SatNews

Featured

SSC continues to transform acquisition of SATCOM capabilities—5 companies contracted

Artistic rendition of the Protected Tactical SATCOM payload will use the protected tactical waveform to provide anti-jamming communications to war fighters globally.
Image is courtesy of U.S. Space Systems Command.

The United States Space Force’s (USSF) Space Systems Command (SSC) continues to transform the way satellite communications (SATCOM) capabilities are acquired. The Command has awarded a Protected Tactical Satellite Communications (SATCOM) – Global (PTS-G) Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract and initial five Firm Fixed Price orders under Delivery Order 1 (DO1) totaling $37.5 million to the following companies:

PTS-G delivers resilience to military users worldwide with proliferated small satellites providing anti-jam capability in Geosynchronous Orbit (GEO). The DoD requires wideband global assured access for the tactical warfighter, ensuring their freedom to connect anytime, anywhere operations require. PTS-G is the cost-effective component of Space Force architecture that takes advantage of the advanced PTW waveform while maximizing use of existing user and gateway terminals.

During the first delivery order, each awardee will mature a design and provide demonstrations based upon their established commercial product lines, to meet PTS-G requirements. The results of this initial order will inform subsequent competition for follow-on production orders.

The initial PTS-G IDIQ award will be followed by an award in 2026 for the production of PTS-G Space Vehicles to meet IOC capability, with a projected launch in 2028, putting the first PTS-G satellite into orbit. A second wave of production awards for additional PTS-G satellite capability is planned for 2028, with launch planned for 2031.

Our PTS-G contract transforms how SSC acquires SATCOM capability for the warfighter,” said Cordell DeLaPena, Jr., program executive officer for SSC Military Communications and Positioning, Navigation and Timing. “The incorporation of commercial baseline designs to meet military capability significantly enhances the Space Force’s speed and efficiency to add capability to meet emerging threats.”

Erin Carper, division chief for SSC Tactical SATCOM, said, “By maximizing the use of commercially available products and awarding to a pool of offerors on this IDIQ contract, the Space Force ensures value for the DoD and taxpayer while driving competition and promoting the long-term viability of the SATCOM industrial base.”

Space Systems Command is the U.S. Space Force field command responsible for acquiring, developing, and delivering resilient capabilities to outpace emerging threats and protect our Nation’s strategic advantage in, from, and to space. SSC manages a $15.6 billion annual space acquisition budget for the Department of Defense, working with joint forces, industry partners, government agencies, academia, and allied nations.

Gilmour Space Technologies’ giant leap for Australia’s space capability with successful first test launch of Eris rocket

Gilmour Space Technologies has completed the maiden test launch of Australia’s first locally designed and built orbital rocket — a major milestone toward offering low-cost, responsive launch services for small satellites globally. The 23-meter, 30-tonne Eris rocket, powered by new hybrid propulsion technology, successfully lifted off from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in North Queensland, achieving approximately 14 seconds of flight.

The TestFlight 1 campaign was the first integrated attempt of an orbital-class rocket designed and built entirely in Australia. It also marked the first use of the newly licensed Bowen Orbital Spaceport — Australia’s first commercial orbital launch site, built by Gilmour Space to support future missions.

Eris was developed almost entirely in-house — including propulsion, structures, avionics, software, and the spaceport itself — on a fraction of the budget available to most global launch companies.

“Space is hard,” said Adam Gilmour, CEO of Gilmour Space Technologies. “SpaceX, Rocket Lab and others needed multiple test flights to reach orbit. We’ve learned a tremendous amount that will go directly into improving our next vehicle, which is already in production.”

“Getting off the pad and into flight is a huge step forward for any new rocket program. This was the first real test of our rocket systems, our propulsion technology, and our spaceport — and it proved that much of what we’ve built works.”

Importantly, there were no injuries to any person and no adverse environmental impacts.

“Only six nations currently launch to orbit regularly — and just a handful are developing sovereign capability to join them,” he said. “We’ve now taken a big step toward joining that group.”

“Clearing the tower was a major milestone for our team. It showed that Australia can design, build, and launch rockets right here at home,” Gilmour said.

As part of this historic campaign, Gilmour Space worked closely with many stakeholders and regulators — including the Australian Space Agency, Civil Aviation Safety Authority, Air Services Australia, Maritime authorities, and others — to help shape and navigate the rules needed to safely launch rockets from Australia for the first time.

Initial data confirms that key systems performed well until the anomaly, including ignition, liftoff, first-stage thrust, range tracking and telemetry. The team is now reviewing flight data to understand the cause of the anomaly that led to early termination, with lessons already being applied to the next vehicle, which is in production.

Looking Ahead:
The TestFlight 1 mission represents the culmination of years of effort by a team of more than 200 people, over 500 Australian suppliers, and strong support from government and industry and close coordination with the Australian Space Agency, CASA, Airservices Australia, maritime authorities, and others. It is the next step in Gilmour’s mission to provide low-cost, responsive launch services for small satellites — a capability in growing demand globally.

The team will now review flight data and apply lessons learned to the next Eris rocket, with plans to launch again within [XX] months.

“Every test, especially the first, is a learning opportunity,” said Gilmour. “Congratulations to our talented team for getting us this far. Onward to TestFlight 2.”

Aussie, Gilmour Space Technologies, posts launch ‘will be back’ Wednesday

MISSION: Gilmour Space’s Eris TestFlight1 will be the first Australian-made rocket to attempt orbit, and the nation’s first orbital launch in over 50 years. The launch will be from Bowen Orbital Spaceport, a private orbital launch facility owned and operated by Gilmour Space hosts of the Eris Pad.

The forecast calls for a temperature of 63°F, clear skies, 3% cloud cover and a wind speed of 3mph.

29 July 2025

SCRUBBED FOR TODAY – BACK JULY 30

(7.30am to 5.30pm)​​​​

We scrubbed today (Jul 29) due to upper level winds exceeding our limits.

We’ll be back July 30, 7.30am to 5.30pm AEST

​​LAUNCH SITE: Bowen Orbital Spaceport, North Queensland.

*FAQ: Why does the launch date keep moving?

Rocket launches are complex and delays are normal. Weather, range availability, regulatory checks, final system tests (and last-minute anomalies!) can all affect when a rocket is ready to fly.​

No Earlier Than (NET) is the global standard for space launches, giving teams the flexibility to launch safely within an approved launch window—esp. important for a first-of-its-kind test flight, where every system is being put through its full end-to-end test for the very first time.

In Australia, that also means close coordination with the Australian Space Agency, CASA, Airservices Australia, maritime authorities, and more.

We’ll keep sharing the latest NET date so you can stay up to date, or feel free to check back after launch day. 

Australia’s Gilmour Space Technologies posts delay of launch now Tuesday. hopefully

Announcement today regarding the Eris launch has been pushed out one day as shown below:

The launch will be from Bowen Orbital Spaceport, a private orbital launch facility owned and operated by Gilmour Space hosts of the Eris Pad which has witnessed the launch of 0 rockets, including 0 orbital launch attempts.

28 July 2025

LAUNCH UPDATE: CURRENTLY TRACKING NET JULY 29 (Afternoon)* ​​​​

Thank you for your patience and support as we take this next step in Australia’s space journey.

We are currently expecting our launch window to open No Earlier Than (NET) Tuesday Jul 29. However, do monitor our website for updates.

On launch days, please note:​​​

  • Launch may occur any time between 7:30am – 5:30pm​​
  • Avoid designated Hazard Areas in land, air, and sea (see orange button for details)

> Pilots:  Check current NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen)​​​

> Mariners:  Refer to NOTMARs (Notice to Mariners)​​​​

> All:  Please monitor updates from CASA, Airservices Australia, Maritime Safety, and Gilmour Space.​​​

  • No advance notice will be given before liftoff
  • If we stand down (or scrub) for the day, we will confirm that here (and our Facebook page) by 5.30pm
  • A post-launch video and update will be shared as soon as possible

Ad astra per ardua

Australia’s Gilmour Space Technologies is prepping for their first Eris test flight on Saturday

After several delays Gilmour Space Technologies is planning up for their first Eris Test flight on Saturday, July 26, at 2:30 PM – 12:30 AM PDT.

The forecast calls for a temperature of 65°F, clear skies, 4% cloud cover and a wind speed of 3mph.

The launch will be from Bowen Orbital Spaceport, a private orbital launch facility owned and operated by Gilmour Space hosts of the Eris Pad which has witnessed the launch of 0 rockets, including 0 orbital launch attempts.

This will be the first Australian-made rocket, #Eris, to attempt orbit, and the nation’s first orbital launch in over 50 years.

From Gilmour on 16 July 2025​: LAUNCH SCRUBBED: NEXT WINDOW NET JULY 27

We’re standing down from this week’s launch window and aiming for our next opportunity starting July 27.

​Unfortunately, operational delays set us back a day and the latest upper wind forecasts have now ruled out a safe launch from Thursday through the rest of the week.

Not the outcome we hoped for, but that’s the nature of test flights. Chin up and eyes forward to NET 27 July! 

Australia’s Gilmour Space plans Wednesday for maiden launch of Eris Test Flight1

Gilmour Space Technologies is gearing up for their first Eris Test flight on Wednesday, July 16, at 2:30 PM – 12:30 AM PDT.

The launch will be from Bowen Orbital Spaceport, a private orbital launch facility owned and operated by Gilmour Space hosts of the Eris Pad which has witnessed the launch of 0 rockets, including 0 orbital launch attempts.

This will be the first Australian-made rocket, #Eris, to attempt orbit, and the nation’s first orbital launch in over 50 years.

Gilmour’s vision: ALL ORBITS. ALL PLANETS ®

The forecast calls for a temperature of 62°F, clear skies, 1% cloud cover and a wind speed of 6mph.

Australia’s Gilmour Space Technologies plans maiden flight of Eris Test Flight1 on July 16, nation’s first orbital launch in over 50 years

Gilmour Space plans a Tuesday, July 15, launch for the maiden flight of Eris Test Flight1 at 2:30 PM – 12:30 AM PDT. The launch will be from Bowen Orbital Spaceport, a private orbital launch facility owned and operated by Gilmour Space hosts of the Eris Pad which has witnessed the launch of 0 rockets, including 0 orbital launch attempts.

Eris TestFlight1 will be the first Australian-made rocket, #Eris, to attempt orbit, and the nation’s first orbital launch in over 50 years. Gilmour’s vision: ALL ORBITS. ALL PLANETS ®

The forecast calls for a temperature of 53°F, few clouds, 15% cloud cover and a wind speed of 7mph.

Gilmour Space Technologies is a venture-funded Australian space company headquartered in Queensland, Australia that is developing hybrid-engine rockets and associated technology to support the development of a low-cost space launch vehicle.

Australia’s Gilmour Space Technologies ready to launch maiden Eris Test flight the nation’s first orbital launch in over 50 years

Gilmour Space Technologies is gearing up for their first Eris Test flight, no earlier than May 15. Gilmour Space’s Eris TestFlight1 will be the first Australian-made rocket, #Eris, to attempt orbit, and the nation’s first orbital launch in over 50 years. Gilmour’s vision: ALL ORBITS. ALL PLANETS ®

Weather forecast calls for a temperature of 77 °F, clear skies, 4% cloud cover and a wind speed of 5 mph.

Gilmour Space Technologies is the leading launch services company in Australia, located in Bowen Orbital Spaceport, North Queensland, ​providing valuable access to space to global Commercial and Defense customers. Backed by some of the country’s biggest investors, Gilmour Space is tracking to launch Eris orbital launch vehicles and ElaraSat bus/platforms to Low Earth Orbits (LEO) from 2025.

Bowen Orbital Spaceport hosts the Eris Pad which has witnessed the launch of 0 rockets, including 0 orbital launch attempts. While Bowen Orbital Spaceport, has been the site for 0 rocket launches. Private orbital launch facility owned and operated by Gilmour Space.

Gilmour has said that they plan to have fifty of their personnel based in Bowen for the inaugural launch. Eris’ maiden flight will be the first orbital launch attempt of an Australian rocket from Australian soil, according to co-founder and CEO Adam Gilmour.

Gilmour Space announces launch window for the Eris orbital rocket

The countdown is on—Gilmour Space Technologies has announced a launch window starting ‘no earlier than’ March 15 for the maiden flight of Eris, the first Australian-designed and built rocket aiming for orbit.

The news follows final airspace approvals from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and Airservices Australia, clearing the last regulatory hurdle before launch. It also marks the culmination of years of innovative R&D and manufacturing by the Gold Coast-based company, which developed the Eris launch vehicle and Bowen Orbital Spaceport in North Queensland.

Gilmour Space made history in March last year when its Bowen spaceport was granted the first orbital launch facility license in Australia, and when it secured the country’s first Australian Launch Permit for Eris Test Flight 1 in November. Now, with airspace arrangements finalised and mandatory notice given to the Australian Space Agency, the company is preparing for liftoff.

“This will be the first attempt of an Australian rocket to reach orbit from Australian soil,” said Adam Gilmour, co-founder and CEO of Gilmour Space. The company is backed by private investors including Blackbird, Main Sequence, Fine Structure Ventures, Queensland Investment Corporation, and superannuation funds such as HESTA and Hostplus. 

With the March 15 window fast approaching, Mr. Gilmour highlighted a few key points for those less familiar with rocket launches:

First, it’s important to understand that delays or ‘scrubs’ are a normal part of rocket launches. These can last anywhere from hours to days, or even weeks, and are often caused by weather conditions, technical issues, or other factors. “Safety is always the top priority. We’ll only launch when we’re ready, and when conditions are appropriate,” he said.

Secondly, the first launch is always the hardest. Reaching orbit is a highly complex engineering challenge, and every successful rocket company has faced setbacks in their early attempts—SpaceX, for one, did it on their fourth attempt. “It’s almost unheard of for a private rocket company to launch successfully to orbit the first time. Whether we make it off the pad, reach max Q, or get all the way to space, what’s important is that every second of flight will deliver valuable data that will improve our rocket’s reliability and performance for future launches.”

Thirdly, this is the path we must take to build the launch capability required to meet the growing demand for access to space. For Australia, launching locally-owned and controlled rockets from home soil also means more high-tech jobs, greater security, economic growth, and technological independence. “Only six countries in the world are launching regularly to space using their own technology, and Australia could soon join their ranks.”

Aerial photo of the Bowen Aerial Spaceport, courtesy of Gilmour Space.

Finally, he said: “I want to thank our incredible team for all their hard work and dedication in getting to this critical first flight. Whatever happens next, know that you’ve already made history—we now build rockets in Australia. And this is only the beginning.”

​

MicroCarb launched

The launch of the MicroCarb satellite from Korou, French Guiana, by Arianespace.

The scientific mission, MicroCarb, led by the French space Agency CNES, was successfully launched from Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana.

Artistic rendition of MicroCarb on-orbit

MicroCarb is a joint mission between the UK Space Agency and French Space Agency, Centre National d’Études Spatiales (CNES), serving as the prime contractor. The mission is co-financed by these two agencies, as well as by the European Commission and the French government within the framework of the Investments for the Future Program (PIA), managed by the National Research Agency (ANR).

Working on the fairing for Vega-C flight VV27.
Photo credit: ESA-CNES-ARIANESPACE/Optique vidéo du CSG–S. Martin

The satellite is designed to precisely map atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂), capturing detailed data on emissions from human activities as well as absorption by natural sinks such as oceans and forests.

The satellite is built on the CNES Myriade platform. Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), completed the assembly, integration, and testing of the satellite platform at RAL Space in Harwell, UK, and was responsible for launch preparations. Airbus Defence and Space provided the instrument payload, the infrared spectrometer.

MicroCarb will operate in LEO at an altitude of 650 km and serves as a precursor to the European Union’s Copernicus Anthropogenic Carbon Dioxide Monitoring (CO2M) mission—a constellation of three satellites, with payloads supplied by Thales Alenia Space, that will deliver precise measurements for human-induced atmospheric carbon dioxide and methane. MicroCarb complements the CO2M mission by providing early observations and valuable data, enhancing our capability for CO₂ and methane monitoring to inform climate policy makers.

Additionally, a special city-scanning mode will enable the mapping of CO₂ distribution within urban areas, which are responsible for the majority of global emissions.

Richard Thorburn, CEO of Thales Alenia Space in the UK, said, “I am immensely proud of the contribution our teams in the UK and France have made to MicroCarb – Europe’s pioneering satellite for mapping carbon dioxide on a global scale. Huge thanks to CNES and to the UK Space Agency for the trust they have placed in us, enabling Thales Alenia Space to play a key role in advancing Europe’s leadership in climate monitoring and environmental science, and helping to protect our planet.”

SpaceX launches NASA’s TRACERS mission Wednesday from California

On a clear beautiful Wednesday, July 23 at 11:13 a.m. PT, Falcon 9 launched NASA’s TRACERS mission to orbit from Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. Also on board this mission were SEOPS’ Epic Athena, Skykraft’s Skykraft 4, Maverick Space Systems’ REAL, Tyvak’s LIDE, and York Space Systems’ Bard. The day was picture perfect for a launch by the Pacific Ocean. Photos captured by Satnews.

This was the 16th flight for the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched Crew-7, CRS-29, PACE, Transporter-10, EarthCARE, NROL-186, Transporter-13, and eight Starlink missions.

SpaceX now plans a late night Wednesday launch of NASA’s TRACERS mission from California

TRACERS Tandem Reconnection and Cusp Electrodynamics Reconnaissance Satellites

SpaceX is targeting Wednesday, July 23 for Falcon 9’s launch of NASA’s TRACERS mission from Space Launch Complex 4 East (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The 57-minute launch window opens at 11:13 a.m. PT.

Also on board this mission is SEOPS’ Epic Athena, Skykraft’s Skykraft 4, Maverick Space Systems’ REAL, Tyvak’s LIDE, and York Space Systems’ Bard.

A live webcast of this mission will begin about 15 minutes prior to liftoff, which you can watch on X @SpaceX. You can also watch the webcast on the new X TV app.

This is the 16th flight for the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched Crew-7, CRS-29, PACE, Transporter-10, EarthCARE, NROL-186, Transporter-13, and eight Starlink missions. Following stage separation, the first stage will land on Landing Zone 4 (LZ-4) at Vandenberg Space Force Base.

There is the possibility that residents of and visitors to Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Ventura counties may hear one or more sonic booms during the launch, but what residents experience will depend on weather and other conditions.

SpaceX plans Tuesday for NASA’s TRACERS to launch from California to understand Earth’s magnetic re-connection + more

SpaceX’s Falcon 9 will launch Tuesday, July 22, at 11:05 AM – 12:44 PM PDT from Vandenberg, California to reach Heliophysics Orbit, Sun-Synchronous Orbit.

NASA’s Tandem Reconnection and Cusp Electrodynamics Reconnaissance Satellites (TRACERS) mission, consisting of two identical satellites that will orbit Earth in tandem (one following the other), will help understand magnetic re-connection and its effects in Earth’s atmosphere. Magnetic re-connection occurs when activity from the Sun interacts with Earth’s magnetic field. By understanding this process, scientists will be able to better understand and prepare for impacts of solar activity on Earth.

The Falcon 9 booster will attempt to return to the launch site at LZ-4 after its flight.

NEWS from NASA

NASA’s TRACERS (Tandem Reconnection and Cusp Electrodynamics Reconnaissance Satellites) spacecraft are targeting launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket during a launch window that opens at 2:13 p.m. EDT (11:13 a.m. PDT) on Tuesday, July 22. The TRACERS mission and three NASA small satellites will launch from Space Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

The TRACERS mission will study how the solar wind, the continuous stream of ionized particles escaping the Sun and pouring out into space, interacts with Earth’s magnetosphere, the region around Earth dominated by our planet’s magnetic field. Understanding this region and space weather patterns is paramount in our increasingly technologically driven society, as space weather events can affect our power grids and communications satellites, and create potentially hazardous conditions for astronauts.

Also launching on this flight are three additional NASA-funded payloads. The Athena EPIC (Economical Payload Integration Cost) SmallSat, led by NASA’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, is designed to demonstrate an innovative, configurable way to put remote-sensing instruments into orbit faster and more affordably. The Polylingual Experimental Terminal (PExT) technology demonstration, managed by the agency’s SCaN (Space Communications and Navigation) Program, will showcase new technology that empowers missions to roam between communications networks in space, like cell phones roam between providers on Earth.

Finally, the Relativistic Electron Atmospheric Loss (REAL) CubeSat, led by Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire, will use space as a laboratory to understand how high-energy particles within the bands of radiation that surround Earth are naturally scattered into the atmosphere, aiding the development of methods for removing these damaging particles to better protect satellites and the critical ground systems they support. The REAL mission is the first CubeSat to launch for the state of New Hampshire as part of NASA’s CubeSat Launch Initiative, which provides low-cost access to space for U.S. educational institutions, informal educational institutions such as museums and science centers, non-profits with educational and outreach components, as well as NASA centers for early career workforce development. With REAL, 39 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico will have launched as part of the initiative.

The TRACERS mission is led and managed by David Miles at the University of Iowa with support from the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, Texas. NASA’s Heliophysics Explorers Program Office at the agency’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, manages the mission for the agency’s Heliophysics Division at NASA Headquarters in Washington. The University of Iowa, Southwest Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, and the University of California, Berkeley, all lead instruments on TRACERS that study changes in the magnetic field and electric field. NASA’s Launch Services Program, based at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, manages the agency’s VADR (Venture-class Acquisition of Dedicated and Rideshare) contract.

SpaceX to launch NASA’s TRACERS to understand Earth’s magnetic re-connection on Tuesday from California

TRACERS Tandem Reconnection and Cusp Electrodynamics Reconnaissance Satellites

SpaceX’s Falcon 9 will launch Tuesday, July 22, at 11:05 AM – 12:44 PM PDT from Vandenberg, California to reach Heliophysics Orbit, Sun-Synchronous Orbit.

NASA’s Tandem Reconnection and Cusp Electrodynamics Reconnaissance Satellites (TRACERS) mission, consisting of two identical satellites that will orbit Earth in tandem (one following the other), will help understand magnetic re-connection and its effects in Earth’s atmosphere. Magnetic re-connection occurs when activity from the Sun interacts with Earth’s magnetic field. By understanding this process, scientists will be able to better understand and prepare for impacts of solar activity on Earth.

The Falcon 9 booster will attempt to return to the launch site at LZ-4 after its flight.

York Space Systems’ parent company to acquire ATLAS Space Operations

York Space Systems has agreed to acquire ATLAS Space Operations—this move brings York a powerful, software-led, ground architecture that simplifies operations, removes integration barriers, and enhances space-to-ground resilience—accelerating York’s ability to deliver secure, mission-ready space systems at unmatched speed and value.

ATLAS Space Operations’ antenna in Barrow, Alaska.

ATLAS will play a key role in York’s Golden Dome architecture, a next-generation defense solution that unifies spacecraft, software, and ground operations to deliver full-spectrum capabilities across contested environments. ATLAS will continue to operate independently under its existing brand, serving its diverse portfolio of customers across the space industry.

Founded in 2015, ATLAS delivers secure, cloud-native connectivity through its Freedom® Ground Software as a Service (GSaaS) platform, which provides a single API access point to a global network of more than 50 antennas in 20+ countries and is the only GSaaS provider based in the United States.

By shifting the complexity of satellite communications from hardware to software, ATLAS has built a federated network-of-networks that enables real-time tasking, automated scheduling, and seamless cloud delivery of mission data. The result is a flexible, scalable solution that reduces cost, risk, and time to orbit for a growing roster of government and commercial customers.

The Freedom® platform simplifies ground operations through a single API that abstracts away the complexities of legacy ground station networks. Whether operating a single satellite or a proliferated constellation, customers can onboard faster, stream data directly to the cloud, and flexibly access global infrastructure without building it themselves.

This acquisition will strengthen York’s ability to deliver integrated, mission-ready systems by pairing its high-performance spacecraft and software-defined operations with ATLAS’s proven ground communications platform, thereby enhancing end-to-end mission delivery, and accelerating deployment timelines, improving data flow from space to ground, and enabling more resilient, autonomous operations across both commercial and national security missions.

The acquisition of ATLAS is pending FCC approval and other customary closing conditions.

ATLAS has built one of the most sophisticated and secure ground communications platforms in the industry,” said Dirk Wallinger, CEO of York. “This acquisition will enhance York’s ability to deliver mission-ready systems on the timelines our customers demand while continuing to support the broader space ecosystem with best-in-class ground solutions.”

York shares our vision for a future where space systems are faster, smarter, and seamlessly integrated,” said Corey Geer, CEO of ATLAS. “Together, we are building the infrastructure to meet that future head-on, reducing risk, increasing resilience, and enabling critical data delivery on demand.”

SSC awards $2.8 billion contract for the first two satellites of the Evolved Strategic Satellite Communications (SATCOM) [ESS] program

Image is courtesy of Boeing

The United State Space Force’s Space Systems Command (SSC) awarded a $2.8 billion contract to The Boeing Company to build and deliver the first two satellites of the Evolved Strategic Satellite Communications (SATCOM) [ESS] program. 

ESS replaces the Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications (NC3) capability currently provided by the Advanced Extremely High Frequency (EHF) system, modernizing this crucial element of the nation’s strategic capabilities with advanced technologies and approaches that more efficiently and effectively meet the needs of our warfighters against threats today.

With options for two additional satellites, this delivery will support Initial Operational Capability and is the first step in a phased approach to rapidly proliferate a diverse satellite constellation.

The ESS program, part of SSC’s Military Communications and Positioning, Navigation, and Timing Program Executive Office, will provide the primary strategic SATCOM capability for NC3 users worldwide, enabling joint nuclear warfighters to deliver capabilities across the full spectrum of military operations from peacetime through conflict.

With a resilient architecture, ESS will ensure America’s modernized nuclear triad functions as a deterrent capability in the face of both conventional and nuclear threats. ESS will also continue Advanced EHF’s legacy of partnering with key international allies to deliver peace through strength through integrated deterrence.

This effort builds on the accomplishments of individual contracts under the Middle Tier of Acquisition (MTA) Rapid Prototyping acquisition efforts that were awarded to Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and The Boeing Company in 2020.

During this phase, SSC drove defense innovation, leveraged competition, matured mission requirements, and reduced performance risk to critical technology elements in high-risk areas. This culminated in the achievement of compliant preliminary segment designs and end-to-end prototype demonstrations, significantly advancing the modernization of the NC3 enterprise.

The ESS system of systems is composed of Cryptographic, Ground, and Space Segments procured by the USSF and a User Terminal Segment procured by the individual Services. The first four satellites will be delivered under a cost reimbursement contract.

As part of the larger $12 billion ESS Space Segment acquisition, additional satellites are planned to be procured through fixed price contract actions that may be awarded as sole source to support Full Operational Capability and attain global coverage, including enhanced Arctic capability.

ESS is threat-driven and risk-informed in order to evolve faster than adversaries can adapt. The ESS program uses agile acquisition approaches across all of its segments, including targeted MTA prototyping activities, Other Transaction Authorities, and the Software Acquisition Pathway, to put capability in the hands of warfighters faster while saving taxpayer dollars.

With this contract award, ESS is poised to deliver resilient NC3 satellites in a fraction of the cost and time of legacy programs.

Today’s award culminates nearly five years of industry competition and government partnership to show the Space Force’s readiness to spearhead the modernization of the NC3 enterprise with the development and production of the ESS weapon system,” said Col. A.J. Ashby, program director for ESS. “The result for our Nation will be the delivery of resilient space-based capabilities that will command and control our nuclear forces through all operational environments, critical functions necessary for enduring nuclear deterrence.”

Xona Space Systems has launched their Pulsar-0 PNT satellite

Xona Space Systems has launched Pulsar-0, the first production-class satellite in the company’s LEO constellation that will bring accuracy and affordable resiliency to industries across defense, construction, agriculture, mining, critical infrastructure, logistics, and automotive environs. The company believes introducing this technology will unlock an entirely new category of innovation by providing a new way to localize hardware in this physical world.

Photo of the Pulsar-0 satellite, courtesy of the company

Critical infrastructure, civil aviation, and financial systems rely on positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services from aging government satellites to function. But they are vulnerable and easy to manipulate. The need for resiliency in this infrastructure is urgent, and Pulsar will be a key part in closing this gap. We’ve heard from leaders across private and public sectors alike that there is no time to waste.

Pulsar-0 entered orbit aboard the SpaceX Transporter-14 mission and will begin broadcasting signals to Earth after the smallsat completes spacecraft commissioning. The primary mission is to validate Xona’s technology and unlock live sky testing with the firm’s early customers, charting the path for more frequent launches as the constellation gows and starts commercial operations.

Building hardware is difficult. Building hardware for space is even harder. Along the way, difficult decisions had to be made to preserve momentum in the face of supply chain volatility. One of those decisions was to proceed with launching Pulsar-0 without a propulsion system onboard, a tradeoff that reduces the mission capability and lifetime from our initial plans but has enabled the company to remain on track for launch and to initiate testing quickly. In a world where resilient PNT is needed now more than ever, launching sooner means real-world implementation can start sooner.

Over the coming months, Pulsar-0 will demonstrate:

  • Precise location: Making progress towards delivering on our partnership with Trimble, Pulsar-0 will broadcast real-time precision location with accuracy greater than 10cm. By broadcasting GNSS corrections from low Earth orbit, Pulsar can provide improved positioning before our full constellation is operational while users benefit from stronger signals that reach more places.
  • Range authentication: Legacy GPS signals are open and unencrypted, opening the door for malicious actors to generate counterfeit signals that are perceived as real. Pulsar will show a new way to verify the authenticity of our signal in action, providing protection against spoofing attacks.
  • Jamming resistance: Today, contested environments are frequently jammed, blocking legacy GPS signals which disrupts civilian life and military operations. With a received signal strength 100 times stronger than that of legacy GPS, Pulsar will outperform in denied domains where jammers and other interference might be present.
  • Signal penetration: Environments occluded from open sky have long been a challenge for legacy GPS to reach. We expect to show Pulsar excelling in these environments, bringing reliable connection to traditionally denied spaces inside reinforced buildings, urban canyons, and more.

Pulsar-0 is a milestone for Xona Space Systems and the company will now be focusing on building the capacity to launch more satellites faster and to grow the constellation to achieve persistent and redundant coverage everywhere on Earth.

Arianespace to launch CO3D + MicroCarb satellites via Vega C

On July 25, 2025, Arianespace will place into orbit Airbus Defence and Space’s CO3D satellites, as well as the CNES’s MicroCarb satellite, with a Vega C rocket.

The CO3D mission is a constellation (Constellation Optique en 3D) composed of four small satellites which are set to map the globe in 3D from LEO, serving public and private sector needs.

The MicroCarb mission is designed to map sources and sinks of carbon dioxide (CO2) – the most important greenhouse gas – on a global scale.

This data will answer both the military need for precise and up-to-date cartography as well as civil applications such as hydrology, geology, civil security, urban planning and land and resource management.

The CNES’ MicroCarb mission is designed to map sources and sinks of carbon dioxide (CO₂), the most important greenhouse gas, on a global scale. The satellite’s dispersive spectrometer instrument will measure atmospheric concentration of CO₂ globally with a high degree of precision.

MicroCarb’s platform is based out of the lastest CNES Myriade model. Its instrument was built by Airbus Defence and Space, and the integration was realized by Thales Alenia Space UK through a dedicated partnership implemented with the UK Space Agency.

The VV27 launch at a glance:

  • 354th launch by Arianespace, 5th Vega C launch
  • 10% of the satellites launched by Arianespace are Earth observation satellites
  • 147th-150th spacecraft built by Airbus Defence and Space launched by Arianespace (CO3D, 4 satellites)
  • 108th spacecraft built by Thales Alenia Space launched by Arianespace (MicroCarb platform)

Rocket Lab launches ‘Symphony In The Stars’ and achieves new record of two launches under 48 hours

A Rocket Lab Electron rocket launches a secretive satellite from New Zealand on Saturday, June 28, 2025. (Image credit: Rocket Lab)

Rocket Lab Corporation (Nasdaq: RKLB) (“Rocket Lab” or “the Company”), provider of launch services and space systems, today successfully launched its 68th Electron rocket to deploy a single satellite to space for a confidential commercial customer.

The ‘Symphony In The Stars’ mission lifted-off from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1 in Mahia, New Zealand on June 28th (7:08 p.m./07:08 UTC) to deploy a single spacecraft to a 650km circular Earth orbit. The mission was the first of two dedicated launches for the new customer on Electron booked less than four months ago, with a second mission scheduled before the end of 2025.

The mission was the second of two launches from the same launch site in less than 48 hours, a new launch record for the Company as it continues to deliver dedicated, repeatable and reliable access to space for satellite operators.

Rocket Lab Founder and CEO, Sir Peter Beck, says, “Electron has demonstrated once again that it is the gold standard for responsive and reliable space access for small satellites. The future of space is built on proven performance, and Electron continues to deliver against a stacked launch manifest this year. Congratulations to the team on achieving its fastest launch turnaround yet between two missions from Launch Complex 1. This launch was also a quick-turn mission to meet our customer’s mission requirements, and we’re looking forward to doing it again later this year.”

‘Symphony In The Stars’ was Rocket Lab’s 10th Electron mission of 2025 and its 68th launch overall. With 100% mission success so far this year, Electron continues to deliver reliable deployment amid an increasing launch cadence and rapid contract-to-launch timelines.

Rocket Lab has now completed four launches in June for commercial satellite constellation operators, underscoring Electron’s consistent performance and rapid deployment capabilities as the world’s leading small launcher: the “Full Stream Ahead” mission on June 3rd; “The Mountain God Guards” mission on June 11th; “Get The Hawk Outta Here” launched on June 26th UTC, and tod

Rocket Lab’s 67th Electron launch was for HawkEye360’s mission “Get The Hawk Outta Here”, then “Symphony In The Stars” to launch in 48 Hoursay’s “Symphony In The Stars” mission.

Rocket Lab Corporation (Nasdaq: RKLB), a provider in launch services and space systems, launched its 67th Electron rocket on a dedicated launch for radio frequency geospatial analytics provider HawkEye 360. In less than 48 hours of mission success, Rocket Lab is scheduled for its next Electron launch to take place on Saturday, June 28th NZT which is expected to mark the Company’s fastest launch turnaround to date from Launch Complex 1. Photo by Satnews.

“Get The Hawk Outta Here” launched on Electron from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1 in Mahia, New Zealand, at 5:28 a.m. on June 27th NZT (17:28 on June 26th UTC). The mission deployed four satellites to a 520 km circular low Earth orbit: a trio of microsatellites called Cluster 12 to collect and geolocate radio frequency signals from around the world. Additionally there is Kestrel-0A, an experimental satellite designed to evaluate emerging capabilities and future technology enhancements.

Today’s mission was the second of three dedicated launches in a multi-launch contract for HawkEye 360, following the company’s first mission on Electron to deploy its Cluster 5 trio of satellites in 2023.

Rocket Lab founder and CEO, Sir Peter Beck, says, “Today’s launch for HawkEye 360 was another seamless ride to orbit for Electron, with four satellites deployed with absolute precision to support the growth of HawkEye 360’s constellation in low Earth orbit. With our next mission set to launch in less than 48 hours — the fastest we’ve ever scheduled back-to-back missions from the same launch site — I’m proud of the team for continuing to deliver the high-cadence, responsive launch that our customers rely on.”

The next scheduled Electron mission, “Symphony In The Stars”, will launch a single spacecraft to a 650km circular Earth orbit for a confidential commercial customer no earlier than 7:00 p.m. NZT/19:00 UTC tomorrow Saturday, June 28th. The mission will be Rocket Lab’s 68th Electron launch overall and tenth mission this year from Launch Complex 1.

Rocket Lab’s dynamic scheduling to meet customer and mission requirements has proven their adaptability and responsiveness of dedicated launch on Electron. With over 20 launches possible this year, Electron is in high demand among satellite operators for commercial, civil, and government missions.

SpaceX’s Falcon 9 launches Axiom Space’s astronauts on Axiom Mission 4 enroute to ISS

On Wednesday, June 25 at 2:31 a.m. ET, Falcon 9 launched Axiom Space’s Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) to the International Space Station from Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Photos by Satnews.

Following stage separation, Falcon 9’s first stage landed on Landing Zone 1 (LZ-1) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

Earlier today: Kapu Tibor’s speech: 15 million hungarians raised me to these heights. Your support is like the resting cinder under the gray ashes. It silently glows inside, but give it wood and it will burn united. I am thankful and filled with pride for representing my country. I thank my family and friends for being my strongest support, your voice is louder than our rocket, your strength greater than gravity. Space is for everyone, and there is only one Earth. We came from 4 sides of the planet, but arrived here as companions and friends, our mission is also yours. Thank you to everyone all around the world, who contributed to this beautiful day. To one, all is difficult, to many, nothing is impossible. Go Ax-4!

Dragon will autonomously dock with the space station on Thursday, June 26 at approximately 7:00 a.m. ET. Follow Dragon and the crew’s flight below.

A live webcast of this mission will begin about two hours prior to docking, which you can watch on X @SpaceX. You can also watch the webcast on the new X TV app.

During their time on the orbiting laboratory, the crew will conduct more than 60 scientific experiments and demonstrations focused on human research, Earth observation, and life, biological, and material sciences.

SpaceX is targeting no earlier than Wednesday, June 25 for Falcon 9’s launch of Axiom Space’s Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) to the International Space Station from Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Launch is targeted for 2:31 a.m. ET, with a backup opportunity available on Thursday, June 26 at 2:09 a.m. ET.

According to weather officials, there’s a 90% chance of favorable weather conditions at the time of the launch. Officials are monitoring weather conditions with concerns related to Cumulus Cloud Rule, Flight Through Precipitation. The forecast calls for a temperature of 78°F, clear skies, 1% cloud cover and a wind speed of 6mph.

A live webcast of this mission will begin about two hours prior to liftoff, which you can watch on X @SpaceX. You can also watch the webcast on the new X TV app.

This is the first flight for the Dragon spacecraft supporting this mission. This will be the second flight for the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched a Starlink mission. Following stage separation, Falcon 9’s first stage will land on Landing Zone 1 (LZ-1) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

During their time on the orbiting laboratory, the crew will conduct more than 60 scientific experiments and demonstrations focused on human research, Earth observation, and life, biological, and material sciences.

NASA, Axiom Space, and SpaceX are standing down from launching Axiom Space’s Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) on Sunday, June 22 from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A new launch date will be shared once available.

This is the first flight for the Dragon spacecraft supporting this mission. This will be the second flight for the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched a Starlink mission. Following stage separation, Falcon 9’s first stage will land on Landing Zone 1 (LZ-1) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

During their time on the orbiting laboratory, the crew will conduct more than 60 scientific experiments and demonstrations focused on human research, Earth observation, and life, biological, and material sciences.

SpaceX standing down from Axiom Mission 4 with four astronauts for repairs awaiting new launch date

SpaceX is standing down from Falcon 9’s launch of Axiom Space’s Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) to the International Space Station from Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Wednesday, June 11, to allow additional time for SpaceX teams to repair the LOx leak identified during post static fire booster inspections. Once complete – and pending Range availability – we will share a new launch date.

This is the first flight for the Dragon spacecraft supporting this mission. This will be the second flight for the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched a Starlink mission. Following stage separation, Falcon 9’s first stage will land on Landing Zone 1 (LZ-1) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

During their time on the orbiting laboratory, the crew will conduct more than 60 scientific experiments and demonstrations focused on human research, Earth observation, and life, biological, and material sciences.

SpaceX to launch Axiom Mission 4 with four astronauts to ISS on Wednesday

SpaceX is targeting Wednesday, June 11 for Falcon 9’s launch of Axiom Space’s Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) to the International Space Station from Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Launch is targeted for 8:00 a.m. ET, with a backup opportunity available on Thursday, June 12 at 7:37 a.m. ET.

A live webcast of this mission will begin about two hours prior to liftoff, which you can watch on X @SpaceX. You can also watch the webcast on the new X TV app.

This is the first flight for the Dragon spacecraft supporting thi mission. This will be the second flight for the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched a Starlink mission. Following stage separation, Falcon 9’s first stage will land on Landing Zone 1 (LZ-1) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

During their time on the orbiting laboratory, the crew will conduct more than 60 scientific experiments and demonstrations focused on human research, Earth observation, and life, biological, and material sciences.

SpaceX readies for Tuesday launch of Axiom Mission 4 astronauts from US, India, Poland, and Hungary to ISS

SpaceX is targeting Tuesday, June 10 for Falcon 9’s launch of Axiom Space’s Axiom Mission 4 (Ax–4) to the International Space Station from Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Launch is targeted for 8:22 a.m. ET, with a backup opportunity available on Wednesday, June 11 at 8:00 a.m. ET.

The Ax-4 mission will “realize the return” to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary, with each nation’s first government-sponsored flight in more than 40 years. While Ax-4 marks these countries’ second human spaceflight mission in history, it will be the first time all three nations will execute a mission on board the International Space Station. This historic mission underscores how Axiom Space is redefining the pathway to low-Earth orbit and elevating national space programs globally.

A live webcast of this mission will begin about two hours prior to liftoff, which you can watch here and on X @SpaceX. You can also watch the webcast on the new X TV app.

This is the first flight for the Dragon spacecraft supporting this mission. This will be the second flight for the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched a Starlink mission. Following stage separation, Falcon 9’s first stage will land on Landing Zone 1 (LZ-1) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

During their time on the orbiting laboratory, the crew will conduct more than 60 scientific experiments and demonstrations focused on human research, Earth observation, and life, biological, and material sciences.

PeggyWhitson, Ph.D., America’s most experienced astronaut, served as commander on the Axiom Mission 2 (Ax-2), the second all-private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS). During her record-breaking NASA career, she flew on three long-duration space flights and accumulated 665 days in space (now 675 after the Ax-2 mission), more than any other American astronaut or woman astronaut in the world. More here Peggy Whitson

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, a distinguished pilot in the Indian Air Force (IAF), has been handpicked as one of the four astronauts for the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) historic Gaganyaan mission — the nation’s inaugural human space flight endeavor. More here hubhanshu Shukla

Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski, of Poland, is a scientist and engineer making significant contributions to the fields of science and space exploration. As a member of the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Astronaut Reserve Class of 2022, he emerged from a competitive pool of over 22,500 candidates, securing his place for future missions to the International Space Station (ISS) and beyond. Fluent in English and proficient in French, Sławosz brings a diverse linguistic background to his endeavors. More here Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski

Tibor Kapu, a mechanical engineer from Hungary, is a mission specialist for Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4). Born on November 5, 1991, in Nyíregyháza, Hungary, Kapu’s journey from the classroom to the cosmos is nothing short of remarkable. More here Tibor Kapu.