The latest developments from the space industry—launch updates, company news, funding rounds, and policy changes affecting the future of space exploration.
SpaceX achieved a historic milestone with over 100 successful Falcon 9 launches in 2024, cementing its position as the world's most prolific launch provider. The company also made significant progress on Starship, completing multiple test flights.
AST SpaceMobile successfully deployed its first batch of commercial BlueBird satellites, moving closer to providing direct-to-cell connectivity. The satellites feature massive phased array antennas for connecting standard smartphones.
Rocket Lab shared progress on its medium-lift Neutron rocket, revealing completion of main stage tank qualification. The reusable rocket aims to compete in the growing medium-lift market with first launch targeted for 2025.
SpaceX's Starlink Direct to Cell service continues expanding, with T-Mobile confirming improved text messaging coverage across the continental United States. Voice and data services expected to follow.
Following its historic IM-1 mission, Intuitive Machines is preparing its IM-2 mission to the lunar south pole. The mission will carry NASA payloads searching for water ice and testing resource extraction technologies.
Amazon has started deploying its Project Kuiper broadband constellation after successful prototype testing. The company plans to launch over 3,000 satellites to compete with Starlink in the global internet market.
The U.S. Space Force awarded National Security Space Launch Phase 3 contracts to SpaceX, ULA, Blue Origin, and Rocket Lab, expanding competition for military launch services.
Axiom Space's first commercial space station module continues development, targeting attachment to the ISS in 2026. The module will eventually separate to form an independent commercial station.
Planet Labs deployed new Pelican satellites offering 30cm resolution imaging, a significant upgrade from their previous 3-meter SuperDove constellation. The enhanced capability targets defense and intelligence markets.
After pivoting from Terran 1, Relativity Space is focused on its larger Terran R rocket. The 3D-printed, reusable medium-lift vehicle targets the growing commercial and government launch market.
Europe's new Ariane 6 rocket successfully completed its maiden flight, restoring independent European access to space. The launcher will serve commercial and institutional customers from French Guiana.
Stoke Space demonstrated its fully reusable second stage technology with a successful hop test, advancing toward a unique fully reusable small-lift rocket architecture.
Venture capital investment in space companies showed recovery in Q4 2024, with several significant funding rounds in satellite communications, Earth observation, and launch services sectors.
Eutelsat OneWeb completed its global coverage constellation, offering broadband services across all regions including polar areas. The network targets enterprise, government, and maritime customers.
Blue Origin's New Glenn heavy-lift rocket neared its inaugural flight after years of development. The partially reusable vehicle will compete for commercial and government contracts.
We've added dedicated category pages for easier browsing of space companies by sector. Explore launch providers, satellite operators, propulsion companies, and more.
Astroscale's ADRAS-J spacecraft successfully approached and inspected a spent rocket stage, demonstrating key technologies for future debris removal missions.
Capella Space announced improved synthetic aperture radar capabilities with 25cm resolution on its newest satellites, offering the highest commercial SAR resolution available.