Paris, France (SPX) Nov 21, 2025
PLD Space has introduced its first fully integrated MIURA 5 unit, Qualification Model 1 (QM1), initiating comprehensive subsystem validation before the rocket's initial flight in early 2026. The QM1 will enable end-to-end testing of critical components, including the first and second stages, simulating real flight conditions to reduce risk and enhance reliability ahead of launch. The MIURA

Sydney, Australia (SPX) Nov 21, 2025
ISRO has qualified the CE20 cryogenic engine for thrust levels between 19 and 22 tonnes for single-start flight operations, supporting demanding launch requirements for the LVM3 upper stage. The engine is certified for human-rated flights, such as the Gaganyaan missions, ensuring operational reliability under rigorous conditions. Traditionally, engine ignition is performed using propellant tank

Video: 00:07:13

Smile is a brand-new space mission currently in the making. It will study how Earth responds to the solar wind and solar storms.

At the European Space Agency’s technical heart in the Netherlands, engineers have taken Smile through the final steps of testing and past its qualification and flight acceptance review – confirming that it is ready for launch in spring 2026.

This video let’s viewers peek into the testing and review process. It is the fourth episode in a series of short videos, and includes interviews with David Agnolon (ESA Smile Project Manager), Xia Jiayi (CAS Thermal

Week in images: 17-21 November 2025

Discover our week through the lens

Ithaca NY (SPX) Nov 20, 2025
Sending spacecraft into low Earth orbit could transform next-generation telecommunications, space exploration and national security. But that altitude - which begins roughly 60 miles above the planet's surface - is a fickle place due to atmospheric drag, and spacecraft would require a new kind of propulsion system to remain in orbit there. "At the boundary of space, there's still enough re

London, UK (SPX) Nov 20, 2025
GMV's UK subsidiary has taken a significant step in space safety with the development and deployment of an advanced collision avoidance system tailored for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations. This new service has played a key role in securing new agreements with the Space Data Association (SDA), an international group focused on promoting safe and sustainable space operations.

Los Angeles CA (SPX) Nov 20, 2025
BAE Systems has unveiled new advances for its radiation-hardened 12 nanometer RH12 Storefront technology, designed to support space missions requiring resilient integrated circuits. The RH12 Storefront offers a comprehensive library of application-specific integrated circuit development tools and proven intellectual property cores, allowing customers to produce system-on-chip solutions suited to