The year ahead holds milestones in human space transport, airliner first flights and new launches and more, but it also promises significant uncertainty.

Electric regional progress; Pseudo-satellite takes shape; Drone flies through walls; Single-person multicopter; Algae makes jet fuel in Japan.

Unity’s Dec. 13 flight marked its fourth rocket-powered test and the first to achieve the goal of exo-atmospheric flight set by Richard Branson 14 years ago.

NASA seeks industry input on the potential for an electrified aircraft propulsion X-plane demonstrator.

Stuck steering fins prompt booster to abort ground landing attempt.

U.S. Air Force Col. Robert Bongiovi discusses the Air Force’s vision for future launch services, the Delta IV and the National Security Space Launch program.

For the first time, our judges declared a space photo as Best of the Best. Growing competition and increasing launches are helping this dynamic category. See the full winners across the commercial aviation, defense, space and general aviation categories.

Our editors brought their expertise to bear on photographs that they found most compelling in their respective fields this year.