SLATS – Spaceflight Now

June 29, 2026

Breaking News

[ June 28, 2026 ] SpaceX launches 7.5-ton SiriusXM satellite as part of constellation refresh Falcon 9
[ June 28, 2026 ] SpaceX launches Starlink satellites from Vandenberg Space Force Base Falcon 9
[ June 24, 2026 ] West Coast Falcon 9 launch continues expansion of SpaceX’s Starlink network Falcon 9
[ June 23, 2026 ] NASA, Boeing committed to Starliner-1 launch despite unclear timeline Mission Reports
[ June 23, 2026 ] SpaceX launches reentry capsule demo mission called ‘Starfall’ Falcon 9

Japanese satellite re-enters atmosphere after experiments in ultra-low orbit

October 15, 2019 Stephen Clark

An experimental Japanese satellite has ended its mission after proving it could operate at super-low altitudes, testing an Earth-imaging camera and using ion propulsion to fight against aerodynamic drag at an altitude of 112 miles.

Japanese H-2A rocket lifts off with two satellites

December 22, 2017 Stephen Clark

Two research satellites to probe Earth’s climate patterns and test ion engine technology to counter atmospheric drag in an unusual low-altitude orbit launched Saturday on top of a Japanese H-2A rocket.