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US Moves to Ease Satellite Power Limits, Boosting Space Broadband

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The Federal Communications Commission is preparing to relax long-standing power limits on satellite spectrum usage, a move expected to significantly enhance space-based broadband services.

The proposed rule changes, scheduled for a vote on April 30, would allow more intensive use of wireless spectrum for satellite operations. According to the FCC, this could increase broadband capacity by up to seven times current levels, enabling faster speeds, lower latency and improved reliability.

The decision is seen as a major boost for companies such as SpaceX and its Starlink network, which already operates the world’s largest satellite constellation with over 10,000 satellites.

Current regulations, dating back to the 1990s, impose strict limits on transmission power. Regulators argue that these constraints are outdated and restrict the performance of next-generation satellite systems. The FCC estimates the updated framework could generate up to $2 billion in economic benefits.

The changes are particularly relevant for rural and remote areas, where satellite broadband often serves as the primary connectivity option. Higher power levels would allow stronger signals and more consistent service in underserved regions.

However, the proposal has drawn opposition from competitors such as Viasat and DirecTV, which have raised concerns about potential signal interference and orbital congestion.

SpaceX has argued that current rules unnecessarily constrain innovation and limit service quality for millions of users. The company has also been expanding its network, including approval earlier this year to deploy thousands of additional next-generation satellites.

If adopted, the regulatory shift would mark a structural change in satellite communications policy, potentially accelerating the global expansion of space-based internet services and intensifying competition in the broadband market.

German Startup’s Space Rocket Explodes After Takeoff from Norway

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A test launch by the German space startup Isar Aerospace ended in failure on Sunday, with its Spectrum rocket exploding 40 seconds after liftoff from Norway’s Andøya Spaceport. The uncrewed rocket, designed for small and medium-sized satellites, was a part of an initial test intended to kickstart satellite launches from Europe, aiming to compete in the growing commercial space market.

The Spectrum rocket, which had no payload on its maiden flight, was designed to carry satellites weighing up to one metric tonne into orbit. Despite the failure, Isar Aerospace emphasized that the test generated valuable data to improve future launches. The company had previously warned that the first launch might end prematurely.

The test launch marked a significant step toward Europe’s ambition to establish a stronger presence in space exploration, especially as the continent seeks to reduce reliance on global space giants like SpaceX and ArianeGroup. Europe’s aspirations include ensuring greater autonomy in satellite launches, with countries like Sweden, the UK, and Norway working on establishing their own spaceports.

Despite the setback, industry observers, including the German aerospace association BDLI, remain optimistic. BDLI Managing Director Marie-Christine von Hahn highlighted the need for European sovereignty in space to provide alternatives to Musk’s Starlink service.

Isar Aerospace is among several European companies vying for a share of the satellite launch market, with rivals such as Sweden’s Esrange and the UK’s SaxaVord Spaceport also working on their first orbital missions. Isar’s next steps will be closely watched as it continues to refine its space launch technology.

NASA’s Lunar Trailblazer Faces Power and Communication Challenges

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NASA’s Lunar Trailblazer, a small satellite designed to map water ice on the Moon, is facing significant technical challenges following its launch on February 26. The spacecraft, developed as part of a collaboration between NASA and Caltech, has lost contact with ground control and is experiencing power shortages. Prior to losing signal, engineering data indicated that the probe was slowly spinning in space, which has compromised its ability to generate enough power from its solar panels. Despite ongoing recovery efforts, no signal has been received in over a week.

NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) reported that ground-based radar data from March 2 suggests Lunar Trailblazer remains in a low-power state. Efforts to locate and reestablish communication with the spacecraft include utilizing NASA’s Deep Space Network and other observatories to track its position. The loss of contact has prevented the satellite from executing its post-launch trajectory correction maneuvers, which are crucial for reaching and maintaining a stable lunar orbit. Engineers are exploring alternative recovery strategies in hopes of salvaging the mission.

Lunar Trailblazer is part of NASA’s SIMPLEx (Small Innovative Missions for Planetary Exploration) program, which prioritizes cost-effective missions while accepting a higher level of operational risk. Built by Lockheed Martin, the 200-kilogram spacecraft was designed to detect and map lunar water ice by analyzing reflected light. Mission operations are managed by Caltech, with Lockheed Martin providing technical assistance. The first signs of trouble emerged shortly after deployment, when communication was initially lost on February 27. A brief signal was received later, but sustained contact has not been reestablished.

The ongoing difficulties with Lunar Trailblazer highlight the challenges of operating small satellites in deep space. While cost-effective, such missions can face significant risks, particularly when relying on limited power sources and autonomous systems. The situation remains uncertain, but recovery efforts continue in the hope of restoring communication and enabling the spacecraft to fulfill its mission objectives.