Daily Summary
Japan's Astroscale is partnering with Indian space firms to provide on-orbit debris removal services, marking its first expansion outside Japan into the broader Asia-Pacific market. A newly identified asteroid, 2024 YR4, highlights ongoing concerns about potential Earth impacts, reinforcing the need for advanced and well-funded asteroid detection systems despite budget challenges. Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump's win is expected to shape NASA’s agenda by refocusing efforts on lunar exploration and other advanced technologies while continuing increased funding and new leadership initiatives.
Japan's Astroscale Teams Up with India's Digantara and Bellatrix Aerospace
Japanese firm Astroscale has partnered with India's Digantara and Bellatrix Aerospace to offer orbital debris removal services and bid for Indian clients within one to two years. This marks a significant move as India liberalizes its space sector.
Trump's Win and Its Impact on NASA's Future
Trump's win is set to further reshape NASA's agenda by emphasizing the Artemis program, enhanced funding, and deeper ties with commercial space enterprises, while also prompting controversial policy changes.
So About That Asteroid That Could Hit Earth…
The 1908 Tunguska event underscores the potential devastation of asteroid impacts, and asteroid 2024 YR4 remains under close study for its possible threat in December 2032, with recent assessments providing mixed probability estimates.