Tag: Orbital Debris
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FCC Approves New Part 100 Rules to Streamline Space Licensing
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved a broad overhaul of its satellite and earth station licensing framework, replacing its long-standing Part 25 rules with a new Part 100 regulatory structure. The agency said the updated framework is intended to create what it describes as a “licensing assembly line” aimed at improving the efficiency…
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UK Space Agency Delays £75.6 Million Active Debris Removal Contract Award
The UK Space Agency (UKSA) has delayed awarding a contract for the next phase of the United Kingdom’s first active orbital debris removal mission, missing its original deadline for the £75.6 million program. Astronomy The contract for Phase 3 of the Active Debris Removal (ADR) mission was initially scheduled to be awarded by March 30,…
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China Accelerates Launch of Backup Shenzhou Spacecraft After Damage to Docked Capsule
China is preparing to launch its next Shenzhou spacecraft to the Tiangong space station ahead of schedule after damage to a docked return capsule disrupted routine crew operations, state broadcaster CCTV reported on Saturday. The Shenzhou-22 spacecraft—originally planned for launch in mid-2026—will now be sent uncrewed roughly six months early to restore an emergency return…
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EU Consortium Develops Precision Sensors for Satellites and Drones
A consortium backed by the European Union revealed on Thursday its efforts to develop state-of-the-art sensors aimed at enhancing satellite navigation capabilities and extending drone operational ranges. The INPHOMIR project, supported by a 5 million euro ($5.38 million) investment from Horizon Europe, seeks to introduce two innovative ultra-low-power sensors—a specialized lidar sensor and an optical…
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Defunct European Satellite’s Reentry Highlights Orbital Debris Risks Amid Policy Shifts
The imminent reentry of the European Space Agency’s European Remote Sensing (ERS) 2 satellite serves as a stark reminder of the persistent hazards posed by existing space objects, even as agencies strive to curtail the proliferation of orbital debris. Expected to descend on February 21st after orbiting for nearly two decades, the European Remote Sensing…
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SpaceX takes a proactive step toward responsible behavior in orbit
SpaceX announced this week that it will voluntarily bring down about 100 of its first-generation Starlink satellites, which provide broadband Internet from low-Earth orbit, as part of its commitment to “space sustainability.” The satellites are presently operational and serving Internet customers. However, in a statement, the company said, “The Starlink team identified a common issue…
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Space companies say ASAT tests threaten economic development
More than two dozen private space companies have signed on to a statement that supports an end to destructive anti-satellite testing in space. The statement comes two years after Russia shot down one of its older satellites, Kosmos 1408, with a Nudol missile launched from the ground. The test, intended to demonstrate Russia’s capability to…