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 525 published reports.
How Many Satellites Are in Orbit: A Comprehensive Guide
As of 2026, there are 17,907 active satellites in orbit, with a total of 28,248 catalogued objects including debris.
Unveiling the Mermaid Nebula: A Cosmic Symphony of Colour
The Mermaid Nebula, a stunning supernova remnant, showcases the vibrant aftermath of a stellar explosion, with a hidden pulsar at its heart.
Stoke Space Completes Key Test for Reusable Rocket Development
Stoke Space advances reusable rocket tech with Nova Stage 1 test. NASA and NOAA to discuss operational satellite systems.
Real-Time Satellite Maneuver Tracking with Orbital Radar
Discover how Orbital Radar's Maneuver Tracker provides real-time insights into satellite maneuvers, enhancing space situational awareness.
Understanding TLEs: The Backbone of Satellite Tracking
A TLE, or Two-Line Element Set, is a data format encoding a satellite's orbital parameters, crucial for tracking its path in space.
Unveiling the Eagle Nebula: Star Birth Amidst Cosmic Pillars
The Eagle Nebula, home to the famous Pillars of Creation, is a stellar nursery 6,000 light years away, where stars are born.
Artemis III Crew Announced: Testing Lunar Landers in Orbit
NASA announces the Artemis III crew, including ESA's Luca Parmitano, to test lunar landers in orbit ahead of the 2027 lunar mission.
Space Tourism Costs: Who Can Afford the Final Frontier?
Space tourism costs vary widely, from $250,000 for suborbital flights to $55 million for a stay on the ISS. Learn more about pricing and options.
Thor's Helmet: A Celestial Marvel in the Constellation of the Great Overdog
Thor's Helmet, an interstellar bubble 30 light-years across, is shaped by a Wolf-Rayet star nearing a supernova, located 15,000 light-years away.
TDRS: NASA's Data Relay Network in Geostationary Orbit
The Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) system is a network of American communications satellites operated by NASA. It provides critical data relay services between ground stations and spacecraft in low Earth orbit (LEO), including the International Space Station and the Hubble Space Telescope.
Satellite Imagery Explained: How Earth Observation Works
Satellite imagery is the process of capturing images of Earth from orbiting satellites, providing vital data for environmental monitoring, mapping, and more.
This Week in Orbit: 2026-06-07
This week, the space community's attention was drawn to NASA's strategic decisions and operational challenges. The agency is set to select a new headquarters by the end of the year, a move that underscores its evolving administrative needs.