Featured – SatNews
Original Publication Date: 2025-12-09 14:32
Reports that Elon Musk’s SpaceX could have a value of some $800 billion. Musk promptly scotched the $800 billion reports, saying they were not accurate. But an $800 billion valuation could just be a precursor to future growth. And an increase in overall valuation depends on Musk’s next steps.
Rocket Lab Qualifies Neutron’s “Hungry Hippo” – SatNews
Original Publication Date: 2025-12-09 00:00
Rocket Lab has completed qualification testing for the Neutron launch vehicle’s “Hungry Hippo” fairing. The fairing represents a departure from standard launch vehicle architecture. Unlike traditional fairings that are jettisoned and recovered at sea, the fairing halves remain captive to the first stage.
FCC Opens Review for SpaceX’s 15,000-Satellite VLEO Constellation – SatNews
Original Publication Date: 2025-12-09 00:00
The FCC has designated SpaceX’s modification application for a new 15,000-satellite Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) shell as “acceptable for filing’ The filing outlines a distinct architectural shift for the Starlink constellation. If granted, the license would allow SpaceX to deploy a dedicated layer of infrastructure for the satellite-to-cellular market.
Lockheed Martin Taps Hadrian for Software-Defined Manufacturing Alliance – SatNews
Original Publication Date: 2025-12-09 00:00
Lockheed Martin has entered a strategic alliance with manufacturing technology company Hadrian. Hadrian will deploy its “Factory-as-a-Service” model directly into a Lockheed Martin production facility. The partnership focuses on the rapid production of parts for Lockheed Martin’s Missiles and Fire Control division.
NASA Loses Contact with MAVEN Mars Orbiter – SatNews
Original Publication Date: 2025-12-09 00:00
MAVEN has experienced a critical loss of situational awareness. This incident follows a history of navigation challenges for the aging orbiter. MAVEN carries one of the largest relay loads on the Mars Relay Network. Without MAVEN, data return capacity from the Martian surface could be significantly throttled.
Astronomy on Tap (AoT) – SatNews
Original Publication Date: 2025-12-09 00:00
Astronomy on Tap is expanding its operational footprint this week with the launch of a new chapter in Lubbock, Texas, and the reactivation of its San Francisco branch. The decentralized network, which facilitates professional astronomers presenting research in informal public venues, has scheduled multiple technical sessions between December 8 and December 10, 2025.
IDS Cameras Redefine Planetary Imaging with Sony Starvis 2 Technology – SatNews
Original Publication Date: 2025-12-09 00:00
IDS Imaging Development Systems has validated its uEye XCP camera series. By integrating Sony Starvis 2 sensors, the industrial camera manufacturer is addressing specific technical challenges inherent to ground-based space observation. Capturing detailed images of planets such as Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars requires overcoming significant environmental obstacles.
Launch Roundup: China, Russia, Rocket Lab, ULA join SpaceX in flying this week
Original Publication Date: 2025-12-08 22:50
China will launch at least six Chinese launches this week, while Russia will launch twice. SpaceX plans seven Falcon 9 missions, six of which are Starlink flights, with the other Falcon 9 flight flying for the National Reconnaissance Office from Florida. The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) flew a Chang Zheng 6A (CZ-6A) from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in the Shanxi province of northern China.