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 37 published reports.
How to Search the Satellite Database: A Comprehensive Guide
Discover how to use Orbital Radar's Satellite Directory to search and track over 31,000 objects in orbit, including active satellites and space debris.
How Many Satellites in Orbit? Counts, Types and Tracking
Earth has 15,870 active satellites, but the wider catalogue includes debris and inactive spacecraft. Here is what the counts mean and how to explore them.
How Long Do Satellites Last? A Comprehensive Guide
Satellites typically last between 5 to 15 years, depending on their mission and orbit. Factors like orbital decay and technological obsolescence play key roles.
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.
Understanding NORAD IDs: The Definitive Guide to Satellite Tracking
NORAD IDs are unique identifiers for tracking over 29,000 objects in space, including active satellites and debris.
How Many Starlink Satellites Fall Each Day?
1.5 Starlink satellites re-enter Earth's atmosphere each day, according to Orbital Radar data. Explore the reasons behind these controlled re-entries.
NASA Cancels Draper Lunar Lander; Starlink Satellites Adjust Orbits
NASA ends Draper lunar lander mission; Starlink satellites show orbital changes. Artemis Accords gain new signatories.
Space Agencies List: Who Runs the World's Space Programmes?
NASA, ESA and CNSA are part of a much wider network of space organisations. Explore who runs national programmes, how responsibilities differ and where private companies fit.
SpaceX's 'Starfall' Capsule to Demonstrate Reentry Capabilities
SpaceX's 'Starfall' capsule is set to launch today, showcasing reentry technology. Meanwhile, NASA faces infrastructure challenges.
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.
SpaceX Starship's Tower Catch and JWST's Water Hunt
SpaceX plans a tower catch for Starship's next flight, while JWST explores water on mini-Neptunes.
Starlink Expansion and Exoplanet Discoveries Mark Space Developments
SpaceX expands Starlink with 24 new satellites. JWST observes a giant planet orbiting a dead star, offering insights into stellar evolution.