Space

Researchers trained an automated system on 300,000 aurora images to detect space hurricanes using satellite observations from 2014. The system learned to identify patterns in the data, enabling the detection of these phenomena. This breakthrough has implications for space weather forecasting and monitoring.

Russia has started using the Volna Kupol Garant electronic warfare system to jam Starlink satellite communications. The system is designed to disrupt satellite signals, posing a threat to satellite-based communication networks. This move marks an escalation in Russia's electronic warfare capabilities.

An experimental LEO satellite has uncovered the large-scale manipulation of Global Navigation Satellite System signals, exceeding local combat zones. This tampering has significant implications for global navigation and security. The satellite's findings highlight the growing concern of GNSS signal interference.

A Cuban intelligence facility near the Florida coast has completed construction of a new antenna array, enabling it to intercept American military communications. The facility is reportedly linked to China and is capable of tracking communications across the southeastern US and the Caribbean.

Austrian satellite propulsion startup Gate Space has received 6.3 million euros in funding from a European government-backed accelerator program. This investment is part of a larger trend of European companies securing capital to enhance space sovereignty. The funding will support Gate Space's development of satellite propulsion technologies.

NASA has added eight companies to its Commercial Satellite Data Acquisition contract, allowing it to purchase more data products from existing and new vendors. The contract aims to supplement NASA's Earth-observing satellites with sharper and more frequent imagery. This expansion is part of the program's second on-ramp round, incorporating firms such as Hydrosat, Muon Space, and Orbital Sidekick.

The US Army has activated a new command focused on maneuverable, multidomain Pacific operations, combining traditional formations with cyber, space, unmanned systems, and electronic warfare capabilities. This new command, called Multi-Domain Command-Pacific, aims to deliver various effects in theater, including cyber, space, electronic warfare, intelligence, and fires. The activation is part of the Army's efforts to enhance its capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region.

DARPA is looking for innovative technology to support the Space Force's efforts to respond to real-time threats in orbit by rapidly launching new payloads or tapping into commercial constellations. The goal is to expand the scope of gap-filler capabilities the U.S. military can leverage in a crisis.

Private equity firm EQT is acquiring Exolaunch, a company that handles rideshare launches of satellites, to meet growing launch demand. The acquisition aims to support Exolaunch's expansion plans.

The Space Base Delta 1 commander, U.S. Space Force Col. Kenneth Klock, visited Maui to assess infrastructure support and observe mission operations at the Maui Space Surveillance Complex. He met with leadership from the 15th Space Surveillance Squadron and evaluated infrastructure requirements.

The director of the Space Force's rapid acquisition office, Kelly Hammett, is leaving to join the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center. The move comes as the Space Rapid Capabilities Office is being realigned under the Space Force.

Rheinmetall and Vantor plan to launch a joint ISR venture for the Bundeswehr, marking Rheinmetall's third partnership in the military space domain in recent months. The partnership is outlined in a memorandum of understanding. This collaboration aims to enhance the Bundeswehr's intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities.

Chinese startup Spark Space has successfully tested an engine and raised funds for an electric-pump-fed rocket, claimed to be the world's largest. The funding rounds will support the development of this innovative rocket technology.

The satellite servicing economy can learn from carbon credits as the number of satellites in orbit increases, with companies like SpaceX and Starcloud planning to launch thousands of satellites. The Federal Communications Commission authorized 15,000 Starlink Gen2 satellites in January 2026 alone. This surge in satellite launches highlights the need for sustainable practices in the industry.

Boeing has demonstrated a key quantum networking protocol in ground testing of a compact payload, with an on-orbit experiment planned for 2027. The test showed 'high-fidelity entanglement swapping' in preparation for a year-long space mission. This technology has potential applications in secure communication and quantum computing.

The Pentagon has awarded a contract to Quantum Space to demonstrate a fuel depot spacecraft, built on its Ranger platform, that can refuel other spacecraft in orbit. The project aims to create a working gas station in orbit, a capability that has never been flown before. The contract is funded through the Operational Energy Capability Improvement Fund.

Gina Rinehart suggests Australia offer Elon Musk islands to launch satellites into space, aiming to attract investment to northern Queensland. She also proposes giving land to skilled Israelis to build advanced war drones.

The Pentagon's $350 billion defense reconciliation bill is facing uncertainty due to wavering support from key members of Congress. If the bill fails, the Pentagon may have to make hard choices between funding high-end weapons and low-cost drones and other autonomous programs. The budget backup plans would prioritize certain programs over others, potentially cutting 'traditional weapons' in favor of drones.

The US Air Force has awarded production contracts to General Atomics and Anduril for the Collaborative Combat Aircraft program, with plans to field around 1,000 combat-capable aircraft. The contracts include the development of mission autonomy software, with Anduril, Shield AI, and Collins Aerospace competing to be the primary provider. The program aims to develop semi-autonomous drones that can operate alongside manned aircraft.

Relativity Space aims to launch a Mars orbiter in 2028 as part of a private initiative for planetary missions. This mission marks a significant step in private space exploration. The company is pushing the boundaries of space technology with its ambitious plans.

A congressional plan aims to replace special operations aircraft destroyed in Iran without supplemental funding, potentially diverting funds from the OA-1K Skyraider II program. The plan would use existing Pentagon budget allocations. The destroyed aircraft were MC-130s, used in a rescue operation for a downed F-15E aviator.

An upgraded Ariane 6 rocket successfully launched 36 Amazon Leo satellites on June 17, as the ESA considers increasing the vehicle's launch rate. The launch demonstrates the capabilities of the upgraded Ariane 6 with solid rocket boosters. This mission is part of Amazon's efforts to expand its satellite constellation.

The Pentagon has awarded a contract to Parallel Works to connect military supercomputers with major clouds. This will enhance the DoD's computing capabilities and enable more efficient data processing. The contract is part of the DoD's efforts to modernize its technology infrastructure.

The US Air Force plans to cut the E-11 BACN combat communications jets, despite their highly in-demand communications and data fusion capabilities. The USAF wants to transition these functions to space-based systems. Senators are seeking answers on this plan.

Air National Guard members, US Space Force Guardians, and a US Marine participated in a High-Performance Training program to enhance leadership, team dynamics, and human performance for cyber operators. The five-day training experience was facilitated by Liminal Collective in Las Vegas. The program aimed to strengthen mission readiness for cyber professionals.

Portugal is acquiring two additional ICEYE spy satellites to enhance its coastal and territorial surveillance capabilities. The Finnish company ICEYE operates the world's largest synthetic aperture radar satellite constellation. This purchase allows Portugal to own the satellites rather than renting them.

Look Up and Skynopy are partnering to automate a low Earth orbit collision avoidance service, utilizing Skynopy's ground station network. The service aims to enhance space surveillance and prevent satellite collisions.

SpaceX has agreed to acquire Cursor's parent company, Anysphere, in an all-stock transaction valued at $60 billion. The acquisition is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026. The move may have implications for the space industry, particularly in areas like commercial space relay and AI.

The Department of the Air Force is seeking one of the largest budget increases in its history, citing underinvestment and growing threats from near-peer competitors. The budget increase is intended to support space operations and address decades of underfunding. Air Force and Space Force leaders are making the case for the increase to Congress.

The Golden Dome project utilizes sensors to protect the United States, and an upcoming exploration will discuss the technologies behind it. The discussion will cover what's necessary for high-level operation and potential future developments for the satellites involved.

The Air Force has received its first operational T-7A trainer jet and is considering future upgrades, including a 'G-Limiter' to help train less experienced pilots. The upgrades aim to enhance the Red Hawk's training capabilities. The T-7A is a key part of the Air Force's training program.

The US is expanding its aircraft and drone capacity at Basa Air Base in the Philippines to monitor the South China Sea and support Manila's defense needs. Construction efforts, approved in 2023, are underway to clear land at the northwest end of the base. The project aims to enhance the base's capabilities, as shown in publicly available satellite imagery.

SpaceNews tracks private space companies with a valuation of $1 billion or more. The list highlights current space unicorns in the industry.

The Berlin Air Show featured small unmanned systems and space-launch options, showcasing Europe's advancements in these areas. The event provided a glimpse into the region's space ambitions and drone technologies. A review of the showcased systems highlights the latest developments in European defense and space capabilities.

Katalyst Space Technologies has raised $12 million for a geosynchronous orbit demonstration mission to boost the orbit of a NASA observatory. The mission is nearing launch.

The French air force's A400M tactical transports will receive an upgraded mission system, enabling them to perform intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance tasks. The upgrade will be installed on part of the fleet via an award from Europe's OCCAR agency. This will enhance the aircraft's capabilities beyond transport.

The Air Force Weapons School's Space Superiority Weapons Instructor Course has grown significantly over 30 years, reflecting the increasing importance of space in joint operations. The course has adapted to the elevation of the space cadre to its own separate service. This growth showcases the expanding role of space in military operations.

PiLogic, a startup, is partnering with an Air Force lab to test its satellite fault-prediction software, which uses probabilistic reasoning to diagnose spacecraft anomalies. The software aims to improve satellite reliability and performance. The partnership will help evaluate the software's effectiveness in real-world scenarios.

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) amplifies the commercial reach of US standards in space, prompting US policymakers to invest in the agency despite criticism of the wider United Nations. The ITU's work supports US space interests and commercial expansion. This investment highlights the importance of international cooperation in space technology.

The Army has launched a new capability using high-altitude balloons to drop drones, enabling long-range communications and precision strikes. The system was developed by Mach Industries. This technology allows for one-way attack capabilities.