Weekly Space Report

Poland’s IGNIS Mission Finally Begins on the ISS

Poland’s first tech – science mission to the ISS began when ESA astronaut Sławosz Uznański‑Wiśniewski docked aboard Axiom’s Crew Dragon.

On 26 June 2025, ESA project astronaut Sławosz Uznański‑Wiśniewski reached the International Space Station aboard the Axiom Mission 4 Dragon spacecraft, marking the initiation of PLINSPACE’s IGNIS mission—Poland’s inaugural technology – oriented scientific venture in collaboration with ESA. This milestone represents a pivotal moment in Polish space history, signaling Poland’s transition from a spectator to an active contributor in manned orbital research .

A defining moment for Poland – this mission aims to inspire a new generation and stakes the country’s claim in space-based innovation.

Updates on mission are available here.

ICEYE to Supply Dutch Air Force with SAR Satellites

ICEYE will deliver four SAR satellites and ground systems to the Royal Netherlands Air Force, creating the first Dutch military space program.

On 23 June 2025, ICEYE and the Royal Netherlands Air Force signed a contract under which ICEYE will supply a sovereign ISR solution: four high-resolution (25 cm) SAR satellites, both fixed and mobile ground stations with antenna infrastructure, and an AI-driven imagery intelligence hub. Remarkably, the first system component will be delivered within just four months of contract signing.

EU Space Act: Harmonising Regulations & Protecting Space Infrastructure

The European Commission unveiled the EU Space Act to unify space regulations, enhance debris management, and boost resilience across the bloc.

Launched on 26 June 2025, the EU Space Act seeks to harmonize Europe’s fragmented space laws from 12+ national regimes by establishing unified rules across safety, resilience, and sustainability. Measures include mandatory collision avoidance, satellite position-data sharing, cybersecurity requirements, lifecycle risk assessments, and environmental impact evaluations. The new rules apply equally to EU and non-EU operators serving European users.

A strategic leap for Europe – by balancing innovation with rigorous oversight, the Act preserves orbital safety while empowering the continent’s emerging space economy.

More information and full text are available here.

NATO Accelerates Defence, Space, and Innovation Strategies

In June 2025, NATO released its Updated Defence Production Plan, first Commercial Space Strategy, and Rapid Adoption Action Plan.

The production plan aims to boost defence output through long-term orders and clearer demand signals. The space strategy streamlines cooperation with commercial providers to ensure access in crisis and conflict. Meanwhile, the innovation plan fast-tracks new tech adoption with faster procurement and real-world testing.

A bold pivot toward agility and innovation – NATO is aligning its industrial base and tech priorities with the demands of today’s security environment

The Strategy is available here.