Space

Putin approves advertising on Russian spacecraft

Russian President Vladimir Putin has endorsed legal changes allowing advertisements on spacecraft, a move aimed at bolstering the struggling Russian space program. The amendments, effective from January 1, 2026, permit Roscosmos to place ads on state-owned space objects to attract private investment. This comes amid financial woes for Russia's space sector following international sanctions.

Pentagon figures show ULA's Vulcan rocket costs rising

New Pentagon contract data indicates that the development of United Launch Alliance's Vulcan rocket is becoming more expensive. Figures reveal increased funding requirements for the program. This comes amid ongoing efforts to certify the rocket for national security launches.

Muon Space partners with SpaceX for Starlink satellite connectivity

Muon Space, a California-based startup, announced a partnership with SpaceX to equip its satellites with Starlink terminals, enabling continuous high-speed data links in low-Earth orbit. This marks the first commercial use of Starlink for in-flight connectivity beyond SpaceX itself. The integration aims to drastically reduce data latency for missions like wildfire detection.

Astronomers discover Earth's seventh quasi-lunar moon

October 24, 2025 Theo Klein

Earth has gained its seventh confirmed quasi-lunar moon, a small asteroid named 2025 PN7. This Apollo-type object was detected in August by the Pan-STARRS 1 telescope in Hawaii. The discovery highlights ongoing astronomical efforts to track near-Earth objects.

Mystery object strikes United Airlines flight over Utah

October 20, 2025 Theo Klein

A United Airlines flight over Utah was hit by a mystery object from space, cracking the windshield of a 737 Max aircraft at over 30,000 feet. The National Transportation Safety Board confirmed it is investigating the incident. Government investigators are gathering data to determine the object's nature.

Firefly Aerospace's Alpha rocket explodes on third launch attempt

Firefly Aerospace's Alpha rocket suffered a catastrophic failure moments after liftoff from Vandenberg Space Force Base, marking another setback for the small-launch vehicle. The incident, which occurred during its third flight test, destroyed the rocket and its payload. No injuries were reported, but the company now faces further delays in achieving reliable operations.