Commercial Space News

Via SatelliteMark Holmes

Katalyst Space wins Defense Innovation Unit contract for deorbiting technology

Katalyst Space has secured a new contract from the U.S. Defense Innovation Unit as the government seeks to harness emerging technologies for deorbiting space objects. The award highlights growing defense interest in commercial capabilities that can support orbital sustainability and space-domain operations.

2026-08-17T13:06:10.304713-07:00

Commercial Space

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Family offices build $3.8 billion exposure to SpaceX

Investment firms representing ultra-wealthy individuals in the Americas, Europe and the Middle East have accumulated $3.8 billion of exposure to SpaceX. The holdings demonstrate how family offices are securing access to sought-after private aerospace opportunities and channeling substantial capital into the commercial space sector.

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SpaceWatch Global

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AST SpaceMobile wins temporary FCC authority to test satellite connectivity in the 800 MHz band

AST SpaceMobile has received temporary authorization from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission to test satellite connectivity using spectrum in the 800 MHz band. The approval advances the company’s effort to evaluate satellite-enabled communications in a regulated terrestrial-frequency range.

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NASA Spaceflight

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Firefly Aerospace advances medium-lift rocket and Alpha launcher as $1.5B backlog supports growth

Firefly Aerospace is developing a next-generation medium-lift rocket while refining its operational Alpha smallsat launcher, targeting both commercial and government markets. The company’s reported $1.5 billion backlog and 95% of 2026 revenue booked support its growth outlook, although cash burn and valuation remain material risks.

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