ISS National Lab Launches 2026 Orbital Edge Accelerator to Scale Space-Based R&D
ISS National Laboratory launched the 2026 Orbital Edge Accelerator, connecting startups with in-orbit validation and private capital. Participants can receive $500,000 to $750,000 in funding from partners like Stellar Ventures and compete for the $100,000 Boeing-sponsored Technology in Space Prize. The program aims to commercialize space-enabled technologies through mentorship and ISS access.
Astronauts photograph Lyrid meteor shower from ISS | Space photo of the day for April 21, 2026
NASA astronaut Jessica Meir photographed the Lyrid meteor shower from the International Space Station (ISS) on April 20, 2026. The shower peaks overnight from April 21 to April 22, producing 15 to 20 meteors per hour. Meir's image highlights Earth's thin atmosphere and the stunning view of meteors streaking through it, showcasing a unique perspective from space.
To Survive Deep Space, Astronauts May Owe a Debt to Microscopic Worms
C. elegans nematode worms launched aboard NASA's Northrop Grumman CRS-24 mission on April 11, 2026, to the International Space Station (ISS) for the Fluorescent Deep Space Petri-Pods project. Funded by the UK Space Agency, these worms will endure microgravity and cosmic radiation for 15 weeks, aiding research on biological adaptation in space environments.
Axiom Space’s Suit Set to Fly in 2027
Axiom Space announced its space suit is set for an in-space test in 2026, with potential deployment on Artemis III or the ISS. The suit features specialized boots for lunar and station environments. CEO Jonathan Cirtain emphasized the responsibility of being NASA's sole suit provider amid increasing competition. Partnerships include Prada and Gu Energy Labs for design and astronaut nutrition.
Voyager wins slot to fly tourist mission to ISS in 2028
Voyager Technologies has secured a slot for the VOYG-1 tourist mission to the ISS in 2028, expected to last 14 days. This mission will involve training with NASA and international partners. Voyager leads the consortium developing Starlab, which will launch on SpaceX's Starship. Other commercial stations like Axiom and Vast also plan ISS missions.
Space Station captures, berths Cygnus XL ’S.S. Steven R. Nagel’ cargo spacecraft
SpaceX's Falcon 9 successfully launched the Cygnus XL S.S. Steven R. Nagel cargo spacecraft from Cape Canaveral on April 11. The spacecraft was captured by the ISS's Canadarm2 on April 13 at 12:19 pm CT, facilitating resupply operations. This mission underscores the ongoing collaboration between commercial launch providers and NASA for ISS logistics and support.
Falcon 9 launches Cygnus cargo spacecraft to the ISS
Falcon 9 launched the NG-24 Cygnus XL spacecraft on April 11, deploying it into low Earth orbit for Northrop Grumman's ISS resupply mission. The spacecraft, carrying 5,000 kg of cargo, is scheduled to arrive at the ISS on April 13. This mission continues Northrop's reliance on Falcon 9 following the retirement of its Antares 230+ rocket.
Launch Preview: Falcon 9 to loft Cygnus to ISS, Minotaur IV to launch from California
NASA's Artemis II mission progresses as Falcon 9 prepares to launch the Cygnus spacecraft to the ISS. This mission highlights ongoing advancements in crewed spaceflight and resupply operations. Additionally, the Minotaur IV is set for a launch from California, further demonstrating the diverse capabilities of current launch vehicles in supporting various missions.