Space Launch has been selected to proceed with the design of the US Defense Advanced Projects Agency's (DARPA) responsive access small cargo affordable launch (RASCAL) system. RASCAL is intended to air-launch a 75kg (165lb) satellite into a 500km (270nm) sun-synchronous orbit with a cost per launch of $75,000 and a 24h turnaround time. Following 18 months of risk-reduction work, DARPA will decide whether to proceed with two flight demonstrations in 2006.
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.
