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HEO's Satellite Imaging Reveals Chinese Spacecraft Secrets
2 months ago•Source: SpaceNews
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4.985 min•6 months ago
Elon Musk Celebrates SpaceX's 500th Falcon Rocket Launch with Nostalgic Throwback
SpaceX celebrated its 500th Falcon rocket launch, marking a major milestone in space technology with successful deployment of 26 Starlink satellites, emphasizing reusability and cost-effectiveness, and expanding global connectivity. The achievement highlights the company's evolution from early failures to industry dominance, with a focus on innovative, reusable rockets and ambitious plans for future space exploration.
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"Nasa Chief Raises Alarm Over China's Covert Military Space Programs"
The Guardian•1 year ago
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"Russia Launches First Post-Cold War Rocket from Remote Eastern Site"
Gizmodo•1 year ago
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"Close Call: Russian Spacecraft's Near Miss with U.S. Satellite Raises NASA Concerns"
On February 28, a Russian spacecraft named Timed came within 10 meters of a U.S. satellite, raising concerns about potential casualties if a collision had occurred. NASA's deputy administrator described the incident as "really scary," emphasizing the danger posed by space debris. Meanwhile, Russian space officials confirmed an ongoing air leak from the Russian segment of the International Space Station, but assured that it doesn't pose any danger to the crew.
"SpaceX Sets New Records in Early 2024 Space Launches"
SpaceX has achieved several record-breaking feats in the first quarter of 2024, including 31 Falcon family rocket launches, successful Starship flights, and growth in its Starlink constellation. The company aims to increase its activity further with more launches and new types of missions. SpaceX's recovery assets also broke turnaround records, and the company is working on increasing its launch cadence to achieve its goal of 148 launches in 2024. Additionally, SpaceX's Starlink program saw substantial customer growth, while the Starship program faced challenges during its third flight but is preparing for the next launch.
"SpaceX's Double Launch: Falcon 9 Sends Starlink Satellites and Eutelsat 36D into Orbit"
SpaceX treated Brevard locals and spring breakers to a double-header Falcon 9 launch, delivering a communication satellite for Airbus and Starlink satellites. The launches, three hours and 38 minutes apart, took place at Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The Delta IV Heavy launch was delayed due to a gaseous nitrogen pipeline issue, with the next launch window set for April 8th. Spectators enjoyed the beautiful weather on the Space Coast, witnessing the successful landings of the Falcon 9 boosters. SpaceX's 31st launch and landing of 2024 included the 18th flight for a specific Falcon 9 booster, with another STARLINK group 7 launch from California planned for later that night.
"End of an Era: Delta IV Heavy's Final Launch Marks the Conclusion of 60 Years of Delta Rockets on Space Coast"
The final launch of a Delta IV Heavy rocket is set to take place on the Space Coast, marking the end of more than 60 years of Delta rockets launching American missions into space. United Launch Alliance (ULA) is replacing the Delta IV and Atlas V rockets with the new Vulcan Centaur rocket, which is expected to provide more value and capability at a lower cost. The launch is scheduled for Thursday, with backup opportunities on Friday and Monday if necessary.
"Japan's First Private-Sector Rocket Explodes Shortly After Liftoff"
A commercial rocket by Space One exploded shortly after liftoff in central Japan during an attempt to put a satellite into orbit. No injuries were reported, and the fire was brought under control. The cause of the explosion is still under investigation, and the company remains prepared for future challenges. The rocket was intended to launch a government-made satellite for various purposes, including monitoring potential threats from neighboring North Korea. Space One, established in 2018 with investments from major Japanese companies, aims to contribute to the global space industry.
"Rapid Success: Kuaizhou-1A Rocket Completes 4th Mission in 18 Days"
China successfully launched a classified experimental satellite, Tianxing-1 (02), into orbit using the Kuaizhou-1A solid rocket, marking the fourth mission of this kind in 18 days. Little is known about the satellite, but it is believed to be used for experiments related to space environment detection and may have military applications. The rocket, operated by Expace and developed by China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, has demonstrated its capability to launch multiple missions in a short timeframe, showcasing China's growing presence in space exploration.
"China's Gravity-1 Rocket Shatters Records with Spectacular Sea Launch"
Chinese company Orienspace successfully launched its first-ever rocket, the Gravity-1, from a mobile platform in the Yellow Sea, carrying three commercial weather satellites to orbit and breaking the record for the largest payload capacity on a commercial rocket in China. The rocket, equipped with strap-on boosters, can lift around 14,330 pounds to low Earth orbit and is part of China's growing commercial space industry, which has seen significant growth since 2014. Orienspace is already working on two other vehicles, Gravity 2 and 3, with even larger payload capacities, marking a significant milestone in China's space exploration efforts.
"Chinese Firm's Gravity-1 Rocket Sets Records with Sea Launch Success"
China's Orienspace successfully launched its record-breaking Gravity-1 rocket from a ship in the Yellow Sea, deploying three commercial weather satellites into orbit. The rocket, capable of carrying 14,300 pounds to low Earth orbit, is the most powerful Chinese commercial rocket and the largest solid launch vehicle by capacity. Orienspace plans to develop even more powerful rockets, including the Gravity-2 and Gravity-3, with increasing payload capacities. This launch marks China's fourth orbital mission of the year, showcasing the nation's growing presence in space exploration.