Space News Mission Log — Satellite Launches, Orbital Events & Analysis
Daily space news, satellite launch reports, orbital debris analysis and weekly roundups — grounded in live tracking data from our network monitoring 204 published reports.
Close Conjunction of Satellites: OBJECT C and OBJECT D
On 18 May 2026, at 14:07 UTC, a close approach occurred between two satellites, designated OBJECT C and OBJECT D, with a minimum separation of approximately 1.39 kilometres. This event, identified by NORAD IDs 56155 and 56156, was classified with medium severity.
The Cosmic Dance of NGC 3169: A Galactic Unravelling
NGC 3169 and NGC 3166 engage in a gravitational dance, revealing the dynamic nature of galaxies in the universe.
This Week in Orbit: 2026-05-17
This week saw significant developments in space exploration and satellite operations. NASA has released the final Request for Proposal (RFP) for a new Mars communications orbiter, a step forward in supporting future Mars missions.
Unveiling NGC 1300: The Cosmic Dance of a Barred Spiral Galaxy
NGC 1300, a barred spiral galaxy 70 million light-years away, showcases a cosmic dance of structure and beauty.
Space Force Awards $398 Million Satellite Contract
The U.S. Space Force has awarded Northrop Grumman a $398 million contract for satellite development, while NASA advances its Mars communications orbiter plans.
Starlink: The Mega-Constellation Reshaping Orbit
Starlink is a satellite internet constellation developed by SpaceX, the aerospace company founded by Elon Musk. The primary objective of Starlink is to provide high-speed, low-latency broadband internet access across the globe, particularly in underserved and remote areas.
This Week in Orbit: 2026-05-10
This week, the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) have finalised an agreement for a collaborative mission to the asteroid Apophis. This mission aims to study the asteroid's composition and trajectory, which will provide valuable data for planetary defence s
OneWeb — The UK's Broadband Constellation
OneWeb is a satellite constellation designed to provide global broadband internet coverage. Initiated by the British company OneWeb Ltd., the project aims to bridge the digital divide by delivering high-speed internet to remote and underserved regions.
Fengyun-1C Debris: Legacy of the 2007 ASAT Test
Fengyun-1C was a Chinese weather satellite, part of the Fengyun (FY) series operated by the China Meteorological Administration. Launched on 10 May 1999, it was designed to monitor weather patterns and collect atmospheric data.
Vanguard 1: The Oldest Satellite Still in Orbit
Vanguard 1, launched on 17 March 1958, holds the distinction of being the oldest human-made satellite still in orbit. It was part of the United States' response to the Soviet Union's Sputnik programme, marking a significant milestone in the early space race.
Auroral Wonder: A Celestial Dance Captured from Orbit
A vivid aurora photographed from the ISS showcases the interplay of atmospheric particles and solar winds, creating a luminous spectacle.
SpaceX Launches CRS-34 Mission as ESA-China SMILE Prepares for Lift-off
SpaceX launches CRS-34 mission to the ISS, delivering science and cargo, while ESA-China's SMILE mission prepares to study Earth's magnetic shield.