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 33 published reports.
SpaceX Launches SiriusXM Satellite Amid Close Orbital Encounters
SpaceX successfully launched a SiriusXM satellite, while several close orbital encounters were monitored, highlighting the growing complexity of space traffic management.
Understanding Space Situational Awareness: A Comprehensive Guide
Space situational awareness involves tracking and predicting the movement of over 28,911 objects in orbit to ensure space safety.
How Satellites Are Tracked: A Comprehensive Guide
Satellites are tracked using radar, optical telescopes, and radio signals, ensuring precise orbital data for over 28,000 objects.
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.
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.
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.
Close Approach Alert: Objects B and C Near Miss in Orbit
A close approach between two space objects, designated as OBJECT B and OBJECT C, occurred on 30 June 2026 at 00:30 UTC. The minimum distance between the two was approximately 1.37 kilometres, which is considered a medium-severity conjunction.
Understanding Satellite Collision Avoidance and Conjunction Assessment
Satellite collision avoidance involves predicting and preventing potential collisions in space through conjunction assessments using precise data.
Griffin-1 Lunar Lander Unveiled Amid Satellite Close Approaches
Astrobotic unveils the Griffin-1 lunar lander, while multiple close satellite approaches underscore orbital congestion.
Japan's H3 Rocket to Return with New Configuration
Japan's H3 rocket is set to return to flight with its lightest configuration, marking a significant step for JAXA's launch capabilities.
Starlink: The Mega-Constellation Reshaping Orbit
Starlink is a satellite internet constellation developed by SpaceX, aimed at providing high-speed broadband internet to underserved and remote areas globally. As of now, SpaceX has launched 10,698 Starlink satellites, with 9,421 currently operational.
This Week in Orbit: 2026-07-05
This week, the focus was on planetary exploration and satellite technology. The European Space Agency's Mars Express captured a series of dust devils in a Martian valley, offering insights into the planet's atmospheric dynamics.