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ESA and JAXA finalize agreement on Apophis asteroid mission
Original Publication Date: 2026-05-10 15:55
European Space Agency and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency have signed a cooperation agreement to launch the Rapid Apophis Mission for Space Safety, Ramses, in 2028 to study the asteroid Apophis during its 2029 close flyby. JAXA will provide solar arrays, a thermal infrared imager, and launch the spacecraft on an H3 rocket, while ESA’s OHB Italia serves as prime contractor. Ramses will arrive in February 2029, about two months before Apophis passes within 32,000 kilometers of Earth, offering a rare chance to examine how the flyby’s gravity reshapes the asteroid’s surface. This partnership follows ESA and JAXA’s 2024 intent and reflects growing international effort to understand near‑Earth objects.
Globalstar Reports 17 Percent Revenue Growth in Q1 Amid Pending Amazon Merger
Original Publication Date: 2026-05-10 12:03
On May 7, 2026, Globalstar Inc. Announced its first‑quarter results, reporting $70.1 million in revenue, a 17 % year‑over‑year increase. The satellite‑communications company credited stronger demand for its Globalstar satellite network and higher subscription volumes for the growth. While the company still posted a net loss, the margin narrowed compared to the previous quarter.
Katalyst Space Technologies Completes Environmental Testing for Swift Mission
Original Publication Date: 2026-05-10 11:51
NASA’s LINK robotic servicing spacecraft finished a series of environmental tests at the Goddard Space Flight Center on May 4, 2026, moving it closer to its planned orbital rescue mission. The rigorous trials confirmed the craft’s resilience to space’s harsh conditions, from extreme temperatures to radiation exposure. With these milestones achieved, engineers are now fine‑tuning the robotic arm and propulsion systems for the upcoming rescue operation. The successful completion of these tests marks a significant advance toward ensuring the safety of future orbital missions.
UAE Space Agency Drives Public-Private Collaboration at MIITE 2026
Original Publication Date: 2026-05-10 11:40
The UAE Space Agency wrapped up its involvement in the fifth Make it in the Emirates (MIITE) 2026 forum on May 7 at the ADNEC Centre. The event gathered industry leaders, academics, and entrepreneurs to discuss the future of space technology in the Gulf region. UAESA highlighted its recent missions and outlined plans to expand its satellite constellation and foster local talent.
Does Dante's Inferno from the 14th century depict an asteroid impact?
Original Publication Date: 2026-05-11 10:00
Professor Timothy Burberry of Marshall University argues that Dante’s 14th‑century epic, Inferno, contains the earliest literary depiction of a massive celestial impact, with Lucifer’s fall mirroring the effects of an asteroid striking Earth.