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Space News for Sunday, August 09, 2026

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Northrop Grumman, Canadian Space Agency repurpose their Gateway projects

Original Publication Date: 2026-08-08 17:45

Northrop Grumman and the Canadian Space Agency announced plans to repurpose technology originally built for NASA’s lunar Gateway to support a future lunar base, though specifics remain sparse. Northrop will launch three Lunar Infrastructure Demo landers using HALO‑derived power, data, and mechanical systems to prove that surface assets can survive the lunar night, feeding data into NASA’s Artemis surface strategy.

Teledyne Prepares End-to-End Space and Missile Defense Technology Display for 2026 SMD Symposium

Original Publication Date: 2026-08-09 00:06

On August 8, 2026, Teledyne Technologies announced it will showcase its integrated defense, space, and advanced sensing portfolio at the 2026 Space and Missile Defense Symposium. The company highlighted cutting‑edge technologies designed to enhance national security and space capabilities. The symposium, a key gathering for defense stakeholders, will feature demonstrations and discussions on emerging threats and countermeasures. Teledyne’s participation underscores its commitment to leading innovation in defense and aerospace.

AMCM Commissions Weilheim Facility to Expand Production of Large-Format Space Propulsion 3D Printers

Original Publication Date: 2026-08-08 19:47

On August 1, 2026, AMCM – the custom metal additive‑manufacturing arm of EOS GmbH – opened its new assembly and integration hub in Weilheim, Germany. The state‑of‑the‑art plant is designed to handle the growing demand for high‑precision metal parts, streamlining the production flow from raw material to finished product. By consolidating design, printing, and post‑processing under one roof, AMCM aims to cut turnaround times and boost throughput for its industrial customers. This expansion underscores EOS’s commitment to expanding its global footprint in additive manufacturing.

Mobile Direct-to-Device Networks Overtake Fixed Residential Broadcast in Satellite Monetization Race

Original Publication Date: 2026-08-08 18:41

On August 8, 2026, satellite market financial data revealed a strategic shift in orbital capital allocation. Operators are moving resources toward mobile Direct‑to‑Device (D2D) cellular subscribers and high‑margin enterprise verticals, leaving traditional services behind. This reallocation reflects the growing demand for low‑latency connectivity and specialized industry applications. Analysts predict the shift will drive higher profitability and accelerate satellite‑based network expansion.

Blue Origin working engine resolutions and dual pad future

Original Publication Date: 2026-08-08 21:13

Blue Origin is nearing the end of its investigation into the May 28, 2026 New Glenn rocket explosion, having identified the fault as the main oxygen valve on one of the BE‑4 engines. Engineers say the valve can be fixed with minor retrofits, and updated hardware is expected to be ready by the end of August.

SpaceX launches 24 Starlink satellites to orbit from California (video)

Also covered by: Spaceflight Now

Original Publication Date: 2026-08-08 19:19

SpaceX launched its 50th California flight of 2026 from Vandenberg Space Force Base, sending 24 Starlink satellites into low‑Earth orbit aboard a Falcon 9 booster B1093 on its 16th flight.

On this day in space! Aug. 8, 1977: Soviet Union's Salyut 5 reconnaissance space station burns up in Earth's atmosphere

Original Publication Date: 2026-08-08 14:00

On August 8, 1977 the Soviet Union’s Salyut 5 reconnaissance station re‑entered Earth’s atmosphere and burned up after a brief, secretive service. Launched in June 1976 as part of the Almaz military program, it hosted two cosmonaut crews and completed only three missions before running low on propellant and being deorbited. The station was the final of the Almaz spy platforms, the Soviet counterpart to the U.S. Manned Orbiting Laboratory. Its loss marked the end of the Soviet era of dedicated reconnaissance space stations.