NASA and contractors are recommending changes to the design, inspection and processing of Space Shuttle orbiters. These include improved bonding of thermal protection system tiles and reviewing the way wing leading-edge access panels are bolted on. Sealing around landing-gear doors and design of panels near the flaperons will be reviewed.
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.
