?????CONTEC Campus - February Newsletter
?CONTEC Space Group? Makes Its Debut at CES 2025!
CONTEC Space Group (CONTEC, CES, CSO, APSI) participated in the world’s largest tech and Consumer Electronics Show, CES 2025, for the first time and captured significant global attention. At CES, CONTEC showcased its comprehensive full vertical chain, spanning satellite imagery supply??, optical payload development??, and satellite communication terminals??.
Notably, CEO Dr. Sunghee Lee joined the CES space tech panel session to discuss efficient utilization of space data and satellite connectivity, highlighting the company’s vision for the future. CONTEC also unveiled its plans to pioneer advanced technologies like Optical Ground Stations(OGS) and Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) to enhance secure and high-speed data transmission.
Join CONTEC Space Group as we pave the way for the future of space! ???
ISS 2025 Official Website is Now Live!
The official website for ISS 2025, taking place from June 3 (Tue) to 5 (Thu), 2025, at Daejeon DCC Exhibition Center 1, is now open! ??
?? Event Overview
? Date : June 3 (Tue) ~ June 5 (Thu), 2025
? ? ? Venue : Daejeon DCC Exhibition Center 1 (entire venue)
? ? ? Participants : Over 2,000 aerospace experts from around the globe,
? ? ? with more than 60 exhibition booths
? ? ? Highlights : Specialized sessions in defense and space, networking programs,
? ? ? and leveraging Daejeon’s strength as a hub for government, research institutes,
? ? ? companies, and universities in the aerospace and defense sectors
?? Join ISS right now!
? ? ?1?? Register for participation in advance
? ? ?2?? Submit your application for speaker presentations
? ? ??? Limited Spots Available : Early registration is recommended as spots may fill
? ? ? ? ? ?up quickly!
Join us to shape the future of the aerospace industry! ??
When can we see ‘Northern Lights?’
Last month, we explored the phenomenon of auroras. We discovered that these mesmerizing lights are created when high-energy solar particles, in a plasma state, travel to Earth, are drawn in by Earth's magnetic field, and collide with atmospheric particles. In a way, you could think of it as a breathtaking dance between solar particles and Earth's atmosphere. But when exactly can we witness these stunning displays? Because auroras originate from solar particles, their occurrence is closely tied to solar activity. This month, let’s focus on the question of “when” as we take a closer look at these magnificent lights.
Year
Did you know that the Sun follows an 11-year activity cycle? Just as people have a 24-hour routine—resting at night and staying active during the day—the Sun also experiences periods of intense activity and quieter phases. This cycle lasts approximately 11 years.
During times of low solar activity, the Sun’s surface appears relatively smooth, with very few dark spots visible. In contrast, during periods of high activity, the surface is dotted with numerous dark spots known as sunspots. Scientists measure the Sun’s activity by counting these sunspots.
The images below show the Sun during its quiet and active phases. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to estimate the Sun’s activity level just by observing its appearance!
Since the mid-18th century, sunspot observations have been ongoing, and as of 2025, we are in the 25th 11-year solar activity cycle since these records began. Notably, 2025 marks the peak of solar activity in this cycle. This means stronger solar particles are reaching Earth this year, making it an exceptional time to witness more vibrant and frequent auroras.
In the graph below, the Y-axis shows the number of sunspots, while the X-axis represents the years. The graph vividly demonstrates the 11-year cycle of solar activity, with the number of sunspots rising and falling in a predictable pattern.
Let’s take a closer look at the solar activity in the current 11-year cycle using the graph below. As the graph clearly shows, 2025 marks the peak of solar activity in this cycle.
But don’t worry too much if you miss this year’s peak. Solar activity repeats in 11-year cycles, so if you miss the vibrant auroras around 2025, you can look forward to the next peak in the upcoming cycle.
We’ve learned which years have the most active solar activity and, therefore, the best chances to see auroras. Now, let’s delve into a new question: which months of the year provide the optimal conditions for viewing auroras?
Month
Can auroras be seen during the day? While it’s not impossible, the likelihood of spotting auroras brighter than the blue sky is extremely low. To maximize your chances of seeing an aurora, you’ll need to wait for the dark backdrop of nighttime.
Is nighttime consistent throughout the year? The duration of night varies depending on your latitude. For those in the Northern Hemisphere, nights are shorter in summer and longer in winter. This difference becomes even more significant in high-latitude regions where auroras are most visible. In these areas, summers can bring 24 hours of daylight, while winters can offer 24 hours of darkness. And what’s the key condition for aurora viewing? That’s right—nighttime.
The diagram below illustrates the variation in day and night lengths throughout the year in Yellowknife, Canada (latitude 62°), one of the world’s best spots for aurora viewing. The Y-axis represents the 24 hours of a day, while the X-axis spans the months from January to December. The light blue section indicates daylight, the black section represents nighttime, and the transitional colors in between show the boundaries between day and night.
In my opinion, at least six hours of nighttime is essential for aurora viewing. This gives you a good 2–3 hours to observe the auroras. So, when can you expect six or more hours of night? While it varies slightly depending on the latitude, in high-latitude regions where auroras are most visible, this typically falls between mid-September and mid-March. Conversely, from mid-March to mid-September, the days are too long, making it less suitable for aurora viewing.
So, when is the best time to go aurora hunting?
By keeping these two factors in mind, you’ll have carefully chosen the perfect time for aurora viewing. In the next installment, we’ll talk about the best places to see auroras. So, where should you go? Let’s find out!
Launch
SpaceX Launches Thuraya 4 Mission for UAE’s Space42
SpaceX launched the Thuraya 4 satellite for UAE’s Space42 on Jan. 3, 2025, enhancing coverage across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Built by Airbus, it’s Thuraya’s first launch in 20 years and strengthens Space42’s position in satellite communications.
Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin launches massive New Glenn rocket into orbit on 1st flight
Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket successfully reached orbit on its first flight on Jan. 16. Though the reusable booster missed its landing, the mission achieved its main goal and tested new spacecraft technology, marking a key step in competing with SpaceX and advancing future missions.
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Musk: 'Fun Guaranteed Despite Failure'… SpaceX Spacecraft Explosion Under Investigation
SpaceX's massive spacecraft, Starship, exploded during an orbital test flight, prompting the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to launch an investigation. The second-stage spacecraft lost communication and subsequently exploded, with debris possibly falling over the Bahamas. The incident caused flight delays and other disruptions. The FAA stated it would oversee all phases of SpaceX's investigation and confirmed that flights would only resume after ensuring public safety. Elon Musk shared footage of the event on social media, remarking, "Success is uncertain, but fun is guaranteed."
Ground Station
Malargüe : A satellite dish best served cold
The Malargüe deep-space communication station in Argentina upgraded its antenna feed in July 2024, increasing data capacity by up to 80%. This enhancement addresses growing demand from complex deep-space missions and international requests. Using cryogenic technology, the station reduces thermal noise, boosting efficiency for missions like Juice and BepiColombo. The upgrade also supports future missions and demonstrates ESA's role in advancing both space exploration and commercial technologies, including contributions to quantum computing advancements.
Satellite
Small satellite constellation could reveal black holes like never before
Researchers in South Korea, led by Seoul National University’s Sascha Trippe, are developing the Capella satellite constellation to enhance observations of supermassive black holes. Unlike the Earth-based Event Horizon Telescope (EHT), Capella will consist of four orbiting satellites, enabling higher-resolution images by avoiding atmospheric interference and filling gaps in data collection. This system aims to capture finer details, such as relativistic jets and internal structures of black hole rings, which current technology cannot resolve. With a projected cost of $500 million, the project could begin offering unprecedented insights into black holes by the early 2030s, pending funding decisions.
Major milestone! India becomes 4th nation to dock satellites in orbit
India's ISRO achieved its first in-space docking on January 15, making India the fourth country to do so after the US, Russia, and China. This milestone supports future missions, including lunar exploration and the planned Bharatiya Antariksh Station by 2035.
Satellite Imagery Pre-processing
California Fires: Shocking Satellite Images Reveal Scope Of Wreckage
Multiple wildfires in Southern California have caused widespread devastation, fueled by dry conditions and strong Santa Ana winds. Satellite images reveal entire neighborhoods destroyed, with historic landmarks like the Topanga Ranch Motel lost. At least five people have died, thousands of structures have been destroyed, and nearly 180,000 residents have been evacuated, with more under warnings. Firefighters are battling major fires, including the Palisades, Eaton, and Sunset fires, as wind gusts of up to 60 mph pose ongoing threats. The fires have also worsened air quality, prompting residents to stay indoors, while many remain without power.
From Space to the Courtroom: AI Enhanced Satellite Imagery and the Future of Accountability
AI-enhanced satellite imagery improves human rights monitoring and evidence collection with clearer, cost-effective visuals. However, challenges like biases, misrepresentation, and legal uncertainties demand updated guidelines to ensure reliable use in justice efforts. With proper safeguards, this technology can strengthen global accountability.
Space Tourism
World Monuments Fund Puts Moon on List of At-Risk Sites
The World Monuments Fund has added the Moon to its 2025 World Monuments Watch list of 25 endangered cultural heritage sites. Concerned about threats from space tourism, debris, and human activity, the organization aims to raise awareness and advocate for better preservation of lunar heritage, including historic sites like Apollo 11's Tranquility Base. While some experts question the urgency of protecting the Moon, others warn of potential risks from unregulated tourism and defunct satellites. The initiative underscores the need for sustainable management and international frameworks to safeguard the Moon’s cultural and scientific legacy.
SpaceX rocket launches private missions to Moon
Two private lunar landers from the US and Japan launched on a SpaceX rocket for Moon exploration, backed by NASA. Blue Ghost and Resilience will study the Moon, arriving in 45 days and five months, respectively.
Laser Communication
China does it again: After 6th gen stealth jet, now a company beats Starlink with 10X faster 100 Gbps space-ground laser transmission
China's Chang Guang Satellite Technology achieved a 100 Gbps satellite-to-ground laser communication, surpassing Starlink's capabilities. This breakthrough supports 6G and remote sensing, boosting China's global space race position.
NASA breaks record for farthest laser communication with 466 million km message
NASA successfully transmitted a laser signal 466 million kilometers to the Psyche spacecraft, marking a groundbreaking milestone in space communication. This achievement, part of the Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC) technology demonstration, validates the potential of lasers for future missions, including to Mars. The signal's precision was confirmed, proving the robustness of optical communication. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson noted it set a record for the farthest laser communication ever sent.
Space Situational Awareness(SSA)
Hubble Space Telescope Observes Various Galaxies in Hydra
The Hubble Space Telescope captured an image featuring the galaxy LEDA 803211, located 622 million light-years away, and a striking Einstein ring caused by gravitational lensing. The lensing occurs when light from a distant galaxy, seen as the ring, is warped and magnified by a closer galaxy's gravity. The lensed galaxy provides a glimpse into the universe 2.5 billion years ago. This rare phenomenon requires near-perfect alignment of the galaxies. The image was created using Hubble's WFC3 instrument and data from six different filters.
How a freak space junk crash baffled residents and sparked concern
A large metal object, believed to be a separation ring from a space rocket, fell in Mukuku village, Kenya, startling locals and sparking curiosity. The Kenya Space Agency confirmed the object's origin and conducted tests, finding slightly elevated but non-harmful radiation levels. The incident caused minor property damage and raised concerns about potential space radiation and liability under international law. As space debris incidents grow more frequent, experts highlight the need for better tracking systems in Africa.
Space Defense & Security
Trump’s Bid to Buy Greenland Highlights Arctic’s Role in Space Security
Incoming President Donald Trump’s interest in acquiring Greenland highlights its strategic importance for US space capabilities, particularly at the Pituffik Space Base, which supports satellite communications, navigation, and Arctic surveillance. While Greenland's location offers unique advantages, advancements in technology may reduce reliance on polar ground stations. However, Greenland and Denmark, backed by EU nations, have strongly rejected the proposal.
Trump taps NRO official as Air Force secretary
President-elect Trump named Troy Meink to lead the Air Force and Matt Lohmeier as undersecretary, signaling a focus on national security and space initiatives with Elon Musk as a key advisor.
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