Articles
NASA Conducts Successful Medical Evacuation from Space with SpaceX Crew Dragon
A medical issue on board the International Space Station (ISS) led to the early return of the Crew-11 mission, marking NASA's first-ever medical evacuation from space, which concluded with a successful splashdown in the Pacific Ocean. The crew member affected by the medical issue is reported to be stable.
Crew-11 Astronauts Safe After Premature Return from International Space Station
The four astronauts of the Crew-11 mission have been safely retrieved from the International Space Station after a medical issue necessitated an early return, with the crewmembers in good condition following a successful splashdown in the Pacific Ocean. The mission, which lasted approximately 170 days, saw the crew conduct around 900 hours of scientific experiments before their premature departure.
Crew 11 Completes Early Return to Earth Due to Medical Issue
The Crew 11 mission was cut short due to a medical issue, resulting in the early return of four space station crewmates to Earth on January 15, 2026. The astronauts safely splashed down in the Pacific Ocean off the California coast after spending 167 days in space.
SpaceX Crew-11 Astronauts Successfully Return to Earth After Unprecedented Medical Evacuation
In a historic first, four astronauts from the SpaceX Crew-11 mission have safely returned to Earth following a medical issue on the International Space Station (ISS), marking the first-ever medical evacuation of the orbiting laboratory. The successful return highlights the effectiveness of emergency procedures and collaboration between space agencies.
SpaceX Crew-11 Mission Terminated Prematurely Due to Astronaut Medical Concern
The SpaceX Crew-11 mission has been ended early due to a medical issue affecting one of the crew members, with the astronauts set to depart the International Space Station and splash down off the coast of California. This unprecedented decision marks the first time a NASA mission has been terminated early because of an astronaut's medical condition.
NASA Conducts First-Ever Medical Evacuation from International Space Station
A medical concern with one of the Crew-11 astronauts has prompted NASA to return four astronauts to Earth early, marking the first-ever medical evacuation from the International Space Station. The astronauts are scheduled to splash down tomorrow morning after undocking from the ISS tonight.
Crew-11 Astronauts Return to Earth Due to Medical Concern
Four astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) have begun their journey back to Earth due to a medical concern, marking an early end to the Crew-11 mission. The crew's return is scheduled to occur after undocking from the ISS, with a skeleton crew of three remaining on the station.
US Space Force Changes Launch Vehicle for Upcoming GPS Satellite Mission
The US Space Force has switched the launch vehicle for its upcoming GPS III Space Vehicle 09 satellite from a United Launch Alliance Vulcan rocket to a SpaceX Falcon 9, aiming to expedite the satellite"s entry into orbit while achieving cost savings. This decision reflects the Space Force"s adaptability in managing its launch schedule and providers.
SpaceX Crew-11 Mission to Conduct Historic Medical Evacuation from ISS
On January 14, the SpaceX Crew-11 mission will undertake a first-ever medical evacuation from the International Space Station (ISS), marking a significant milestone in spaceflight operations. The mission will conclude with a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean off the California coast on January 15.
NASA Conducts Historic Medical Evacuation from International Space Station
On January 14, 2026, NASA will undertake a medical evacuation of four astronauts from the International Space Station (ISS) due to a medical concern with one of the Crew-11 astronauts, marking the first-ever such evacuation from the ISS. The astronauts will return to Earth aboard the SpaceX Crew Dragon Endeavour, splashing down off the U.S. Pacific Coast after an 11-hour transit.
International Space Station Experiences Leadership Transition as Crew-11 Departs Early
NASA astronaut Mike Fincke has handed over command of the International Space Station (ISS) to Roscosmos cosmonaut Sergey Kud-Sverchkov as Crew-11 prepares for an early departure due to a medical condition, leaving the ISS with a reduced crew until the arrival of Crew-12 in February. This transition marks a significant shift in the station's operations and highlights the complexities of maintaining a continuous human presence in space.
Private Company Announces Ambitious Plans for Lunar Hotel by 2032
GRU Space, a private aerospace company, has unveiled plans to construct a hotel on the Moon, with the first mission scheduled to launch in 2029 and the hotel expected to be operational by 2032, offering accommodations for up to four guests at a time. The project aims to derive resources from the Moon and beyond, marking a significant development in the pursuit of lunar exploration and commercialization.
NASA Astronauts Prepare for Early Departure from ISS Due to Medical Evacuation
The Crew-11 mission is ending prematurely due to a medical condition affecting one of the astronauts, marking the first-ever medical evacuation from the International Space Station. The crew will depart the ISS on January 14, 2026, and return to Earth aboard the Crew Dragon Endeavour.
NASA"s Pandora Mission Aims to Refine Exoplanet Atmospheric Composition Measurements
The Pandora mission, scheduled to launch in 2026, will observe exoplanets and their host stars simultaneously to correct measurements of atmospheric composition, providing crucial data for the search for life beyond Earth. By addressing the issue of starlight contamination, Pandora will enhance the accuracy of exoplanet studies, complementing the work of the James Webb Space Telescope.
NASA Conducts Unprecedented Medical Evacuation of Astronauts from International Space Station
Due to a medical concern, NASA has initiated the early return of four astronauts from the International Space Station (ISS), marking the first-ever medical evacuation from the orbital outpost. The astronauts will undock from the ISS on January 14 and land back on Earth on January 15 aboard the SpaceX Dragon Endeavour capsule.
NASA Initiates Early Return of Astronauts from ISS Due to Medical Concern
A medical issue affecting one of the Crew-11 astronauts on the International Space Station has prompted NASA to initiate an early return of four astronauts to Earth, with the Dragon capsule Endeavour scheduled to splash down in the Pacific Ocean. This unprecedented medical evacuation is not expected to impact the upcoming Artemis 2 moon mission.
NASA Initiates Early Return of Four Astronauts from ISS Due to Medical Concern
NASA has decided to bring four astronauts back to Earth ahead of schedule due to a medical issue affecting one of the crew members, with the SpaceX Dragon Endeavour spacecraft set to undock from the International Space Station and splash down off the coast of California. The affected astronaut is reported to be stable, but NASA officials have chosen to proceed with a controlled medical evacuation as a precautionary measure.
Upcoming Space Missions and Events to Watch in 2026
The year 2026 is expected to be a significant one for space exploration, with several high-profile missions scheduled, including the Artemis II launch and robust tests of SpaceX's Starship. These events will have major implications for the broader aerospace industry and its continued advancement.
NASA"s Artemis 2 Mission Takes Center Stage as Washington Monument Projection Marks Upcoming Launch
The upcoming Artemis 2 mission, scheduled to launch on February 6, was commemorated with a projection of the Saturn V rocket onto the Washington Monument, marking a significant step towards returning humans to the moon. This mission will be the first crewed flight to the moon since Apollo 17 in 1972, carrying four astronauts into lunar orbit.
Astronaut Captures Breathtaking Timelapse Video from International Space Station
Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui has captured a stunning timelapse video from the International Space Station, showcasing zodiacal light, auroras, and the Pleiades star cluster. The video was taken during the Crew-11 mission, which is set to end prematurely due to a medical issue affecting one of the astronauts.
NASA to Conduct Early Evacuation of SpaceX Crew-11 Astronauts from International Space Station
Due to a medical concern, NASA has scheduled an early evacuation of four astronauts from the International Space Station on January 14, 2024, with the crew set to splash down in the Pacific Ocean. The medical issue is not related to an operational problem or injury, and the affected astronaut's identity has not been disclosed.
NASA Prepares for Historic Artemis 2 Mission with Upcoming Rocket Rollout
NASA is set to roll out the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion spacecraft on January 17, paving the way for the first crewed moon mission in over 50 years, scheduled to launch as soon as February 6. The Artemis 2 mission will send four astronauts on a 10-day trip around the moon, marking a significant milestone in NASA"s plans to return humans to the lunar surface.
NASA Administrator Expresses Confidence in Orion Spacecraft's Heat Shield Ahead of Artemis II Mission
NASA administrator Jared Isaacman has expressed full confidence in the Orion spacecraft's heat shield after reviewing data and meeting with experts, paving the way for the upcoming Artemis II mission. The mission is scheduled to launch in as few as four weeks, marking a crucial step towards returning humans to lunar orbit.
Private Initiative to Launch Ambitious Space Telescope Project
Schmidt Sciences has announced plans to develop a large space telescope, dubbed Lazuli, which will surpass the Hubble telescope in size and operate in a highly elliptical Earth orbit, with an expected cost in the hundreds of millions of dollars. The project aims to demonstrate a fast and low-cost approach to conducting world-class space science.
NASA to Bring Home Four Astronauts from ISS Due to Medical Concern
A medical issue has prompted NASA to return four astronauts from the International Space Station (ISS) early, leaving the station with a reduced crew of three. This decision highlights the complexities and challenges of long-duration spaceflight and the importance of prioritizing astronaut health.
NASA to Conduct Early Return of Four Astronauts from ISS Due to Medical Concern
NASA has decided to return four astronauts from the International Space Station (ISS) earlier than planned due to a medical concern affecting one of the Crew-11 astronauts, who is currently in stable condition but requires more comprehensive care. The early return will be conducted using a SpaceX Dragon capsule, with the Artemis 2 mission remaining on schedule for its February launch.
NASA Accelerates ISS Crew Return Due to Medical Concerns
NASA is bringing some crew members aboard the International Space Station (ISS) back to Earth earlier than planned due to medical concerns with one of the astronauts, a decision that may impact the scheduling of upcoming missions. The early return is not expected to interfere with the Artemis 2 mission, the first crewed lunar mission in over 50 years.
NASA Orders Early Return of Astronauts from International Space Station Due to Medical Issue
A medical situation on the International Space Station has prompted NASA to bring home four of its seven crew members ahead of schedule, with the astronauts set to return on the SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft. The early return marks a rare interruption to a mission due to health concerns, highlighting the challenges of space travel and the importance of prioritizing crew safety.
Crew 11 Mission to International Space Station Cut Short Due to Medical Issue
A medical issue affecting one of the crew members has prompted NASA to shorten the Crew 11 mission to the International Space Station, with the crew set to return to Earth ahead of schedule. The crew member in question is reportedly stable, although the nature of the medical issue has not been disclosed.
NASA Initiates First Medical Evacuation from International Space Station
A medical issue has prompted NASA to return four astronauts to Earth early from the International Space Station, marking the first medical evacuation in the station's history. The astronaut in question is reported to be in stable condition.
ESA Outlines Key Milestones for 2026, Including Major Mission Arrivals and Launches
The European Space Agency (ESA) has announced its key milestones for 2026, including the arrival of the BepiColombo mission at Mercury, the launch of the Smile mission to study Earth's reaction to solar particles, and several Earth Observation and Navigation launches. These milestones mark significant steps forward for the ESA in its ongoing efforts to explore space and improve our understanding of the universe.
NASA Evaluates Early Return of Astronauts from ISS Due to Medical Concern
A medical issue affecting one of the astronauts on board the International Space Station (ISS) may lead to an early termination of the Crew-11 mission, with NASA currently assessing all options. The astronaut's condition is reported to be stable, but the situation is being closely monitored.
NASA Delays International Space Station Spacewalk Due to Crew Member"s Medical Issue
A planned spacewalk outside the International Space Station has been postponed due to a medical concern with one of the crew members, affecting preparations for the installation of new solar arrays. The delay is not expected to have significant implications for the overall mission or the space station"s operations.
NASA Delays First 2026 Spacewalk Due to Crew Member Medical Concern
NASA has postponed the first spacewalk of 2026, originally scheduled for January 8, due to a medical concern with one of the International Space Station crew members. The delay affects preparations for the installation of new solar arrays but does not currently impact other planned spacewalks.
NASA Delays Spacewalk Due to Crew Member Medical Concern
A planned spacewalk outside the International Space Station (ISS) was postponed on January 8 due to a medical issue affecting one of the crew members, delaying preparations for the installation of a new solar array. The spacewalk was intended to prepare one of the ISS' power channels for the future deployment of an International Space Station Roll-Out Solar Array (iROSA).
NASA"s Mars Sample Return Mission: A High-Priority Endeavor
NASA is embarking on a high-priority mission to bring samples from Mars back to Earth, with an estimated budget of $11 billion and a target completion date of 2040. The success of this mission has significant implications for the broader aerospace industry and our understanding of the Red Planet.
SpaceX Prepares for Starship Megarocket's 12th Test Flight with Super Heavy Booster Stacking
SpaceX has successfully stacked the Super Heavy booster for its Starship megarocket's 12th test flight, scheduled to launch in the first quarter of this year, marking a significant milestone in the development of the company's ambitious spacecraft. This upcoming flight will feature the new Version 3 Starship variant and the Raptor 3 engine, showcasing the latest advancements in SpaceX's technology.
NASA"s Curiosity Rover Captures Breathtaking Panorama from Mars" Mount Sharp
The Curiosity rover has sent a stunning new panorama from its current location on Mars" Mount Sharp, providing a detailed view of the Martian landscape and unique boxwork formations. This image was captured in November 2025 as part of the rover"s ongoing exploration of the Red Planet.
Orbital Launch Activity Reaches New Heights in 2025
The year 2025 saw a record number of orbital launch attempts, with 324 missions conducted globally, driven primarily by SpaceX and Chinese launch providers. This significant increase in launch activity has major implications for the broader aerospace industry.
China Prepares for Ambitious Lunar Mission to Search for Water Ice at the Moon’s South Pole
China is set to launch its Chang’e 7 mission later this year, aiming to explore the moon’s south pole and search for water ice. The mission will involve a combination of an orbiter, lander, rover, and lunar hopper, marking a significant step in China’s lunar exploration program.
Spanish Military Communications Satellite Encounters Space Particle Impact
The SpainSat NG 2 satellite, launched in October, suffered an impact from a space particle while maneuvering to its final position in geostationary orbit, potentially jeopardizing its mission. The incident highlights the risks associated with space debris and extreme space weather conditions.
Spain"s Newest Communications Satellite Encounters Unexpected Space Particle Strike
The SpainSat NG-2 satellite, launched on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, has suffered an unexpected strike from a space particle at an altitude of 31,000 miles, putting its mission at risk. The incident highlights the challenges and uncertainties associated with space exploration and the potential risks to critical communications infrastructure.
Private Spacecraft to Launch Lunar Missions in 2026
In 2026, several private companies, including Blue Origin and Firefly, are planning to send spacecraft to the moon, with NASA also aiming to return humans to the lunar surface as part of its Artemis 2 mission. These missions will mark a significant milestone in the development of private space exploration and the pursuit of lunar research.
NASA Heliophysics Missions Advance Toward Operational Phase
Two NASA heliophysics missions, IMAP and Carruthers Geocorona Observatory, have launched successfully and are performing well, while a third mission, TRACERS, has encountered issues with one of its spacecraft. The missions aim to study the sun's influence on the solar system and Earth's upper atmosphere.
SpaceX Initiates Major Reconfiguration of Starlink Satellite Constellation
SpaceX has begun relocating approximately 4,400 Starlink satellites to a lower orbit, aiming to enhance network performance and reduce collision risks. This strategic move is expected to have significant implications for the aerospace industry, particularly in terms of satellite operations and sustainability.
NASA"s Artemis Program Sets Sights on Lunar Return by 2026
NASA plans to send astronauts back to the moon in 2026 as part of its Artemis program, with the Artemis 2 mission marking the first crewed flight around the moon. The program aims to establish a permanent human presence on the lunar surface.
NASA"s Artemis 2 Mission to Pave Way for Future Lunar Exploration
In 2026, NASA plans to launch the Artemis 2 mission, marking the first crewed mission beyond low Earth orbit since Apollo 17, with four astronauts embarking on a 10-day journey around the Moon to test critical systems. This milestone event will have significant implications for the broader aerospace industry and future lunar exploration.
NASA Prepares for Manned Mars Missions by Leveraging Existing Spacecraft and Developing New Technologies
As NASA aims to return astronauts to the moon by 2028 and establish a permanent lunar base by 2030, scientists are utilizing existing space missions to address the challenges of deep space exploration, with a focus on developing tools to mitigate radiation risks on Mars. The agency's efforts will pave the way for future manned missions to the Red Planet.
Moon Mining Efforts Gain Momentum, Highlighting Need for International Regulations
As companies and space agencies like NASA, Interlune, and Astrobotic advance their plans to mine the moon for resources such as helium-3, a rare isotope that could power clean fusion energy, the urgency for clear international rules to govern these activities becomes increasingly apparent. The development of lunar mining capabilities is expected to have significant implications for the broader aerospace industry and global energy landscape.
NASA Astronauts Complete Artemis 2 Launch Rehearsal Ahead of Historic Lunar Mission
NASA's Artemis 2 mission is progressing towards its scheduled launch on February 5, 2026, after astronauts successfully completed a full launch day dress rehearsal, marking a crucial step towards the first crewed mission to the moon in over half a century. The rehearsal paves the way for the upcoming mission, which will send astronauts around the moon, laying the groundwork for future lunar surface landings.
China’s Emergency Space Station Rescue Highlights Growing Concerns Over Space Debris
A recent emergency launch to the Tiangong space station was prompted by a tiny piece of space debris that cracked a window on the Shenzhou-20 capsule, highlighting the growing threat posed by orbital debris to spacecraft and satellites. The incident underscores the need for a coordinated approach to mitigating the risks associated with space debris.
Astronauts on International Space Station Share Holiday Greetings from Orbit
Four astronauts aboard the International Space Station have sent a video Christmas card to their loved ones back on Earth, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities of spending the holiday season in space. The crew, which includes representatives from NASA and JAXA, will celebrate alongside their Mission Control support teams while orbiting 250 miles above the planet.
China Achieves Record Number of Space Launches in 2025, Advances Crewed Lunar Program
In 2025, China successfully launched over 80 orbital missions, breaking its single-year record, and made significant progress in its crewed lunar program, while also conducting a deep space mission and testing key hardware components. This milestone year for China's space program highlights the country's growing capabilities and ambitions in space exploration.
NASA"s Historic Apollo 8 Mission: A Bold Step in Space Exploration
The Apollo 8 mission, launched by NASA in 1968, was the first crewed mission to orbit the moon, marking a historic milestone in space exploration. This achievement not only demonstrated the capabilities of NASA"s Saturn V rocket but also paved the way for future lunar missions, including the upcoming Artemis 2.
Protecting Space Travelers from Cosmic Rays: A Critical Challenge for Deep Space Missions
As NASA plans to send astronauts to the moon and Mars in the coming decades, protecting them from cosmic rays has become a major concern due to the potential health risks associated with deep space radiation exposure. Understanding and mitigating these risks is crucial for the success of future long-duration space missions.
NASA"s Artemis 2 Mission Prepares for Historic Crewed Journey to the Moon
The Artemis 2 mission, scheduled to launch in early 2026, will mark the first crewed mission of the program, testing critical systems and procedures for future lunar landings. The mission will feature a 10-day journey around the moon, leveraging NASA"s powerful Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and the Orion spacecraft.
NASA"s Artemis II Astronauts Conduct Launch Rehearsals Ahead of Historic Lunar Mission
NASA"s Artemis II astronauts have successfully rehearsed launch-day activities, marking a crucial step towards the mission"s scheduled launch in 2026. The rehearsal, which took place on December 20, 2025, at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, is part of the preparations for the first human mission to the moon in over 50 years.
Private Spaceflight Achieves Milestones in 2025: A Year of Records and Firsts
The year 2025 marked significant achievements in private spaceflight, including the first-ever fully successful private moon landing and India's completion of its first in-space docking. These milestones highlight the growing capabilities and ambitions of private space companies and national space agencies.
Russia to Develop New Space Station Using Repurposed ISS Segment
Russia plans to separate its segment from the International Space Station (ISS) in 2030 and utilize it as the core for a new space station, known as ROS, which will be launched into a 51.6-degree inclination orbit. This decision is driven by cost-saving measures due to Russia's current economic situation.
NASA"s Perseverance Mars Rover Nears Record for Longest Distance Driven on Another Planet
The Perseverance Mars rover has traveled approximately 25 miles since landing on Mars and is expected to drive up to 62 miles by the end of its mission, potentially surpassing the current record held by NASA"s Opportunity rover. This achievement highlights the rover"s robust design and capabilities, demonstrating significant progress in planetary exploration.
NASA Certifies Perseverance Rover for Extended Mission on Mars
The Perseverance rover, which has been operating on Mars for nearly five years, is being certified to drive up to 100 kilometers as part of its extended mission, with the ultimate goal of supporting NASA's potential Mars Sample Return mission. The certification marks a significant milestone in the rover's journey, highlighting its durability and capabilities.
Russian Spacecraft Soyuz MS-28 Successfully Docks at International Space Station
The Russian spacecraft Soyuz MS-28 has successfully docked at the International Space Station (ISS), carrying three crew members and marking a historical first with eight spacecraft simultaneously docked. This achievement highlights the ongoing collaboration between space agencies and the expanding capabilities of the ISS.
Vast Initiates Call for Research Proposals Aboard Haven-1 Private Space Station
Private space company Vast has announced an open call for scientific research proposals to be conducted aboard its upcoming Haven-1 space station, slated for launch in 2026. This initiative marks a significant step towards the development of commercial space-based research and manufacturing capabilities.
NASA"s MAVEN Spacecraft Remains Unresponsive at Mars, Exhibiting Unexpected Rotation
The MAVEN spacecraft, launched by NASA in 2013 to study Mars" atmosphere, has been silent since December 4 despite attempts to reestablish contact. Analysis of a recovered signal suggests the spacecraft is spinning in an unexpected manner, potentially indicating a change in its orbit trajectory.
European Space Agency Outlines Ambitious Plans for 2026
The European Space Agency (ESA) has announced a robust lineup of missions and launches for 2026, featuring collaborations with NASA and advancements in cryogenic propulsion. Key highlights include the epsilon mission, Hera mission, and Plato, which will contribute significantly to the search for rocky planets and deep space exploration.
ESA Outlines Ambitious Plans for 2026 at Annual Press Briefing
The European Space Agency (ESA) has announced its key milestones for 2026, including the Smile mission to study Earth's reaction to solar particles and radiation, the arrival of BepiColombo at Mercury, and various Earth Observation and Navigation launches. These endeavors highlight the agency's commitment to advancing our understanding of space and its applications.
Blue Origin Achieves Midpoint in New Glenn Rocket Certification for National Security Missions
Blue Origin has successfully completed two out of four required flights for the certification of its New Glenn rocket to launch national security missions, with the second flight achieving a milestone by recovering the first stage booster. This progress sets the stage for Blue Origin to potentially secure a significant role in future national security space launches.
Expedition 74 Crew Conducts Research and Maintenance on International Space Station
The Expedition 74 crew spent the week of December 8-12, 2025, conducting research, maintaining systems, and capturing stunning views of Earth from the International Space Station. The crew"s activities included studying stem cells in microgravity, conducting experiments on the vestibular system, and performing routine maintenance tasks.
NASA Experiences Loss of Contact with Mars Orbiter MAVEN
NASA has lost communication with the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution (MAVEN) spacecraft, one of its three orbiters around Mars, prompting concerns about the reliability of its Martian relay network. The incident occurs as the agency faces challenges with its aging fleet of Mars orbiters, including the impending fuel depletion of the Mars Odyssey orbiter.
NASA Experiences Loss of Contact with MAVEN Mars Orbiter
NASA has lost contact with its MAVEN Mars orbiter after the spacecraft disappeared behind the Red Planet, prompting an investigation into the anomaly. The incident occurred on December 6 and has significant implications for NASA's ongoing Mars exploration efforts.
NASA Expedites Cargo Dragon Missions Following Damage to Russian Launch Site
A damaged Russian launch pad has prompted NASA to accelerate the launch of two Cargo Dragon supply missions to the International Space Station, ensuring a steady supply of essential goods for astronauts on board. The incident highlights the complexities and challenges of maintaining a reliable supply chain in space exploration.
ESA Astronaut Sophie Adenot to Discuss Upcoming εpsilon Mission at Press Conference
French ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot will hold a press conference on February 15 to discuss her first mission to space, dubbed "εpsilon", where she will conduct scientific experiments on the International Space Station. The mission is scheduled to launch no earlier than February 15 and will take place in Low Earth Orbit.
Chinese Astronauts Conduct Emergency Spacewalk to Inspect Damaged Shenzhou 20 Spacecraft
On December 9, 2025, Chinese astronauts performed an 8-hour spacewalk to inspect the damaged Shenzhou 20 spacecraft, which was deemed unsafe for return to Earth due to a space junk strike. The successful inspection paved the way for a new rescue plan, involving the launch of a replacement spacecraft, Shenzhou 22.
NASA Selects Lunar Outpost"s MAPP Rover for Artemis IV Mission to Study Lunar Dust
Lunar Outpost"s Mobile Autonomous Prospecting Platform (MAPP) rover will be the first robotic rover to operate on the moon alongside astronauts during the Artemis IV mission in 2028, supporting the DUSTER investigation to study the dust and plasma environment on the lunar surface. The mission aims to find solutions to the challenges posed by dust on the lunar surface, marking a significant step in NASA"s Artemis program.
Soyuz MS-27 Spacecraft Successfully Completes Mission with Safe Landing in Kazakhstan
The Soyuz MS-27 spacecraft, carrying NASA astronaut Jonny Kim and two Russian cosmonauts, has safely landed in Kazakhstan after an eight-month mission to the International Space Station. The crew traveled over 104 million miles during their time in space, conducting research and maintenance activities.
Astronauts and Cosmonauts Return to Earth After Eight-Month ISS Mission
A Russian Soyuz spacecraft safely landed in Kazakhstan, marking the end of an eight-month mission to the International Space Station for two Russian cosmonauts and one American astronaut. The successful landing brings to a close Expedition 73 and paves the way for Expedition 74.
NASA Astronauts Successfully Return to Earth from International Space Station
Three astronauts have completed their 245-day mission on the International Space Station and returned to Earth, landing safely in Kazakhstan. The successful completion of their mission marks another milestone in the ongoing operations of the ISS.
Expedition 73 Crew Enters Final Week on International Space Station
The Expedition 73 crew is preparing for their final week on the International Space Station, where they have been conducting research and capturing images of Earth. The crew's activities include working with robotic free-flying assistants and utilizing docked spacecraft for cargo and transportation.
International Space Station Enters Final Phase of Operations
The International Space Station is entering its final five years of planned operations, with NASA and its international partners preparing for the orbiting laboratory's intentional deorbiting around 2030. This marks a significant milestone in the history of space exploration, as the ISS has played a crucial role in advancing our understanding of space and developing new technologies.
Blue Origin to Launch Historic Space Tourism Flight with First Wheelchair User
Blue Origin's upcoming NS-37 flight will carry six passengers, including Michaela "Michi" Benthaus, to suborbital space and back, marking a significant milestone in disability inclusion in human space exploration. This mission aims to demonstrate innovative methods for ensuring that people with disabilities can safely navigate microgravity environments.
Artemis 2 Mission Rehearsal Delayed Due to Orion Spacecraft Hatch Issue
A problem with the Orion spacecraft's hatch has delayed a critical launch day rehearsal for the Artemis 2 mission, which aims to send four astronauts on a loop around the Moon. The mission is currently scheduled to launch no later than April 2026.
Russian Cosmonaut Removed from SpaceX Crew 12 Mission Over National Security Concerns
A Russian cosmonaut, Oleg Artemyev, has been removed from SpaceX's upcoming Crew 12 mission due to alleged violations of U.S. national security regulations, specifically the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). This incident highlights the complexities and sensitivities involved in international cooperation in space exploration.
International Space Station Reaches Historic Maximum Capacity
The International Space Station has reached its maximum capacity with eight docked spacecraft, marking a historic milestone in the station's operational history. This achievement showcases the station's versatility and highlights the growing importance of the ISS as a hub for international cooperation and space research.
China to Deorbit Damaged Spacecraft Following Suspected Debris Strike
China's space agency is planning to return a damaged Shenzhou spacecraft to Earth after it was struck by debris, while a replacement crew has been successfully launched to the Tiangong space station. The incident highlights the risks and challenges of space exploration, particularly in low Earth orbit where debris collisions are a growing concern.
Australian Company to Study Asteroid Apophis Using Dying Satellite in 2029
In 2029, the asteroid Apophis will pass close to Earth, and an Australian company, HEO Robotics, plans to capture images of it using a dying satellite. This unique opportunity will provide scientists with valuable data on the effects of gravity on the asteroid.
Baikonur Cosmodrome Suffers Damage During Soyuz Launch to ISS
A recent launch of the Soyuz MS-28 spacecraft from the Baikonur Cosmodrome has resulted in damage to the launch pad, raising concerns about the facility's ability to support upcoming missions. The extent of the damage and the required repairs may impact the schedule of future launches to the International Space Station.
European Astronaut to Join NASA's Artemis Mission to the Moon
A German astronaut is slated to become the first European to fly to the moon as part of NASA's Artemis program, with the European Space Agency securing three seats on upcoming lunar missions. This achievement marks a significant milestone in international cooperation and space exploration.
NASA Partners with Private Companies to Develop Commercial Space Station
NASA is collaborating with several companies, including Voyager Technologies, Axiom Space, and Blue Origin, to create a commercial successor to the International Space Station, with an estimated cost of $2.8 to $3.3 billion for one such project, Starlab. The development of these private space stations marks a significant shift in the aerospace industry towards commercialization and privatization.
ULA"s Vulcan Rocket Sees Limited Flights in 2025 Amidst Broader Launch Ambitions
United Launch Alliance (ULA) will conclude 2025 with a total of six launches, including only one flight of its new Vulcan rocket, marking a significant shortfall from the company"s initial goal of up to 10 Vulcan launches for the year. This development underscores the challenges faced by ULA in ramping up production and launch cadence for its next-generation rocket.
China"s Shenzhou-22 Spacecraft Successfully Docks at Tiangong Space Station
The Shenzhou-22 spacecraft has docked at China"s Tiangong space station, resolving a human spaceflight emergency that occurred after the Shenzhou-20 spacecraft suffered damage from a suspected space debris impact. This successful docking ensures the continued operation of the Tiangong space station and marks a significant milestone in China"s space program.
NASA and Boeing Revise Starliner-1 Mission to Cargo-Only Flight
NASA and Boeing have announced a change in the Starliner-1 mission, shifting from a crewed flight to a cargo-only mission to the International Space Station, with the revised mission now scheduled for April 2026. This adjustment follows earlier issues encountered during the Crew Flight Test mission, which impacted the spacecraft"s thrusters.
NASA Prepares for Artemis II Mission to Send Astronauts Around the Moon
NASA is set to launch the Artemis II mission in early 2026, which will send four astronauts on a 10-day journey around the Moon and back, marking the first lunar mission with a crew in over 50 years. The mission builds upon the success of the Artemis I mission and paves the way for future human exploration of the lunar surface.
Smile Mission Clears Final Hurdle for Spring 2026 Launch
The Solar Wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer (Smile) mission, a joint effort between the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), has successfully passed its qualification and flight acceptance review, paving the way for its launch on a Vega-C rocket from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana between 8 April and 7 May 2026. This mission aims to study the Earth’s reaction to solar wind and radiation, providing valuable insights into our planet’s magnetic field and upper atmosphere.
NASA and Boeing Confirm Cargo-Only Mission for Starliner Spacecraft
The next mission of the Starliner spacecraft, scheduled to launch in April 2026, will carry cargo to the International Space Station, marking a significant step towards the vehicle"s operational use. This development follows rigorous testing and addresses previous development challenges faced by Boeing.
FAA Lifts Daytime Launch Curfew as Private Spaceflight Accelerates
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has lifted its daytime launch curfew, while companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and others continue to make strides in rocket technology and space exploration. These developments have significant implications for the aerospace industry, with potential advancements in areas such as hypersonic propulsion and space-based defense.
Blue Origin Enhances New Glenn Rocket with Upgrades for Super-Heavy Lift Capability
Blue Origin has announced significant upgrades to its New Glenn rocket, introducing a new variant called the New Glenn 9×4, which boasts enhanced super-heavy lift capability and the ability to carry over 70 metric tons to low-Earth orbit. This development marks a crucial step forward in the company's pursuit of advancing space technology and exploration.
Chinese Astronauts Safely Return to Earth Amid Concerns Over Damaged Space Station Lifeboat
Three Chinese astronauts have returned to Earth after a 204-day mission, leaving behind three crewmates on the Tiangong space station with a damaged lifeboat due to a minor crack in the return capsule window glass. The incident has prompted changes to the space station's flight plan and highlights the challenges of long-duration spaceflight.