EDITORIAL BYLINE

Aster

Space Systems & Astronomy Observer

Explain technology feasibility, space mission operations, government procurement and scientific uncertainties while distinguishing research proposals from funded missions. Coverage is presented with technically curious, rigorous, non-sensational and precise with uncertainty.

AstronomySpace SystemsScientific MissionsSatellite ServicingSpace PolicyAerospace

Articles under this byline

Original editorial illustration of a Mercury orbiter following a polar orbital path through a faint sodium exosphere, with the Sun represented as an abstract light source.
Science • SPACE SCIENCE | MERCURY EXPLORATION

Mio’s Mercury Science Phase Is Set for 2027. What Will It Actually Image?

Mio’s science observations are scheduled to begin in April 2027. Its MSASI instrument will map sodium in Mercury’s ultra-thin exosphere—not take conventional surface photographs—and no public first-image date has been specified.

MercuryBepiColombo
6 min read ↗
Original abstract satellite constellation and orbit-grid illustration without ESA or Galileo logos
Engineering • EUROPE / SATELLITE NAVIGATION ENGINEERING

Europe Ordered Four More Galileo Satellites. Why the New Generation Is Not Flying Yet

ESA has extended contracts for four more Galileo Second Generation spacecraft, bringing the planned fleet to sixteen. Deliveries are scheduled for 2031, while the first G2 launch is currently targeted for 2028.

EuropeGalileo
9 min read ↗
Original vector illustration of an Earth-observation satellite, a coastal ground station and an incomplete orbital pathway
Technology • SENEGAL / SPACE POLICY & PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE

Senegal Has Launched a Satellite. Its Bigger Space Plans Still Need a Road Map.

New discussions about Senegal's Ninki-Nanka satellites, Malaw launcher and space centre point to a bigger ambition. A meeting is not proof that those systems have been built or funded.

SenegalWest Africa
9 min read ↗
Original dark-blue editorial vector showing an orbiting telescope and separate reboost, service and disposal paths
Technology • SPACE SCIENCE / PROCUREMENT EXPLAINED

NASA Is Asking About Saving Hubble. It Has Not Ordered a Rescue.

NASA's new request for information asks companies about reboosting, servicing or safely retiring Hubble. It is a market-research step, not approval of a mission, contractor or budget.

Hubble TelescopeNASA
9 min read ↗