Operations & Safety

Space operations have accelerated to unprecedented levels as commercial service providers ramp up their business plans. Ensuring space operations safety is paramount for the long-term viability and sustainability of space activities. Space situational awareness plays a critical role in maintaining physical safety by tracking and avoiding potential collisions between spacecraft, orbital debris, and other objects in Earth's orbit. Effective space traffic management systems are essential for collision avoidance during launch and on-orbit operations. Space weather monitoring is another crucial aspect of space safety, as solar flares and geomagnetic storms can disrupt communications and pose risks to both spacecraft and astronauts. Implementing robust space debris mitigation strategies, such as deorbiting defunct satellites and rocket bodies, helps preserve the space environment for future generations. Ultimately, adhering to space safety standards and space sustainability practices is vital for ensuring the responsible and long-term utilization of the space domain.

News & Analysis

Nov 05, 2026
Two astronauts completed a 5 1/2-year effort on Nov. 5 to augment the International Space Station’s solar power generation during a 7-hr. spacewalk.
Nov 05, 2026
As Russia shadows a commercial satellite in orbit, a new U.S. government report warns that growing adversary cooperation is reshaping space security.
Nov 04, 2026
NASA’s Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory re-entered Earth’s atmosphere early Nov. 4.
Nov 04, 2026
The Pentagon issues a $150 million conditional loan to space tracker LeoLabs to expand its global radar network and accelerate mobile Scout unit deployment.
Nov 04, 2026
NASA's lunar landing training program focuses on managing mental overload, sensory miscues and communications during risky vertical flight profiles.
Nov 02, 2026
NASA’s Neil Gehrels Swift observatory is likely to reenter the Earth’s atmosphere at 3:30 a.m. EST on Nov. 4, the agency says.
Oct 30, 2026
NASA will wrap up its second Crew Health and Performance Analog life on Mars simulation on the grounds of Johnson Space Center on Oct. 31.
Oct 30, 2026
The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency plans to attempt the first roundtrip mission to Mars.