Payload
• Elizabeth Howell
Astrobotic tested one of its two Chakram engine prototypes with a continuous 300-second hot-fire at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama. The run is part of a broader prototype test campaign intended to validate power-plant performance for future Moon missions.
European Spaceflight
• Andrew Parsonson
By European Spaceflight: The Exploration Company has signed an MoU with OCCAM Space to develop a clampband separation system for its Nyx capsule.
SpaceWatch Global
• Judith Delany
By SpaceWatch Global: Switzerland’s new space command focuses on dual-use capabilities, European cooperation, and maintaining stability in an increasingly contested orbital environment.
Skies Magazine
• Transport Canada Press Release
By Skies Magazine: The Canadian Space Launch Act would enable the government to regulate and oversee space launch and re-entry activities conducted from Canadian territory.
SpaceNews.com
• Jason Rainbow
By SpaceNews.com: French startup Univity has raised around $32 million to deploy a pair of 5G demonstrators into very low Earth orbit next year, ahead of plans for at least 1,600 VLEO satellites to help telecom operators extend 5G coverage from space.
By Spaceflight Now: Update Apr. 22, 11:52 p.m. EDT (0352 UTC): SpaceX landed its booster on the droneship.
DefenseNews.com
• Pierre Tran
By DefenseNews.com: PARIS — A space-based laser communication system fitted onboard the European Data Relay System (EDRS)-A satellite payload is due to be launched Jan. 27, offering commercial and military operators a secure and high-capacity data transmitter, European Space Agency officials and Airbus Defence & Space executives said.
Payload
• Jacqueline Feldscher
By Payload: “I simply do not believe that this budget proposal is capable of supporting what President Trump himself has directed the agency to accomplish,” Babin said.
Satellite Evolution
• Satellite Evolution Group
European Spaceflight
• Andrew Parsonson
