This past year has been thrilling for space exploration, and as we look to 2026, the excitement only grows. Space agencies and companies are set to break new ground with fascinating missions. Here’s a rundown of what’s on the agenda for 2026 that you won’t want to miss.
The first major event will be the debut of SpaceX’s Starship Version 3 in early 2026. This rocket is the most powerful ever built and aims to take astronauts back to the Moon, launch new satellites, and lay the groundwork for Mars missions. It will be slightly taller than its predecessor, boasting improved propellant capacity and features for in-orbit refueling. NASA’s Artemis 3 mission will rely on a tweaked version of this rocket for lunar landings. Given past challenges with rocket launches, we can expect a mix of successes and learning experiences during its initial flights.
Next, we have Blue Origin’s Blue Moon Pathfinder Mission 1, launching in early 2026. This mission is crucial as Blue Origin develops two lunar landers, with the first being a cargo carrier set for a groundbreaking flight at the Moon’s south pole. The Blue Moon Mark 1 is pivotal in demonstrating the necessary technologies for future lunar exploration, including carrying important NASA payloads for scientific research.
Later in the spring, NASA will launch its Artemis 2 mission. This mission will take a crew of four astronauts on a 10-day journey around the Moon—marking our farthest journey from Earth since the Apollo missions. It won’t land on the Moon but will set the stage for future landings under Artemis 3. This mission will also make history by sending the first woman and a person of color to the Moon’s vicinity.
In May, Vast will launch Haven-1, the first commercial space station. While it won’t replace the International Space Station, it marks a significant step toward a future with private orbiting habitats, supporting short missions for astronauts.
NASA is also gearing up for the SunRISE mission in summer 2026, which involves six small satellites working together to study solar activity. This mission aims to improve our understanding of solar storms that can affect power grids and communication on Earth.
In August, China’s Chang’e 7 mission will attempt a lunar landing to explore the Moon’s south pole, focusing on resource identification. This mission could give China an edge in lunar resource extraction, particularly important water-ice.
Later in the year, ESA’s Hera mission is set to arrive at the asteroid Dimorphos in November. Following NASA’s DART mission, which tested asteroid deflection, Hera will study the aftermath to improve our planetary defense strategies.
Also in November, the BepiColombo mission will arrive at Mercury. It aims to unravel the mysteries of this planet with two orbiters that will study its surface and magnetic field.
In late 2026, Sierra Space plans to launch Dream Chaser, a unique spaceplane designed for cargo missions. Combining the features of an airplane and a spacecraft, it aims for return landings similar to a conventional jet.
Finally, the JAXA Martian Moons Exploration mission will launch in late 2026, targeting Martian moons Deimos and Phobos for detailed study and sample return. This mission could inform future Mars exploration.
These events signify an exciting time in space exploration. As these missions unfold, they offer a glimpse of what’s to come, paving the way for both scientific discovery and the potential for human presence beyond Earth. With advancements in technology and collaboration among nations and private companies, the future of spaceflight looks brighter than ever.
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