Space News Mission Log — Satellite Launches, Orbital Events & Analysis
Daily space news, satellite launch reports, orbital debris analysis and weekly roundups — grounded in live tracking data from our network monitoring 7 published reports.
Iridium NEXT: The Flash-Free Replacement Constellation
Iridium NEXT is the second-generation satellite constellation operated by Iridium Communications. It serves as a global network for voice and data communication, replacing the original Iridium constellation launched in the late 1990s.
Iridium Flares: Understanding the Sky's Predictable Flashes
Iridium flares were bright flashes caused by sunlight reflecting off Iridium satellites' antennas, visible from Earth.
Iridium NEXT: The Flash-Free Replacement Constellation
Iridium NEXT is a satellite constellation developed by Iridium Communications to replace its original satellite network. The constellation consists of 66 active satellites, with additional spares in orbit, designed to provide global voice and data communication services.
Rocket Lab Acquires Iridium, Expanding Satellite Comms Reach
Rocket Lab's $8 billion acquisition of Iridium signals a strategic expansion in satellite communications. Starlink satellites adjust orbits, and New Horizons observes solar wind changes.
Space Debris: Understanding the Growing Threat in Orbit
Space debris refers to defunct human-made objects in orbit that pose collision risks to spacecraft and satellites.
This Week in Orbit: 2026-06-07
This week, the space community's attention was drawn to NASA's strategic decisions and operational challenges. The agency is set to select a new headquarters by the end of the year, a move that underscores its evolving administrative needs.
Shenzhou 23 Launches New Crew to Tiangong Amid Close Satellite Approaches
Shenzhou 23 launches a new crew to the Tiangong space station, while satellite close approaches continue to be monitored.