Steely Newsletter Issue #052 |
Read all about the latest production delays affecting AST SpaceMobile, the impact Artificial Intelligence can have on future satellite technology, why the Pentagon is calling for tighter integration between the military and commercial satellite industries, and so much more! |
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| | Space News | Jason Rainbow | 04-02-2024 AST SpaceMobile, a company developing a network for connecting directly to smartphones via satellite, is facing delays in launching its initial commercial satellites. The launch, originally planned for 2023, has been pushed back to July or August due to production issues with key satellite components. Despite the setback, AST SpaceMobile has secured funding for its first six satellites and a launch contract for a larger, next-generation satellite. The company is also exploring export credit financing to help achieve its goal of deploying a large network by the end of 2026. | Via Satellite | Mark Holmes | 04-01-2024 This podcast features a fireside chat with Tom Mueller, a renowned spacecraft propulsion expert and founder of Impulse Space. At SpaceX, Mueller spearheaded the development of propulsion systems for their launch vehicles and Dragon spacecraft, contributing significantly to reusable rocket technology. The discussion revolves around Impulse Space, a company aiming to revolutionize space travel with vehicles like Mira and Helios for delivering payloads to various destinations. |
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🛡️Satellite Cybersecurity News |
| Space News | Paul Maguire | 04-03-2024 AI advancements democratize access to space and enhance mission efficiency, but also introduce new cybersecurity challenges. On the positive side, AI can autonomously manage spacecraft, optimize satellite communications, and even predict collisions with space debris. This reduces costs and human error. AI also empowers a wider range of participants in space exploration, from universities to private companies. However, the increased use of AI creates vulnerabilities. Adversaries can exploit AI for cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and even manipulate satellite data. To mitigate these risks, robust cybersecurity measures and international cooperation are crucial. Ultimately, nations that effectively leverage AI for both space exploration and cybersecurity will gain a competitive edge. |
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| | Spaceflight Now | Will Robinson-Smith | 04-04-2024 In a busy weekend for SpaceX, the company kicked things off with a Falcon 9 launch from Florida's Cape Canaveral. The Starlink 6-47 mission carried a batch of internet satellites into orbit, with the first stage booster successfully landing on a drone ship after its 14th flight. This launch was just the first of potentially three for SpaceX this weekend. They are also targeting a Starlink mission from California and a rideshare mission carrying multiple small satellites for various companies. The rideshare mission is a first of its kind for SpaceX and highlights the company's growing role in providing launch services for smaller spacecraft. In other company news, a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule is undergoing tests in preparation for the Polaris Dawn astronaut mission later this summer. |
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🏛️US Government Satellite News |
| ARS Technica | Stephen Clark | 04-03-2024 The Pentagon released a new strategy document outlining how the military will leverage the commercial space industry. This strategy aims to identify missions where commercial services can be beneficial and cost-effective. Currently, the military relies heavily on commercial launch providers but seeks to expand this partnership to other areas like satellite communications and surveillance. Integrating commercial capabilities raises questions about how the US will protect these assets and respond to potential attacks. The success of this strategy hinges on close collaboration with commercial space companies during peacetime to ensure seamless operation during conflicts. | Defense News | Courtney Albon | 04-03-2024 The launch of the next Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) satellite by the Space Force is delayed from 2030 to 2031 due to budget reallocation and a longer selection process for a contractor between Lockheed Martin and Boeing. MUOS provides secure and reliable voice and data communication for the military in remote areas. The Space Force is currently developing a long-term strategy to replace the existing MUOS constellation while planning to launch two more satellites to extend its service life until at least 2035. This strategy may involve incorporating commercial satellites into the mix. | C4ISRNET | Courtney Albon | 04-02-2024 The Pentagon plans to increase protection for commercial satellites crucial for national security. This includes potentially using military force to defend these satellites from attacks by hostile nations. The strategy also encourages integrating commercial space capabilities into military operations during peacetime through joint exercises and communication. Financial protections for companies providing such space services are also being explored. The Pentagon hopes this collaboration will make the US military space force more efficient and powerful. |
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