AstroForge Completes DeepSpace-2 Amidst Satellite Close Calls

Friday, 5 June 2026 · 2 min read · Orbital Radar

Astronaut view from the International Space Station showing Earth’s curvature and atmospheric layers against the blackness of space.

Image: NASA/JSC

AstroForge has successfully completed its DeepSpace-2 spacecraft, marking a significant milestone in the burgeoning field of space resource utilisation. The spacecraft is designed to explore and potentially mine asteroids, a venture that could revolutionise how resources are sourced for space exploration. This development comes amidst heightened scrutiny of satellite programmes, as the House Armed Services Committee's NDAA markup challenges the Space Force on its satellite initiatives.

Satellite Close Approaches Raise Concerns

Today, several satellites experienced close approaches, with the closest being TERRA SAR X and TANDEM X, which came within approximately 0.75 kilometres of each other. These events highlight the increasing congestion in low Earth orbit, where over 17,800 active satellites currently operate. The Orbital Radar Debris Map provides a real-time view of these and other close approaches, aiding in collision avoidance efforts.

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NASA's Composite Manufacturing Review

3D composite-color image of Cornelia Crater on asteroid Vesta, featuring dark streaks and requiring 3D glasses for full effect. — This composite-color view from NASA Dawn mission shows Cornelia Crater, streaked with dark materials, on the giant asteroid Vesta. You need 3D glasses to view this image. · Image: NASA/JPL

NASA is hosting a review on advanced composite manufacturing, an area critical to the development of lighter and stronger materials for spacecraft. This initiative is part of NASA's broader strategy to enhance the efficiency and performance of future missions. The review is expected to influence upcoming projects, including the nuclear electric propulsion demonstration mission, which aims to streamline spacecraft development.

What to Watch

While no launches are scheduled for today, the space community is anticipating several upcoming events. NASA's ongoing studies on wildfire smoke and its impact on ozone levels continue to provide valuable insights into Earth's atmospheric changes. For those interested in satellite activity, the Orbital Radar Pass Predictor offers details on when and where to observe satellites passing overhead.

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