China   Space Exploration & Science Missions   Space Policy & International Cooperation   Policy & Regulation   Geopolitical Developments & Conflict Impact   NASA  
Payload • Elizabeth Howell

Report flags national-security risk in NASA-funded collaborations that may include Chinese researchers

A new Congressional report says NASA has potentially funded or supported hundreds of scientific collaborations since 2015 that could involve Chinese researchers. The finding raises concerns that research partnerships enabled by NASA funding may introduce China-related security risks for U.S. interests.

2026-05-20T05:06:08.341331-07:00
China   Moon   Space Exploration & Science Missions   Human Spaceflight & Space Stations   Space Policy & International Cooperation   Geopolitical Developments & Conflict Impact  
SpaceNews.com • Jeff Foust

Isaacman expects Chinese crewed mission around the moon in 2027

By SpaceNews.com: The head of NASA says he expects China to perform a crewed flight around the moon in 2027, ratcheting up perceptions of a space race with China.

Also: Space Policy Online
2026-05-20T02:40:49.949952-07:00
Launch Vehicles & Space Transportation   Commercial Space  
SpaceWatch Global • Joshua Faleti

Southern Launch Welcomes Fourth Varda Capsule back to Earth at the Koonibba Test Range

By SpaceWatch Global: Southern Launch has announced the safe reentry and return of of Varda Space Industries’ W-6 capsule to the Koonibba Test Range, demonstrating the company's position as a global leader for orbital re-entry services.

Also: asdnews.com
2026-05-20T01:09:10.577730-07:00
Satellite   Launch Vehicles & Space Transportation  
Via Satellite • Leandra Bernstein

Northrop Grumman's First MRV Readies for Summer Launch to Expand the Space Servicing Toolkit

By Via Satellite: STERLING, Va. — Northrop Grumman’s SpaceLogistics is scheduled to launch its next-generation space vehicle for on-orbit refueling and satellite life extension this summer, program leaders told reporters Tuesday.

Also: Defense Daily
2026-05-19T15:43:19.876953-07:00
Satellite   M&A   Commercial Space   Space Debris & Traffic Management   Sustainability & Climate Initiatives  
Via Satellite • Rachel Jewett

Sky Perfect JSAT Invests in Astroscale to Partner on On-Orbit Servicing

By Via Satellite: Sky Perfect JSAT is investing in Astroscale as part of a strategic partnership between the companies to work together on on-orbit servicing initiatives.

Also: Satellite Evolution, spaceanddefense.io and satnews.com
2026-05-19T11:55:55.389621-07:00