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

Jul 31, 2026
The U.S. Space Force is kicking off a decade-long program for testing and training infrastructure, and has tapped 15 companies for the contractor pool.
Jul 30, 2026
NASA plans an Aug. 6 spacewalk to prepare for the installation of power-augmenting Roll Out Solar Arrays on the International Space Station.
Jul 29, 2026
True Anomaly completed the first spacecraft pursuit phase of the U.S. Space Force's Victus Haze demonstration mission.
Jul 29, 2026
The solar-powered X721 Heliblade high-altitude pseudo satellite (HAPS) has completed its first flight in France.
Jul 28, 2026
Rocket Factory Augsburg delayed RFA One hotfire testing after discovering unspecified issues during launch pad preparations.
Jul 28, 2026
With the launch of Northrop Grumman’s Mission Robotic Vehicle, in-space servicing finally appears to be on the brink of a breakout moment.
Jul 22, 2026
Pioneering astronaut Eileen Collins pays tribute to a pioneering aviator who opened the door for female flyers.
Jul 21, 2026
Reusable rocketry might soon extend beyond the U.S., as China and Japan each approach operational capability.