Kepler books Neutron for 2028 optical relay launch
Monday, 10 August 2026 19:25
Kepler Communications plans to deploy next-generation optical relay satellites on Rocket Lab’s upcoming Neutron rocket in one of several launches the Canadian operator has slated for 2028.
Lion Nebula roars to life for Webb
Monday, 10 August 2026 13:00
Image:
Observing across the starry “plains” of space, the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope has taken images of NGC 2392, nicknamed the Lion Nebula.
The NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope previously viewed this planetary nebula in 2000, imaging the lion face-shaped target in visible light and revealing features such as the “mane” of hazy, comet-shaped objects. Now Webb has captured a clearer, more detailed view of the Lion Nebula due to its high-resolution imaging.
At first glance the nebula’s overall structure in Webb’s infrared images, both with the NIRCam (Near Infrared Camera) and MIRI (Mid-Infrared Instrument), may look quite
Chinese Long March 7A rocket explodes shortly after liftoff
Monday, 10 August 2026 12:24
HELSINKI — China appears to have lost an unknown payload after a Long March 7A rocket exploded less than 90 seconds into flight, according to amateur footage.
Wildfires, drought and extreme heat, 2026
Monday, 10 August 2026 12:00
Earth observation satellites help us monitor phenomena such as wildfires, drought and heatwaves from space. This page is updated on a regular basis with a selection of ESA’s most recent news-related images showing how the effects of climate change are impacting our world.
National security doesn’t need more maps or imagery; it needs measurement
Monday, 10 August 2026 12:00
Tank problem delays first RFA launch
Monday, 10 August 2026 11:17
The majority owner of Rocket Factory Augsburg is still confident the company will conduct its first orbital launch attempt this year despite a setback in testing.
Astrolight, ATMOS Space Cargo eye first in-flight laser link between reentry vehicle, satellite
Monday, 10 August 2026 11:00
How ESA mimics and models the 2026 total solar eclipse
Monday, 10 August 2026 10:59
On 12 August 2026, parts of Europe will experience a total solar eclipse. With the Sun's bright disc covered, its surrounding atmosphere – the solar corona – will become visible to the naked eye. Unfortunately, total solar eclipses are rare and last at most a few minutes, giving scientists little time to study the Sun’s enigmatic halo.
This is why ESA developed missions that create eclipses artificially, and why experts use computer models to create digital simulations. So how do we do it, and why is it important?
Ground Control to Galileo Second Generation
Monday, 10 August 2026 10:05
On 3 July 2026, an invisible signal travelled across Europe. From Oberpfaffenhofen, Germany, to Rome, Italy, the signal connected the Galileo Ground Control Centre to a Galileo Second Generation satellite for the first time, marking a major step forward in the programme’s marathon of compatibility tests.
Katalyst Space makes progress in restoring control of Swift servicing spacecraft
Sunday, 09 August 2026 23:55
The company that developed a spacecraft to boost the orbit of a NASA observatory says it is making progress in recovering from its own spacecraft’s problems.
Northrop Grumman, Canadian Space Agency repurpose their Gateway projects
Saturday, 08 August 2026 16:45
Northrop Grumman and the Canadian Space Agency will adapt what they had been working on for NASA’s lunar Gateway into applications for a planned lunar base, albeit with few specifics.
Senate installs new chiefs for U.S. military space acquisition, spy satellites
Friday, 07 August 2026 20:03
Erich Hernandez-Baquero will take over military space acquisition; Roger Mason will lead the National Reconnaissance Office
FCC Space Bureau deputy takes the reins amid licensing overhaul
Friday, 07 August 2026 16:54
The FCC is turning to Space Bureau deputy chief Jennifer Gilsenan to keep its satellite regulatory overhaul moving as Jay Schwarz prepares to retire as its chief later this month.
Join us live and enjoy the total solar eclipse!
Friday, 07 August 2026 13:00
Video:
00:01:44
[English] On 12 August 2026, Europe will witness one of nature’s most spectacular events: a total solar eclipse starting at 19:30 CEST.
As the Moon’s shadow sweeps across Spain, join the European Space Agency live from Observatorio Astrofísico de Javalambre where Dame Dr. Maggie Aderin and ESA scientists will fill you in on everything you need to know about the eclipse and reveal the science behind the spectacle.
Are you watching from Spain? Join ESA in León at Palacio de Congresos y Exposiciones de León for a day of science, hands-on activities and safe eclipse viewing.
Whether you're under the
Week in images: 03-07 August 2026
Friday, 07 August 2026 12:10
Week in images: 03-07 August 2026
Discover our week through the lens

