NASA

TAMPA, Fla. — International space agencies stressed the importance of partnerships with the United States and each other at the Space Symposium April 9, as geopolitical shifts and an escalating trade war challenge the space industry.The annual gathering in Colorado Springs, Colorado, came at a time when heightened tensions between major space powers are creating uncertainty over future collaborations and investments.Agency leaders emphasized that strong, cooperative relationships are essential for achieving ambitious missions and ensuring space remains a peaceful domain for exploration and commerce.Representatives from Germany, Japan, France, Israel, Australia and India highlighted the critical role of shared innovation, scientific research and infrastructure as they outlined vision...

A small spacecraft earlier this year successfully demonstrated edge autonomy — or the capability of a satellite to analyze data and make decisions independently without waiting for instructions from ground control.The demonstration was conducted by Arlington, Virginia-based startups NOVI and Sedaro. NOVI, which specializes in edge computing systems that leverage AI and machine learning algorithms for satellite intelligence, built the spacecraft for an undisclosed U.S. government customer. The satellite launched to low Earth orbit on SpaceX’s Transporter-12 rideshare mission Jan. 14, with most of the demonstration activities completed in February.To perform autonomous operations, the spacecraft’s onboard computer uplinked Sedaro’s mission and system simulation software, which f...

WASHINGTON — Airbus Defence and Space will build the landing platform for the European Space Agency’s ExoMars rover, replacing a critical component originally to be provided by Russia.Airbus announced late March 28 (Eastern time) that it was selected by ESA and Thales Alenia Space, the prime contractor for the mission, to build the landing platform for that rover mission, scheduled to launch in 2028.The landing platform is the part of the ExoMars spacecraft that handles the final phases of its descent to the Martian surface in 2030, including performing the final landing burn. After landing, the platform will deploy ramps to allow the ExoMars rover, named Rosalind Franklin, to roll onto the Martian surface.Airbus did not disclose the value of the contract. ESA awarded a contract wor...