Tag: Orbital Debris
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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…