Launches
Rocket launches, orbital insertions, and launch vehicle operations
Articles
SpaceX Expands Starlink Constellation with Successful Launch of 29 Satellites
On January 14, 2026, SpaceX launched 29 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit using a Falcon 9 rocket, marking the company's sixth mission of the year and further expanding its megaconstellation. The successful launch brings the total number of active Starlink units to nearly 9,500, enhancing global internet coverage.
China Initiates 2026 Space Launch Campaign with Dual Long March Missions
On January 13, 2026, China conducted two successful Long March rocket launches, deploying a Yaogan-50 satellite into a highly retrograde orbit and launching nine Guowang satellites into low Earth orbit. This marks the beginning of China's accelerated launch cadence for 2026, with significant implications for the country's space-based capabilities and the global aerospace industry.
SpaceX Launches Starlink 6-98 Mission on Falcon 9 Rocket
SpaceX successfully launched its fourth Starlink mission of 2026, adding 29 Starlink V2 Mini Optimized satellites to the low Earth orbit constellation. The launch, which took place on January 14 at 1:08 p.m. EST, utilized a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
NASA and SpaceX Prepare for Crew-12 Mission to the International Space Station
The Crew-12 mission, a collaborative effort between NASA, SpaceX, the European Space Agency (ESA), and Roscosmos, is set to launch on February 15, carrying a crew of four astronauts to the International Space Station. This mission marks the twelfth crew rotation flight for the Crew Dragon capsule and will be crewed by astronauts from multiple agencies.
India’s PSLV Rocket Successfully Launches EOS-N1 Military Satellite and 15 Other Payloads
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully launched its PSLV rocket carrying the EOS-N1 military satellite and 15 other payloads, marking the rocket’s return to flight after a failure in May 2025. This launch is significant for India’s space program and the broader aerospace industry, demonstrating the country’s capabilities in launching complex payloads into orbit.
SpaceX Initiates Twilight Rideshare Mission, Expanding Access to Space
On January 10, 2026, SpaceX launched its first Twilight rideshare mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base, marking a significant milestone in the company"s efforts to provide cost-effective access to space for a variety of payloads. The mission carries several satellites, including those focused on exoplanet exploration and solar flare research, into a dawn-dusk Sun-synchronous orbit.
SpaceX Successfully Launches 29 Starlink Satellites into Low Earth Orbit
On January 9, 2026, SpaceX launched its third mission of the year, deploying 29 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit using a Falcon 9 rocket. The successful launch marks another milestone in the company's efforts to expand its satellite constellation.
Global Orbital Launch Attempts Reach New Heights in 2025
The number of orbital launch attempts worldwide surpassed the record 2024 flight rate by 25 percent in 2025, with SpaceX and China leading the way, and the global launch tally has been on an upward trend since 2019. This significant increase in launch activity has major implications for the broader aerospace industry.
SpaceX Launches Falcon 9 Rocket on Starlink Mission
On October 22, 2024, SpaceX successfully launched its Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, carrying 29 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit. This launch marks the 29th flight for the Falcon 9 booster with tail number 1069 and further expands the Starlink megaconstellation.
SpaceX Expands Starlink Constellation with Successful Falcon 9 Launch
On January 4, 2026, SpaceX launched 29 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit on a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, marking the company"s second launch of the year. The successful deployment of these satellites further expands the Starlink megaconstellation, which aims to provide global broadband internet access.
SpaceX Resumes Starlink Deployment with Upcoming Launch
SpaceX is set to launch its first Starlink mission since a satellite malfunction on December 17, aiming to deploy 29 new satellites into Low Earth Orbit. The launch marks a significant step for the company as it continues to expand its constellation despite recent setbacks.
China Achieves Record Number of Orbital Launches in 2025
China has set a new global record for the most orbital launches in a year, reaching 92 launches in 2025, surpassing its previous record of 68 set in 2024. The final two launches of the year carried the Tianhui-7 remote sensing satellite and the Shijian-29 A and B technology test satellites into space.
SpaceX Successfully Launches Cosmo-SkyMed Second Generation FM-3 Satellite for Italy
On January 2, 2026, SpaceX launched the Cosmo-SkyMed Second Generation Flight Model 3 satellite aboard a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, marking the third launch of four planned satellites in the series. The satellite will operate in a Sun-synchronous orbit, utilizing synthetic aperture radar to capture high-resolution images.
SpaceX Initiates 2026 Launch Campaign with Successful Deployment of Italian Earth-Observing Satellite
On January 2, 2026, SpaceX successfully launched a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, carrying the COSMO-SkyMed Second Generation satellite into low Earth orbit. This mission marks the first launch of 2026 for both SpaceX and the global launch community, demonstrating the company"s continued capabilities in supporting critical Earth-observation endeavors.
Iran Successfully Launches Three Satellites into Space Aboard Russian Rocket
On December 28, Iran launched three satellites into space using a Russian Soyuz 2.1b rocket, marking a significant milestone in the country's space program despite ongoing sanctions from Western nations. The satellites are designed for Earth observation and will be used to monitor Iran's agriculture, natural resources, and environment.
NASA's ESCAPADE Mission Embarks on Ambitious Journey to Study Martian Magnetic Field and Atmosphere
The ESCAPADE mission, launched on November 13, 2025, aboard Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket, aims to study the Martian magnetic field and atmosphere, with science data expected to begin returning in approximately 30 months. This mission is part of NASA's Small Innovative Missions for Planetary Exploration (SIMPLEx) program, which seeks to advance our understanding of the solar system through lower-cost, higher-risk missions.
SpaceX to Conclude 2025 with Launch of Italian Earth Observation Satellite
On December 27, 2025, SpaceX will launch the Cosmo-SkyMed Second Generation Flight Model 3 satellite for Italy on its final Falcon 9 flight of the year, marking a significant mission for Earth observation and emergency prevention. This launch will place the satellite in a Sun-synchronous polar orbit to monitor the Earth for various purposes.
China Conducts Second Reusable Launch Attempt with Long March 12A Rocket
China successfully launched its Long March 12A rocket into low-Earth orbit, but the first stage booster failed to recover, marking a partial success in the country"s second reusable launch attempt. The mission highlights China"s ongoing efforts to develop reusable technology and reduce the cost of accessing space.
Blue Origin Achieves Milestone with First Wheelchair User in Space
On December 20, Blue Origin successfully flew its New Shepard suborbital vehicle with a crew of six, including the first person who uses a wheelchair to travel to space, reaching a peak altitude of about 106 kilometers. This achievement marks a significant step towards greater accessibility in space exploration.
Indian LVM3 Rocket to Launch AST SpaceMobile"s Record-Breaking BlueBird 6 Satellite
On December 23, 2025, an Indian LVM3 rocket is scheduled to launch the BlueBird 6 satellite, built by AST SpaceMobile, which will feature the largest communication array in low Earth orbit. This launch marks a significant milestone for both AST SpaceMobile and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), with implications for the broader aerospace industry.
Rocket Lab Completes Record-Breaking Year with Successful Launch of Japanese Earth-Observing Satellite
On December 21, 2025, Rocket Lab launched its 21st and final mission of the year, successfully sending a private Japanese Earth-observing satellite to orbit. This achievement marks a new single-year record for the company, highlighting its growing capabilities in the aerospace industry.
NASA Successfully Launches High-Altitude Scientific Balloon from Antarctica
On December 16, 2025, NASA launched a high-altitude scientific balloon from the Ross Ice Shelf in Antarctica as part of the 2025 Antarctica Balloon Campaign to study rare particles from space. The mission aims to gather data on antimatter nuclei and dark matter over several days to weeks.
Innospace Prepares to Launch Hanbit-Nano Rocket Carrying Eight Small Payloads
Innospace is set to launch its Hanbit-Nano rocket from the Alcântara Space Center in Brazil, aiming to deliver eight small payloads into low-Earth orbit, while SpaceX has warned of a potentially hazardous Chinese launch. The mission will test the capabilities of Innospace"s hybrid engine technology and mark an important milestone for the company.
NASA and US Space Force Successfully Launch Innovative DiskSat Satellites
In a joint effort, NASA and the US Space Force have launched four DiskSat satellites aboard a Rocket Lab Electron rocket to test their performance and viability in low-Earth orbit. The DiskSats, a new type of flat disc-shaped satellite, offer a potentially significant advancement in satellite design with their unmatched power-to-weight ratio.
Rocket Lab Successfully Launches Novel DiskSat Satellites for U.S. Space Force and NASA
On December 18, 2025, Rocket Lab launched four novel DiskSat satellites from Virginia, marking a significant milestone in the development of advanced satellite technology. The mission, awarded under the Orbital Services Program (OSP-4) contract, aims to demonstrate the capabilities of these innovative satellites in various orbits, including Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO).
Ariane 6 Successfully Launches Two Galileo Navigation Satellites into Medium Earth Orbit
On December 17, an Ariane 6 rocket launched two Galileo navigation satellites into medium Earth orbit, marking a significant milestone for the European Space Agency and the Galileo program. This launch highlights the capabilities of the Ariane 6 rocket and its role in supporting critical satellite constellations.
Blue Origin Makes History with Suborbital Launch of First Wheelchair User
On December 18, Blue Origin launched its New Shepard vehicle on a suborbital mission, carrying Michi Benthaus, the first wheelchair user to reach space, along with five crewmates. This milestone marks a significant step towards greater accessibility in space exploration.
Rocket Lab Successfully Launches Innovative DiskSats for US Space Force
Rocket Lab has launched four DiskSats, a new type of satellite developed by The Aerospace Corporation, on behalf of the US Space Force's Space Systems Command as part of the STP-S30 mission. This launch marks an important milestone in the development and deployment of innovative spacecraft technologies.
SpaceX Successfully Launches Two Batches of Starlink Satellites
On December 17, 2025, SpaceX launched a total of 56 Starlink satellites in two batches from the US coasts, with 29 satellites launched from Florida and 27 from California. Both launches were successful, marking another milestone in the expansion of the Starlink constellation in low Earth orbit.
European Space Agency Launches Two Galileo Satellites on Ariane 6 Rocket
The European Space Agency successfully launched two Galileo satellites on an Ariane 6 rocket, marking the 14th launch for Europe"s Galileo constellation and strengthening the region"s satellite navigation capabilities. This launch brings the total number of active Galileo satellites to 29, providing high-accuracy positioning services to users worldwide.
SpaceX Prepares to Launch Falcon 9 Rocket for Starlink 15-13 Mission
SpaceX is set to launch its Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, carrying 27 broadband internet satellites to low Earth orbit as part of the Starlink 15-13 mission. The launch will mark the 30th flight of the B1063 booster, demonstrating the company"s continued progress in reusable rocket technology.
Ariane 6 Rocket Set to Launch Two Galileo Navigation Satellites
The European Space Agency (ESA) and Arianespace are preparing to launch two Galileo navigation satellites aboard the Ariane 6 rocket from Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, marking a significant milestone in the development of Europe’s global navigation system. The launch, scheduled for December 17, will bring the total number of Galileo satellites in orbit to 30, further enhancing the accuracy and reliability of the system.
SpaceX Launches Batch of Starlink V2 Mini Satellites from Kennedy Space Center
On December 16, 2025, SpaceX successfully launched a batch of 29 Starlink V2 Mini satellites into Low Earth Orbit using a Falcon 9 rocket. The mission marks another significant step in the expansion of SpaceX"s Starlink constellation, which currently consists of over 9,300 satellites.
Japan Launches Michibiki 5 Navigation Satellite to Enhance Quasi-Zenith Satellite System
Japan successfully launched the Michibiki 5 navigation satellite into geosynchronous orbit using an H3 rocket, marking a significant milestone in the development of its Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS). The launch is part of Japan's efforts to establish a comprehensive navigation network compatible with GPS satellites.
United Launch Alliance to Launch Amazon"s Broadband Internet Satellites Aboard Atlas 5 Rocket
On December 15, 2025, United Launch Alliance (ULA) will conduct its final launch of the year, carrying 27 satellites for Amazon"s Leo broadband internet service into Low Earth Orbit. This mission marks a significant milestone in the development of Amazon"s satellite constellation, which aims to provide global broadband internet coverage.
SpaceX Successfully Launches 29 Starlink Satellites from Florida
On Monday, December 14, SpaceX launched 29 Starlink satellites into orbit using a Falcon 9 rocket, marking the company's 163rd flight of the vehicle in 2025. The launch took place despite initial poor weather forecasts, with the first stage landing on an autonomous drone ship after separation.
ULA Atlas V Rocket Successfully Launches Amazon Leo Internet Satellites into Low Earth Orbit
On December 15, 2025, a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket launched 27 Amazon Leo internet satellites into low Earth orbit, marking the fourth Project Leo mission for the Atlas V rocket. This launch is part of Amazon's effort to establish a constellation of approximately 3,200 satellites to provide global internet coverage.
SpaceX Postpones Falcon 9 Launch Due to Adverse Weather Conditions
SpaceX has delayed the launch of its Falcon 9 rocket from NASA"s Kennedy Space Center due to unfavorable liftoff winds and booster recovery weather, aiming to add 29 Starlink V2 Mini satellites to its low Earth orbit constellation. The mission, which will mark the sixth flight of the Falcon 9 booster with tail number 1094, is part of SpaceX"s ongoing efforts to expand its broadband internet services.
SpaceX Launches 29 Starlink Satellites on Falcon 9 Rocket from Cape Canaveral
On December 14, 2025, SpaceX successfully launched 29 Starlink V2 Mini satellites into low Earth orbit aboard a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. This marks the company's 120th Starlink launch this year, further expanding its megaconstellation of satellites in low Earth orbit.
SpaceX Targets Milestone 550th Booster Landing with Starlink Mission
On December 13, SpaceX launched its Starlink 15-12 mission from Vandenberg Space Force Station, aiming to achieve its 550th successful booster landing, marking a significant milestone in reusable rocket technology. The mission successfully deployed 27 Starlink V2 Mini satellites into low Earth orbit.
Blue Origin Sets Historic Milestone with Upcoming Suborbital Flight of Wheelchair User
On December 18, Blue Origin is scheduled to launch its NS-37 mission, marking the first time a wheelchair user will venture into space. This historic flight aboard the New Shepard vehicle will carry six individuals, including Michaela Benthaus, an aerospace engineer at the European Space Agency, on a brief suborbital journey.
SpaceX Expands Starlink Megaconstellation with Latest Falcon 9 Launch
On December 11, 2025, SpaceX successfully launched 29 Starlink satellites into Earth orbit using a Falcon 9 rocket, marking the company's 161st flight of the year and expanding its satellite network to over 10,000 units. This launch highlights the rapid growth of the Starlink megaconstellation and its implications for global telecommunications.
SpaceX Set to Launch 29 Starlink Satellites on Falcon 9 Rocket
SpaceX is scheduled to launch 29 Starlink V2 Mini satellites to low Earth orbit on its Falcon 9 rocket, marking the company"s 161st orbital launch of the year. The mission aims to expand SpaceX"s constellation of satellites providing global internet connectivity.
Rocket Lab Successfully Launches Korean Disaster-Monitoring Satellite into Low Earth Orbit
On December 10, Rocket Lab launched the NEONSAT-1A satellite aboard its Electron rocket from New Zealand, aiming to monitor natural disasters in the Korean Peninsula. This launch marks the second NEONSAT satellite deployed by Rocket Lab, following the successful launch of NEONSAT-1 in April 2024.
SpaceX Expands Starlink Megaconstellation with Latest Launch of 27 Satellites
On December 10, 2025, SpaceX successfully launched 27 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit from Vandenberg Space Force Base, marking a significant expansion of its satellite constellation. This launch brings the total number of operational Starlink satellites to over 9,000, further solidifying the company"s position in the global satellite communications market.
SpaceX Set to Launch 160th Falcon 9 Rocket of 2025, Expanding Starlink Constellation
SpaceX is preparing to launch its 160th Falcon 9 rocket of 2025, carrying 27 broadband internet satellites to low Earth orbit as part of its Starlink megaconstellation. The mission aims to further expand SpaceX"s satellite network, with the Falcon 9 booster targeting a landing on the droneship "Of Course I Still Love You".
China Achieves Record-Breaking Launch Cadence with Three Long March Rockets
China has successfully launched three Long March rockets in less than 19 hours, setting a new national record for launch cadence and extending its yearly orbital-launch tally to 83. This achievement demonstrates China's growing capabilities in space exploration and its commitment to advancing its aerospace industry.
SpaceX Launches Classified Payload for National Reconnaissance Office
SpaceX has launched a classified payload for the National Reconnaissance Office on a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, marking the 10th and final NRO launch of 2025. The mission utilized a previously flown Falcon 9 first stage booster and may be the last time SpaceX uses Landing Zone 2 for a landing.
SpaceX Successfully Launches Classified NROL-77 Mission for US Military
On December 9, 2025, SpaceX launched a classified payload for the US military on a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, marking the company's third mission for the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) and US Space Systems Command this year. The launch is part of SpaceX's ongoing partnership with the NRO to provide launch services for national security payloads.
SpaceX Achieves Milestone with Launch of 3000th Starlink Satellite on Record-Breaking Falcon 9 Flight
SpaceX has successfully launched its 3000th Starlink satellite, marking a significant milestone for the company, on the 32nd flight of its Falcon 9 booster, which is also a record-breaking achievement. This launch demonstrates SpaceX"s continued advancements in reusable rocket technology and its commitment to expanding global internet connectivity.
SpaceX Expands Starlink Constellation with Latest Launch from Vandenberg
SpaceX successfully launched a Falcon 9 rocket carrying 29 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit, marking the company's 115th Starlink launch and further expanding its global internet broadband service. This launch brings the total number of operational Starlink satellites to over 9,100, providing internet access to areas around the world with limited or no connectivity.
SpaceX Expands Starlink Constellation with Falcon 9 Launch from Vandenberg SFB
On December 7, 2025, SpaceX launched its Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, adding 28 satellites to the Starlink constellation in low Earth orbit. This launch marks the 115th Starlink mission in 2025, further expanding the company's broadband internet network.
Rocket Lab Successfully Launches Japanese Technology-Demonstrating Satellite
On December 6, 2025, Rocket Lab launched the RAISE-4 satellite from its New Zealand site, marking a significant milestone in the demonstration of Japanese technology. The launch is part of the RAISE and Shine mission, which aims to test eight technologies developed by private companies, universities, and research institutions throughout Japan.
Recent Developments in Aerospace: Launches, Failures, and Investments
SpaceX has successfully launched seven Starlink missions within a two-week period, while Russia"s Sarmat missile test ended in failure. The European Space Agency (ESA) has committed significant funding to support emerging rocket companies in Europe.
SpaceX Expands Starlink Constellation with Latest Launch of 28 Satellites
On December 4, 2025, SpaceX successfully launched 28 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit using a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, marking the company's 156th launch of the year. This milestone event brings the total number of operational Starlink satellites to over 9,000, further solidifying SpaceX's position in the global satellite internet market.
SpaceX Launches 28 Starlink Satellites on Falcon 9 Rocket from Vandenberg SFB
SpaceX successfully launched 28 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit on a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, marking the company"s 114th launch of the year and the fourth this month in support of the Starlink constellation. This mission brings the total number of Starlink satellites launched by SpaceX to nearly 3,000.
Blue Origin Announces Historic Crew for Upcoming New Shepard Suborbital Flight
Blue Origin has revealed the crew for its upcoming NS-37 suborbital mission, which will include the first wheelchair user in space, marking a significant milestone in accessible space travel. The mission, set to reach the Kármán Line, will be the 37th flight of the reusable New Shepard rocket-capsule combo.
European Space Agency Prepares for Galileo Satellite Launch on Ariane 6 Rocket
The European Space Agency (ESA) is set to launch two Galileo satellites on an Ariane 6 rocket from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana on December 17, marking a significant milestone in the Galileo programme, a flagship initiative of the European Union. This launch will further enhance the capabilities of the Galileo constellation, which has been making a difference across various fields, including navigation, rail, maritime, agriculture, and rescue operations.
SpaceX Expands Starlink Constellation with Latest Falcon 9 Launch
On December 2, 2025, SpaceX successfully launched 29 new Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit aboard a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, marking the 155th flight of the Falcon 9 in 2025. This launch is part of SpaceX"s ongoing efforts to expand its Starlink satellite constellation, which aims to provide global broadband internet coverage.
SpaceX Prepares for Falcon 9 Launch of Starlink 6-95 Mission
SpaceX is set to launch its third Falcon 9 rocket in under two days, carrying the Starlink 6-95 mission from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, with a veteran booster making its 25th trip to space. The launch, scheduled for October 22, 2024, aims to expand SpaceX"s constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites.
SpaceX Achieves Milestone with 60th Launch of the Year from California
SpaceX successfully launched its 60th mission of the year from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, deploying 27 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the company, demonstrating its capabilities in launching numerous missions within a single year.
Arianespace Successfully Launches KOMPSAT-7 Earth Observation Satellite on Vega-C Rocket
On December 1, 2025, Arianespace launched the KOMPSAT-7 Earth observation satellite for the Korea Aerospace Research Institute, marking the fourth satellite launch for the institute and demonstrating the capabilities of the Vega-C rocket. The satellite is expected to begin providing high-resolution ground observation images in the first half of 2026.
SpaceX Falcon 9 Launches Record-Breaking 140 Payloads on Transporter-15 Rideshare Mission
On November 28, 2023, a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket successfully launched 140 payloads into space as part of the Transporter-15 dedicated rideshare mission, marking the second-most payloads carried on a single SpaceX launch. The mission included a diverse range of satellites and spacecraft from various governments and private companies, showcasing the growing demand for access to space.
SpaceX Set to Launch 60th Falcon 9 Rocket of the Year from Vandenberg Space Force Base
On December 1, 2025, SpaceX is scheduled to launch its 60th Falcon 9 rocket of the year from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, adding 27 more satellites to its Starlink constellation. This milestone launch underscores the company"s rapid expansion of its low Earth orbit satellite network.
SpaceX Initiates December Launch Schedule with Successful Falcon 9 Mission
On December 1, SpaceX launched a Falcon 9 rocket carrying 21 Starlink satellites from NASA's Kennedy Space Center, marking the company's 152nd launch of the year. This mission is part of SpaceX's ongoing efforts to expand its Starlink constellation.
China Prepares for Historic Orbital Launch and Recovery Attempt with Zhuque-3 Rocket
Landspace is set to launch its Zhuque-3 rocket, marking China's first attempt at an orbital launch and booster recovery, with the mission carrying a prototype of the reusable Haolong cargo spacecraft to low Earth orbit. The launch, scheduled for November 30 - December 1, will be a significant milestone for China's commercial space industry.
SpaceX Launches Transporter-15 Mission with 140 Spacecraft Onboard
SpaceX has successfully launched its Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, carrying 140 payloads into a mid-inclination low Earth orbit as part of the Transporter-15 mission. The launch marks another significant milestone in SpaceX's rideshare program, demonstrating the company's ability to efficiently deploy multiple spacecraft into orbit.
NASA Astronaut and Russian Cosmonauts Launch to International Space Station
A NASA astronaut and two Russian cosmonauts successfully launched to the International Space Station on Thanksgiving Day, beginning an eight-month stay in space. The crew will conduct scientific research and perform maintenance tasks during their time on the orbiting laboratory.
BlackSky Reveals Its Role in Recent Rocket Lab Electron Launch
BlackSky has confirmed it was the confidential customer behind the recent launch of a Gen-3 satellite on a Rocket Lab Electron rocket, which successfully deployed into a 468 x 477 km orbit. The company has already delivered high-resolution images from the satellite and announced a major contract to integrate its services into a strategic international defense customer's secure environment.
NASA Astronaut and Russian Cosmonauts Launch to International Space Station on Thanksgiving Day
A Soyuz rocket successfully launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on Thanksgiving Day, carrying NASA astronaut Chris Williams and cosmonauts Sergey Kud-Sverchkov and Sergey Mikayev to the International Space Station. The crew is expected to spend several months on the ISS as part of Expeditions 73 and 74.
SpaceX Launches Transporter-15 Mission, Deploying Dozens of Small Satellites into Sun-Synchronous Orbit
On November 26, 2025, SpaceX successfully launched its Transporter-15 rideshare mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, deploying dozens of small satellites into a Sun-synchronous orbit. The mission marked the fourth smallsat rideshare flight of the year for SpaceX, with a veteran Falcon 9 first stage booster carrying a diverse payload of spacecraft.
China Successfully Launches Emergency Spacecraft to Rescue Stranded Astronauts
On November 14, 2025, China launched the Shenzhou 22 spacecraft as an emergency lifeboat to retrieve three astronauts from the Tiangong space station after their crew ferry ship was damaged by space junk. The successful launch ensures the safe return of the astronauts and underscores China's capabilities in human spaceflight.
SpaceX Successfully Launches 29 Starlink Satellites Aboard Falcon 9 Rocket
On November 22, 2025, SpaceX launched its 150th Falcon 9 rocket of the year from Cape Canaveral, carrying 29 Starlink V2 satellites to a 170×162 mile orbit. This launch marks the ninth Starlink mission this month and the 109th Starlink delivery run for the Falcon 9 in 2025.
SpaceX Successfully Launches New Falcon 9 Booster on Starlink Mission
On November 23, 2025, SpaceX launched a brand new Falcon 9 booster from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, deploying 28 Starlink satellites into orbit. This mission marks the 110th Starlink delivery flight of the year and further expands the company"s satellite constellation.
Falcon 9 Rocket Achieves Milestone 100th Launch from Florida's Space Coast
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket successfully launched from the Kennedy Space Center, marking the 100th launch of the year from Florida's Space Coast and carrying 29 satellites for the company's Starlink internet service. This milestone highlights the increasing activity and importance of the Eastern Range as a hub for space launches.
SpaceX Resumes Evening Launches with Successful Starlink Mission
SpaceX launched a batch of 29 Starlink satellites from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on November 18, marking the company's first early-evening flight since the FAA lifted restrictions on commercial launches. The mission was carried out by a Falcon 9 rocket and marked the 99th launch from the Florida spaceport this year.
SpaceX Successfully Launches Joint NASA-European Sentinel-6B Satellite to Monitor Sea Levels
On November 17, 2025, SpaceX launched the Sentinel-6B satellite on a Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, marking a significant collaboration between NASA, the European Space Agency, EUMETSAT, and NOAA to monitor sea levels and track changes in the ocean. The satellite will provide critical data to improve public safety, city planning, and protect commercial and defense interests.
Sentinel-6B Satellite Launches on Falcon 9 to Monitor Rising Sea Levels
The Sentinel-6B satellite has launched on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, marking the beginning of a critical mission to monitor rising sea levels and predict flood risks. This international collaboration between NASA, ESA, Eumetsat, NOAA, and CNES will provide valuable data for scientists and policymakers.
SpaceX Successfully Launches Dual Falcon 9 Missions Carrying Starlink Satellites
On November 15, 2025, SpaceX launched two Falcon 9 rockets from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, deploying a total of 58 Starlink V2 Mini satellites into low Earth orbit. This achievement marks a significant milestone in the expansion of SpaceX"s Starlink constellation, which now comprises nearly 9,000 satellites.
SpaceX Successfully Launches Starlink 6-89 Mission on Falcon 9 Rocket
On November 14, 2025, a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched the Starlink 6-89 mission from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, supporting the company’s Starlink broadband satellite internet constellation. The mission marked another successful launch and recovery for SpaceX, with the B1092 booster landing on the drone ship ‘A Shortfall of Gravitas’.
Blue Origin Successfully Launches NASA’s ESCAPADE Mission to Mars
On November 13, 2025, Blue Origin launched its New Glenn rocket from Cape Canaveral, carrying two NASA satellites destined for Mars as part of the ESCAPADE mission. The successful launch and subsequent first landing of the New Glenn rocket mark significant milestones in collaborative space exploration between private industry and government agencies.
NASA's ESCAPADE Mission Successfully Launches to Study Mars' Hybrid Magnetosphere
The ESCAPADE mission, comprising two spacecraft named Blue and Gold, has launched on a New Glenn rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, to investigate Mars' hybrid magnetosphere and space weather. The mission aims to provide valuable insights into Mars' climate history and the loss of its atmosphere.