Tianwen-2 arrives at asteroid Kamo'oalewa, releases first close-up image
CNSA probe reached 20 km distance July 2-6; begins scientific exploration of quasi-moon asteroid.
Tuesday, July 7, 2026
Tianwen-2 arrives at asteroid Kamo'oalewa, releases first close-up image — Tuesday, July 7, 2026
Swift telescope rescue spacecraft launched; China's Tianwen-2 reaches asteroid with first images; novel superconducting thruster completes orbital tests. No significant new developments in the space sector were identified in the last 24–48 hours.
Biggest developments
Superconducting magnet space thruster completes first orbital tests
Novel thruster technology demonstrated in orbit, per recent reports.
Katalyst LINK spacecraft launches to rescue NASA's Swift observatory
Pegasus XL rocket launched LINK satellite July 3 to rendezvous with and boost the decaying Swift telescope.
Bullish takes
- Successful launch of first commercial satellite rescue mission
- China's Tianwen-2 begins asteroid sample return phase operations
- New propulsion tech validated in space
Critical takes
- Space debris spheres reported on Queensland beaches prompting warnings
Why this matters
Active orbital interventions and deep space arrivals signal maturing commercial and international capabilities.