Launch Vehicles & Space Transportation   Space Exploration & Science Missions   NASA  
SpaceNews.com • Jeff Foust

NASA targets September launch for Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope

NASA expects to launch the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope as soon as September, presenting the imminent liftoff as evidence the agency can deliver flagship science missions on cost and schedule. The timing moves the observatory from final testing into active launch preparations.

2026-01-08T11:35:46.611775-08:00
Launch Vehicles & Space Transportation   Commercial Space  
NASA Spaceflight • Bastiaan Vellekoop

SpaceX Overhauls Pad 1 to Support Block 3 Launches After Final Block 2 Flight

By NASA Spaceflight: With the last Block 2 flight lifting off on Oct. 14th, 2025, SpaceX has no more need for Pad 1’s current infrastructure. However, Pad 1 still has a significant future ahead; it is undergoing major rework and redesign that will enable it to accommodate Block 3 launches, resembling Pad 2, but without starting entirely from scratch.

2026-01-08T11:15:48.370836-08:00
Space Exploration & Science Missions   Space Policy & International Cooperation   Policy & Regulation   Geopolitical Developments & Conflict Impact   NASA  
Payload • Jacqueline Feldscher

House Minibus Bill Would Cut Funding for NASA’s Mars Sample Return, Threatening the Mission

By Payload: The dozens of tubes of Martian dust collected so far by the Perseverance rover are waiting for a ride that may never come.

Also: Universe Today
2026-01-07T13:41:09.081432-08:00