Virgin plans big numbers, small satellites and low launch costs.

Remerging from bankruptcy, LightSquared has its sights set on proving its hybrid terrestrial/satellite communications network can coexist with GPS, rekindling debate over harmful interference.

Lab tests show potential of power-beamed thruster to be more efficient than conventional chemical rocket, potentially enabling a fully reusable spaceplane launch vehicle.

Reusability is the focus for SpaceX, ULA, Airbus and others to make space transport more affordable, but they all take different approaches to reach the same goal

"The vehicle is now safely docked to the International Space Station," said Kyle Herring, NASA public affairs officer, positioned in the agency's Mission Control Center.

The exuberance was palpable at APL as employees watched the fruits of their labor on the New Horizons Pluto mission unfold before them, underscoring the sense of awe and wonder of space exploration.