THE UK MINISTRY OF DEFENCE IS TO ORDER a sixth Skynet 4 military-communications satellite from Matra Marconi Space (MMS) in 1996, to be launched in 1999. Skynets 4D and E are also being built by MMS and will be launched by Delta 2 and Ariane 4 boosters in 1997 and 1998 respectively. Skynets 4B, A and C were launched in 1988-90 and are supported by a 14m (45ft)- diameter Earth station at RAF Oakhanger. The spacecraft weigh 770kg in geostationary orbit.
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.
