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 9 published reports.
Iridium NEXT: The Flash-Free Replacement Constellation
Iridium NEXT is the second-generation satellite constellation operated by Iridium Communications. It serves as the replacement for the original Iridium constellation, which was known for its characteristic 'Iridium flares'—bright flashes visible from Earth due to sunlight reflecting off their antenn
Iridium NEXT: The Flash-Free Replacement Constellation
Iridium NEXT is the second-generation satellite constellation operated by Iridium Communications. It serves as a global network for voice and data communication, replacing the original Iridium constellation launched in the late 1990s.
Iridium Flares: Understanding the Sky's Predictable Flashes
Iridium flares were bright flashes caused by sunlight reflecting off Iridium satellites' antennas, visible from Earth.
Iridium NEXT: The Flash-Free Replacement Constellation
Iridium NEXT is a satellite constellation developed by Iridium Communications to replace its original satellite network. The constellation consists of 66 active satellites, with additional spares in orbit, designed to provide global voice and data communication services.
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.
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 that pose collision risks to spacecraft and satellites.
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.