Masten Space Systems, a Mojave, California, pioneer of the modern era of new-space startups, has been sold and will combine with Astrobotic, another startup targeting a predicted lunar logistics marketplace.

Supply chain, radio and software delays as well as a contract protest contributed to a three-month delay in a planned launch of Space Development Agency satellites.

NASA is seeking proposals for the third and fourth agency-sponsored private astronaut missions to the International Space Station set for launches in late 2023 and 2024, a Sept. 14 solicitation notice says.

Gomspace and Aerospacelab, two manufacturers of nano and microsatellites, are taking steps to increase the proportion of standardized content in their products, aiming for higher quality and lower cost.

Arianespace is considering increasing Ariane 6’s launch cadence beyond an annual 10-11 after 2026, CEO Stephane Israel says.

Sierra Space recently conducted a burst test of a subscale version of its Large Inflatable Flexible Environment habitat.

Thomas Zurbuchen, a Swiss-American astrophysicist, plans to retire as associate administrator of the NASA Science Mission Directorate at year’s end.

Flight control teams continue to address solar power and attitude control issues associated with the NASA-funded Cislunar Autonomous Positioning System Technology Operations and Navigation Experiment.