This Week in Space – November 30 – December 6, 2025
🚀 International Space Stations
China Launches Shenzhou 22 to Assist Stranded Astronauts
China launched the Shenzhou 22 spacecraft on Tuesday to help bring back a team of astronauts after a damaged spacecraft left them temporarily stranded on the Tiangong space station. The mission successfully docked and will be used by the three astronauts who arrived on November 1.
🎁 Space Community
The Planetary Society’s 2025 Space Gift Guide
Looking for the perfect space-themed gift this holiday season? The Planetary Society has released its 2025 space gift guide, featuring a curated collection of space-themed gifts for people of all ages, from budding astronomers to seasoned space enthusiasts.
Best of 2025: Vote Now
Cast your vote for the best of space exploration and science in 2025! The Planetary Society invites space enthusiasts to recognize the year’s most remarkable achievements, discoveries, and missions that have advanced our understanding of the cosmos.
📊 Impact & Advocacy
The Planetary Society’s 2025 Impact Report
Thanks to extraordinary members and donors, The Planetary Society is increasing its investment in space policy and advocacy activities. The 2025 Impact Report highlights the organization’s growing influence in shaping space exploration priorities and public engagement.
🌍 ESA Policy Updates
ESA Strategy 2040: Protecting Our Planet and Climate
At the ESA Council Ministerial Level meeting held on November 26-27, 2025, ESA and its Member States made key decisions to accelerate climate protection goals and strengthen Europe’s leadership in Earth observation and environmental monitoring through space technology.
☀️ Space Weather Alert
ESA Monitors Severe Space Weather Event
ESA actively monitored a severe space weather event triggered on November 11, 2025. Three consecutive coronal mass ejections (CMEs) from Active Region 14274, including a powerful X5.1-class solar flare, created G4-level geomagnetic storms impacting satellites, power grids, and navigation systems across Europe, Africa, and Asia.
🎓 Career Opportunities
ESA Student Internships 2026 Now Open
Ready to launch your career in space? ESA Student Internships 2026 applications are now open! Opportunities include hands-on learning at world-class facilities, research opportunities for thesis work, and networking with space professionals. Internships run 3-6 months starting between February and October 2026.
Next Week Preview
Stay tuned for more updates on international space station operations, holiday space events, ESA policy developments, and continued space weather monitoring as we approach the holiday season.