Interstellar Technologies receives Japanese government funding for its Zero rocket program, with JAXA supporting development under the Space Strategic Fund. NASA's Space Launch System lifts off for the Artemis II mission to the Moon, targeting April 1, 2026. Blue Origin reveals a new kick stage and engine design for New Glenn, delaying its return-to-flight from December to January while reconstructing a wrecked launch pad at Cape Canaveral after a catastrophic explosion.
Three former Space X vets founded Argo Space, building water-propelled satellites that use hydrogen and oxygen generated from liquid water in orbit. Argo's first mission failed in July due to solar array non-deployment, with two more scheduled for 2027. Interstellar previously raised over $250 million, with roughly equivalent government and private capital, aiming for a 2027 Zero rocket launch.
Quilty Space reports significant global rocket shortages outside China, outpacing launch demand.
Source: Ars Technica · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing