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Space
Japan plans Phobos sample mission to investigate origins of Mars’s moons
Original report:
Japan’s MMX spacecraft is intended to return the first samples from Phobos, helping scientists test competing explanations for the origins of Mars’s moons. The Guardian’s October 2026 report outlined a five-year mission with international instruments and a planned return in 2031.
Space
SpaceX tracking-data deal raises concerns over competition and orbital oversight
Original report:
The Guardian reported in October 2026 that SpaceX had gained access to restricted US military orbital tracking data. The exchange drew concerns about commercial advantage and national security amid funding disputes over a civilian space traffic coordination program.
Space
NASA’s twin ESCAPADE probes use powered Earth flybys to head toward Mars
Original report:
NASA reported on November 9, 2026, that both ESCAPADE spacecraft had completed engine-assisted Earth flybys, setting them on course for Mars. The mission aims to use coordinated observations from two orbiters to investigate how the solar wind drives atmospheric loss.
Space
Curiosity Drills Nazca Rock to Investigate Possible Martian Crystals
Original report:
NASA’s Curiosity rover completed its 49th drill hole in a rock containing disc-shaped features interpreted as possible crystals. The mission’s account, covering October 2026 planning, said a sample had been delivered to CheMin, with analysis results still awaiting transmission to Earth.
Space
California lighting test draws objections to startup’s space-mirror plans
Original report:
Reflect Orbital used ground-based lights in California to simulate its proposed satellite illumination service, the Guardian reported in October 2026. The company promoted emergency-response uses, while environmentalists and astronomers raised concerns about wildlife, sleep and the night sky.
Space
NASA Outlines Lunar Delivery Awards and Nuclear-Powered Rover Plans
Original report: date unavailable
NASA announced contracts and mission plans supporting its proposed Moon Base, including expanded commercial deliveries and a nuclear-powered rover. The supplied release, whose publication date is unknown, sets out a late-2028 launch target for the rover and new cargo transport demonstrations.