International space agencies are preparing an intensive launch schedule for 2026. The year will see renewed focus on human exploration beyond low Earth orbit. Major missions target the Moon, Mars, and advanced space science. NASA, ISRO, SpaceX, China, and European agencies lead efforts. Commercial launches and new rockets also shape upcoming activity.
| Agency | Upcoming Mission | Brief Description |
|---|---|---|
| NASA | Artemis II | Crewed lunar flyby testing Orion spacecraft systems |
| ISRO | Gaganyaan G1 | Uncrewed human spaceflight test with Vyommitra robot |
| SpaceX | Starship Mars Demo | First Mars cargo and landing demonstration |
| CNSA | Chang’e 7 | South pole lunar exploration searching for water ice |
| ESA | PLATO | Space telescope studying Earth-like exoplanets |
NASA’s Artemis programme enters a critical phase during 2026. Artemis II is scheduled for early 2026 launch windows. Four astronauts will conduct a ten-day lunar flyby mission. The flight will test Orion’s life-support and navigation systems. It marks NASA’s first crewed lunar mission in decades.
NASA will also continue robotic Moon missions through CLPS partnerships. Private companies will deliver scientific payloads to the lunar surface. These missions support future crewed landings under Artemis goals. Meanwhile, NASA plans an uncrewed Starliner re-flight. The capsule will dock with the International Space Station.
ISRO Missions and India’s Human Spaceflight Programme
India’s space programme targets major milestones during 2026. ISRO plans the uncrewed Gaganyaan G1 mission by March. The flight will carry Vyommitra, a humanoid test robot. It will validate systems for future human spaceflight missions. The LVM3 rocket will undergo critical human-rating tests.
ISRO has also lined up multiple strategic satellite launches. These include EOS-5, EOS-10, and GISAT-1A missions. Technology demonstrations will test electric propulsion systems. Development work on Mangalyaan-2 continues alongside these launches. The focus remains on long-term interplanetary capability building.
SpaceX Missions and Mars Preparation
SpaceX plans ambitious steps toward Mars exploration in 2026. The company aims to launch Starship cargo missions to Mars. These flights will test atmospheric entry and landing performance. Data gathered will support future crewed Mars missions. A more powerful Starship Version 3 is planned.
SpaceX will also support regular International Space Station operations. Crew-12 will carry four international astronauts aboard Falcon 9. Commercial activity includes launching the Haven-1 station for Vast. It is expected to become the first private space station. Starlink and rideshare launches will continue frequently.
China, Europe and Other Global Missions
China plans major scientific missions during the 2026 launch window. Chang’e 7 will explore the Moon’s south polar region. The mission includes an orbiter, lander, rover, and flying probe. Scientists aim to search for potential water ice deposits.
China also plans to launch the Xuntian space telescope. It will operate alongside the Tiangong space station. ESA plans to launch the PLATO telescope in December 2026. The mission will search for Earth-like exoplanets. Japan’s MMX mission targets Phobos sample collection during 2026.
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