ULA is now officially targeting May 4th for the maiden flight of Vulcan Centaur.Vulcan readiness, based on BE-4 qualifications timeline is currently tracking toward middle of April but due to the Peregrine moon lander's trajectory requirements launch will slip to May 4th.<h3>Countdown to Launch Timeline</h3>1) Rollout to SLC-412) Tanking Test3) Wed Dress Rehearsal4) Wet Dress Rehearsal with Flight Readiness Firing5) Launch<h3>BE-4 Engine Pump</h3>While all pre-qualification BE-4 engines performed essentially the same, one of the two qualification engines' oxygen pumps was performing about 5% better than expected. Testing was paused to make sure this was well understood. This was determined to be within normal unit-to-unit variation, and testing will resume in a few days.<h3>Payload Preparations</h3>Amazon's Kuiper Sats and Celestis Payloads are both on track to be ready for the May 4th launch date.Astrobotic has finished their testing at NASA Marshall of their Peregrine Lunar Lander. It is now back at Astrobotic processing facility in Pittsburgh and will soon be shipped to Cape Canaveral for launch processing.<img src="https://cdn.tlpnetwork.com/uploads/1677195344696.jpeg"><h3>Future Launches</h3>ULA Targeting two Vulcan launches this year, 4 in 2024 and by the end of 2025 launch cadence of once every two weeks!....ULA Teleconference with Tory Bruno is in progress and article will be updated as information is shared.

ULA is now officially targeting May 4th for the maiden flight of Vulcan Centaur.

ULA Now Targeting May 4th For Vulcan Launch

According to a company-wide email from CEO Dan Hart, Virgin Orbit will be extending its operational pause again to pursue an investment that could save the company.The company's talks with potential investors, including private investor Matthew Brown, reportedly fell through over the weekend. Hart had originally planned to provide an update on the company's operational status during an all-hands meeting on Monday afternoon, but that meeting was postponed until Thursday, as stated in the employee memo sent on Monday.“Our investment discussions have been very dynamic over the past few days, they are ongoing, and not yet at a stage where we can provide a fulsome update” - Dan Hart, Virgin Orbit CEOAccording to an anonymous source familiar with the matter, Texas-based investor Matthew Brown was in the final stages of negotiations to invest $200 million in Virgin Orbit and acquire a controlling stake in the company. However, the talks ultimately stalled and broke down late last week, leading to the end of discussions on Saturday.In addition, another anonymous source reported that talks with a separate potential buyer also broke down on Sunday evening. In an effort to keep Virgin Orbit's over 750 employees informed during this critical time, CEO Dan Hart has pledged to provide daily updates throughout the week. The majority of the company's workforce is still on an unpaid furlough that Hart had previously announced on March 15th. However, last week, a select team of employees returned to work in what Hart referred to as the initial stage of a gradual resumption of operations, with the goal of preparing a rocket for Virgin Orbit's upcoming launch.The company's stock fell 33% on Monday, with an additional 6.6% drop after hours. The company stock down has now fallen more than 50% in 2 weeks.<img src="https://cdn.tlpnetwork.com/uploads/1679951121275.png"><h6 style="text-align: center">via Yahoo Finance</h6>Virgin Orbit was established as a spin-off of Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic company in 2017. Branson remains its largest stakeholder with a 75% ownership stake. Virgin Orbit has been seeking new sources of funding for several months as majority owner Sir Richard Branson has been reluctant to provide further financial support. To prepare for the worst-case scenario of being unable to secure an investor or buyer, Virgin Orbit has enlisted the services of bankruptcy firms to develop contingency plans.

According to a company-wide email from CEO Dan Hart, Virgin Orbit will be extending its operational pause again to pursue an investment that could save the company.

Virgin Orbit Extends Shutdown, Lifeline Investment Talks Collapse

On Monday, Kathryn Lueders, the associate administrator of NASA's Space Operations Mission Directorate, announced she will be stepping down from her position at the end of April and retiring from the agency. Starting from May 1, her deputy and astronaut, Ken Bowersox, will take over as the new head of Space Operations.“Kathy and Ken have both dedicated their life’s work to NASA and our nation. I wish Kathy well during her retirement. We know countless individuals at NASA ...as well as members of the Artemis Generation ...will be inspired by Kathy’s service and countless contributions” - Bill Nelson, NASA Administrator <h3>About Kathy Lueders</h3>Over the course of 31 years at NASA, Kathryn Lueders played a key role in providing strategic guidance for the agency's human exploration of space and its scientific missions. Her efforts have helped NASA form partnerships with American industry to support research aboard the International Space Station, including crewed and cargo transportation to and from the station.Lueders began her NASA career at the White Sands Test Facility, managing the Shuttle Orbital Maneuvering System and Reaction Control Systems Depot. She later worked in the International Space Station Program and served as manager of the Commercial Crew Program at Kennedy Space Center before joining NASA Headquarters in Washington.Her accomplishments have earned her numerous accolades, including NASA achievement awards, the Distinguished Presidential Rank Award, and the Distinguished Service Medal. She was also named a member of the National Academy of Engineering in 2022, received the SpaceNews Government Leader of the Year award in 2020, and was inducted into the Space and Satellite Hall of Fame in 2021. Other awards she received include the 2021 American Astronomical Society Spaceflight Achievement Award, the 2020 Woman in Aerospace Leadership Award, the 2022 Space Pioneer Award by the National Space Society, and IAASS’ 2019 Leonardo da Vinci Lifetime Achievement Award.<h3>About Ken Bowersox</h3>Ken Bowersox will take the helm of the mission directorate, with his extensive operations experience, including serving as acting associate administrator of the former Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate.Bowersox is a veteran astronaut, having completed five orbital missions for NASA, including two servicing missions for the Hubble Space Telescope. He also served as commander of the sixth expedition to the space station. Following his mission, Bowersox became the director of flight operations at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston. Additionally, he has worked with American industry and served as the chair of the Human Exploration and Operations Committee on the NASA Advisory Council.

NASA Associate Administrator, Kathy Lueders announces retirement; Ken Bowersoz announced as new head of Space Operations.

NASA Associate Administrator Announces Retirement, Replacement Announced

ABL Space Systems has secured a $60 million contract from the US Space Force and US Air Force. The contract is specifically for ground and flight demonstrations in “tactically responsive space,” which is an initiative championed by Congress to leverage commercial rockets for rapid-response missions that may be needed in the event of a conflict targeting military satellites.ABL’s agreement includes $30 million in government funding and $30 million in matching funds from the company’s investors in a type of agreement known as strategic funding increase (STRATFI). As part of the contract, ABL will seek to demonstrate “operational flexibility for low-cost launches supporting tactically responsive space,” the company said.The contract marks a significant milestone for ABL, which was founded in 2017 and has rapidly established itself as a leading player in the commercial launch industry. The company's flagship rocket, the RS1, is a two-stage vehicle designed to carry payloads weighing up to 1,200 kilograms to low-Earth orbit. ABL's focus on developing a low-cost launch system has been a key factor in its success, and the company has already secured contracts with several high-profile customers, including NASA and the Department of Defense.<img src="https://cdn.tlpnetwork.com/uploads/1679856679169.jpg">"We are thrilled to have been selected for this important initiative and look forward to demonstrating the capabilities of our RS1 rocket,...This contract is a significant milestone for ABL and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team." - Harry O'Hanley, ABL Space CEOThe demonstration flights are expected to take place in 2023 and will provide critical data on ABL's ability to rapidly launch payloads into space in support of the U.S. military's tactically responsive space initiative.Recently, ABL Space Systems was assigned Space Launch Complex 15 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida - a historic launch pad used for Titan 1 and 2 launches in the 1960s. The company will temporarily use SLC-46, a pad previously utilized by several other vehicles, to conduct launches until renovations at SLC-15 are complete.Lockheed Martin, a strategic investor and major customer of ABL, signed a contract in April 2021 for as many as 58 RS1 launches through the end of the decade. In addition, it has selected the RS1 to perform its “U.K. Pathfinder” launch from the SaxaVord Spaceport in the Shetland Islands, with the launch scheduled for later in 2023.ABL is one of four small-launch startups that have been assigned historic launch pads at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, indicating the company's growing influence in the commercial launch industry.

ABL Space Systems has secured a $60 million contract from the US Space Force and US Air Force. 

ABL Space Secures $60M USSF/USAF Demo Contract

Canada has formally committed to an extension of the International Space Station to 2030.On March 24, during a summit meeting in Ottawa between Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and US President Joe Biden, the Canadian government committed to extending its participation in the International Space Station (ISS) to 2030, in line with other Western partners but without Russia. This decision reflects a renewed dedication to space exploration, which includes Canada's contributions to the NASA-led lunar Gateway.“Prime Minister Trudeau agreed to extend Canada’s commitment to the International Space Station (ISS) and support science on the Lunar Gateway...Our country’s continued participation in ISS and Lunar Gateway cement Canada’s global leadership in robotics in space and on Earth.” - Canadian GovernmentAt the end of 2021, the White House declared its intention to prolong ISS operations until 2030. Since then, the US has been collaborating with its key partners to secure their commitment to the station's extension beyond the earlier deadline of 2024. The Japanese government endorsed the extension formally in November 2022, followed shortly after by the European Space Agency during its ministerial meeting.During a conference in January 2022, Christian Lange, an official at the Canadian Space Agency, stated that no one had expected Canada to make a decision before the US, ESA, or Roscosmos.Russia is now the only ISS partner that has not consented to the extension until 2030. In July last year, Yuri Borisov, the new chief of Roscosmos, had stated that Russia would withdraw from the ISS partnership after 2024. However, officials subsequently clarified that this meant after 2024 and not necessarily immediately after. In February, the Roscosmos council sanctioned a proposal to extend Russian operations on the station until 2028. The agency has stated that it will now prepare documents to obtain formal approval from the Russian government for this extension.

Canada has formally committed to an extension of the International Space Station to 2030.

Canada Commits To ISS 2030 Extension

The Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III (LVM3) achieved its sixth consecutive successful flight today, successfully placing 36 satellites OneWeb into their intended 450 km circular orbit with an inclination of 87.4 degrees. The launch vehicle took off at 09:00:20 hours local time from the second launch pad at SDSC-SHAR, Sriharikota, with a total payload of 5,805 kg.The C25 stage performed a sophisticated maneuver to repeatedly orient itself in orthogonal directions and inject satellites into precise orbits with defined time-gaps to avoid collision of the satellites. 36 satellites were separated in nine phases, in a batch of four, and OneWeb confirmed the acquisition of signals from all 36 satellites.This successful mission marked OneWeb's second launch from India. It was OneWeb's 18th launch, bringing the total of OneWeb's constellation to 618 satellites.This launch was significant for OneWeb because it concluded their constellation of Version 1 OneWeb internet satellites. While launches for backup satellites are planned, todays launch marks the completion of the required satellites for the constellation to operate globally. The vehicle, GSLV MK III, performed nominally throughout the mission with deployment of 36 OneWeb satellites confirmed in their target orbit.

The ISRO successfully launched 26 OneWeb internet satellites, completing OneWeb's first generation constellation.

OneWeb Completes V1 Constellation With India Launch

New Zealand-based aerospace company, Dawn Aerospace, has received certification from the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for its Mk-II Aurora spaceplane's rocket-powered flight campaign. The Mk-II Aurora's mission is to fly twice to space in a day, demonstrating that rocket-powered systems can be as reusable as commercial aircraft.This certification is a significant step forward for the company as it allows them to operate without excluding other airspace users, integrate with existing airspace, and fly as frequently as the vehicle permits, rather than as often as they can clear the airspace.The Mk-II Aurora spaceplane holds significant commercial promise as a suborbital vehicle, with applications in earth monitoring, microgravity research, disaster management, and in-situ atmospheric measurements, providing unprecedented enhancements to weather and climate models.The Dawn Aerospace team has been designing and building the Mk-II Aurora spaceplane since 2018 and has completed 48 test flights using jet engines, validating all non-rocket systems. The team has also concluded static integrated testing of the Mk-II Aurora engine, firing it 112 times, including seven instances where it was integrated with the vehicle.With vehicle certification and integration testing completed, Dawn Aerospace is excited to announce that rocket-powered flights are set to begin within the next month. The initial flights will follow a build-up approach, reaching modest speeds and altitudes while maintaining the rapid test cadence previously demonstrated using surrogate jet engines."We are thrilled to be nearing this milestone flight campaign and look forward to sharing our learnings with the world," said Stefan Powell, CEO of Dawn Aerospace.

New Zealand-based aerospace company, Dawn Aerospace, has received certification from the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for its Mk-II Aurora spaceplane's rocket-powered flight campaign. The Mk-II Aurora's mission is to fly twice to space in a day, demonstrating that rocket-powered systems can be as reusable as commercial aircraft.

Dawn Aerospace's Spaceplane Gets Green Light for Suborbital Test Flights in New Zealand

An agreement for a United Arab Emirates (UAE) rover to fly on China’s Chang’e-7 lunar mission has reportedly been impacted by US export control rules. A memorandum of understanding was signed in September 2022 for the UAE's Rashid II rover to fly on the Chinese lunar lander Chang’e-7 mission; However, US government’s International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) prohibits the sale or export of certain defense-related components, technologies, and software, may now be restricting this partnership.ITAR is designed to limit access to sensitive US made components, which restricts China's role in the global launch market and hinders cooperation. Some components developed to be ITAR-free have enabled collaboration between entities in China and Europe. China has also been providing turnkey space solutions to developing nations, offering launch services, spacecraft, and ground support, among other things, in an effort to circumvent ITAR restrictions. Netiher the UAE or China have confirmed the ending of the agreement but when confirmed, will be a major blow to China’s efforts to attract partners for its lunar exploration plans, including its construction of an International Lunar Research Station in the 2030s. The loss of the Rashid II rover means a further 10 kilograms of payload will be available on the Chang’e-7 lander.<img src="https://cdn.tlpnetwork.com/uploads/1679677876054.jpg">Chinese officials disclosed that they have narrowed down potential landing sites to Shackleton crater and the nearby Shoemaker crater at the lunar south pole, after previously considering a broader range of potential locations. The exact site for landing has yet to be determined. NASA is also considering the possibility of landing at Shackleton for the Artemis 3 mission, and there are some overlapping potential landing sites that have been identified by both China and NASA in the past.In order to support its upcoming lunar far side sample return mission, Chang'e-6, and the lunar south pole landing mission, Chang'e-7, China has planned to launch a relay satellite in 2024.

An agreement for a United Arab Emirates (UAE) rover to fly on China’s Chang’e-7 lunar mission has reportedly been impacted by US export control rules. 

China Loses UAE As Lunar Mission Partner

Blue Origin has completed and released its findings from the investigation of their NS-23 in flight anomaly and abort.Blue Origin's NS-23 experienced a mishap that resulted in the loss of its NS Propulsion Module Tail 3. The New Shepard Crew Capsule escape system worked as intended, bringing the capsule and its payloads to a safe landing at Launch Site One with no damage.
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 </div>Following the incident, Blue Origin formed a Mishap Investigation Team (MIT) in line with the New Shepard Mishap Investigation Plan. The MIT was led by members of Blue Origin's Safety &amp; Mission Assurance organization and included representatives from the National Transportation Safety Board and NASA's Flight Opportunities Program and Commercial Crew Office. The investigation was conducted with FAA oversight, and the MIT stood up debris search and recovery efforts at Launch Site One immediately after the mishap. All critical flight hardware was recovered within days.The MIT determined that the direct cause of the mishap was a structural fatigue failure of the BE-3PM engine nozzle during powered flight. This was caused by operational temperatures that exceeded the expected and analyzed values of the nozzle material. Design changes made to the engine's boundary layer cooling system accounted for an increase in nozzle heating and explained the hot streaks present. Blue Origin is implementing corrective actions, including design changes to the combustion chamber and operating parameters, which have reduced engine nozzle bulk and hot-streak temperatures. Additional design changes to the nozzle have improved structural performance under thermal and dynamic loads.The Mishap Review Board (MRB), which included external non-advocate advisors, reviewed causal determinations made by the MIT and will continue to oversee the corrective action implementation. It is worth noting that no changes to crew safety system designs were recommended as a result of the investigation. Furthermore, public safety was unaffected by the mishap, and there was no danger to human life or property.Overall, Blue Origin has taken swift action to investigate the incident and implement corrective measures. With the insights gained from the investigation, the company has made design changes to ensure the safe operation of its spacecraft in the future.

Blue Origin has completed and released its findings from the investigation of their NS-23 in flight anomaly and abort.

Blue Origin Completes NS-23 Investigation, Releases Findings

NASA has announced that Boeing Starliner's Crew Flight Test has officially been delayed.As teams asses readiness and complete verification work, the decision has been made to move Boeing Starliner's CFT mission after Axiom Mission 2 in order to optimize station operations.AX-2 remains on scheduled to launch in early May, and a new Starliner CFT date will be shared soon.

NASA has announced that Boeing Starliner's Crew Flight Test has officially been delayed.

Boeing Starliner Crew Flight Test Delayed

Relativity Space has made history successfully launching its Terran 1 launch vehicle for the first time.Terran 1 launched at 11:25pm EDT from SLC-16 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. Its succesfully pass Max-Q, MECO, and Stage Separation before suffering a mission-ending anomaly following stage separation. While no definitive cause has been identified, the issue currently remains with a failure to ignite the Aeon-1 Vacuum engine. Despite seeing an initial attempt to light the engine, gasses began to stop flowing out of the engine bell only a few seconds after Second Engine start.<img src="https://cdn.tlpnetwork.com/uploads/1679543948362.jpeg">The launch officer called for the flight termination system to engage following the loss of control of the second stage, and the remaining debris will safely reenter and splash down safely in the Atlantic Ocean.<blockquote class="twitter-tweet tw-align-center" data-theme="dark">Today’s launch proved Relativity’s 3D-printed rocket technologies that will enable our next vehicle, Terran R. We successfully made it through Max-Q, the highest stress state on our printed structures. This is the biggest proof point for our novel additive manufacturing approach.… <a href="https://t.co/9iaFVwYoqe">pic.twitter.com/9iaFVwYoqe</a>&mdash; Relativity Space (@relativityspace) <a href="https://twitter.com/relativityspace/status/1638753739128315906?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h3>Next Launch Attempt</h3>Relativity Space already has constructed and begun testing of the second flight vehicle of Terran 1.While nothing is known about the timeline for the next launch, this article will be updated with further information.

Relativity Space has made history successfully launching its Terran 1 launch vehicle for the first time.

Relativity Makes History With Maiden Terran 1 Flight, Fails To Reach Orbit

SpaceX may need to deorbit some of the first batch of larger second-generation Starlink satellites due to issues they are currently facing.After being deployed into orbits nearly 370 kilometers high, the 21 satellites known as Group 6-1 began raising their orbits a couple of days later. However, the satellites halted their orbit raising shortly after and maintained orbits at altitudes of about 380 kilometers. The International Space Station is orbiting between 415 and 420 kilometers high.<blockquote class="twitter-tweet tw-align-center" data-theme="dark">Lot of new technology in Starlink V2, so we’re experiencing some issues, as expected. Some sats will be deorbited, others will be tested thoroughly before raising altitude above Space Station.&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1638616130356133888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Since March 15, the altitude of the satellites began decreasing at varying rates, with some descending more steeply than others, reaching approximately 365 kilometers. While all 21 satellites remain in orbit, this behavior has led to speculation of issues with the spacecraft.Elon Musk's tweet was the first official confirmation from SpaceX about the satellite's problems, though neither he nor the company have provided any details about the nature of these issues.Group 6-1 satellites are the first of SpaceX's "V2 Mini" version of Starlink satellites. They are considerably larger than the company's previous first-generation Starlink satellites, of which over 4,000 have been launched to date. The V2 Mini satellites come with improved phased-array antennas and use E-band frequencies for backhaul, providing four times the capacity of earlier spacecraft. They are also equipped with new, higher-performance electric thrusters that use argon instead of krypton propellant to reduce costs.Although SpaceX has not released any specific information about the V2 Mini satellites, the company's filings with the Federal Communications Commission for the second-generation constellation describe a spacecraft with a mass of 800 kilograms and a pair of solar arrays 12.8 meters long. In contrast, first-generation satellites weigh approximately 300 kilograms and have a single array eight meters long.

SpaceX may need to deorbit some of the first batch of larger second-generation Starlink satellites due to issues they are currently facing.

SpaceX Starlink V2 Satellites Experiencing Problems On Orbit

The National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) has entered into five-year agreements with six commercial providers of hyperspectral satellite imagery. Hyperspectral sensors provide data across multiple spectral bands, enabling analysts to detect phenomena in colors that are typically invisible to the human eye. The NRO has expressed interest in using hyperspectral data for several years, and the technology has government and commercial applications. Hyperspectral imaging startups have emerged in recent years, and companies in the sector have struggled to find compelling uses for hyperspectral data, which has traditionally focused on defense. However, demand has been increasing in sectors such as agriculture, mining, climate, oil, and gas.The selected firms, which include established remote-sensing industry companies and startups BlackSky Technology, HyperSat, Orbital Sidekick, Pixxel, Planet, and Xplore, will have their technical capabilities, business plans, and cybersecurity measures evaluated by the NRO in the initial stage. The NRO will also assess their on-orbit assets and procure data for demonstrations at a later stage. Companies that do not yet have operational constellations will provide the NRO access to their modeling and simulations until they are able to begin delivering actual data. The six vendors were selected under the NRO's Strategic Commercial Enhancements program, which is open to both U.S. and foreign-owned U.S. commercial firms, and aims to assist the agency in understanding the capabilities of the commercial remote sensing industry. In 2019, the NRO awarded its first commercial hyperspectral imaging study contract to startup HySpecIQ, and in September 2022, the NRO awarded six study contracts for commercial radio frequency remote sensing, followed by five commercial radar contracts in January 2022.

The National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) has entered into five-year agreements with six commercial providers of hyperspectral satellite imagery. 

NRO Signs 5 Year Commercial Hyperspectral Satellite Imagery Agreement

The U.S. Space Force has requested $60 million over the next two years from Congress for a program called tactically responsive space, according to budget documents submitted last week.This marks the first time the Department of Defense has included funding for tactically responsive space in its budget. In the past, the program has been supported by congressional add-ons, and the defense committees have been urging the DoD to establish a dedicated budget line.The initiative aims to showcase the ability of commercial launch vehicles to swiftly deploy small satellites. Small satellite launch companies have been actively advocating for funding for responsive space, which would benefit small launch providers that do not require conventional launch facilities. During a conflict, this service would be used to replace a damaged satellite or strengthen existing constellations, providing the U.S. military with greater resilience in the event that adversaries attempt to shoot down DoD or commercial satellites that provide essential services.The Space Force's budget proposal outlines an allocation of $30 million for tactically responsive space in fiscal year 2024 and another $30 million in fiscal year 2025. Over the past three years, Congress has added $115 million to the defense budget for tactically responsive space demonstrations.In 2021, the Space Force conducted a demonstration of responsive space by launching the Tactically Responsive Launch-2 (TacRL-2) mission using a Northrop Grumman Pegasus XL rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.An upcoming demonstration, Tactically Responsive Launch-3 (also known as Victus Nox), is expected to take place as early as May. The contract for this mission was awarded in September to launch services provider Firefly Aerospace and satellite manufacturer Millennium Space. They have approximately eight months to prepare and will remain on standby until given 24 hours' notice by the Space Force to launch.<blockquote class="twitter-tweet tw-align-center" data-theme="dark">Launch update: Our next launch, FLTA003, will support the <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceForceDoD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpaceForceDoD</a> responsive space mission, VICTUS NOX. We’re in the final integration of our Alpha rocket and will soon stand ready for the 24-hour call-up. We’re honored to work with this incredible team! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PartnersInSpace?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PartnersInSpace</a> <a href="https://t.co/Sch7LUX8mm">pic.twitter.com/Sch7LUX8mm</a>&mdash; Firefly Aerospace (@Firefly_Space) <a href="https://twitter.com/Firefly_Space/status/1637887066200481806?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The U.S. Space Force has requested $60 million over the next two years from Congress for a program called tactically responsive space, according to budget documents submitted last week. 

USSF Requests First Tactically Responsive Space Program Budget

South Korean rocket startup Innospace has successfully launching its HANBIT-TLV suborbital rocket from Brazil's Alcântara Space Center for the first time. The rocket lifted off at 1:52 am EDT, carrying a Brazilian inertial navigation system called SISNAV. Innospace's self-developed hybrid rocket engine powered the 16.3-meter, single-stage rocket, which used liquid oxygen and paraffin-based propellants. The rocket engine burned stably for 106 seconds before falling to a predesignated landing site after flying for four and a half minutes. The company called the flight a success, although it did not disclose the rocket's peak altitude.Innospace plans to scale up the hybrid motor used in the HANBIT-TLV into a small orbital launch vehicle, Hanbit-Nano, a two-stage small satellite launcher designed to carry up to a 50-kilogram payload to a 500-kilometer sun-synchronous orbit. Hanbit-Nano's first stage will be powered by a 15-ton-thrust hybrid engine tested in the launch, while a 3-ton engine under development will power its upper stage. Innospace is aiming for Hanbit-Nano's commercial debut in 2024.Innospace signed a deal last year to use Brazil's Alcântara Space Center for five years and is currently in negotiations with Norway's Andøya Spaceport. It is also looking for another launch site in Asia to cater to regional customers. Innospace CEO and founder Kim Soo-jong said the primary customers for Hanbit-Nano include cubesat-focused startups and research institutes in Asia, Europe, and Latin America.In December 2022, Innospace raised 20 billion won, roughly $15 million USD, in a Series B Bridge round led by local venture capital firm Korea Investment Partners. The company has raised a total of 55.2 billion won ($42.1 million USD) since 2019 and is working with Korea-based Mirae Asset Securities toward an initial public offering as soon as next year.

South Korean rocket startup Innospace has successfully launching its HANBIT-TLV suborbital rocket from Brazil's Alcântara Space Center for the first time.  

Innospace Test Launches HANBIT-TLV From Brazil Successfully 

NASA is considering whether to move forward with the VERITAS Mission or requesting proposals for a future mission.NASA may have to choose between restarting its Venus Emissivity, Radio Science, InSAR, Topography, and Spectroscopy (VERITAS) mission or requesting proposals for a future discovery class mission after budget pressures have left the mission indefinitely delayed. In the fiscal year 2024 planetary science budget proposal, there is an allocation of $1.5 million for the VERITAS mission. This mission was postponed due to complications at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, which is responsible for leading both the VERITAS and Psyche missions. The total planetary science budget for fiscal year 2024 is $3.383 billion.In November 2022, NASA declared a postponement of VERITAS by at least three years. <img src="https://cdn.tlpnetwork.com/uploads/1679429987707.jpg">This move was in response to the discoveries made by an independent review board that looked into the issues that arose during the Psyche mission. Psyche missed its 2022 launch due to software testing delays for the asteroid mission. <img src="https://cdn.tlpnetwork.com/uploads/1679431858120.jpg">While NASA has justified the delay due to broader issues, including the pandemic, supply chain challenges, and increased operations costs, scientists are criticizing the move, with some suggesting that VERITAS could be delayed indefinitely. NASA is now seeking feedback from the community on whether to restart VERITAS or hold a competition for the next Discovery-class mission scheduled for fiscal year 2025.The issue of budget constraints is also impacting a series of small satellite missions, including the Small Innovative Missions for Planetary Exploration (SIMPLEx). Although NASA officials like Glaze have endorsed SIMPLEx, the proposed fiscal year 2024 budget indicates that NASA will only be seeking proposals for one SIMPLEx mission in the near future. A draft announcement of opportunity is expected to be released in fiscal year 2024, and the mission will be carried out alongside the DAVINCI Venus mission in 2030, with a cost limit of $85 million.In 2019, NASA chose three SIMPLEx missions with a maximum cost of $55 million each. However, these missions have encountered issues or exceeded their budget limits. For instance, the Janus asteroid mission was affected by the Psyche delay and lost its ride. Glaze mentioned that the team is exploring alternate missions that the two smallsats could undertake. He also added that if they identify a promising opportunity, they can approach NASA with the proposal.

NASA is considering whether to move forward with the VERITAS Mission or requesting proposals for a future mission.

NASA Considers Continuing VERITAS Or Pursuing New Discovery Mission

NASA's Mars Sample Return (MSR) program is facing significant cost increases that are starting to impact other science missions. In NASA's 2024 fiscal year budget proposal, NASA requested $949.3 million for the program, a 19% increase from its projection of $800 million last year. NASA is now warning that costs will continue to grow and that it may have to descope elements of the mission and reduce funding for other science programs to address the budget challenge.The joint effort with the European Space Agency (ESA) will send multiple missions to Mars to collect samples from the Perseverance rover and return them to Earth. According to NASA's 2024 budget documents, the proposed future spending projections remain unchanged; with projections of $700 million in fiscal year 2025, $600 million in 2026, and $612.1 million in 2027, with the addition of $627.6 million in 2028."The agency is currently working through a series of preliminary design reviews (PDR), before formally confirming the mission." - Nicola Fox, Associate Administrator For Science for MSR The Mars Sample Return Director at NASA Headquarters, expects a system-level PDR in September, followed by a confirmation review in October, where NASA sets formal cost and schedule commitments for programs.To address this increasing mission costs, NASA is considering reducing elements of the Mars Sample Return mission, with one concept being they could remove one of the two sample retrieval helicopters added to the MSR mission concept last year<img src="https://cdn.tlpnetwork.com/uploads/1679429589415.webp">NASA stated in its 2024 budget documents that it had to "rebalance work" at JPL to ensure adequate support for high-priority missions in development and formulation such as MSR, Europa Clipper, and Psyche. As a result, the VERITAS Venus mission was delayed last fall, endangering its future, according to the document.<img src="https://cdn.tlpnetwork.com/uploads/1679429987707.jpg">The growing cost of MSR is also impacting other NASA science programs, including the delay of the Geospace Dynamics Constellation (GDC), a major heliophysics mission. The delay of the GDC is a major factor in an overall reduction in heliophysics funding in the budget, from $805 million in 2023 to a request of $750.9 million in 2024.The cost increases for MSR have raised concerns among industry, who warn that cutting science programs could have long term negative consequences.

NASA's Mars Sample Return (MSR) program is facing significant cost increases that are starting to impact other science missions. 

NASA Warns MSR Costs Could Impact Other Scientific Missions

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States has announced its proposed framework for regulating the use of terrestrial wireless spectrum from space to connect smartphones beyond the range of cell towers. The framework will set ground rules for satellite companies such as SpaceX, AST SpaceMobile, and Lynk Global, which are seeking permission to offer direct-to-device services with spectrum from terrestrial mobile partners.The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) for the framework was approved by all four of the FCC's commissioners on March 16. The regulator will initiate a 30-day public comment period once the NPRM is published in the Federal Register, with reply comments due 30 days after that.The proposed framework, called "Supplemental Coverage from Space" (SCS), acknowledges the challenges of accessing airwaves, frequencies that are not all globally aligned, possibilities for interference that must be managed, and standards work that could help grow these capabilities. However, the FCC believes that with the growing interest in the possibilities of convergence of satellite and terrestrial services, an ad-hoc, case-by-case approach to these new ventures is not enough.An initial draft of the NPRM was initially circulated on February 23, which proposed limiting direct-to-device SCS services to spectrum bands where a single mobile operator has contiguous rights, and excluding the 700 MHz band that AT&amp;T uses to connect first responders under its FirstNet service. AT&amp;T, which has partnered with satellite direct-to-device startup AST SpaceMobile, said this was "unnecessarily restrictive" and called on the FCC to expand the framework.The latest version of the NPRM still focuses on large areas of contiguous spectrum, but it was revised to account for other possibilities. The spectrum AT&amp;T uses for FirstNet is now also being considered potentially part of the framework.FCC commissioner Nathan Simington said that while it is important to perfect a new regulatory model for this emerging market, it must not get in the way of approving direct-to-device applications that the regulator is already processing. "The FCC must ensure those waiver applications move forward at a rapid clip to avoid thwarting business plans and future innovation," Simington said.Scott Wisniewski, the chief strategy officer of AST SpaceMobile, described the framework as "a really good first step" and said he is encouraged by the FCC's intentions to "move with speed." Lynk Global CEO Charles Miller also welcomed the proposed framework, saying via email that "this FCC action sets the path for Lynk to acquire landing rights in the US via a mobile network operator."SpaceX, which has partnered with T-Mobile in the United States and Salt in Switzerland, recently outlined plans to start testing direct-to-device services this year.The proposed framework will give satellite companies clear guidance on what's allowed and what's not allowed, making it easier for them to operate in the US market.

The US FCC has proposed a new framework to regulate the use of terrestrial wireless spectrum from space for direct-to-device services.

FCC Reveals Framework For Satellite To Smartphone Connectivity

Tokyo-based lunar exploration company ispace announced today that its HAKUTO-R Mission 1 Lunar Lander has successfully entered orbit around the Moon. The lander performed its first lunar orbit insertion manoeuvre at 10:24 (JST) on March 21, 2023, under the direction of ispace engineers at the HAKUTO-R Mission Control Center in Nihonbashi.After a controlled burn from the lander’s main propulsion system lasting several minutes, the manoeuvre was successfully completed. All orbital control operations for Mission 1 have been completed as planned following launch. While the lander has performed multiple deep space manoeuvre operations, this manoeuvre represents the longest burn performed by the propulsion system during the mission.These functions during the approximately three-month period verify that the lander performs as designed and demonstrates the high operational capability of ispace engineers to perform long-term mission operations. The achievement demonstrates ispace’s ability to successfully deliver spacecraft and payloads into a stable lunar orbit.The successful insertion of the lander into lunar orbit is an important step toward establishing a payload transportation service. It demonstrates that ispace is capable of transporting customer payloads to orbit around the Moon. Future ispace missions will involve deployment of satellites into lunar orbit.Currently, ispace is in active negotiations with several global companies regarding future lunar missions. Many of these companies have identified demand not only for lunar landings but also for transportation to orbit around the Moon.During Mission 3, two relay satellites are planned to be injected into lunar orbit to establish communications with the lander. This will enable ispace to transport customer payloads to orbit around the Moon.

ispace announced that its HAKUTO-R M1 Lunar Lander has successfully entered orbit around the Moon. The lander performed its first lunar orbit insertion manoeuvre at 10:24 (JST) on March 21, under the direction of ispace engineers at the HAKUTO-R Mission Control Center in Nihonbashi, Japan.

ispace's HAKUTO-R M1 Lunar Lander Successfully Enters Moon Orbit

LunEx-1 is the first mission to the moon as part of TLP Network's LunEx (Lunar Exploration) program. This mission will be launched aboard a future Astrobotic spacecraft.As part of LunEx-1, TLP is offering the opportunity for people from all around the world to participate in the mission. Individuals can submit their names to be carried on board the spacecraft, and also have the option to include photos and videos.The names of participants will be carried on an nano data card aboard the spacecraft, serving as a symbol of human ingenuity and determination to explore beyond Earth. For a small fee of $5, participants can include a photo of their choice, and for $15, they can include a video message to be forever preserved on the lunar surface.All participants will receive a confirmation plaque when they submit their name, and closer to launch, when the payload is finalized, participants will receive a boarding pass.<img src="https://cdn.tlpnetwork.com/uploads/1679347813612.jpeg">LunEx-1 is more than just a mission to the moon; it represents the potential of human exploration and discovery. It is a step towards a new era of space exploration, and TLP is proud to invite people from around the world to participate in this historic program.

LunEx-1 is the first mission to the moon as part of TLP Network's LunEx (Lunar Exploration) program. 

TLP Network Announces First Mission To Lunar Surface

NASA's Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) satellite has resumed its commissioning activities after the main scientific instrument, the Ka-band Radar Interferometer (KaRIn), was shut off in late January. According to a press release from the space agency, the KaRIn has been restored to regular operations using a backup power unit.The SWOT mission team has been working diligently to analyse the situation and develop a plan to expedite the restoration of the KaRIn instrument to minimize overall risk to the mission. The team continues to monitor the KaRIn and overall operations as they progress with commissioning, calibration, and validation activities to ensure the performance of SWOT’s systems and science instruments.The SWOT satellite is a joint project between NASA and the French space agency, CNES. The mission's goal is to make high-resolution measurements of the Earth's water cycle and ocean topography. It will provide global coverage of the world's oceans and freshwater bodies, including their heights and depths, which will be used to improve our understanding of the ocean and its role in the climate system.The SWOT satellite was launched on December 16, 2022, and is currently in the commissioning phase. The mission's planned start of science operations is set for July 2023.

NASA's Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) satellite has resumed its commissioning activities after the main scientific instrument, the Ka-band Radar Interferometer (KaRIn), was shut off in late January. According to a press release from the space agency, the KaRIn has been restored to regular operations using a backup power unit.

NASA's SWOT Spacecraft Resumes Operations After Primary Instrument Shutdown

Rolls-Royce has announced that it has secured £2.9 million in funding from the UK Space Agency for its Micro-Reactor programme. The project is focused on developing technology to provide the necessary power to support a future Moon base for astronauts. The Micro-Reactor aims to create a world-leading power and propulsion capability for multiple markets and operator needs, alongside a clean, green and long-term power source on the lunar surface.Nuclear power has the potential to dramatically increase the duration of future Lunar missions and their scientific value. The relatively small and lightweight nuclear micro-reactor technology could enable continuous power regardless of location, available sunlight, and other environmental conditions. The aim is to have a reactor ready to send to the Moon by 2029.Rolls-Royce is working alongside various collaborators, including the University of Oxford, University of Bangor, University of Brighton, University of Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) and Nuclear AMRC, to strengthen its knowledge of these complex systems, with a focus on three key features of the Micro-Reactor; the fuel used to generate heat, the method of heat transfer, and technology to convert that heat into electricity.The potential applications of Rolls-Royce Micro-Reactor technology are wide-ranging and could support commercial and defence use cases in addition to those in space. The partnership with Rolls-Royce comes after the UK Space Agency recently announced £51 million of funding available for UK companies to develop communication and navigation services for missions to the Moon, as part of the European Space Agency’s Moonlight programme.

Rolls-Royce secures funding from UK Space Agency to develop nuclear power technology for future lunar base. Micro-Reactor programme aims to provide continuous power, increasing duration and scientific value of missions. Project receives £2.9m funding, with reactor set to be ready for the Moon by 2029.

Rolls-Royce Collaborates with UK Space Agency to Develop Lunar Nuclear Reactor

The United Launch Alliance (ULA) team has completed the next phase of testing in preparation for the inaugural Vulcan rocket flight. The team achieved tanking demonstrations at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, validating the performance of the stages, Vulcan Launch Platform, Space Launch Complex-41 facilities, and ground support systems.The tests were performed on separate days, with the Vulcan first stage and Centaur V upper stage being filled with cryogenic propellant. The tests also verified countdown steps, procedures, and timelines. Both tests were successfully performed with Vulcan booster stage testing on March 10 and Centaur V on March 16.The launch console operators initiated the countdown to power up the rocket, perform testing, and complete final configurations for cryogenic propellant loading. During the planned countdown hold, the launch pad was verified clear of all personnel, and the authorization was given to proceed with tanking the rocket. The transfer lines at the pad and the flight hardware underwent chill-down procedures to thermally condition equipment against the harsh temperature shock of the propellants. Once that was achieved, the cryogenics began flowing into the rocket. The Vulcan booster uses liquefied natural gas (LNG) and liquid oxygen, while Centaur V is powered by liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen.<img src="https://cdn.tlpnetwork.com/uploads/1679077740679.jpeg">A shift change in the control room saw the Detanking and Securing Team take over to drain the propellants back into the pad storage tanks, safe the rocket, and power it down. Engineers will review the tanking test data collected and information gained in test objectives aimed at characterizing the performance of hardware and confirming analytical predictions.With the tanking tests now accomplished, the Vulcan Launch Platform will disengage from the pad systems for transport of the Vulcan rocket to the Vertical Integration Facility (VIF). The next step in the countdown to the inaugural launch includes conducting a Wet Dress Rehearsal (WDR) to practice the day-of-launch activities and then performing a Flight Readiness Firing (FRF) to complete the full Terminal Countdown sequence, ignite the engines, and demonstrate a hot-fire abort recycle and safing.

The United Launch Alliance (ULA) team has completed the next phase of testing in preparation for the inaugural Vulcan rocket flight. 

ULA Completes Vulcan Tanking Test, WDR Next

Astra has submitted an application to NASDAQ for an additional 180-day period to comply with the minimum bid price requirement.On March 13, 2023, Astra submitted an application to NASDAQ for an additional 180-day period (through October 1, 2023, the “Extended Compliance Period”) to comply with the minimum bid price requirement. According to Astra, the company has been in discussions with representatives of NASDAQ and expects to hear back from them regarding the status of their application on or around April 5, 2023 and are not aware of any reason why their application would not be approved.On October 6, 2022, Astra received a letter from NASDAQ stating that Astra was no longer in compliance with the NASDAQ Listing Rules as the closing bid price of Astra shares was below $1.00 for 30 consecutive business days. As per NASDAQ guidelines, Astra was provided an initial 180-day period (the “Initial Compliance Period”) through April 4, 2023 to regain compliance and could be eligible for additional time to meet the minimum bid price requirement.<img src="https://cdn.tlpnetwork.com/uploads/1678999866254.png">Astra shares need to close at a minimum of $1.00 for a minimum of ten consecutive business days during the extended compliance period to confirm their compliance with the NASDAQ Listing Rules."We understand the road ahead of us to deliver on our commitments to our stockholders and our customers. After delivering over 20 satellites across two successful commercial orbital launches, and being humbled by two commercial launch failures, we have never been more focused or determined to deliver a reliable launch system for our customers. Additionally, after securing contracts for over 200 Astra Spacecraft Engines, we believe we are well-positioned to support our mission of Improving Life on Earth from Space" - Axel Martinez, Chief Financial Officer<h3>Reverse Stock Split </h3>Astra's is considering the possibility of conducting a reverse stock split to ensure they can comply with the NASDAQ listing rules. This type of split does not impact a company's fundamentals, as it does not alter its valuation or dilute its stock. However, it does increase the stock price by consolidating shares.A reverse split can be perceived as a sign of financial trouble, with a company attempting to artificially elevate its stock price. Alternatively, it may be seen as a means for a viable company with a struggling stock to remain listed on a public exchange. If implemented, a reverse split, often at a ratio of 1-for-10, would convert a $3 stock into a $30 share.Astra is actively monitoring their listing status and intends to preserve their NASDAQ listing. They stated that they "will continue to work diligently to meet all of NASDAQ's requirements and remain in compliance with their rules".

Astra has submitted an application to Nasdaq for an additional 180-day period to comply with the minimum bid price requirement.

Astra Requests NASDAQ Extension, Considers Reverse Stock Split To Avoid Delisting

After more than 15 years of operation, NASA’s Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere (AIM) spacecraft has ceased operations due to battery issues. The spacecraft’s batteries began to decline in 2019, but AIM was still able to return a significant amount of data. However, with further battery power decline, the spacecraft can no longer receive commands or collect data. The spacecraft helped significantly change scientists’ understanding of the causes and formation of these clouds, resulting in 379 peer-reviewed scientific papers.Launched in 2007, AIM has orbited 312 miles above Earth, studying polar mesospheric clouds, also known as night-shining or noctilucent clouds. Initially, AIM was only slated to operate for two years, but it successfully completed its primary mission in 2009 and has been in extended operations status since then.The AIM team will continue to monitor the spacecraft's communication for the next two weeks to determine if the spacecraft is able to reboot and transmit a signal. Although AIM's mission has come to an end, its contributions to scientific research and knowledge of polar mesospheric clouds will continue to impact future research and understanding of our planet's atmosphere.

After more than 15 years of operation, NASA’s Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere (AIM) spacecraft has ceased operations due to battery issues. 

NASA AIM Earth Orbiter Mission Ends Following Battery Issues

Virgin Orbit, the spaceflight company founded by Sir Richard Branson, has announced that it will be furloughing almost all of its employees and halting operations for a week as it seeks a new funding lifeline. The move comes as the company faces financial difficulties and struggles to secure additional investment.According to sources familiar with the matter, company executives held an all-hands meeting on Wednesday evening to brief staff on the situation. The furlough will be unpaid, although employees will be able to use their PTO to cover the time off. Only a small team will continue working during the furlough period.In the meeting, company leaders reportedly stated that they plan to provide an update on the funding situation by next Wednesday or Thursday. The news has left many employees uncertain about their future with the company.The announcement of the furlough and operational pause comes as the commercial space industry experiences a period of rapid growth and investment. However, many new entrants are struggling to secure funding and generate sustainable revenue streams. Virgin Orbit has faced a number of setbacks in recent years, including a failed launch attempt in 2020 and most recently in 2023. The company has also faced stiff competition from rival spaceflight firms such as RocketLab, Relativity Space, and Firefly Aerospace.The news of the furlough is likely to be a blow to Virgin Orbit's employees and the wider commercial space industry. However, the company remains committed to its mission of democratizing access to space and is expected to continue its efforts to secure additional investment and funding.

Virgin Orbit has announced that it will be furloughing almost all of its employees and halting operations for a week as it seeks a new funding lifeline. 

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