Artificial Satellites

Two spacecraft observed both hemispheres of interstellar comet simultaneously

[Research Article] A tool for crop phenology metrics analysis from big Earth observation data

Coloring the map to reduce visual drift in GNSS-denied navigation

A new camera-only visual odometry system uses prebuilt colored point cloud maps to deliver accurate and robust localization in GNSS-challenged environments. The system reduced absolute trajectory error by up to 95% compared to existing methods, while maintaining near real-time efficiency.

Foldable origami-inspired antennas for CubeSat satellites

Researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo developed a 5.8 GHz foldable antenna designed to provide high antenna gain while remaining compact enough for small satellites. The system aims to improve communication capabilities of small satellites used in applications such as space-based internet services and disaster monitoring.

Horizon Europe’s SWIFTT project concludes with Copernicus-based forest management tool to map, mitigate, and prevent the main threats to EU forests

The SWIFTT platform uses Copernicus Sentinel satellite data and machine learning models to identify tree health changes, detect anomalies, and predict threats like spruce bark beetle outbreaks and wildfires. Foresters can access timely alerts, prioritize inspections, and coordinate clearing of dead wood to protect forests.

[Research Article] CA-MTransUNet: Cloud-aware mixture-of-experts linear transformer U-Net for forest burned area (FBA) mapping using Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 images

The CA-MTransU-Net architecture achieves superior mIoU of 87.00% and faster inference speeds compared to benchmark algorithms, providing a scalable solution for post-fire damage assessment in cloud-prone landscapes.

Thousands of pico-satellites may transform how phones connect to space

Researchers propose using swarms of pico-satellites to form a single large antenna for reliable, high-quality data transmission. This innovative solution could lead to cheaper and more reliable network coverage worldwide, especially in remote areas.

University of Portsmouth and SARsatX developing Earth observation mission concept with Saudi Space Agency support

The University of Portsmouth, in partnership with SARsatX and the Saudi Space Agency, is developing an Earth observation satellite mission concept aimed at supporting climate science and environmental resilience. The project combines academic and technical expertise to address shared environmental challenges.

Cheops discovers late bloomer from another era

Researchers using ESA's Cheops satellite find a small rocky planet in LHS 1903 system, which defies conventional understanding of planetary order and formation. The discovery sparks renewed interest in exploring alternative explanations for this unusual system.

NTU Singapore launches three new space projects under Singapore’s Space Access Programme

NTU Singapore is launching three new space projects under the Space Access Programme to accelerate the commercialization of space technologies. The projects include an AI-enabled satellite, a nanosatellite testing next-generation solar cells, and another nanosatellite with advanced propulsion systems.

Powering AI from space, at scale

Researchers have developed a passive, solar-powered orbital data center that can scale AI computing and reduce environmental impact. The system leverages decades of research on 'tethers' and could host thousands of computing nodes to replicate terrestrial data centers.

Magnetic avalanches power solar flares

A team of scientists used Solar Orbiter's instruments to capture a large solar flare in unprecedented detail. The observations revealed that the flare was triggered by initially weak disturbances that quickly became more violent, creating a 'sky' of raining plasma blobs.

World's first successful 2 Tbit/s free-space optical communication using small optical terminals mountable on satellites and HAPS

NICT successfully demonstrated 2 Tbit/s free-space optical communication between two types of small portable optical terminals separated by 7.4 km in an urban environment with atmospheric turbulence, marking a major step forward in the practical application of Non-Terrestrial Networks for Beyond 5G/6G.

Seeing the Ionosphere in motion: A new way to track space weather in real time

A new observation framework captures rapid and fine-scale ionospheric variations by directly measuring spatial and temporal gradients of total electron content. This enables the detection of ionospheric structures across multiple scales, offering a more precise view of ionospheric behavior.

China to host ITU World Radiocommunication Conference 2027 in Shanghai

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has announced that the next World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-27) will take place in Shanghai, China, from October 11 to November 12, 2027. This conference will review and revise the Radio Regulations, governing the use of radio frequency spectrum and satellite orbits.

Roadmap for reducing, reusing, and recycling in space

The article proposes a circular economy approach to reduce waste, increase durability, and repurpose spacecraft and satellites. Data analysis and digital technologies will be essential for developing sustainable practices.

Austrian satellite mission PRETTY continues under the leadership of Graz University of Technology

The Austrian satellite mission PRETTY will continue to provide valuable services after being extended by the European Space Agency and Austrian Research Promotion Agency. The mission, originally planned for one year, has proven reliable and successful in monitoring climate changes and space radiation effects.

Laser links to bolster the next generation of satellite mega-constellations

The University of Michigan's three-year project, ORACLE, harnesses laser links for power and momentum transfer, enabling satellites to move without fuel. This innovation aims to transform constellations into dynamic, interconnected systems, improving sustainability and resilience.

Successful ground-to-satellite laser communications applying next-generation error correction codes, mitigating atmospheric turbulence

Researchers have successfully demonstrated next-generation error correction codes to mitigate the impact of atmospheric turbulence on ground-to-satellite laser communications. The new codes significantly improved communication quality compared to conventional schemes, enabling practical implementation of ground-to-satellite laser links.

University of Houston researcher and international team expose weakness in bridges worldwide

A study of 744 bridges worldwide reveals that North American and African bridges are most at risk, with spaceborne monitoring able to detect problems before they become disasters. The proposed solution integrates satellite data into risk frameworks to significantly lower the number of high-risk bridges.

Dancing dust devils trace raging winds on Mars

Scientists have tracked 1039 dust devils to reveal how they lift dust into the air and sweep around Mars' surface. The study found wind speeds of up to 44 m/s, faster than previously measured with rovers on the ground, and improved our understanding of Martian weather patterns.

AI satellite survey challenges long-standing estimates of Serengeti wildebeest numbers

A new AI-powered satellite survey reveals a significant shortfall in estimated Serengeti wildebeest numbers, challenging traditional aerial surveys. The study's findings suggest at least 700,000 fewer wildebeest than previously estimated, highlighting the need for accurate data to inform conservation efforts.

Solar Orbiter traces superfast electrons back to Sun

The European Space Agency-led Solar Orbiter mission has split energetic particles into two groups, tracing them back to distinct solar outbursts. Researchers found that one type of particle is connected to intense solar flares and the other to larger coronal mass ejections.

First observations by the Total Anthropogenic and Natural emissions mapping SpectrOmeter-3 (TANSO-3) onboard the Global Observing SATellite for Greenhouse gases and Water cycle “IBUKI GW” (GOSAT-GW)

The GOSAT-GW satellite has successfully launched with the TANSO-3 sensor, confirming its proper operation. The first observation by TANSO-3 provided spectral absorption data for carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrogen dioxide, enabling the calculation of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere.

If aliens explore space like us, we should look for their calls to other planets

Researchers at Penn State and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory analyzed human deep space communications to determine the most likely places to detect signals from an extraterrestrial intelligence. They found that transmissions to deep space, including spacecraft near Mars, are more detectable than those intended for low-Earth orbit.

A comprehensive survey of orbital edge computing: Systems, applications, and algorithms

OEC allows satellites to process data directly, reducing latency and bandwidth constraints. However, research faces challenges due to limited energy storage, heat dissipation, and launch costs.

Clingy planets can trigger own doom, suspect Cheops and TESS

Astronomers detect first-ever evidence of a 'planet with a death wish' as HIP 67522 b orbits extremely close to its host star, triggering flares that erode the planet's atmosphere. The radiation is so intense it causes the planet to shrink and lose mass at an alarming rate.

UC Davis and Proteus Space to launch first-ever dynamic digital twin into space

The UC Davis-designed payload is a dynamic digital twin that models the current condition and predicts the future condition of the spacecraft's power system. The satellite will monitor its own health in space using sensors to assess voltage and measurements of the batteries it is running on.

Dynamics optimization of helicopter main transmission system -- for multi-parameter and multi-condition coupled system

A new hybrid Gravitational Search-Simulated Annealing algorithm optimizes helicopter main transmission systems, reducing vibration and achieving global optimal solutions. The approach balances multiple load cases, subjective and objective evaluation, and solving speed, showing promise for revolutionizing helicopter design.

AI meets Forestry: EU Project SWIFTT webinar explores insect damage detection in European forests

The SWIFTT project will explore practical and technical challenges of using AI and satellite data to monitor bark beetle outbreaks. Forest professionals, researchers, and remote sensing experts will discuss the interplay between remote sensing, machine learning, and traditional forestry knowledge.

SwRI-led PUNCH mission images huge solar eruption

The PUNCH mission has successfully imaged a huge solar eruption, providing unprecedented views of coronal mass ejections and the solar wind. The spacecraft constellation is enabling scientists to better understand and predict space weather events that can disrupt communications and endanger satellites.

New Venus observation mission - World's first long-term planetary cubesat study by Korea’s Institute for Basic Science and NanoAvionics

The CLOVE project aims to investigate Venus's atmospheric temporal variabilities and climate evolution with a series of CubeSats launched every three years over a 15-year period. The mission will provide valuable insight into volcanic activity, solar-atmosphere interactions, and planetary climate shifts.

Configuration design method of mega constellation for low earth orbit observation

Researchers propose a configuration design method for mega constellations in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) using basic and accompanying satellites. The method considers satellite imaging width, formation flying of subgroup satellites, and global uniform coverage by payloads to optimize constellation configuration. By solving nonlinear optimiza...

Satellite data shows earlier leaf flush in spring caused by high temperatures in 2023 and 2024

Researchers used satellite data to verify that global warming is causing earlier spring leaf flush in Japan. The study found that high temperatures in 2023 and 2024 led to a 3-7 day shift in the start of season, with some regions experiencing an 9-day earlier onset.

Students develop novel plan for low-cost hypersonic research

A team of UVA engineering students is testing a novel, low-cost design for hypersonic research using a miniature spacecraft technology. If successful, the project could save millions of dollars per test flight and pave the way for future academic research in hypersonic flight.

SwRI-led PUNCH mission instruments collect first images

The PUNCH mission has successfully collected its first images of the solar corona using four small spacecraft that act as a single virtual instrument. The images show the outer atmosphere of the Sun in stunning detail, with scientists aiming to remove background light and preserve the faint signal of the solar wind.

Technologies to mitigate space debris and improve in-orbit satellite services

PERSEI Space's technology uses electrodynamic tethers to de-orbit satellites without fuel, increasing efficiency and reducing space debris. The company is leading a demonstration mission for 2026 to test its equipment.

Existing international law can help secure peace and security in outer space, study shows

A recent study by Chris O'Meara from the University of Exeter Law School argues that existing laws can be used to limit when and how states may lawfully target satellites using ASAT technologies. This could help address pressing international concerns regarding space militarization and the fear of wars between states.

Graz University of Technology uses communication satellites to survey the earth

Scientists can now utilize communication signals from mega-constellations to track changes in the Earth's gravitational field and observe weather phenomena like heavy rain or sea level changes in real time. The accuracy of this method is currently limited to 54 meters, but researchers aim to improve it to just a few meters.

NASA’s Ezie launching to study magnetic fingerprints of Earth’s aurora

The EZIE mission will use a new measurement technique to study the electrojets, which can create large magnetic disturbances and power outages. By mapping the electrojets' structure and evolution, scientists hope to improve predictions of hazardous space weather.

Heriot-Watt scientists to develop next-generation satellite user terminal for affordable global connectivity

The MAMUT project aims to deliver a compact, lightweight, and energy-efficient terminal designed for use in static, mobile, and autonomous applications. The terminal will connect with multi-orbit satellites to provide high-speed internet access, enhancing global configurability and reducing costs.

U-M astronomy will lead its first satellite mission with NASA grant

The University of Michigan Department of Astronomy will launch its first space mission in 2029 with a $10 million NASA grant. The STARI mission aims to demonstrate a new technique for studying exoplanets, which could help search for life beyond our solar system.

MIT engineers develop a fully 3D-printed electrospray engine

MIT engineers have developed a fully 3D-printed electrospray engine that can be produced rapidly and at a lower cost than traditional thrusters. The device generates stable and uniform flow of propellant, producing as much or more thrust than existing droplet-emitting electrospray engines.

A Sustainable Development Goal for space?

Experts propose an 18th SDG to protect Earth's orbit from accumulating debris, citing the need for global consensus and mechanisms for enforcement. The proposal builds on earlier calls for a legally-binding treaty to safeguard the planet's orbital environment.

Astronomers close to solving mystery of how universe’s giant galaxies formed

Scientists have discovered birth sites of gigantic elliptical galaxies, suggesting large gas flows and galaxy collisions created these ancient systems. The research, published in Nature, may finally unravel the enigma of how these giant galaxies formed.

NASA data reveals role of green spaces in cooling cities

A study using NASA satellite data found that cities in the Global South have significantly less green space and cooling capacity than those in the Global North, with an average of 70% less cooling capacity. This compounds existing problems, as cities in the South are predicted to see more heat extremes due to lower latitudes.

New AI tool generates realistic satellite images of future flooding

A new AI tool generates realistic satellite images of future flooding, which can help communities visualize and prepare for approaching storms. The method combines a generative artificial intelligence model with a physics-based flood model, producing more accurate and realistic images than an AI-only approach.

UPV/EHU submits algorithm for mapping burnt areas on a global scale

A team of researchers at UPV/EHU has created an algorithm to map burnt areas on a global scale, detecting fires as small as 250 meters. The method uses data from various satellites and achieves a higher resolution than existing systems.

GPS jamming? No problem, LEO satellites hold the key to resilient, interference-free navigation

A new study from the University of Vaasa explores advanced positioning technologies, including a patented LEO satellite-based method that outperforms traditional GNSS systems in addressing location vulnerability issues. The research demonstrates significant advancements in both indoor and outdoor positioning accuracy.

Longer orbital repeats of satellite altimetry may provide better understanding of inland waters

Researchers found that satellite altimetry missions with longer orbital repeats can provide a clearer understanding of regional and global hydrological cycles. This is because these missions sample lakes several times more frequently, revealing broader perspectives on lake variations across entire regions.

How special is the Milky Way Galaxy?

The SAGA Survey has found that the Milky Way Galaxy appears to be an outlier in terms of its satellite galaxies, having acquired only two large satellites recently compared to other systems. The survey also explores the mechanisms that would stop star formation in these small galaxies, finding that environmental factors play a role.

Simple shift could make low Earth orbit satellites high capacity

Researchers developed a system to effectively split transmissions from a single antenna array into multiple beams without additional hardware, allowing satellites to overcome the one-to-one user ratio. This enables significant reductions in cost and power consumption, potentially leading to fewer satellites, smaller satellites, or both.

Lift off for new course as part of £2.1M funding to address skills gap in UK space sector

A new course launched with funding from the UK Space Agency to address the growing skills gap in software, data, and AI for the UK space sector. The Securing the future of space: Space Software and Data/AI CPD programme will equip mid-career professionals with expertise in AI and data-science.

Insights from satellite data pave the way to better solar power generation

Researchers analyzed satellite data to understand solar irradiance variability in the Asia Pacific region, revealing optimal locations for solar power plants and distribution strategies to minimize fluctuations. The study's findings will help plan for sustainable energy technologies and combat climate change.

Sichuan Province earthquake offers lessons for landslide prediction from GNSS observations

Researchers tested GNSS data for rapid landslide prediction and found near real-time prediction possible within 40 minutes, according to Chen and colleagues. The study highlighted the importance of continuous monitoring and improved prediction models for regions susceptible to landslides.

BDS High-precision service: current state, achievements, and future directions

The BeiDou system's high-precision services have achieved decimeter-level accuracy within minutes, enhancing global coverage and convergence time for autonomous driving, robotic navigation, and smart city infrastructures. A proposed LEO constellation can improve positioning accuracy to better than 5 cm within one minute, overcoming cur...

Machine learning could aid efforts to answer long-standing astrophysical questions

Scientists have developed a machine learning program that can identify blobs of plasma in outer space known as plasmoids. The program will analyze data from NASA's Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission to better understand magnetic reconnection and its effects on the electrical grid.

Satellite “megaconstellations” may jeopardize recovery of ozone hole

The launch of thousands of satellites may jeopardize the recovery of the ozone hole. Aluminum oxides, formed when old satellites burn up in Earth's atmosphere, destroy stratospheric ozone. A new study estimates that by 2027, every year will release around 912 metric tons of aluminum into space.

Fighting fires from space in record time: how AI could prevent devastating wildfires

Australian scientists have developed an AI-powered system to detect bushfires from space, reducing detection time by 500 times compared to traditional methods. The system uses hyperspectral imagery and onboard AI to identify fire smoke before it takes hold, allowing for faster responses and preventing loss of life and property.

How a multi-lens telescope enables daytime astronomy observations

Astronomers at Macquarie University have successfully tested a new technique for observing celestial objects during the day using the Huntsman Telescope. The array of camera lenses can accurately measure stars, satellites, and other targets even when the Sun is high overhead, allowing continual monitoring of bright stars like Betelgeuse.