Europe’s Vanishing Rocket Capability – SatNews
Original Publication Date: 2025-12-16 00:00
Arianespace is planning 6-8 launches in 2026. The first of the new Ariane 64 iteration, the first with 4 boosters attached, and is the first of a huge contract from Amazon’s Leo for a total of 18 launches. The Ariane 64 rocket will carry 32 Leo satellites and will take place “early” in 2026 during Q1.
Space Systems Command Activates System Delta 80 to Unify Launch and Range Acquisitions – SatNews
Original Publication Date: 2025-12-16 00:00
System Delta 80 consolidates launch solutions, on-orbit servicing, and range systems. Col. Ryan Hiserote assumed command of the delta. System Delta 80 is part of SSC’s broader shift to “System Deltas” The activation of System Delta 80 represents a strategic realignment.
Strategic Exit: Tower Corp Divests 91% of AST SpaceMobile Stake Ahead of Key Launch – SatNews
Original Publication Date: 2025-12-16 00:00
Tower Corp (American Tower Corporation) has liquidated the vast majority of its position in AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ: ASTS) According to a Form 4 filing lodged with the SEC on December 15, 2025, the infrastructure giant sold approximately 2.28 million shares. The timing and volume of the sale triggered an immediate market reaction, with AST SpaceMobile stock closing down 11.6% following the disclosure.
Viasat Unlocks “Roaming” for Government Users: The Operational Reality of the Inmarsat Merger – SatNews
Original Publication Date: 2025-12-16 00:00
Viasat Inc. Has introduced its unified Ka-band network for government customers. The development represents a critical operational milestone following the company’s 2023 acquisition of Inmarsat. The timing of this rollout is particularly significant given the current geopolitical climate. The unified network is not merely about convenience; it is designed to function in contested environments.
Globalstar & Skydio Trial Validates “D2D” for Drones (Beyond Handsets) – SatNews
Original Publication Date: 2025-12-16 00:00
Globalstar and Skydio have completed a technology trial that integrates satellite-licensed spectrum into drone operations. The trial validated the compatibility of Skydio’s X10 drones with Globalstar’s licensed Band n53 spectrum and its XCOM RAN private 5G platform. The successful trial paves the way for mass-market adoption of satellite-spectrum-enabled drones.
One of NASA’s Key Cameras Orbiting Mars Takes 100,000th Image
Original Publication Date: 2025-12-16 11:00
NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter has snapped its 100,000th image of the surface with its HiRISE camera. Over nearly 20 years, HiRISE has helped scientists understand how the Red Planet’s surface is constantly changing. Scientists are analyzing the image to better understand the source of windblown sand that gets trapped in the region’s landscape.
NASA’s Webb Observes Exoplanet Whose Composition Defies Explanation
Original Publication Date: 2025-12-16 10:00
Scientists using NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope have observed a rare type of exoplanet, or planet outside our solar system. Officially named PSR J2322-2650b, this Jupiter-mass object appears to have an exotic helium-and-carbon-dominated atmosphere unlike any ever seen before. Soot clouds likely float through the air, and deep within the planet, these carbon clouds can condense and form diamonds.
SpaceX advances Starbase upgrades at the launch site
Original Publication Date: 2025-12-16 10:36
SpaceX continues rapid infrastructure improvements at its Starbase facility in South Texas. Demolition work is underway on the original Pad 1 while construction and testing advance on the newer Pad 2. These efforts are aimed at supporting future versions of the Starship vehicle and increasing launch cadence.