Tag Archive News
NASA Begins Search for Iconic T-38 Talon Jet Trainer Successor
NASA has initiated market research to find a modern high-performance jet trainer to replace its aging fleet of T-38 Talons used for astronaut training. The eventual retirement of the T-38 fleet, driven by U.S. Air Force timelines, prompts NASA to explore new aircraft solutions.
Inside Military Space Networking: Innoflight on Golden Dome and SDA Architectures
Explore how advanced military electronics and high-performance processing power enable resilient space networking. Discover Innoflight's critical role in defense space architectures.
The Aerospace Corporation Successfully Demonstrates Revolutionary DiskSat Technology in Orbit
The Aerospace Corporation is validating its innovative pancake-shaped DiskSats following a December launch on a Rocket Lab Electron rocket. The mission aims to prove the viability of ultra-thin satellites for very low Earth orbit operations and foster a new commercial industrial base.
White House Unveils New National Space Transportation Policy to Boost Launch Rates
The White House has released an updated National Space Transportation Policy aiming for at least 1,000 annual launches and reentries from U.S. facilities by 2030. The comprehensive directive prioritizes infrastructure development, streamlined scheduling, and expanded commercial space capabilities for national security and civil needs.
NASA and Katalyst Abandons Swift Satellite Orbit Reboost Mission
NASA and Katalyst Space Technologies have cancelled plans to use the Link spacecraft to raise the orbit of the Swift gamma-ray observatory due to persistent attitude-control issues. The decision means the historic space telescope will likely reenter Earth's atmosphere earlier than anticipated.
Strengthening America's Space Supply Chain and Defense Industrial Resilience
America's rapidly expanding space economy faces critical supply chain bottlenecks that threaten national security architectures and commercial growth. Addressing these structural constraints requires modernized procurement, diversified suppliers, and enhanced industrial coordination.
Firefly Aerospace and Zeno Power Partner for Lunar Night Survival Mission
Firefly Aerospace will integrate a Zeno Power radioisotope heating unit onto its 2028 Blue Ghost lunar lander mission. This technology demonstration aims to validate survive-the-night capabilities using americium-241 for future space exploration.
Space Nuclear Programs Face Critical Supply Chain and Long-Term Policy Challenges
Space nuclear power and propulsion programs are experiencing a resurgence driven by government and commercial initiatives, but they face severe near-term supply chain bottlenecks and long-term political sustainability risks. Industry leaders warn that shortages of HALEU fuel, specialized workforce constraints, and a lack of structural policy support could undermine future missions.
How U.S. Military Research Fueled China’s Dominance in Quadruped Robotics
An investigation reveals that designs for China’s market-dominating quadruped robots by Unitree Robotics heavily rely on foundational innovations funded by the U.S. military. This highlights systemic challenges in the American defense-industrial base regarding commercializing domestic research.
United Launch Alliance Appoints Mark Peller as New Chief Executive Officer
United Launch Alliance has named longtime executive Mark Peller as its new president and CEO following a competitive search. Peller takes the helm as the company navigates critical national security launch schedules and technical challenges with its Vulcan rocket.
NASA to Award Three New Lunar Missions Including LRO Successor
NASA plans to issue three upcoming Commercial Lunar Payload Services task orders this year, featuring an orbiter designed to replace the aging Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter alongside two lander missions. Industry leaders Firefly Aerospace and Intuitive Machines are positioning themselves for these awards while scaling up production for future heavy-cargo lunar logistics.
Wallops Flight Facility Gears Up for Massive Surge in Orbital and Hypersonic Launches
NASA's Wallops Flight Facility is preparing for a dramatic increase in launch rates over the coming years, driven by aerospace companies seeking alternatives to congested sites like Cape Canaveral. Local officials and industry leaders emphasize the urgent need for both physical and social infrastructure investments to support this expanding space and defense ecosystem.