Rocket Report: Chinese launch firm raises big money; Falcon 9 back to the Bahamas
Ars Technica
by
Stephen Clark
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) is undergoing a critical countdown rehearsal at Kennedy Space Center as engineers work to resolve issues with its core stage fueling system. A recent hydrogen leak during an earlier test has cast doubt over whether the Artemis II mission, set to orbit the Moon in September, will meet its target or face delays until April 2024. This high-stakes testing phase is crucial for determining if the SLS can successfully support NASA's ambitious lunar exploration plans.
Meanwhile, global space competition is heating up as several nations invest heavily in their own launch capabilities. Countries like Australia, Canada, Germany, and Spain are channeling significant government funding into commercial space startups to establish domestic launch industries. These investments reflect a growing recognition that independent access to space is essential for national security, especially amid rising tensions with major space powers.
The broader implications of these developments highlight the evolving nature of space exploration and its strategic importance in the modern era. As more nations seek to reduce reliance on dominant players like the U.S. and China, the commercial launch sector is poised for significant growth. This shift not only promises to enhance global satellite deployment capabilities but also underscores the increasing role of technology and innovation in shaping international priorities.
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Originally published on Ars Technica on 2/20/2026