Daily Summary
Amazon is set to launch the first 27 Kuiper internet satellites on April 9, 2025, marking the start of its plan to deploy over 3,000 satellites for global internet service, directly challenging SpaceX’s Starlink. Meanwhile, NASA has extended the mission of two astronauts, delaying their return until spring 2025 due to launch and spacecraft issues, which has pushed back the replacement crew launch. In related space efforts, NASA updated its Artemis schedule with Artemis II now planned for September 2025 and Artemis III for September 2026, while also revising plans for the Lunar Gateway to align with future missions.
NASA Astronauts Wilmore and Williams Return After Extended 10-Month Mission
NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams had their mission extended to almost 10 months, ultimately returning to Earth on March 18, 2025, due to launch delays and technical issues.
NASA Updates Artemis Mission Timeline and Lunar Gateway Plans
NASA has revised its Artemis mission schedule, now targeting Artemis II for September 2025 and Artemis III for September 2026, while also reassessing the Lunar Gateway launch to better align with future missions.
Amazon Targets April 9 Launch of First Kuiper Internet Satellites
Amazon will launch its first 27 Kuiper internet satellites on April 9, 2025 from Cape Canaveral, marking the start of its ambitious Project Kuiper aimed at challenging SpaceX’s Starlink network.