Author: starpathwp-production
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Rocket Lab Electron rocket lifts off with space debris removal mission
An Electron rocket lifts off from Rocket Lab’s launch site on New Zealand’s Mahia Peninsula carrying the ADRAS-J satellite for Astroscale. Image: Rocket Lab. A small satellite that will inspect a discarded rocket body in orbit lifted off Sunday/Monday on a mission to develop techniques for removing space debris. The satellite built by Japan-based Astroscale…
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Japanese Scientists Develop Wooden Satellite to Tackle Environmental Concerns
Japanese scientists have unveiled an innovative solution to address environmental concerns surrounding space debris with the creation of LignoSat, a spacecraft crafted primarily from timber. Developed by researchers at Kyoto University in collaboration with Sumitomo Forestry, the satellite aims to explore the viability of using biodegradable materials in space technology. “We were astounded by wood’s…
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White House Confirms Russian Anti-Satellite Weapon Development, Downplays Imminent Threat
The White House confirmed on Tuesday reports of Russia’s development of an anti-satellite weapon capability, describing it as a serious concern but insisting that the weapon is not yet operational and does not pose an immediate danger. “The administration did not give a green light for this information to get public yesterday,” said President’s…
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Iridium Communications Extends Satellite Lifespan, Evaluates Strategic Options Amidst Growing Competition
Iridium Communications, a major player in satellite-based connectivity services, has announced an extension of the operational lifespan for its second-generation Iridium Next low Earth orbit (LEO) constellation. The decision comes following a recent engineering assessment, indicating that the current satellites are expected to perform reliably until at least 2035, providing the company with additional flexibility…
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Airbus Faces Financial Charges in Space Business, Including OneSat Programme
Airbus confirmed on Thursday that its OneSat family of commercial telecom satellites has been affected by financial charges within its Space business. In November, Airbus disclosed charges amounting to 400 million euros related to unidentified satellite programs during the first nine months of the year, primarily incurred in the third quarter. Sources within the industry…
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Rocket Lab’s Electron Launches Astroscale’s ADRAS-J Satellite for Space Cleanup
Astroscale’s ADRAS-J spacecraft, launched aboard a Rocket Lab Electron from New Zealand’s Launch Complex 1, aims to rendezvous with and inspect a spent upper stage in low Earth orbit, setting the stage for its eventual removal. This mission marks Rocket Lab’s second launch of the year, following the deployment of four satellites for NorthStar Earth…
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Japan’s H3 Rocket Launch Marks Success for JAXA’s Space Program Revival
Japan achieved a significant milestone in its space program with the successful launch of its new H3 flagship rocket on Saturday. This launch comes as a redemption after the setback of the rocket’s failed inaugural flight last year. The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has seen a recent string of successes, including the “pinpoint” touchdown…
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Executives Call for Congressional Action to Prevent Potential Gap in Low Earth Orbit Presence
Executives representing two companies involved in the development of commercial space stations have urged NASA and Congress to take fiscal and policy measures to prevent a potential gap in human presence in low Earth orbit (LEO), expressing concerns that such a gap could result in a loss of leadership to China. During a hearing…
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Kremlin Responds to U.S. Claims on Space Nuclear Capabilities with Openness to Dialogue
The Kremlin’s spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, expressed Russia’s readiness to collaborate with the United States on the development of anti-satellite weapons, as reported by TASS on Friday. This statement comes amidst rising tensions following rumors regarding Russia’s purported new nuclear capabilities in space. In response to the U.S. warning about Moscow’s alleged advancements in space-based…
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Russia Launches Supply Rocket to International Space Station Amidst Geopolitical Tensions
On Thursday, Russia initiated the launch of a supply rocket bound for the International Space Station (ISS), showcasing one of the few remaining collaborative efforts between Russia and the United States despite ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly following Russia’s offensive against Ukraine. The Soyuz-2 rocket, carrying the Progress MS-26 cargo ship, lifted off from the…