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 289 published reports.
ESA and JAXA Finalize Apophis Mission Amid Orbital Close Calls
ESA and JAXA have finalized a mission to asteroid Apophis. Meanwhile, Starlink satellites experience a close approach.
Orbital Mechanics Explained: How Satellites Stay in Orbit
Orbital mechanics govern how satellites remain in orbit, balancing gravitational forces and velocity to maintain stable paths.
Understanding Orbital Inclination: The Angles of Satellite Orbits
Orbital inclination is the angle between a satellite's orbit and the Earth's equator, crucial for mission objectives.
Understanding Hohmann Transfer Orbits: Efficient Space Travel
A Hohmann transfer orbit is the most efficient method to move between two circular orbits, minimizing fuel use and energy.
Understanding Orbital Decay: Why Satellites Fall to Earth
Orbital decay occurs when a satellite's orbit decreases over time due to atmospheric drag and gravitational forces, eventually leading to re-entry.
Real-Time Moon Tracker: Explore Lunar Phases and Orbiters
Discover the Moon Globe tool by Orbital Radar, your real-time moon tracker for lunar positions, phases, and orbiters.
This Week in Orbit: 2026-06-28
This week in orbit, a 12-billion-year-old interstellar comet, older than our solar system, captured the attention of astronomers. Meanwhile, SpaceX successfully launched 24 Starlink satellites into orbit aboard a Falcon 9 rocket from California, contributing to the constellation's expansion.
Graveyard Orbits: Final Resting Place for Satellites
Graveyard orbits are designated zones where inactive satellites are moved to minimise space debris. Discover their importance and function.
Understanding Satellite Orbits: LEO, MEO, GEO and Beyond
Satellite orbits like LEO, MEO, and GEO define how satellites move in space. Each type serves unique purposes and has distinct characteristics.
Understanding Sun-Synchronous Orbits: Consistent Sunlight for Satellites
A sun-synchronous orbit allows satellites to maintain consistent sunlight exposure, crucial for imaging and Earth observation tasks.
Geostationary Orbit: How Satellites Hover Over One Spot
Geostationary orbit allows satellites to remain fixed over a single Earth location, crucial for communications and weather monitoring.
Understanding Apogee and Perigee: Highs and Lows of Orbits
Apogee and perigee are the highest and lowest points in an orbit, crucial for understanding satellite paths and operations.