Explore

U.S. Space Force Opens NSSL Phase 3 Lane 1 to New Launch Providers for 2027

U.S. Space Force Opens NSSL Phase 3 Lane 1 to New Launch Providers for 2027

The U.S. Space Force has announced it is accepting proposals from new launch providers for the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) program, specifically for Phase 3, Lane 1. This initiative is aimed at integrating new entrants into the program, with a focus on rockets that are ready to fly by early 2027. The Space Systems Command released a request for proposals (RFP) on December 8, with a submission deadline of January 22, 2026. This marks the second opening for Lane 1, which was initially established in 2024 to support the development of new rockets and to allow these providers to compete for missions that are less demanding and of lower priority. The program includes a five-year base ordering period from 2025 to 2029, with at least 30 missions expected, and an additional five-year option under a $5.6 billion contract. Blue Origin, SpaceX, and United Launch Alliance were the first providers selected for this phase in June 2024, with Rocket Lab and Stoke Space joining in March 2025.

FCC Proposes Overhaul of Space and Earth Station Licensing Rules

FCC Proposes Overhaul of Space and Earth Station Licensing Rules

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has proposed a comprehensive restructuring of its space and earth station licensing rules, aiming to replace the existing 'Part 25 – Satellite Communications' with a new 'Part 100 – Space and Earth Station Services' rule section. This proposal seeks to better accommodate the rapidly evolving commercial space sector by introducing modular licensing, expedited review processes, and new license categories for innovative space activities. The NPRM (Notice of Proposed Rulemaking) outlines changes such as adopting new definitions, establishing timelines for application review, and revising license duration and bond requirements.

Soyuz MS-27 Crew Returns Safely After Eight Months on ISS

Soyuz MS-27 Crew Returns Safely After Eight Months on ISS

The crew of the Soyuz MS-27 capsule, consisting of two Russian cosmonauts and an American astronaut, has safely returned to Earth after an eight-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The capsule landed on the steppe of Kazakhstan, where recovery teams assisted the crew with routine medical checks. The mission, known as Expedition 73, involved conducting numerous scientific experiments and technology demonstrations. The crew's return marks the end of Expedition 73 and the beginning of Expedition 74, which includes a new team of astronauts and cosmonauts.

China Sets New Record with Three Long March Rocket Launches in 19 Hours

China Sets New Record with Three Long March Rocket Launches in 19 Hours

China has achieved a new national record by launching three Long March rockets within a span of less than 19 hours. This feat demonstrates the high operational cadence of China's space program. The launches, which took place between December 8 and December 9, 2025, increased China's total orbital launches for the year to 83. The missions included the deployment of broadband satellites for the Guowang megaconstellation, a military satellite, and a classified satellite. These launches were conducted from various satellite launch centers across China, showcasing the country's growing capabilities in space exploration and satellite deployment.

Soyuz MS-27 Crew Prepares for Return to Earth from International Space Station

Soyuz MS-27 Crew Prepares for Return to Earth from International Space Station

The Soyuz MS-27 spacecraft, carrying NASA astronaut Jonny Kim and Roscosmos cosmonauts Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritsky, is set to undock from the International Space Station (ISS) and return to Earth. The undocking is scheduled for approximately 8:41 p.m. EST, with a parachute-assisted landing expected at 12:03 a.m. on December 9, 2025, in Kazakhstan. NASA is providing live coverage of the event on multiple platforms, including NASA+, Amazon Prime, and YouTube. This marks the conclusion of an eight-month mission focused on space research and international collaboration aboard the ISS.

AI Advances in Spacecraft Propulsion: Potential to Revolutionize Space Missions

AI Advances in Spacecraft Propulsion: Potential to Revolutionize Space Missions

Recent developments in artificial intelligence (AI) are poised to significantly enhance spacecraft propulsion technologies. A team of scientists, including engineers and graduate students, is exploring how AI, particularly machine learning, can transform propulsion systems. This initiative aims to address common issues faced by spacecraft, such as malfunctioning fuel pumps and software glitches, by simulating complex propulsion scenarios. AI's ability to optimize nuclear thermal engines and manage plasma confinement in fusion systems is seen as a breakthrough for future space missions. The study highlights AI's potential to ensure spacecraft can navigate unpredictable space environments with precision.

NASA Updates PRISM Guidelines for Lunar Science Missions

NASA Updates PRISM Guidelines for Lunar Science Missions

NASA has issued a correction and updated the FAQ for the F.10 PRISM (Payloads and Research Investigations on the Surface of the Moon) program. This initiative solicits the development and deployment of scientific instruments and technology demonstrations on the lunar surface. The update includes a new requirement for proposers leveraging survive-the-night services. The PRISM program aims to advance scientific, exploration, and commercial capabilities on the Moon, aligning with NASA's broader lunar exploration goals. The update is part of NASA's ongoing efforts to refine and enhance its lunar mission strategies.

Senate Committee Advances Jared Isaacman's Nomination as NASA Administrator

Senate Committee Advances Jared Isaacman's Nomination as NASA Administrator

Jared Isaacman, a billionaire tech entrepreneur and sponsor of SpaceX's Polaris spaceflight program, has been advanced by the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation as the nominee for NASA Administrator. The committee's decision follows a confirmation hearing where Isaacman faced questions about his relationship with SpaceX CEO Elon Musk and his vision for NASA's future. Despite a previous withdrawal of his nomination by President Trump, Isaacman has been renominated and is now one step closer to leading NASA. His nomination is part of a broader effort to bring official leadership back to the agency, which has been without a permanent head for some time.

NASA Updates PRISM Guidelines for Lunar Science Proposals

NASA Updates PRISM Guidelines for Lunar Science Proposals

NASA has released updates to the F.10 Payloads and Research Investigations on the Surface of the Moon (PRISM) program, which solicits proposals for science-driven instruments and technology demonstrations for lunar missions. The updates include a new requirement for proposers to provide specific information if they plan to use 'survive-the-night' services, as detailed in Section 4.1 of the guidelines. Additionally, the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section has been updated to assist potential proposers. The PRISM program aims to advance scientific, exploration, and commercial capabilities on the Moon, aligning with the goals of various NASA directorates.

NASA Astronaut Jonny Kim Returns to Earth After 8-Month Mission on ISS

NASA Astronaut Jonny Kim Returns to Earth After 8-Month Mission on ISS

NASA astronaut Jonny Kim, along with Russian cosmonauts Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritsky, safely returned to Earth after completing an eight-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The crew landed in Kazakhstan on December 9, 2025, after departing the ISS aboard the Soyuz MS-27 spacecraft. During their 245-day mission, the crew orbited Earth 3,920 times and traveled nearly 104 million miles. Kim participated in various scientific investigations, including studies on bioprinted tissues and remote command of robots, which aim to advance space-based technologies and improve healthcare on Earth. The mission marked Kim's first spaceflight, while Ryzhikov completed his third journey, accumulating a total of 603 days in space.

32nd Falcon 9 Mission Marks New Starlink Milestone

32nd Falcon 9 Mission Marks New Starlink Milestone

SpaceX set a new record as its Falcon 9 booster 1067 completed a 32nd flight, launching 29 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit on Dec. 8. Liftoff occurred at 5:26 p.m. EST from Kennedy Space Center after a one-day weather delay. The first stage returned and landed on the droneship “Just Read the Instructions,” while the upper stage deployed the satellites. This milestone moves SpaceX closer to its 40-flight goal per booster, expanding the Starlink network, now over 9,100 operational satellites worldwide.

Foundation Robotics' Mike LeBlanc Discusses Humanoid Robotics for Defense and Space

Foundation Robotics' Mike LeBlanc Discusses Humanoid Robotics for Defense and Space

Michael LeBlanc, co-founder of Foundation Robotics, is advancing the development of humanoid robots designed for challenging applications, including defense and space exploration. LeBlanc, a former U.S. Marine Corps major, is leveraging his experience to create rugged humanoids for the U.S. Department of War and first responders. The company is also exploring the potential for these robots to assist in constructing structures for human exploration on Mars. This initiative reflects a growing interest in deploying advanced robotics in both military and extraterrestrial environments.