Embarking on New Lunar Adventures

Welcome to the latest edition of the Rocket Report! In just a few months, four astronauts are gearing up for a thrilling journey around the far side of the Moon, marking humanity's departure from low-Earth orbit after over five decades. Despite the doubts surrounding NASA's Artemis lunar program—including the costly Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and complex new landers—enthusiasm reigns for this long-awaited adventure.

North Korea Tests New Rocket Technology

In a significant development, North Korea has conducted its final ground test of a solid-fuel rocket engine designed for long-range ballistic missiles. Observed by Kim Jong Un, this engine test showcases advancements that could pose a serious threat to the continental United States. This solid rocket motor, capable of delivering an impressive thrust of 1,971 kilonewtons, powers the forthcoming Hwasong-20 missile.

Astrobotic Collaborates with Norwegian Spaceport

In a noteworthy partnership, US-based Astrobotic has joined forces with Norway's Andøya Space to facilitate lunar missions. This new agreement will enable flights of Astrobotic's Xodiac lander from the Andøya facilities, enhancing European space exploration capabilities. The Xodiac is designed to simulate lunar landings—an exciting step forward for future space missions.

Ursa Major Breaks Ground on New Testing Facility

Aerospace company Ursa Major is making strides by breaking ground on a new 400-acre site in Colorado, dedicated to testing large-scale solid rocket motors. This facility aims to support national defense by providing crucial testing capabilities for various missile systems.

Military Megaconstellation Launch Successful

In a monumental launch from California's Vandenberg Space Force Base, SpaceX successfully delivered the first 21 satellites of the Pentagon’s Golden Dome missile-defense megaconstellation. This marks a significant step towards bolstering missile tracking and defense capabilities over the next few years.

Challenges in the Launch Sector

SpaceX faced delays launching a communications satellite for Indonesia due to technical and weather issues. However, the Falcon 9 rocket successfully lifted off, marking yet another critical launch in an increasingly competitive market.

Putin Calls for Pioneering Rocket Engine Development

Russian President Vladimir Putin has urged local aerospace leaders to enhance the production of rocket engines to regain competitiveness in the global market. This comes as traditional heavy-duty engines, like the RD-180, face uncertain futures following halted sales to the U.S.

India Scores a Unique Launch Contract

Astroscale, a pioneer in satellite servicing, has chosen India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) for its upcoming ISSA-J1 mission in 2027. This unique mission involves inspecting space debris, emphasizing India's growing role in innovative space solutions.

Celebrating a Milestone: 300 Launches to the ISS

In an exciting milestone for the International Space Station, Russia's Progress MS-32 successfully launched to mark the 300th mission supporting the ISS since its inception. This vital cargo ship will provide essential supplies, including food and science experiments, vital for the ongoing mission aboard humanity’s orbital home.

SpaceX's Starship Heating Issues Reviewed

After its most recent test flight, SpaceX has identified crucial improvements needed for the Starship's heat shield. The findings point to some challenges with new metal tiles that were tested, with hopes of enhancing their reliability in future missions.

Possible Compromises on the SLS Front

As the Trump administration pushes to cancel the SLS rocket after two more flights, Congressional support remains firm. A potential compromise may involve scrapping a costly upper stage to save billions, allowing NASA to pursue commercially viable alternatives.

Upcoming Launches to Watch

Mark your calendars! Here are the next three launches: - Sept. 13: Soyuz-2.1b | Glonass-K1 No. 18L | Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia | 02:30 UTC - Sept. 13: Falcon 9 | Starlink 17-10 | Vandenberg Space Force Base, California | 15:41 UTC - Sept. 14: Falcon 9 | Cygnus NG-23 | Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida | 22:11 UTC.