Articles tagged with "satellite-technology"
Space mirrors for solar power may threaten astronomy, experts warn
Reflect Orbital, a California-based startup, proposes deploying a large constellation of satellites equipped with Mylar mirrors to reflect sunlight down to Earth, enabling solar farms to generate power even after sunset. The company plans to launch a test satellite, Earendil-1, in 2026, followed by up to 4,000 satellites by 2030, with potential expansion to 250,000 satellites featuring 54-meter mirrors. These satellites would orbit about 625 km above Earth and reflect light approximately 15,000 times dimmer than midday sun but still brighter than a full moon, aiming to provide “sunlight on demand” to targeted locations. However, astronomers and environmentalists warn that this project could severely impact astronomy and ecosystems. Unlike existing satellites that cause unintended light pollution, Reflect Orbital’s mirrors are designed to reflect light deliberately, potentially creating “blindingly bright” flashes that could damage sensitive astronomical instruments and even pose risks of eye damage to observers. The brightness could drown
solar-powerspace-mirrorsrenewable-energysatellite-technologylight-pollutionenergy-innovationspace-based-solar-energyElon Musk’s Starlink fleet is burning up in orbit, scientists say
Elon Musk’s SpaceX Starlink satellite constellation is experiencing an unprecedented rate of satellite deorbiting, with up to four satellites burning up daily in Earth’s atmosphere as of 2025. Astronomer Jonathan McDowell notes that this number could rise to five per day as the network expands. While the fiery reentries have sparked public concern, scientists emphasize that Starlink satellites are designed to fully disintegrate upon reentry, posing no direct threat to people on the ground. Currently, about 8,500 Starlink satellites operate within a total of 12,000 active satellites in low-Earth orbit, most with a lifespan of roughly five years. The primary safety concern lies not with Starlink’s controlled reentries but with uncontrolled debris from defunct satellites and rocket stages, which can survive reentry and potentially land on Earth. As the number of satellites grows, so does the risk of collisions and space debris fallout. Additionally, researchers are investigating the environmental impact of the materials released
IoTsatellitesspace-debrisStarlinkSpaceXsatellite-technologyorbital-energy-managementStoke Space’s $510M round shows the future of launch belongs to defense
Stoke Space’s recent $510 million Series D funding round, led by Thomas Tull’s U.S. Innovative Technology (USIT) fund, marks a significant shift in the space launch industry toward defense-focused investment and priorities. While earlier space startups targeted the commercial market—promising frequent launches for small satellites, broadband, and remote sensing—only SpaceX has consistently delivered affordable, reliable commercial launches at scale. Meanwhile, geopolitical tensions, such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and rising competition from China, have driven increased U.S. government spending on space defense initiatives, including the Pentagon’s multi-billion-dollar “Golden Dome” missile defense project and the Space Force’s National Security Space Launch (NSSL) program. These programs offer predictable, high-value contracts that are reshaping startup strategies and investor interests toward national security. Stoke Space’s funding and recent contract wins, including selection for the NSSL Phase 3 Lane 1 program with potential contracts worth up to $5.6 billion, exempl
energyaerospacedefense-technologyspace-launchnational-securityspace-industrysatellite-technologyEndless Sunlight, Endless Costs: The Economic Reality of Space Solar Power - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica discusses the renewed interest in space-based solar power (SBSP), primarily driven by China’s active investment and development efforts. Unlike previous decades when SBSP remained largely theoretical or confined to research papers by agencies like NASA, Japan, and the European Space Agency, China is funding hardware development and test facilities, aiming to build a roadmap from a small test satellite in the late 2020s to a full-scale gigawatt orbital solar station by mid-century. This initiative aligns with China’s broader strategic goals, including advancing heavy-lift rockets, autonomous assembly technologies, and high-power microwave transmission, while also reinforcing its geopolitical positioning. Despite the excitement, the article emphasizes that the fundamental economic and physical challenges of SBSP remain unchanged. The primary obstacle is the extremely high cost of launching payloads into geosynchronous orbit, which currently ranges from about $3,600 to $10,000 per kilogram depending on the rocket and configuration. Even with optimistic projections for future Chinese rockets
energysolar-powerspace-based-solarrenewable-energyChina-space-programsatellite-technologywireless-power-transmissionSpacecoin beams blockchain transaction through space in bid for decentralized internet
Spacecoin recently demonstrated the successful transmission of encrypted blockchain data via its first prototype satellite, CTC-0, launched in December 2024 on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rideshare. This proof-of-concept involved beaming secured cryptographic signatures and encrypted data from Chile to Portugal, validating the satellite’s capability to execute encrypted transactions in orbit. Founder Tae Oh emphasized that this milestone is critical for building a decentralized network of communication satellites and enabling permissionless connectivity. Following CTC-0, Spacecoin plans to launch progressively larger satellites (CTC-1 series) to enhance network performance. Unlike existing satellite broadband providers such as SpaceX’s Starlink and Amazon’s Kuiper, which operate managed networks, Spacecoin aims to create a decentralized internet infrastructure based on “tokenized access.” Their upcoming network, called Starmesh, promises encrypted internet traffic that supports safe, untraceable browsing and access to decentralized web services. The system will operate on the Creditcoin blockchain, allowing users to pay
IoTsatellite-technologyblockchaindecentralized-internetencrypted-communicationspace-technologytelecommunicationsStarpath bets on mass-produced, space-rated solar
Starpath has launched a new line of space-rated solar panels called “Starlight,” aiming to drastically reduce the cost of solar power for space applications. The company claims its panels are priced at roughly $10–11 per watt, about 90% cheaper than the current industry standard of $7–250 per watt. Two product tiers are available: an engineering model for prototyping at $9.81 per watt, shipping from October, and a flight-rated model for in-space use at $11.20 per watt, shipping in Q4 2025. Starpath attributes this steep cost reduction to its proprietary automated production line, which is expected to scale rapidly and produce more space-rated solar power than the rest of the world combined by next year, with significantly shorter lead times—initially three weeks, dropping to three days by December. The initiative stems from Starpath’s broader vision to enable economically viable power solutions for ambitious off-world projects, such as lunar bases and Mars cities, where
energysolar-powerspace-rated-solar-panelssatellite-technologyrenewable-energyautomated-productionspace-industryJapan's new plasma engine could clean space junk contact-free
Researchers at Tohoku University in Japan have developed a novel plasma propulsion system designed to remove space debris without physical contact. The technology, called the "bidirectional plasma ejection type electrodeless plasma thruster," works by simultaneously ejecting two streams of plasma: one directed at space debris to slow and deorbit it, and another in the opposite direction to counteract the recoil force on the removal satellite. This balanced thrust allows the satellite to maintain stability and remain on target, addressing a key challenge faced by previous plasma-based debris removal concepts. The system also incorporates a special "cusp" magnetic field that contains and focuses the plasma, tripling the deceleration force compared to earlier experiments. Operating on argon gas, which is cheaper and more abundant than traditional propellants, the thruster offers an efficient and cost-effective solution for mitigating the growing problem of space junk. With around 14,000 pieces of debris in low Earth orbit posing collision risks to satellites and space stations, this technology
energyplasma-propulsionspace-debris-removalion-enginesatellite-technologyspace-cleanupelectrodeless-plasma-thrusterUS plans maneuverable defense satellite amid China space gains
The United States is advancing its space defense capabilities through a joint demonstration satellite project by Anduril Industries and Impulse Space, aimed at enhancing maneuverability and rapid repositioning of satellites in geostationary orbit (GEO). This initiative responds to growing Chinese advancements in satellite maneuver technology and close-approach operations, which have prompted the U.S. Space Force to prioritize high-thrust, maneuverable satellites for future defense missions. The demonstration will test rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO), enabling satellites to autonomously track, identify, and approach other spacecraft with greater precision and safety. Impulse Space is providing its Mira spacecraft integrated with the Helios kick stage, powered by the Deneb engine, which can transfer satellites from low Earth orbit (LEO) to GEO in under 24 hours—significantly faster than traditional months-long orbital transfers. Anduril contributes mission payloads including a long-wave infrared imager and a data processor using its Lattice software, which supports autonomous space
energysatellite-technologyspace-defensepropulsion-systemsmaneuverable-satellitesspace-forceorbital-operationsSame-day delivery comes to space, as Impulse promises satellite transport in hours, not months
Impulse, an in-space propulsion startup founded in 2021 by former SpaceX engineer Tom Mueller, is pioneering rapid satellite transport to geostationary orbit (GEO), approximately 22,000 miles above Earth. By leveraging its methane-oxygen kick stage called Helios, equipped with a powerful Deneb engine, Impulse aims to reduce the typical months-long transit from low Earth orbit (LEO) to GEO to under a day. This “same-day” delivery concept promises to accelerate satellite deployment and repositioning for both commercial and defense applications, addressing challenges such as radiation exposure in the Van Allen belts and communication latency. Impulse recently announced three key deals: a 2026 demonstration mission with defense contractor Anduril to develop a satellite capable of rendezvous and proximity operations critical for space domain awareness; a 2027 transportation agreement with GEO communications startup Astranis to rapidly deliver MicroGEO satellites to orbit, speeding up broadband service activation; and a multi-launch ride-share program called Caravan with
satellite-technologyspace-transportationin-space-propulsionsatellite-servicinggeostationary-orbitspace-defense-technologyautonomous-spacecraft-maneuveringBoeing 3D-prints solar arrays, cutting satellite build time by 50%
Boeing has introduced 3D-printed solar array substrates that significantly reduce satellite production time by up to 50%, cutting composite build times by as much as six months on typical solar array wing programs. This innovation integrates features such as harness paths and attachment points directly into a single rigid panel, eliminating numerous separate parts and complex bonding steps. The arrays, which incorporate Spectrolab’s high-efficiency solar cells and are set to fly on small satellites built by Millennium Space Systems, are currently undergoing Boeing’s qualification process with market availability targeted for 2026. The new additive manufacturing approach enables parallel production processes, allowing solar arrays to be assembled concurrently with solar cell fabrication, thereby reducing lead times and supporting higher-rate production. Boeing’s use of robot-assisted assembly and automated inspection further enhances consistency and speed. This scalable technology is designed for a range of spacecraft, from small satellites to larger platforms like Boeing’s 702-class spacecraft. Boeing has already integrated over 150,000 3D-printed
energysolar-energy3D-printingaerospacesatellite-technologyadditive-manufacturingBoeingRendezvous Robotics exits stealth with $3M to build reconfigurable space infrastructure
Rendezvous Robotics, a company emerging from stealth mode with $3 million in pre-seed funding, aims to revolutionize space infrastructure by overcoming the traditional constraints imposed by rocket fairings on hardware size and assembly. Founded by Ariel Ekblaw, Phil Frank, and Joe Landon, the company is developing “tesserae,” modular, flat-packed tiles that can autonomously assemble, reconfigure, and scale space structures in orbit using magnetic docking and swarm robotics. Each tile is equipped with its own processor, sensors, and battery, designed for low-cost mass manufacturing. This technology promises to enable larger, more adaptable space structures such as antennas and solar arrays, which are critical for advanced communications and national security missions. The company has already demonstrated its tile prototypes on Blue Origin’s New Shepard and aboard the International Space Station (ISS), validating autonomous docking and reconfiguration capabilities. Rendezvous Robotics plans to conduct further demonstrations on the ISS in early 2026 and subsequently deploy a mission outside the ISS
robotspace-roboticsmodular-roboticsautonomous-assemblyspace-infrastructureelectromagnetic-dockingsatellite-technologyReOrbit lands record funding to take on Musk’s Starlink from Europe
ReOrbit, a Helsinki-based European space tech startup founded in 2019, has secured a record-breaking Series A funding round of approximately US $53 million. The company aims to provide nations with sovereign control over their satellite communications as an affordable alternative to Elon Musk’s Starlink. Unlike Starlink, which serves private users and enterprises, ReOrbit emphasizes full ownership and sovereignty for its clients by sourcing hardware from trusted suppliers and controlling it through its proprietary software platform. This platform, comparable to an operating system like iOS, supports both geostationary and low earth orbit satellites, addressing the growing need for secure space infrastructure critical to national defense and security. ReOrbit has already signed a major contract worth hundreds of millions of euros with one country and multiple memoranda of understanding with others, demonstrating strong market traction. Although the startup did not require external funding due to these contracts, it pursued the Series A round to accelerate growth, targeting €1 billion in order books within four years. The funding round was
IoTsatellite-technologyspace-techtelecommunicationscybersecuritydefense-technologysoftware-platformsSpace investing goes mainstream as VCs ditch the rocket science requirements
The article highlights a significant shift in venture capital investment toward space technology, driven by decreasing launch costs and expanding applications beyond traditional rocket manufacturing. Katelin Holloway, a generalist VC partner who initially lacked aerospace expertise, exemplifies this trend by investing in startups leveraging space-based data and infrastructure for uses such as quantum computing, medical imaging, climate monitoring, and communications. This broader focus includes emerging sectors like orbital logistics, in-space manufacturing, satellite servicing, and lunar infrastructure, with companies like Interlune aiming to harvest resources such as helium-3, which also has national security implications. Geopolitical factors, particularly China's advancing space capabilities, have further spurred U.S. defense-related space investments, providing VCs with a more reliable customer base and reducing perceived risks. Defense-focused startups like True Anomaly and K2 Space have secured substantial funding rounds, underscoring the growing confidence in the commercial viability of space ventures. Additionally, advancements in AI and geospatial analytics are accelerating innovation, exemplified
energyspace-technologyventure-capitalsatellite-technologyclimate-monitoringin-space-manufacturingdefense-technologyNASA’s Largest Satellite Antenna Ever Has Just Unfurled in Space
NASA and the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) have successfully deployed the largest radar antenna reflector ever put into orbit on the NISAR satellite, which launched on July 30, 2023. The antenna, measuring 39 feet across and made from gold-plated wire mesh, unfolded fully 17 days after launch, marking a major milestone for the mission. NISAR is equipped with two types of synthetic aperture radar (SAR)—L-band and S-band—that enable it to penetrate forest canopies, clouds, and snow cover to monitor Earth’s surface with unprecedented resolution. This capability allows the satellite to track ice sheet and glacier movements, crustal deformation from earthquakes and landslides, and changes in ecosystems with centimeter-level accuracy. NISAR represents a significant technological collaboration between NASA and ISRO, combining decades of radar technology development from NASA with ISRO’s expertise in satellite infrastructure and launch operations. NASA provided the L-band SAR and data communications, while ISRO contributed the S-band
satellite-technologysynthetic-aperture-radarspace-antennaremote-sensingEarth-observationradar-systemsNASA-technologyTrump wants to clean up the space industry’s red tape. Here’s who wins.
In August 2024, President Donald Trump issued an executive order aimed at deregulating the commercial space industry by streamlining launch licensing, accelerating spaceport development, and cutting “outdated, redundant, or overly restrictive” Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules. The order directs the Department of Transportation (DOT) and FAA to simplify permitting and environmental reviews, appoint a senior executive to promote innovation and deregulation, and instructs the Commerce Department to establish a new authorization process for emerging space activities such as in-space manufacturing and satellite refueling. This move is intended to reduce regulatory barriers that have historically slowed investment and innovation in the U.S. space sector. The industry response has been largely positive, with groups like the Commercial Space Federation, representing companies such as SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Rocket Lab, welcoming the regulatory relief as a boost to commercial space competitiveness. Faster permitting and clearer rules are expected to benefit launch providers and state-backed spaceport operators, while the new framework for novel space activities could
energyspace-industrycommercial-spacederegulationlaunch-licensingspaceport-developmentsatellite-technologyUS lab maps 76,000 lightning pulses to reveal storm power secrets
Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory have compiled the largest-ever dataset of high-frequency lightning radio signals, analyzing over 76,000 trans-ionospheric pulse pairs (TIPPs) to understand how lightning energy radiates depending on its altitude within clouds. TIPPs, the most powerful natural radio signals generated by lightning, were detected using a specialized radio frequency sensor and matched with satellite observations from a geostationary orbit. The study revealed that the relative strength of the two pulses in a TIPP—one direct and one Earth-reflected—is influenced by the lightning’s altitude and its angle relative to the satellite, solving a longstanding question about why the second pulse is sometimes stronger. This research provides new insights into compact intracloud discharges, a fast and short-lived form of lightning, and offers a method to more accurately measure cloud convection heights. Such measurements could improve storm monitoring by indicating rapid changes in storm dynamics. The extensive TIPP database is expected to enhance the accuracy of data from the Global Lightning
energylightningradio-frequencymachine-learningsatellite-technologyatmospheric-sciencestorm-researchStudent-built satellite to study rare atmospheric phenomenon in space
A team of University of Calgary students is preparing to launch FrontierSat (CTS-SAT-1), the city’s first student-built satellite, in early 2026. Led primarily by undergraduates from the Schulich School of Engineering and the Faculty of Science, the CubeSat-sized satellite aims to study a rare upper atmospheric phenomenon called Strong Thermal Emission Velocity Enhancement (STEVE), which is a narrow, purple light similar to the aurora borealis but less understood. FrontierSat will carry two instruments: a mini plasma imager to capture data on STEVE and a deployable composite lattice boom equipped with a camera to monitor the spacecraft and capture space imagery. The project is managed by CalgaryToSpace, a student group founded in 2020 with over 100 members involved, and is partly funded by the Canadian Space Agency along with university and student fundraising efforts. Despite technical challenges and delays in securing a launch provider, the satellite has undergone rigorous testing, including a final vibration test to simulate launch stresses
materialssatellite-technologyCubeSatspace-weatheraerospace-engineeringstudent-projectplasma-imagingHubble Network plans massive satellite upgrade to create global Bluetooth layer
Seattle-based startup Hubble Network is set to significantly upgrade its satellite-powered Bluetooth network with the launch of two new MuSat XL satellites in 2027. These advanced satellites will feature a powerful phased-array receiver capable of detecting Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) signals at 30 times lower power than current technology, potentially extending battery life for tracking tags and sensors on Earth. The initial pair of MuSat XL satellites will provide a 12-hour global revisit time, forming the backbone of Hubble’s BLE Finding Network aimed at enterprises in logistics, infrastructure, and defense sectors. Hubble’s approach allows customers to connect devices to the network simply by integrating firmware with existing Bluetooth chipsets, eliminating the need for specialized hardware and enabling global asset tracking, including in remote areas. Hubble currently operates seven satellites and aims to expand to 60 by 2028, with plans to upgrade its entire constellation to the larger, more powerful MuSat XL platform. The partnership with Muon Space, the manufacturer of MuSat
IoTsatellite-technologyBluetooth-Low-Energyasset-trackingwireless-communicationspace-based-networkenergy-efficiency28 More Starlink Satellites Join Megaconstellation
SpaceX has launched its 96th Falcon 9 rocket of the year, carrying 28 additional Starlink satellites into orbit. These new satellites will expand the Starlink megaconstellation, which now totals around 8,000 satellites. This ongoing deployment aims to enhance global broadband internet coverage by increasing the network's capacity and reach. The continuous addition of Starlink satellites underscores SpaceX's aggressive pace in building one of the largest satellite constellations in history. This expansion is critical for improving internet access in underserved and remote areas worldwide, supporting SpaceX's goal of providing high-speed, low-latency connectivity on a global scale.
IoTsatellite-technologyStarlinkSpaceXmegaconstellationcommunication-networksbroadband-internetSpace Force bets on commercial entrants in $4B satcom contest
The U.S. Space Force is advancing its Protected Tactical Satcom (PTS) program to develop jam-resistant satellite communications for battlefield use, aiming to ensure secure and reliable communications for American warfighters. Having already awarded contracts to defense giants Boeing and Northrop Grumman for prototype satellite payloads in geostationary orbit, the program recently expanded by awarding five additional contracts to a mix of established defense contractors and commercial entrants, including Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Viasat, Intelsat, and the startup Astranis. These initial contracts total $37.3 million but fall under a broader $4 billion program ceiling, with firms tasked to develop satellite architectures by January 2026. Following this phase, the Space Force will select one design for a satellite launch planned in 2028, with further production contracts expected the same year. This approach marks a significant shift from traditional military satellite procurement, which has historically involved lengthy timelines and high costs per spacecraft. By incorporating commercial baseline designs
satellite-communicationsSpace-Forcemilitary-technologysecure-communicationssatellite-technologygeostationary-orbitdefense-contractsMethaneSAT’s Silence Won’t Save Methane Emitters From Scrutiny - CleanTechnica
MethaneSAT, a methane-monitoring satellite developed by the Environmental Defense Fund, lost communication with ground control in June 2025 and was declared irrecoverable in July, just 15 months after launch. This failure disappointed many climate scientists and environmentalists due to the satellite’s innovative approach: it combined precise hyperspectral imaging technology with global coverage and open, publicly accessible data to identify methane leaks from sources like oil and gas fields, landfills, and agriculture. MethaneSAT’s data had already highlighted significant under-reported emissions, emphasizing the urgent need for methane emission reductions to meet climate goals, given methane’s potency as a greenhouse gas—about 80 times more effective than CO2 over 20 years. Despite MethaneSAT’s loss, the article stresses that this is not a critical setback for global methane transparency. MethaneSAT was part of a broader ecosystem of methane detection technologies, including other satellites like the privately funded GHGSat constellation, which monitors emissions from individual facilities, and the
energymethane-detectionsatellite-technologyclimate-changeenvironmental-monitoringhyperspectral-imaginggreenhouse-gasesRussia's satellite games are testing the boundaries of space deterrence
The article discusses recent developments involving Russia’s satellite Kosmos-2558, which has been shadowing a classified US reconnaissance satellite, USA 326, since 2022. On June 28, 2025, Kosmos-2558 deployed a smaller subsatellite (Object C, NORAD ID 64627) into a nearly identical orbit, raising concerns among US national security and space experts about potential space-based weapons or anti-satellite (ASAT) capabilities. While no aggressive actions have been observed, analysts speculate that the subsatellite may be maneuverable and possibly armed with kinetic ASAT technology capable of disabling or destroying other satellites. This move is viewed as either a deliberate show of strength or a covert test of space-based countermeasures, signaling a possible escalation in the militarization of low Earth orbit. The article highlights Russia’s history of similar behavior, noting previous “inspector” satellites (Kosmos-2519, 2542) that deployed subsatellites firing project
satellite-technologyanti-satellite-weaponsspace-defensemilitary-technologyspace-warfarespace-securitymaneuverable-satellitesUS Space Force taps Boeing to develop 'Nuclear Command' satellites
The US Space Force has awarded Boeing a $2.8 billion contract to develop two advanced defense satellites under the Evolved Strategic Satellite Communications (ESS) program. These satellites are designed to ensure secure, reliable communication for strategic warfighters and maintain continuity of the Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications (NC3) mission. Boeing’s satellites will replace the current Advanced Extremely High Frequency (EHF) system, featuring enhanced cyber capabilities, greater resilience to space conditions, and operation in geostationary orbit to provide global coverage. The contract also includes an option for two additional satellites, with the overall ESS program aiming for global coverage, including enhanced capabilities in the Arctic, with completion expected by 2033. Boeing’s technology aims to address an evolving threat environment in space by offering a rugged, highly protected communication system developed in partnership with the US Department of Defense. Despite Boeing’s extensive experience in military and commercial satellite programs, the company has faced criticism and scrutiny over manufacturing practices and delays in other
energysatellite-technologyspace-defensesecure-communicationsBoeingUS-Space-Forcenuclear-command-systemsThe EU Proposes New Rules to Govern the European Space Race
The European Commission has proposed new legislation, dubbed the EU Space Act, to address the fragmented and nationally varied space regulations within the eurozone. With an estimated 11,000 satellites currently orbiting Earth and projections of at least 50,000 more launches in the next decade, the Commission aims to streamline regulatory procedures, protect assets in orbit, and foster a level playing field for European companies. The regulation focuses on three pillars: safety—by improving tracking of space debris and ensuring satellite disposal; resilience—by mandating risk assessments and cybersecurity standards for space operators; and sustainability—by establishing standards to manage resources, emissions, and waste from space activities. Recognizing the significant costs compliance may impose on the industry, the Commission plans support measures to assist particularly startups and SMEs, including enhanced technical capabilities, access to testing facilities, and help with authorization processes. The broader strategy to boost Europe’s space economy includes over 40 actions to strengthen the bloc’s global market participation, autonomy, and technological edge.
IoTsatellite-technologyspace-regulationcybersecurityspace-debris-managementsustainabilityEuropean-space-economyUS Space Force gives retractable Light Wing solar panels funding boost
The US Space Force has awarded $2 million in funding to Atomic-6, a Marietta, Georgia-based startup, to develop its innovative “Light Wing” retractable solar arrays for military satellite applications. These solar panels can fold and unfold repeatedly, enabling satellites to adapt their configurations during different mission phases. A key feature of the Light Wing technology is its patented “space mast” and “space hinge” mechanism, which allows rapid stowing and redeployment of solar panels. This capability is especially valuable in crowded orbital environments, as satellites can retract their arrays to avoid collisions with debris or other spacecraft and then redeploy them once in safer orbits. Atomic-6, founded in 2018 and advised by notable figures such as astronaut Chris Hadfield, specializes in high-performance composite materials designed for extreme space conditions. The company has previously received multiple Department of Defense and NASA Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) awards, including a $3.8 million contract to develop “Space Armor” tiles that
energysolar-panelsspace-technologycomposite-materialssatellite-technologyUS-Space-Forceorbital-debris-mitigationSierra Space's new tech center to produce solar panels for satellites and defense
Sierra Space has inaugurated a $45 million Power Station facility in Broomfield, Colorado, to scale up manufacturing of its Surface Mount Technology (SMT) solar arrays designed for satellites and defense applications. The 70,000-square-foot center uses commercial pick-and-place electronics technology to produce compact, resilient solar panels that range in power from 10 watts to 10 kilowatts. Equipped with integrated testing capabilities such as thermal vacuum chambers and dynamics labs, the facility can build one solar panel per day and one satellite wing per week, aiming to deliver 40 satellite wings initially and ramp up to 100 annually. The new Power Station supports Sierra Space’s Defense division, which focuses on supplying power systems for government satellites, including those manufactured at its Victory Works facility. The company emphasizes that its solar arrays are more durable due to their unique architecture and are tailored to meet the demands of increasingly crowded and complex space missions requiring efficient, lightweight power solutions. With about 100 employees currently and plans for expansion
energysolar-panelssatellite-technologyspace-defensemanufacturingscalable-power-systemsprinted-circuit-boardsWorld’s first quantum satellite computer launched in historic SpaceX rideshare
The world’s first quantum satellite computer was launched into orbit on June 23, 2025, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket as part of the Transporter 14 rideshare mission. Developed by an international team led by Philip Walther at the University of Vienna, this compact photonic quantum processor is designed to operate approximately 550 kilometers above Earth. The satellite aims to test the durability and performance of quantum hardware in the harsh conditions of space, including extreme temperature fluctuations, radiation, and vibrations. The device was assembled rapidly in a clean room at the German Aerospace Center, marking a significant engineering achievement. This quantum computer’s primary advantage lies in its ability to perform edge computing in orbit, processing data onboard rather than transmitting raw data back to Earth. This capability can enhance applications such as forest fire detection by reducing energy consumption and improving response times. Utilizing light-based optical systems, the processor efficiently handles complex computational tasks like Fourier transforms and convolutions. The system is adaptable for future missions and holds
quantum-computingsatellite-technologyspace-technologyenergy-efficiencyedge-computingEarth-observationphotonic-quantum-computerChina tests home-grown OS in space to reduce foreign dependence
China has successfully tested its domestically developed OpenHarmony real-time operating system (RTOS) in space, marking a significant step toward reducing reliance on foreign software amid escalating Western sanctions. The Dalian-1 Lianli CubeSat, launched from China’s Tiangong space station, operated for over 1,000 hours using OpenHarmony—a lightweight, open-source version of Huawei’s HarmonyOS—demonstrating enhanced processing speed and operational stability. Key subsystems such as the magnetometer, sun sensor, and attitude unit responded to commands within two microseconds, enabling faster data updates and improved real-time responsiveness compared to previous firmware or foreign software setups. This mission represents a milestone as the first satellite to combine OpenHarmony RTOS with a domestically produced chip, offering a fully home-grown hardware-software solution for spacecraft. Following the success, Chinese researchers introduced national technical standards to promote widespread adoption of OpenHarmony in small satellites, supporting both commercial and research projects. The development addresses challenges stemming from China
IoTsatellite-technologyreal-time-operating-systemOpenHarmonyspace-technologyembedded-systemsChina-space-programThe Robinhood founder who might just revolutionize energy, if he succeeds
Baiju Bhatt, co-founder of the Robinhood trading app, has shifted his focus from finance to space technology by launching Aetherflux, a company aiming to revolutionize energy delivery from space. Unlike traditional space solar power concepts that rely on massive geostationary satellites and microwave transmission, Bhatt’s approach uses smaller, more agile satellites equipped with fiber lasers. These satellites convert solar energy into focused light beams that can be precisely targeted to ground receivers, offering a more practical and scalable solution. Aetherflux plans to launch a demonstration satellite by June next year. Bhatt’s initial focus is on national defense, with funding approved by the U.S. Department of Defense. The technology promises to provide energy to forward military bases without the logistical challenges of fuel transport. The system’s precision allows for a laser spot on the ground as small as five to ten meters, with compact, portable receivers that have minimal strategic value if captured by adversaries. If successful, Aetherflux could significantly enhance U
energyspace-technologysolar-powersatellite-technologyfiber-lasersnational-defenseaerospace-innovationChina to test satellite refueling in space as US spies watch closely
China is set to conduct a pioneering orbital refueling test involving two satellites, Shijian-21 and Shijian-25, in geostationary orbit (GEO). The test, scheduled for June 11, will see Shijian-25 transfer approximately 313 pounds (142 kg) of hydrazine fuel to Shijian-21, potentially extending the latter’s operational life by eight years. Developed by the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology, these satellites have already demonstrated complex orbital maneuvers, including Shijian-21’s 2022 docking with a defunct Beidou navigation satellite to move it to a graveyard orbit. This test marks China’s first on-orbit refueling attempt in GEO and represents a significant technological advancement. The United States is closely monitoring the operation through two surveillance satellites, USA 270 and USA 271, part of the Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program. These US satellites have maneuvered to observe the Chinese satellites
energysatellite-technologyspace-refuelingorbital-dockingaerospace-materialsspace-technologysatellite-lifespan-extensionNhững công nghệ tiên tiến ứng phó thiên tai ở Trung Quốc
robotUAVdisaster-responsesatellite-technologyAIemergency-managementChina