New Horizons tracks solar wind slowdown as interstellar atoms add drag
SwRI study using New Horizons SWAP data shows solar wind 13-15% slower at 58 AU due to pickup ions and interstellar material.
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
New Horizons tracks solar wind slowdown as interstellar atoms add drag — Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Rocket Lab announces $8B Iridium acquisition; New Horizons data shows solar wind slowdown; ISS spacewalk repairs Canadarm2 robotic arm. No significant new developments in the space sector reported in the last 24–48 hours.
Biggest developments
Astronauts begin spacewalk to repair Canadarm2 robotic arm
Chris Williams and Jessica Meir exit ISS at 8:20 a.m. EDT June 30 to replace malfunctioning wrist joint on Canadarm2.
Rocket Lab to acquire Iridium in $8 billion deal
Rocket Lab struck an $8 billion deal to acquire Iridium Communications, gaining spectrum, subscribers and vertical integration to challenge SpaceX.
Bullish takes
- Rocket Lab-Iridium deal creates vertically integrated space powerhouse with spectrum and recurring revenue
Why this matters
Industry consolidation and continued robotic/ISS operations signal maturing commercial and exploration capabilities.