Explore the most significant space missions and astronomical events from the last ten years. This ranking highlights pivotal achievements in space exploration, including robotic probes, human spaceflight milestones, and groundbreaking discoveries that have advanced our understanding of the universe. Discover missions to Mars, lunar expeditions, telescope launches, and other critical space ventures that have shaped the past decade of space science and technology.
First crewed flight beyond low Earth orbit since 1972
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This mission marks humanity's return to deep space exploration, being the first crewed test flight of the Orion spacecraft and SLS rocket around the Moon. It is a critical step towards establishing a long-term human presence on the Moon and future Mars missions.
World's first sample return mission from Mars region
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This mission is set to obtain the world's first sample return of Martian surface material from Phobos, Mars' moon. It is key to solving mysteries of planetary formation and clarifying the origin of Mars' moons.
Comprehensive study of Mercury's composition, geophysics, atmosphere, and magnetosphere
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This joint ESA/JAXA mission is expected to enter orbit around Mercury in late 2026, providing unprecedented insights into the formation and evolution of Mercury and the inner Solar System. It consists of two orbiters studying the planet's surface, interior, and magnetic field.
Transforms asteroid deflection into a reliable method
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Launched in 2024, Hera is expected to arrive at the double asteroid Didymos in November 2026 to study the effects of NASA's DART impact. This mission is crucial for planetary defense, providing detailed information about asteroid systems.
Has a field of view 300 times wider than Hubble
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Also known as the Chinese Space Station Telescope, Xuntian is planned for launch in 2026 and will co-orbit with the Tiangong Space Station. It features a field of view 300 times larger than Hubble's, significantly advancing astronomy and astrophysics.
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Observes universe in infrared light
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Expected to launch in late 2026, this NASA telescope will feature a field of view 100 times larger than Hubble's, enabling massive surveys. It is poised to make groundbreaking discoveries in exoplanet research, dark energy, and dark matter.
Aids in muscle recovery
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Ongoing test flights throughout the decade aim to revolutionize space travel economics, making deep space missions more affordable and sustainable. Starship is a key component for future human lunar landings and potential Mars colonization.
India's first planned astronaut mission
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This uncrewed orbital test flight, planned for early 2026, is a significant step towards India becoming the fourth nation to launch a crewed spaceflight. It will test the spacecraft's systems with a humanoid robot.
First commercial space station
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Planned for 2026, Haven-1 will be the first commercial space station, launching atop SpaceX's Falcon 9. This mission represents a major advancement in private spaceflight and the development of commercial space infrastructure.
Strengthens GPS constellation to highest level
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Launched in April 2026, this is the final satellite in the latest generation of GPS spacecraft, delivering significant upgrades in accuracy, resilience, and anti-jamming capability. It strengthens the world's most widely used navigation system.
Planned for 2027, Artemis III aims to put humans back on the Moon's surface for the first time in over 50 years, focusing on the lunar south pole. It is central to NASA's goal of consistent human access to the Moon.
First nuclear fission-powered interplanetary mission
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Scheduled for a December 2028 transfer window to Mars, SR1 Freedom is a revolutionary nuclear electric spacecraft. It will demonstrate nuclear electric propulsion, significantly reducing travel times for future deep-space missions and carrying advanced subsurface exploration capabilities to Mars.