An Atlas 1 model was used to launch a $220 million, Space Systems/Loral-built Geostationary Environmental Operational satellite, the GOES 9, from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on 23 May. For the first time since 1989, the USA has a full complement of GOES spacecraft in space. There are still three more launches due in the five-spacecraft GOES/NEXT series. The programme is $800 million over budget because of technical problems.
Source: Flight International
Orbital launch pioneer SpaceX is being contracted by the American space agency NASA to develop a so-called “US Deorbit Vehicle” that can safely return the International Space Station to Earth via controlled re-entry.
BAE Systems has completed its acquisition of Ball Aerospace, with the move further strengthening its US business presence.
NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory has retired its Mars helicopter Ingenuity after the craft suffered damage upon landing.
