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 81 published reports.
Types of Rocket Propulsion: Chemical, Electric and Nuclear
Chemical engines deliver thrust, electric thrusters conserve propellant, and nuclear concepts offer different trade-offs. Here is how mission designers choose between them.
Lunar Gateway Orbit: Why NASA Chose a Halo Around the Moon
Gateway is designed for a looping orbit rather than a close circle around the Moon. Its route explains how lunar gravity, communications and landing access shape mission design.
Orbital Period: Meaning, Formula and Satellite Examples
Orbital period measures how long one orbit takes. Discover why higher satellites orbit more slowly, how to calculate a period and why an orbit is not the same as a visible pass.
NASA vs ESA vs CNSA: How the Space Agencies Compare
NASA, ESA and CNSA represent different ways of organising space exploration. Their budgets, responsibilities and partnerships matter more than a simple ranking.
Understanding Geostationary Orbital Slots and Their Importance
Geostationary orbital slots are specific positions in Earth's orbit where satellites remain fixed relative to a point on the equator, crucial for communications.
How Many Satellites Reentered This Year? 2026 by the Numbers
Orbital Radar records 673 satellite and payload re-entries in 2026 so far, within 1,119 atmospheric returns across all object types.
China Advances Mars Sample Return Plans Amid Close Satellite Encounters
China progresses its Mars sample return mission plans, while satellite close approaches highlight ongoing orbital congestion.
Space Sustainability: Ensuring the Future of Orbital Operations
Space sustainability involves managing the growing number of satellites and debris to ensure long-term usability of Earth's orbits.
Rocket Launches This Year: Countries and Companies Compared
Orbital launches stand at 256 this year, against 261 at the same point in 2025. Explore which providers lead and how country comparisons work.
Parts of a Satellite: Systems That Keep It Working
Discover the key components and systems inside a satellite that ensure its operation in space, including power, thermal control, and communication.
Oldest Satellite Still in Orbit: Vanguard 1 and the Top Ten
Vanguard 1 remains the oldest satellite orbiting Earth. Its surviving companions include rocket hardware and early scientific satellites whose orbits explain their longevity.
Satellite Licensing and Spectrum: A Complete Explainer
Satellite licensing is the process of obtaining permission to launch and operate a satellite, ensuring compliance with international regulations and spectrum allocation.