European Spaceflight
• Andrew Parsonson
The European Space Agency says negotiations with MaiaSpace over a European Launcher Challenge contract have been complicated by the company’s preference for launch-service contracts. The statement explains the delay in signing, but the available report provides no revised timetable or further details on the proposed agreement.
Launch Vehicles & Space Transportation
Latest source-backed stories
High activity
The European Space Agency says negotiations with MaiaSpace over a European Launcher Challenge contract have been complicated by the company’s preference for launch-service contracts. The statement explains the delay in signing, but the available report provides no revised timetable or further details on the proposed agreement.
High activity
Blue Origin is rebuilding Florida launch infrastructure after a May 2026 ground-test accident while developing a larger New Glenn variant alongside its flown 7x2 configuration. Separately, ULA is preparing Vulcan to return to flight carrying 40 Amazon Leo satellites, with redesigned booster nozzles and the first launch in a planned 38-mission partnership.
SpaceX launched a classified mission for the U.S. Space Force from California on Nov. 11, marking the company’s second such launch in a six-day span. The missions underscore SpaceX’s active role in U.S. military space launch, though the classified nature of the payloads leaves their specific objectives undisclosed.
Gilat Satellite Networks lowered its annual outlook for 2026, citing delays to satellite launches and slower-than-expected in-flight connectivity deliveries. The company’s revision points to continued timing pressure across satellite deployment and aviation connectivity rollouts.
High activity
Moog is marking 25 years since its Evolved Secondary Payload Adapter (ESPA) ring completed Critical Design Review in 2001. The milestone highlights the adapter’s place in the company’s space rideshare work, though the announcement provides no further program or operational details.
High activity
SpaceX is scheduled to launch Starship Flight 15 on Nov. 13, with the mission set to attempt the vehicle’s first-ever double catch. The coverage outlines the launch time and full mission timeline for the planned test.
Create a free account to see more recent Launch Vehicles & Space Transportation stories and keep bookmarks in one place.
