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Space News for Sunday, May 24, 2026

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NASA to add missions to SpaceX commercial crew contract

Original Publication Date: 2026-05-24 07:51

NASA announced it will add additional missions to its commercial crew contract with SpaceX, a move designed to safeguard the agency’s ability to ferry astronauts to the International Space Station. The decision comes amid concerns that Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft may never receive certification for ISS operations. By expanding the SpaceX partnership, NASA ensures a reliable backup if Boeing’s program stalls. This strategy underscores the agency’s commitment to maintaining continuous crew access to orbit.

Hybrid Viewing Models Solidify as Streaming Integrates into Premium Sports Distribution

Original Publication Date: 2026-05-23 23:40

Over‑the‑top streaming services are reshaping sports broadcasting, moving the industry from a traditional linear model to a more flexible, on‑demand structure. Major players like Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV+ are securing rights to high‑profile events, drawing viewers away from conventional cable packages. While legacy broadcasters still dominate headline coverage, the rise of OTT has introduced new revenue streams and audience‑segmentation strategies.

Viasat Demonstrates First Satellite-Enabled Smartphone Messaging in Uzbekistan

Original Publication Date: 2026-05-23 23:32

On Friday, May 22, 2026, Viasat Inc. Announced the successful completion of the first satellite‑enabled smartphone text and push‑to‑talk demonstration in the Republic of Uzbekistan. The live showcase, held in Tashkent, demonstrated how Viasat’s satellite network can deliver instant messaging and real‑time voice communication to areas without traditional cellular coverage. Experts say the technology could transform emergency response, remote business operations, and connectivity for underserved communities.

SpaceX: 10,000 Launches Annually

Original Publication Date: 2026-05-23 20:20

SpaceX’s IPO prospectus released last week made no mention of former CFO Chris Forrester, yet President and COO Gwynne Shotwell highlighted his pivotal role in scaling the company’s launch operations and securing key funding. Forrester’s leadership helped build the infrastructure that underpins SpaceX’s rapid growth, and Shotwell’s remarks aimed to reassure investors that his legacy remains integral to the firm’s future. The omission sparked speculation about the company’s transparency, but Shotwell’s comments clarified that Forrester’s contributions are still recognized and valued.

Shenzhou 23 set to launch new crew to Tiangong space station

Original Publication Date: 2026-05-23 22:16

Shenzhou 23 is set to lift off on Sunday, May 24 at 15:08 UTC from Jiuquan, carrying commander Zhu Yangzhu, pilot Zhang Zhiyuan and payload specialist Li Jiaying—the first Hong Kong astronaut—to the Tiangong space station. The crew will rendezvous with the Tianhe core module, hand over to the existing crew, and begin experiments in human health, stem‑cell research and environmental monitoring.

China reveals 3-person Shenzhou 23 crew, including Hong Kong's 1st astronaut

Also covered by: Space.com

Original Publication Date: 2026-05-24 01:20

China launched the Shenzhou 23 crew on a Long March 2F from Jiuquan at 11:08 a.m. EDT on Sunday, May 24, sending commander Zhu Yangzhu, pilot Zhang Zhiyuan and payload specialist Lai Ka‑ying—Hong Kong’s first astronaut—to the Tiangong space station. One of the three will remain aboard for a full 12‑month stay, marking China’s first year‑long human spaceflight and concluding the longest emergency‑impacted mission, Shenzhou 21. The launch also features upgraded port‑view windows after damage to Shenzhou 20, follows the recent Tianzhou 10 cargo delivery, and will briefly host a Pakistani astronaut before he returns to Earth aboard the outbound Shenzhou 23 vehicle, setting the stage for the upcoming Shenzhou 24 mission.

SpaceX Starship Flight 12: Don't miss these stunning photos from the launch of the most powerful Starship yet

Original Publication Date: 2026-05-23 13:52

SpaceX launched its new Starship V3 rocket from Starbase in Texas on May 22, 2026, marking the 12th test flight of the program. The 408‑foot, 124‑meter megarocket carried a Super Heavy booster and a Starship upper stage that completed a suborbital trajectory before fiery splashdowns in the Indian Ocean. The V3 version features upgraded Raptor engines, a new fuel‑transfer tube, and a reusable hot‑stage ring, boosting power and reusability ahead of NASA’s Artemis lunar missions. With this successful test, SpaceX aims to prove the vehicle can orbit Earth, transfer fuel, and support astronauts for future lunar landings by late 2028.