Welcome to this exciting edition of the Rocket Report, where we bring you the latest and greatest in space exploration developments! Buckle up, as we dive into groundbreaking news from SpaceX, the burgeoning European launch industry, and much more!

SpaceX Set to Reuse Super Heavy Booster for Upcoming Starship Launch

In a pivotal moment for the Starship program, SpaceX successfully test-fired a Super Heavy booster that was previously used in a mission back in January! This crucial test, conducted in South Texas, signals the possibility of a reused Super Heavy rocket launching in the coming weeks. This extraordinary step comes after a series of setbacks for SpaceX, where the last two Starship flights faced serious propulsion issues with the upper stage. The upcoming launch represents not only hopes for recovery but also a monumental milestone in the path toward sustainable space exploration.

European Launch Industry Taking Off

The first flight of Isar Aerospace's Spectrum rocket faced a rough landing, literally, as the rocket cartwheeled and crashed into the sea during a test flight from Norway. Despite the setback, this event signifies the emergence of a new commercial launch landscape in Europe, with startups gearing up to join the ranks of established players. Isar Aerospace has raised over €400 million in funding, making it a significant player among several new entrants looking to make their mark in the industry.

PLD Space Partners with D-Orbit for Future Launches

In an exciting development, Spanish company PLD Space solidified a partnership with Italy’s D-Orbit to launch the ION orbital transfer vehicle aboard its forthcoming Miura 5 rocket. While exact contract details remain under wraps, it's notable that PLD Space has filled over 80% of its launch slots available until 2027. With an ambitious plan to reach 30 launches per year by 2030, PLD Space aims to position itself competitively within the rapidly evolving space launch market.

China’s Rocket Launch Ramp-Up

On April 2, a Long March 2D rocket successfully lifted off from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, marking China’s 17th orbital launch of 2025! This achievement aligns with predictions pointing toward a total of 68 projected launches for the year, but some analysts suggest China could push for an astonishing 100, fueled by increasing commercial activities and new rocket developments. This growth could reshape the global space landscape.

Historic SpaceX Polar Mission Launches

In another groundbreaking event, SpaceX successfully launched what is considered the first-ever crewed polar mission. The Falcon 9 rocket carried four crew members into space, including cryptocurrency billionaire Chun Wang. This unique trajectory allowed the spacecraft to orbit directly over the poles, transforming the way we perceive space travel.

Amazon’s Kuiper Satellite Launch on the Horizon

In the commercial race to provide global internet access, Amazon is gearing up to launch 27 satellites into low Earth orbit with its Project Kuiper mission. Scheduled for April 9, this mission will be the first of its kind, with Rajeev Badyal, VP of Project Kuiper, emphasizing the importance of real-world tests in unveiling new satellite technologies.

The Future of Starship and FAA Updates

Meanwhile, SpaceX continues its pursuit of Starship improvements after a string of upper-stage failures. Recent test-firings of the previously flown Super Heavy booster have paved the way for its return in the next Starship launch, offering hope that the company can rebound from its prior challenges. Additionally, the FAA has cleared investigations into significant incidents involving both SpaceX and Blue Origin, allowing both companies to refocus on their ambitious plans.

NASA’s Artemis II Mission Progresses

Exciting progress in NASA’s Artemis program is highlighted by the unveiling of a distinctive mission patch for Artemis II, the agency's first crewed lunar mission since Apollo. The patch signifies a new era of discovery, emphasizing the dual importance of the Moon as a destination and Earth as home.

Upcoming Launch Schedule

Mark your calendars for the next three launches: - April 4: Falcon 9 | Starlink 11-13 | Vandenberg Space Force Base, California | 01:02 UTC - April 6: Falcon 9 | Starlink 6-72 | Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida | 02:40 UTC - April 7: Falcon 9 | Starlink 11-11 | Vandenberg Space Force Base, California | 21:35 UTC