Rocket Report: FAA considers increased Starbase traffic and Skyroot secures US client

The latest edition of the Rocket Report highlights significant developments in the aerospace sector. Japan is preparing for the Martian Moons Exploration (MMX) mission, which is scheduled to launch on an H3 rocket to study Phobos and Deimos, with plans to return samples to Earth by 2031. Meanwhile, the commercial space industry continues to evolve as California-based startup Reflect Orbital has signed a deal with Indian launch provider Skyroot Aerospace. Reflect Orbital, which aims to provide on-demand sunlight via in-space mirrors, has purchased two launches. These missions will utilize Skyroot’s Vikram-1 and the upcoming upgraded Vikram-1U rockets. This partnership underscores the growing international collaboration in the small-lift launch market, as Skyroot continues to build on its success as the first private Indian company to reach orbit. The report also notes that the FAA is evaluating potential increases in launch frequency at SpaceX's Starbase facility.