Will 2025 Change Everything? Top 11 Space and Tech Predictions for Next Year

As 2024 ends, it’s time to make predictions and lists of the most anticipated events next year. At Orbital Today, we look at what to expect in 2025 in space, tech and innovation sectors.

What the Future Holds: Top Space and Tech Predictions for 2025

As we step into 2025, the world of innovation, science, and space exploration is set to dazzle us with groundbreaking advancements. From lunar landings to AI breakthroughs, here are the top events and developments to watch for in the year ahead.

1. Lunar Exploration Missions

NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative will see major activity, with companies like Intuitive Machines and Firefly Aerospace deploying landers to deliver scientific instruments to the Moon. These missions will test critical technologies for future human exploration and study lunar resources.

Also, Elon Musk will continue testing its mega-rocket, Starship, performing refuelling tests next year. The rivalry intensifies with the New Glenn development, also planned for the Moon and Mars missions. So, we’ll keep watching the progress. 

2. Advancements in Weight-Loss Medications

Pharmaceutical companies like Novo Nordisk (maker of Ozempic and Wegovy) and Eli Lilly (maker of Mounjaro) are poised to expand their offerings, with promising results in obesity treatments. These drugs may significantly impact global health trends, potentially reducing obesity rates and related diseases. 

For instance, the Ozempic drug was approved to treat Type 2 diabetes and has weight loss as a prominent side effect. Many people, as well as celebrities, are taking Ozempic as a weight-loss drug. 

We highly recommend taking any medicine only under the supervision and recommendations of doctors.

3. Cancer Vaccine Trials

Biotechnology companies like BioNTech and Moderna are advancing clinical trials for mRNA-based cancer vaccines. These vaccines aim to train the immune system to recognise and attack cancer cells, with results from pivotal trials expected in 2025.

The search for a cancer vaccine has been going on for decades, and someday, we’ll manage to find the solution. 

4. Integration of AI in Daily Life

Companies like OpenAI and Google DeepMind are leading the way in AI integration, with advancements in conversational AI, healthcare diagnostics, and personalised education. We expect breakthroughs in generative AI applications to transform how we work and interact with technology.

5. Solar Maximum Peak

Space weather experts, including those at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center and NASA, monitor the sun closely as it reaches its solar maximum. Roughly every 11 years, at the height of the solar cycle, the Sun’s magnetic poles flip — on Earth, that’d be like the North and South poles swapping places every decade — and the Sun transitions from being calm to an active and stormy state. In October 2024, NOAA and NASA announced that the Sun had reached its maximum solar period, so we’re entering the phase of its peak.

Increased solar activity could disrupt satellite operations, power grids, and navigation systems, while also enhancing aurora displays visible in higher latitudes.

6. Total Lunar Eclipses

Two “Blood Moon” total lunar eclipses are expected in 2025, offering spectacular celestial displays. Organisations like Time and Date and amateur astronomy groups will provide live streams and viewing guides for skywatchers. 

7. Advancements in Brain-Computer Interfaces

Neuralink, founded by Elon Musk, and Synchron, a leading competitor, are making strides in brain-computer interface technology. In 2025, clinical trials are expected to show how these devices can restore communication for people with paralysis and explore new frontiers in human-machine interaction.

8. Enhanced Climate Change Initiatives

With its “Carbon Negative by 2030” initiative, tech giants like Microsoft and government-led efforts like the EU’s Green Deal will drive global emissions reduction strategies in 2025. Look for expanded use of carbon capture technologies and renewable energy projects worldwide.

9. Regulation of Social Media Platforms

The UK’s Online Safety Bill, expected to be enforced in 2025, will set new standards for social media companies like Meta, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter). These regulations aim to tackle misinformation, enhance user safety, and improve transparency in content moderation. 

Additionally, newly elected US President Donald Trump can take serious steps towards banning TikTok. Recently, Trump has asked the US Supreme Court to delay an upcoming TikTok ban while he works on a “political resolution”. The app has around 170 million users in the US, so the ban will significantly impact the social media platform.  

10. Defense, Drones, and Military Technology

2025 will see rapid developments in military technology. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman are advancing hypersonic missile systems and AI-powered drones. The UK’s Tempest Future Combat Air System is expected to make progress in integrating AI and stealth technologies.

With the war in Ukraine, Israel’s conflict, and minor but constant drone provocations occurring in the US and Europe, the tech market responded with increased interest in UAV development. We might see more military tech startups and solutions in the coming years.

11. Key UK Developments

The UK is poised for significant milestones in 2025, as a few space companies tend to perform first launches. Companies like Reaction Engines will push advancements in aerospace technology, Skyora aims to launch its rocket from the UK spaceport, and the Sutherland Spaceport is expected to conduct more commercial satellite launches. Additionally, the UK government will strengthen its green initiatives, including ambitious renewable energy projects.