involves $150 million in cash and $775 million in Redwire common stock, aims to bolster Redwire's portfolio with Edge Autonomy's combat-proven uncrewed airborne system and advanced optic systems for defense applications.

Edge Autonomy, established in 2021 through the merger of UAV Factory and Jennings Aeronautics, provides critical technologies to the U.S. Department of Defense and various international clients. The deal is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals. Redwire anticipates that the combined entity will generate significant revenues and strengthen its position in the multi-domain autonomous technology market.

Kratos and Rocket Lab Partner to Launch Hypersonic Test Vehicles for US DoD

Rocket Lab's HASTE rocket for suborbital missions is derived from the Electron launch vehicle, seen here launching from NASA Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia in March 2023. (Credit: Rocket Lab)

Rocket Lab has been selected by U.S. defense contractor Kratos Defense and Security Solutions to launch hypersonic test vehicles for the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) with their HASTE (Hypersonic Accelerator Suborbital Test Electron) rocket. This contract, part of the Multi-Service Advanced Capability Hypersonic Test Bed (MACH-TB) 2.0 program, aims to accelerate hypersonic test flight capacity. The $1.45 billion, 5-year contract will see Rocket Lab join a team of subcontractors providing systems engineering, assembly, integration, testing, launch services, and mission planning.

Rocket Lab has already demonstrated its capability with successful HASTE suborbital launches from its Virginia and New Zealand sites. The MACH-TB 2.0 contract will further Rocket Lab's contributions to hypersonic innovation alongside U.S. government and industry partners. This initiative aligns with the U.S. National Hypersonic Initiative 2.0, bridging the gap between ground tests and full-scale hypersonic system tests.

U.S. Space Force Forecasts $2.3 Billion in Satellite Services Contracts

The U.S. Space Force's Commercial Satellite Communications Office (CSCO) has announced in a procurement forecast, issued in December, approximately $2.3 billion in contracting opportunities for fiscal years 2025 and 2026. These contracts aim to leverage commercial innovations in satellite communications for military operations.

The largest initiative is the Maneuverable GEO Program, estimated at $900 million. This program focuses on acquiring custom-built small satellites for geostationary orbit (GEO). The Army's Satcom as a Managed Service contract, worth around $200 million, involves private companies managing satellite communication services. Other significant contracts include bandwidth for Pituffik Space Base and enterprise satellite services for the Marine Corps.

Clare Hopper, CSCO's director, highlighted the importance of these initiatives in integrating commercial satcom technologies into military operations

COMMERCIAL

 

US-Norway Technology Safeguards Agreement Enables Andøya Spaceport to Host US Commercial Launches

Andøya Spaceport's Launch Pad A. (Credit: Andøya Spaceport)

The United States and Norway have signed a Technology Safeguards Agreement (TSA), allowing U.S. commercial space launches from Andøya Spaceport in Norway. Situated on an island north of the Arctic Circle, the facility was granted a license by Norwegian authorities in August, authorizing it to conduct orbital launches. The TSA, announced on January 16, 2025, provides a legal and technical framework for U.S. companies to launch satellites and potentially launch vehicles from the spaceport, while ensuring the protection of sensitive technology. The agreement reflects the ongoing collaboration between the two countries in the space sector and enhances Andøya's strategic importance. Andøya Spaceport, located north of Trondheim, received regulatory approval for orbital launches in 2023 and has already hosted over 300 launches in partnership with NASA. The agreement is part of a broader U.S. strategy to expand international space cooperation and maintain stringent export controls.

While no American companies have announced plans to launch from Andøya, German company Isar Aerospace is preparing to launch its first Spectrum small vehicle from the spaceport, with no updated schedule after initially planning for 2024.

Space Industry Prepares for Impact of Proposed US Tariffs

The following is a summary of a piece written by Jason Rainbow for Space News. Rainbow covers satellite telecom, finance, and commercial markets for SpaceNews. With over a decade of experience as a business journalist in the global space industry, he was previously Group Editor-in-Chief for Finance Information Group.

The space industry is bracing for potential fallout from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's proposed tariffs. If implemented, the tariffs could raise costs and disrupt supply chains for critical materials used in space technology. Companies are evaluating strategies to mitigate these impacts, such as localizing production and exploring alternative suppliers. The increased tariff on imports from China, Mexico, and Canada, could affect a range of space industry components, including satellites and rocket parts.

Supply chain experts predict a rise in the cost of raw materials, which could delay projects and squeeze profit margins across the industry. Some companies, like Europe's Thales Alenia Space, a major supplier of pressurized modules for the U.S., are already assessing the potential impact on their business. The space sector's reliance on global collaboration and specialized components makes it particularly vulnerable to such trade policies, and the industry must adapt swiftly to maintain its competitive edge. You can read the full article on SpaceNews, here.

Space Industry Faces Major Shifts in 2025, Predicts Space Capital

Space venture capital firm Space Capital predicts significant industry shifts in 2025. According to their latest investment trends report, both Boeing and Airbus are set to divest their space divisions, signaling a pivotal moment in the commercial space landscape. These aerospace giants are struggling to keep pace with the rapidly evolving space sector.

Space Capital predicts 2025 to be transformative for the space economy, spurred by broader industry trends and Elon Musk's influential role in the Trump administration's pro-growth, anti-regulation stance.

Meanwhile, the space sector prepares for a surge in initial public offerings (IPOs) as private companies like Voyager Technologies plan to go public. This trend is boosted by increasing defense spending and U.S. initiatives to counter China's growing space capabilities, the report notes. Additionally, the broader economic climate for space IPOs is improving, with analysts predicting the entry of new space companies into the market by the end of the year. These developments highlight a transformative period for the space industry, driven by technological advancements, increased government spending, and a changing regulatory environment.

AST SpaceMobile Secures Funding for Direct-to-Smartphone Broadband Network

A photo from low Earth orbit showing the fully unfolded, nearly 700 sq ft/65 sq mt array of AST SpaceMobile's SM4 Block 1 BlueBird commercial satellite. The spacecraft, one of five launched on September 12, 2024, is designed to provide the first-ever space-based cellular broadband service to unmodified mobile phones. (Credit: AST SpaceMobile)

AST SpaceMobile has raised $400 million to accelerate the development of its direct-to-smartphone space-based cellular broadband network. The funds, acquired through a convertible senior note offering with an interest rate of 4.25%, mature in 2032. This financing supports manufacturing and deployment of AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird satellites, aiming to provide seamless smartphone connectivity.

Investors can convert the debt into equity with a capped call of $45 or receive cash at maturity. AST SpaceMobile has entered revenue-sharing agreements with telcos like AT&T, propelling its shares last year. Despite a current drop to around $22 per share, the company continues to engage with major partners like Verizon and Google, converting a separate $148 million deal.

With more than $900 million in cash, AST SpaceMobile now plans to ramp up production of its Block 2 BlueBird satellites after deploying five smaller Block 1 spacecraft to LEO in September. Block 2 satellites, significantly larger and more capable, are set to offer peak data rates up to 120 Mbps. Contracts are in place to launch up to 45 BlueBird satellites in the coming years, with initial launches slated from India and subsequent deployments via SpaceX and Blue Origin rockets.

Moreover, AST SpaceMobile has filed a request with the FCC to start Block 1 beta services, with shares now trading around $19.54.

Rocket Lab to Launch OroraTech's Wildfire-Monitoring Satellites

The infographic outlines the benefits of OroraTech's constellation of eight satellites and features a rendering of the FOREST-2 camera, along with a high-resolution image of multiple wildfires detected over Chile on February 5, 2023, via OroraTech's Wildfire Solution. (Credit: OroraTech)

FOREST - 2 Thermal Image, Mauna Loa. (Credit: OroraTech)

FOREST - 3 in orbit visualization. (Credit: OroraTech)

Rocket Lab has announced a mission to launch eight satellites for OroraTech, a German company specializing in global wildfire detection and response. These satellites, equipped with thermal infrared cameras, will provide continuous wildfire monitoring, enhancing response efforts to protect forests, communities, and infrastructure. Launching from Rocket Lab’s Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand, the dedicated Electron mission will place the satellites in a 550 km orbit.

Munich-based OroraTech aims for a 100-satellite constellation to provide early wildfire warnings, supporting first responders, governments, and industry partners. The company raised €25 million in October 2024 and recently launched its third satellite, FOREST-3, with SpaceX. This upcoming mission is part of Rocket Lab's busy schedule, which includes multiple launches for operators such as Synspective, and BlackSky, an early February launch for Kinéis, a responsive space mission for the U.S. Space Force, and the debut of Rocket Lab’s new medium-lift reusable rocket, Neutron. Rocket Lab, emphasizing flexibility and reliability, aims to surpass its 2024 record of 16 Electron launches.

Interlune to Harvest Helium-3 from Moon for Quantum Computing

An artist’s illustration depicting lunar mining operations for Helium-3 involving harvesters, a solar power plant, rovers and return launchers. (Credit: Interlune)

Interlune, a Seattle-based company founded by former Blue Origin technologists and led by Apollo 17 moonwalker Jack Schmitt, aims to harvest lunar Helium-3 for quantum computing on Earth. Helium-3, a rare isotope embedded in the lunar regolith and scarce on Earth, is crucial for cooling quantum computing devices. Interlune plans to deploy five SUV-sized harvesters to collect Helium-3 from the Moon's surface.

Despite significant technological challenges and skepticism, Interlune remains optimistic. Currently, Helium-3 is priced at about $20 million per kilogram, Interlune CEO Rob Meyerson told SpaceNews. Experts cite difficulties with extracting the gas from lunar regolith and returning it to Earth. There's also uncertainty about sustaining a large enough market for Helium-3 to make the venture commercially viable. The company has raised $25 million and recently received a $365,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. Interlune plans to return tens of kilograms of Helium-3 annually to Earth, intending to supply the growing demand in quantum computing. Read more on the story at SpaceNews.

Boeing Projects Additional Starliner Losses Amid Broader Financial Struggles

Boeing's CST-100 Starliner spacecraft docked to the International Space Station during the Crew Flight Test mission. (Credit: NASA)

Boeing projects additional losses for its CST-100 Starliner program in the fourth quarter of 2024. Preliminary results indicate a pre-tax charge of around $1.7 billion for the Defense, Space, and Security division, primarily due to challenges with the Starliner program, the KC-46A Pegasus Tanker, and the T-7A trainer. Despite optimism from earlier tests, Starliner has faced persistent issues, causing NASA to delay crewed missions and increasing operational costs. Cumulative losses for the program are nearing $2 billion.

Additionally, Boeing foresees company-wide losses of around $4 billion in Q4 2024 due to a seven-week labor strike, disrupted commercial airplane production, and defense segment charges. Revenue is projected to be $15.2 billion, with a GAAP loss per share of $5.46. Boeing is implementing restructuring efforts, including workforce reductions, to stabilize operations. Read more on the story at SpaceNews.

Thales Alenia Space and Hispasat to Develop Quantum Key Distribution System with European Backing

Credit: Thales Alenia Space, E. Briot

European satellite manufacturer Thales Alenia Space and Hispasat, the Spanish satellite operator have begun developing the world's first quantum key distribution (QKD) system from geostationary orbit (GEO). This €103.5 million ($108 million) program, funded by the Spanish government and European Union, aims to safeguard data with unhackable quantum keys, addressing the threat posed by emerging quantum decryption technology.

The QKD-GEO mission will develop a high-precision telescope, a quantum random number generator, and optical ground stations to receive secure data transmissions. This initiative includes field tests between the Canary Islands' La Palma and Tenerife. The QKD-GEO system leverages the quantum properties of photons to ensure data integrity and privacy, setting a new standard for secure communications.

The project will align with the European Quantum Communication Infrastructure (EuroQCI) initiative, integrating quantum communication nodes across the EU. Thales Alenia Space leads the consortium, while Hispasat handles geostationary mission design and business planning.

SPOTLIGHT

 

Study Reveals the True 3D Structure, an Ellipsoidal Shape of Iconic Ring Nebula

The Ring Nebula in visible light, captured by Hubble Space Telescope, left; in radio emission from CO molecules by the Submillimeter Array (SMA), center; and in the infrared by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), right. The image is overlaid with contours of emission from CO that is moving perpendicular to our sight line, showing how the molecular gas imaged by the SMA envelopes the ionized gas imaged by JWST. (Credit: University of Manchester)

Scientists, led by Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) professor Joel Kastner, have achieved the clearest three-dimensional view of the iconic Ring Nebula. Utilizing the Submillimeter Array (SMA) and imaging from the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) and the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), the team determined that the nebula has an ellipsoidal shape. This new model contradicts previous theories that suggested a ring or bubble structure. The research indicates that the molecular gas, ejected by the dying star 6,000 years ago, envelopes the hot gas and dust seen in earlier images. The study also reveals high-velocity gas blobs, suggesting the influence of a companion star. This research enhances our understanding of the final stages of sun-like stars and the carbon they contribute to future celestial generations. The paper on this new 3D view of the Ring Nebula is about to be submitted to The Astrophysical Journal.

Martian Volcanic Features Indicate Ancient Ice and Fire Interactions

New data about the Athabasca Valles system on Mars is changing what scientists previously understood. This system of valleys, carved into volcanic plains, provides critical insights into the history of water on Mars. Rootless cones, a key feature, formed when lava interacted explosively with underground ice or water, suggesting ice was previously near the surface. These findings challenge traditional models of Martian floods, indicating either more colossal ancient floods or a Mars climate that once supported more persistent water. The presence of ice in these regions implies much wetter conditions in Mars' past. These discoveries contribute significantly to our understanding of Mars' habitability and climate history.

The new study of flooding in Athabasca Valles was accepted for publication in March 2025 in the journal Icarus.

ETH Zurich and Caltech Geophysicists Discover Anomalies, Map Ancient 'Sunken Worlds' Deep in Earth's Mantle

Using a new model, researchers uncover zones in the Earth's lower mantle where seismic waves travel slower (red) or faster (blue). The large blue zone in the western Pacific (right above the center of the image) was previously unknown. (Credit: Sebastian Noe / ETH Zurich)

A team of geophysicists from ETH Zurich and the California Institute of Technology recently discovered ancient "sunken worlds" deep within the Earth's mantle, areas in the Earth's interior that look like the remains of submerged plates. These mysterious formations, found through high-resolution seismic imaging, challenge existing theories about Earth's interior. These remnants are not located where they were expected and were instead found under large oceans or within continents, far from plate boundaries, with no geological evidence of past subduction.

Using full-waveform inversion, a novel, computationally intensive technique that combines earthquake data into detailed images, scientists identified anomalies beneath the Pacific Ocean's western regions where well-documented tectonic activity is absent. The researchers used the Piz Daint supercomputer at the CSCS in Lugano.

The anomalies, possibly remnants of ancient tectonic plates or dense material from the mantle's formation, highlight the need to revisit our understanding of Earth's subsurface dynamics. While their exact nature remains unknown, these findings pose intriguing questions about the history and composition of our planet. The study was published in Scientific Reports.

Japanese Researchers Unveil Comprehensive 19-Year Atmospheric Dataset that Offers Insight into Earth's “Ignorosphere”

Japanese researchers have created a groundbreaking 19-year dataset capturing the dynamics of Earth's atmosphere up to 110 kilometers (68.4 miles), with a focus on the mesosphere, also known as the "ignorosphere." This elusive region, stretching above the stratosphere, has been largely uncharted due to its challenging inaccessibility and sparse data.

By incorporating rare measurements from sounding rockets, radar, and lidar instruments, the dataset aims to fill critical gaps in understanding atmospheric processes and phenomena such as auroras and gravity waves. The researchers, led by Professor Kaoru Sato from the University of Tokyo, hope this dataset will provide new insights into space weather effects, including the interactions between solar storms and the mesosphere.

Understanding these processes could have significant implications for climate modelling and the study of ionospheric interactions, offering new avenues for research and improving predictions of natural phenomena like auroras. A research describing their work was published in the journal Progress in Earth and Planetary Science on January 10.

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