Europe

OHB System AG, a subsidiary of the space and technology group OHB SE, already selected as the project coordinator for ODIN'S EYE II, a space-based early warning system designed to detect and track ballistic and hypersonic missiles, has now been funded: the European Commission, along with the European Defence Fund (EDF), has signed a grant agreement providing EUR 90 million in funding for the project. An industrial consortium, led by Bremen's space experts and comprising 43 companies from 14 European member states, will contribute to the development

OHB System AG has successfully launched two reflector satellites of the SARah reconnaissance system from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket lifted off from Launchpad SLC-4E at 14:11 CET and deployed its two passengers in space on schedule after a flight time of 25 minutes. Shortly afterwards, the operators received signals from the two satellites, kicking off the Launch and Early Orbit Phase (LEOP). 

Teams from Telespazio, ALTEC and Thales Alenia Space successfully completed the first System Validation Tests (SVTs) this week for the European Space Agency’s reusable Space Rider spacecraft. The ground segment tests aim to validate the interfaces between the ground and flight segment elements. This testing is a key aspect of the Space Rider Phase D activities which began last July. 

Ever gazed at the stars and wondered how our interstellar abodes on Mars or the Moon might appear? The mere thought sends a pulse of excitement through us — not just because we imagine these galactic shelters as high-tech wonders, but as life sources in harsh terrains. The design intricacies of these extraterrestrial habitats will be the lifeline for the space pioneers of tomorrow. But let's bring our feet back to our home planet for a moment. How evolved are we in designing homes on Earth that resonate with our holistic well-being and health?

A delegation from the French Space Agency CNES visited Colorado and Texas last week to expand ties between French and American aerospace companies, reported Space News. The officials plan to establish virtual hubs in Denver and Houston for Connect by CNES, a government initiative to spur space-related innovation. 

The European Investment Bank (EIB) and Walloon Region signed a memorandum of understanding on the 18th of December. Elio Di Rupi, the Minister-President, Willy Borsus, the Vice-President and Minister for the Economy, Adrien Dolinont, the Budget Minister signed the agreement with EIB, represented by Kris Peeters, Vice President. 

DCUBED, a German NewSpace hardware manufacturer, and the Hochschule München University of Applied Sciences have been awarded funding for a joint research project by the Bavarian Ministry of Economic Affairs. The funding is part of the Bavarian Space Research Program, through which the state government supports the development of technologies promising to overcome the societal challenges of the future.

SaxaVord Spaceport has received its licence from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), becoming the first licenced vertical launch spaceport in the UK and Western Europe. The award came after extensive assessment by the space regulator to check that appropriate safety, security and environmental criteria are met, and that SaxaVord has suitable infrastructure, equipment and services to accommodate vertical space launches.

Dive into this insightful episode of Space Cafe as Markus Mooslechner engages with Aarti Holla-Maini, the dynamic new director of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA). With a rich background in the satellite communications industry and a passion for space sustainability, Holla-Maini offers a fresh perspective on global space policy and its impact on society. From her personal journey to her bold vision for the future of space exploration, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of space diplomacy and technology.