Space.com
• Leonard David
Scientists are applying a new laser-based technique to observe incoming space debris and evaluate how it affects Earth’s atmosphere. The approach aims to improve understanding of debris-related “space junk air pollution” mechanisms rather than relying solely on orbital tracking and ground observations.
SpaceNews.com
• Sandra Erwin
By SpaceNews.com: WASHINGTON — Navigation is emerging as a growing challenge for spacecraft operating beyond Earth orbit, where GPS coverage weakens. Northrop Grumman is adapting technologies developed for the James Webb Space Telescope into a smaller navigation system aimed at mid-size satellites.
Payload
• Douglas Gorman
By Payload: CO-based startup LEAP notched a successful first flight of its Bullfrog suborbital launch vehicle over the weekend, opening the door for up to four more flights this year.
Space Intel Report
• Peter B. de Selding
By Space Intel Report: JAKARTA — Satellite fleet operator Eutelsat reported an 11.8% increase in government revenue for the three months ending March 31 as global military demand more than offset the slack in US government business.
SpaceNews.com
• Jeff Foust
By SpaceNews.com: Varda Space Industries has signed its first major agreement with a pharmaceutical company to develop improved drugs in microgravity.
Payload
• Jacqueline Feldscher
By Payload: Exobiosphere has designed an Orbital High-Throughput Screening Device—an automated mini lab that fits into standard mid-deck lockers, aboard crewed or uncrewed space stations.
SpaceNews.com
• Jason Rainbow
By SpaceNews.com: SpaceX has the FCC’s blessing to buy EchoStar spectrum to improve direct-to-device services in the United States, subject to a $2.4 billion escrow tied to disputes over the seller’s abandoned terrestrial 5G network buildout.
Space Intel Report
• Peter B. de Selding
By Space Intel Report: JAKARTA — Satellite fleet operators SES and Eutelsat said negotiations on the final cost, configuration and schedule of Europe’s Iris2 multi-orbit secure connectivity constellation will require several weeks of additional work before being finalized with the European Commission.
SpaceNews.com
• Sandra Erwin
