2021 story archive

Webb became a working observatory and delivered measured results in planetary atmospheres and the early universe. Its launch-to-results story has an ending; the scientific mission continues.

Bookings reopened while Virgin Galactic prepared its Delta ships. October reporting put new seats at US$850,000; commercial service remained forecast for February 2027.

NIST’s September committee update outlined potential safety recommendations; work with building-code and industry specialists continued.

The 2021 ban ended, but the funding dispute continued. Australia enacted new bargaining laws in August 2026; publisher agreements and payment outcomes remain a separate question.

June 2026 reporting described a settlement of the separate salvage-fee dispute. The sum and payment terms are not confirmed here from a primary record.

The plague subsided, but its costs lasted. A 2026 study calculated A$100.62 million in direct costs within a surveyed sample; separate research found lasting stress for some adults.