SpaceNews.com
• Sandra Erwin
U.S. Space Command has identified offensive space capabilities and systems to counter proliferated low Earth orbit constellations as its two highest-priority capability needs for fiscal years 2029 through 2033. The ranking highlights perceived gaps in preparing for future conflict in space, according to Gen. Stephen Whiting.
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U.S. Space Command has identified offensive space capabilities and systems to counter proliferated low Earth orbit constellations as its two highest-priority capability needs for fiscal years 2029 through 2033. The ranking highlights perceived gaps in preparing for future conflict in space, according to Gen. Stephen Whiting.
AST SpaceMobile says it expects to expand its low Earth orbit constellation from 13 to 45 satellites by early next year, supporting beta direct-to-device service in the U.S. this year with roughly half-day coverage. Continuous service is targeted for 2027, with 10 missions booked across two launch providers.
SpaceX is maintaining a high-tempo Starlink campaign, including Falcon 9 missions carrying 24 and 29 satellites to low Earth orbit, despite a scrub and rescheduled launch. The company is also targeting Starship’s 14th test flight for late August, with a planned first operational deployment of Starlink V3 satellites.
Eutelsat said OneWeb revenue increased 69.5% in the year ended June 30, contrasting with a 6.6% decline in GEO broadband connectivity revenue. The company outlined operations for its first-generation LEO constellation through 2034 and $5.07 billion in planned capital expenditure as Europe advances Iris².
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China’s Long March 7A failed less than 90 seconds after liftoff during an attempted communications-satellite launch, with amateur footage showing an apparent explosion. State media said the payload was lost and the cause was under investigation, marking the rocket family’s second failure this year.
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Lithuanian optical communications company Astrolight and German space logistics firm ATMOS Space Cargo have signed an MoU to demonstrate a high-speed, in-flight laser communications link between ATMOS’ PHOENIX 2 re-entry vehicle and an orbiting low Earth orbit satellite during a planned 2027 test.
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SpaceX reported second-quarter revenue of $7.8 billion, exceeding estimates and helping its shares rise 15.8% on Aug. 9 to above their $135 IPO price. The rebound comes as the company’s planned satellite expansion and projected Starship deployment reshape expectations for launch and orbital-computing economics.
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Lufthansa Group will introduce free, high-speed Starlink inflight internet on a Lufthansa-operated Airbus A320neo on August 19. Access will be available to members of the group’s frequent-flyer programs, with the satellite connectivity service scheduled to expand across approximately 850 aircraft under passenger-use rules.
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