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 7 published reports.
Iridium Flares: Predictable Satellite Flashes Explained
Iridium flares are bright flashes of light caused by sunlight reflecting off the antennas of Iridium satellites, once a common sight in our night sky.
Iridium NEXT: The Flash-Free Replacement Constellation
Iridium NEXT is a constellation of 66 active communication satellites, designed to replace the original Iridium network. Launched between 2017 and 2019, these satellites provide global voice and data coverage, enabling connectivity for satellite phones, pagers, and integrated transceivers.
The Cosmos-Iridium Collision: A Landmark Satellite Crash
The Cosmos-Iridium collision in 2009 marked the first major satellite crash, significantly impacting space debris management and satellite operations.
Rocket Lab Acquires Iridium, Expanding Satellite Comms Reach
Rocket Lab's $8 billion acquisition of Iridium signals a strategic expansion in satellite communications. Starlink satellites adjust orbits, and New Horizons observes solar wind changes.
What Happens If Two Satellites Collide?
A satellite collision can leave fragments circling Earth long after the spacecraft are destroyed. Their altitude helps determine how long the danger lasts.
Anti-Satellite Weapons: Understanding Their Impact and Risks
Anti-satellite weapons are designed to disable or destroy satellites. They pose significant risks to space operations due to debris creation.
Space Debris: Understanding the Growing Threat in Orbit
Space debris refers to defunct human-made objects in orbit, posing risks to satellites and space missions.