Space Exploration & Science Missions   Human Spaceflight & Space Stations   Commercial Space  
Universe Today • Andy Tomaswick

Perchlorates Could Strengthen Martian Bricks for In‑Situ Habitat Construction

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science and the University of Florida report that Martian perchlorates — toxic salts comprising roughly 0.5–1% of the regolith — can improve the strength of bricks fabricated from local soil, suggesting in‑situ construction of habitats could be feasible and reduce mass launched from Earth.

2026-02-17T05:05:08.708697-08:00
Europe   ESA   Space Policy & International Cooperation   Space Defense & Militarization   Policy & Regulation   Geopolitical Developments & Conflict Impact   Defense Policy  
SpaceWatch Global • Niels Buus

Europe’s Space Pivot: ESA Shifts from Science Priorities to National Security Logic

By SpaceWatch Global: For decades, the European Space Agency (ESA) has been the gravitational center of European space. It shaped priorities, pooled funding,.

2026-02-17T03:35:15.449881-08:00
Launch Vehicles & Space Transportation   Space Exploration & Science Missions   Human Spaceflight & Space Stations   NASA  
Space.com • Leonard David

The Artemis 1 moon mission had a heat shield issue. Here’s why NASA doesn’t think it will happen again on Artemis 2

By Space.com: "We support NASA's decision to fly the Artemis 2 mission with its current heat shield and are committed to seeing Orion safely launch and return on its historic mission to the moon with crew onboard.".

2026-02-17T03:09:55.730969-08:00