SmallSats

NASA has launched a set of small satellites designed to advance science, demonstrate new technologies and improve orbital operations. The SmallSats mission will test instruments and systems in orbit, supporting future spacecraft capabilities. The launch is drawing attention from space and science watchers following the announcement.

SpaceX is preparing its Transporter-18 rideshare mission, which will carry more than 100 spacecraft to orbit on a single Falcon 9 rocket. The flight is the latest in SpaceX's regular dedicated smallsat rideshare launches, which allow dozens of satellite operators to share a ride to space at lower cost. Launch previews outline the mission profile, payloads and timing ahead of liftoff.

Satellite manufacturer Astro Digital is planning to go public through a SPAC merger, with proceeds earmarked for expanding its satellite production capacity and growing its defense business. The move would give the smallsat maker new capital as demand rises for rapid satellite manufacturing and defense-related space services.