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 21 published reports.
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.
Understanding Kessler Syndrome: Space Debris Chain Reaction
Kessler Syndrome describes a scenario where space debris collisions create a self-sustaining cascade, threatening orbital operations.
Understanding Satellite Collision Avoidance and Conjunction Assessment
Satellite collision avoidance involves predicting and preventing potential collisions in space through conjunction assessments using precise data.
How Many Satellites Are in Orbit: A Comprehensive Guide
As of 2026, there are 17,907 active satellites in orbit, with a total of 28,248 catalogued objects including debris.
SpaceX IPO Boosts Market; Artemis Lander Plans Evolve
SpaceX's IPO sees shares rise 20%, marking a financial milestone. NASA refines Artemis lunar lander plans amid close satellite approaches.
Close Approach of PIESAT B and PIESAT C: Understanding Satellite Conjunctions
Fengyun-1C Debris: Legacy of the 2007 ASAT Test
Fengyun-1C was a Chinese weather satellite, part of the Fengyun (FY) series operated by the China Meteorological Administration. Launched on 10 May 1999, it was designed to monitor weather patterns and collect atmospheric data.
Close Approach of QIANFAN Satellites: Assessing the Risks and Implications
On 12 June 2026, two satellites from the QIANFAN series, QIANFAN-169 (NORAD ID: 69386) and QIANFAN-182 (NORAD ID: 69399), experienced a close approach event. The minimum predicted distance between the two satellites was approximately 1.67 kilometres.
Close Conjunction of INTELSAT 1002 and MEV-2
On June 15, 2026, at 10:17 UTC, a close approach event is anticipated between INTELSAT 1002 (NORAD ID: 28358) and MEV-2 (NORAD ID: 46113). The predicted minimum separation distance is approximately 0.00 km, indicating a potential collision risk.
Starlink vs Kuiper vs OneWeb: Satellite Internet Compared
Starlink, Kuiper, and OneWeb offer satellite internet with varying capabilities. Discover how they differ in coverage, technology, and future plans.
SpaceX AI Satellites: Pioneering Autonomous Space Operations
SpaceX's AI satellites are revolutionising autonomous space operations by enhancing satellite communication and navigation capabilities.
Close Conjunction of Satellites: OBJECT C and OBJECT D
On 18 May 2026, at 14:07 UTC, a close approach occurred between two satellites, designated OBJECT C and OBJECT D, with a minimum separation of approximately 1.39 kilometres. This event, identified by NORAD IDs 56155 and 56156, was classified with medium severity.