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 120 published reports.
Satellite Ground Stations: The Backbone of Space Communication
Satellite ground stations are vital for receiving data from and sending commands to satellites, enabling global communication and navigation.
Intelsat: The Geostationary Communications Pioneer
Intelsat is a leading provider of satellite communication services, operating a fleet of geostationary satellites. Founded in 1964, Intelsat has played a pivotal role in developing global satellite communications.
Military Satellites: Understanding Their Role and Impact
Military satellites are crucial for defence, providing communication, surveillance, and navigation capabilities. Learn how they function and their strategic importance.
Understanding Satellite Radio Propagation with Orbital Radar's Heatmap
Discover how Orbital Radar's Propagation Heatmap tool helps optimise satellite communication by analysing radio propagation conditions.
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 Evolution of EchoStar: From First Launch to Present
EchoStar has evolved from launching its first satellite in 1995 to becoming a key player in global communications technology.
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.
Understanding Satellite Doppler Shift in Orbital Tracking
Satellite Doppler shift affects frequency changes in signals from moving satellites, crucial for accurate tracking and communication.
SpaceX AI Satellites: Pioneering Autonomous Space Operations
SpaceX's AI satellites are revolutionising autonomous space operations by enhancing satellite communication and navigation capabilities.
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.
Boeing Secures $2 Billion Contract Amidst Satellite Close Approaches
Boeing secures a $2 billion contract for satellite communications, while satellite close approaches underscore growing orbital congestion.
TDRS: NASA's Geostationary Data Relay Network
The Tracking and Data Relay Satellite (TDRS) system is a network of American communications satellites that form part of NASA's Space Network. Established to provide continuous, high-data-rate communication with spacecraft, TDRS supports a range of missions, from the Hubble Space Telescope to the In