FY26 Defense Bill: Congress Unlocks Billions for ‘Golden Dome’ and Restores SDA Tranche 3 – SatNews
Original Publication Date: 2026-01-20 00:00
The FY26 Defense Appropriations Act includes a $838.7 billion topline. The bill specifically allocates approximately $13 billion for missile defense and space programs. The bill reflects a consensus that reliance on ground-based radars is insufficient against maneuvering hypersonic threats.
Auria Acquires RKF and Kythera to Unify Space Force C3 & Spectrum Ops – SatNews
Original Publication Date: 2026-01-20 00:00
Auria, backed by Enlightenment Capital, acquired RKF Engineering Solutions and Kythera Space Solutions. RKF specializes in spectrum interference analysis and regulatory engineering for the U.S. Space Force and commercial operators. Kythera focuses on dynamic management software for software-defined payloads.
Comtech Nets $5M Follow-On Order for Lunar Exploration Components – SatNews
Original Publication Date: 2026-01-20 00:00
Comtech Telecommunications Corp. Receives follow-on contract valued in excess of $5 million. Contract tasks Comtech with supplying advanced electronic components and engineering services for next-generation human spaceflight missions. Comtech’s space components division specializes in high-reliability supply chain management for space-bound systems.
SpaceX IPO Speculation Peaks as Analysts Weigh 2026 Valuation and Strategic Consolidation – SatNews
Original Publication Date: 2026-01-20 00:00
SpaceX has spent the last several years systematically dismantling the traditional barriers to entry in both the launch and satellite broadband markets. The company’s Starship vehicle, now entering a cycle of high-cadence orbital testing, is viewed by analysts as the primary engine for orbital infrastructure density. The primary hurdles for a successful IPO remain regulatory scrutiny and the inherent volatility of the Starship development timeline.
Launch Preview: Falcon 9 set to launch two missions from California, Isar to attempt second launch of Spectrum
Original Publication Date: 2026-01-19 22:30
The upcoming week will see seven rocket launches from six different launch sites across the globe. China will launch two missions, while Rocket Lab will launch an Electron from New Zealand. SpaceX has two Falcon 9 launches scheduled this week; both are Starlink missions launching from SpaceX’s California launch site. Blue Origin is also expected to fly New Shepard’s 17th crewed mission on Thursday.