ATK Announces Retirement of TacSat-3 Satellite — Press Release

May 1, 2012 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Alliant Techsystems, Business Line, Companies, Events, ISR, Press Releases, Satellites, Services, space, U.S. Air Force

Spacecraft Significantly Exceeded Mission Life ? On-Orbit Operations Lasted Nearly Three Years

Mission Confirms Robustness of ATK’s Quick-to-Launch Spacecraft Bus and Components

ARLINGTON, Va., May 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — ATK (NYSE: ATK) announces the conclusion of the Tactical Satellite-3 (TacSat-3) mission. The Air Force announced on April 30th, 2012, that the satellite deorbited into and burned up in the Earth’s atmosphere nearly three years after its May 2009 launch. TacSat-3 was designed for six months of operation, with a goal of one year. Not only did it outlive its design life, it also surpassed its original mission requirements and goals as an experimental spacecraft, and was successfully transitioned to operational status in 2010.

The satellite was removed from operational status and transferred to the Space and Missile Systems Center in February 2012. Once transitioned, ATK provided the Air Force Research Laboratory with updated flight software, which allowed the vehicle to conduct on-orbit collection testing.

TacSat-3′s mission demonstrated the capability to conduct hyperspectral imaging to support the needs of U.S. warfighters.

“TacSat-3 served America well. We were proud to be part of the team that provided reconnaissance data from space to warfighters in the field and to intelligence analysts at home,” said Tom Wilson, vice president and general manager, Space Systems Division, ATK Aerospace Group. “Our innovative bus technology was a key factor in successfully extending the TacSat-3 demonstration to a longer-term operational mission. The mission enabled us to apply and enhance our flexible, modular bus platforms for future small satellite missions that included the ORS-1 spacecraft.”

The spacecraft is a pioneer of the emerging Operationally Responsive Space program, which was designed to meet the growing need of U.S. forces for flexible, affordable and responsive satellite systems.

ATK, as the spacecraft bus prime contractor, provided the complete bus system, which included the onboard command and data handling system, electrical power system, spacecraft bus primary structure, and interfaces to the launch vehicle and payload. Built and designed in just 15 months, ATK’s spacecraft bus met the TacSat-3 program goals of being operationally responsive, low-cost and with expected performance. The spacecraft also featured first-generation modular bus technology designed to provide flexibility for future small satellite missions. As a rapid, affordable experimental mission, the specification did not include a propulsion system to sustain long-term low-Earth orbit.

The TacSat-3 program was managed by the Air Force Space Command with collaboration from the Air Force Research Laboratory Space Vehicles Directorate and the Army Space and Missile Defense Command.

ATK is an aerospace, defense and commercial products company with operations in 22 states, Puerto Rico and internationally. News and information can be found on the Internet at www.atk.com.

Tags: aerospace group, force research laboratory, intelligence analysts, missile systems center, orbit operations, reconnaissance data, satellite missions, space systems division, spacecraft bus, tactical satellite

Seeking Alpha: Orbital Poised for a Good Year?

March 4, 2012 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Department of Defense, development program, Events, missile defense, NASA, Orbital Systems, production program, Satellites, Seeking Alpha, Services, space

This is an exclusive article I wrote at Seeking Alpha on Orbital Sciences. It may be found here.

Tags: good year, orbital sciences, Seeking Alpha

Lockheed Martin Honors Pioneers of Recently Declassified National Reconnaissance Satellites — Press Release

January 26, 2012 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, Lockheed Martin, Press Releases, S&T, Satellites, space

Lockheed Martin Honors Pioneers of Recently Declassified National Reconnaissance Satellites

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Jan. 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Pioneers of the highly successful Gambit and Hexagon legacy reconnaissance systems recently unveiled by the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) were honored during a Jan. 24 ceremony at Lockheed Martin’s (NYSE: LMT) facilities in Sunnyvale, Calif.

Gambit and Hexagon followed Corona, the nation’s first photo reconnaissance satellite system to return an image from space successfully. All three programs were built by industry teams under contract to the NRO with Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company as the satellite system integrator. These programs provided vital national security information from 1960 until 1986.

Approximately 400 former employees involved in some aspect of Hexagon and Gambit and their guests attended the ceremony which featured displays and videos highlighting spacecraft production, launch and technical capabilities including actual Earth imagery. Speakers included Bruce Carlson, director of the NRO, and Joanne Maguire, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company.

In his remarks, Carlson expressed his gratitude to the entire Lockheed Martin team for their contributions to national security: “Without this vital work, we would not have had the search, surveillance, and mapping capabilities that provided the high resolution imagery that gave our nation’s decision makers the ability to deal with our adversaries from a position of strength.”

“The successes achieved by the Hexagon and Gambit teams built upon the Corona legacy to deliver unprecedented mission capabilities and longevity,” said Maguire. “We are enormously proud of our role in providing these vitally important remote sensing assets to the nation.”

The first Gambit system, launched in 1963, was equipped with a 77-inch focal length camera system . The second system, Gambit 3 was equipped with the camera system that included a 175-inch focal length camera. The system was first launched in 1966 and provided the U.S. with exquisite surveillance capabilities from space for nearly two decades.

Hexagon was first launched in 1971 to improve upon Corona’s capability to image broad denied areas for threats to the United States. Twelve of the 19 systems flown also carried a mapping camera to aid in U.S. military war planning.

The United States depended on these search and surveillance satellites to understand the capabilities, intentions, and advancements of those who opposed the U.S during the Cold War. Together they became America’s essential eyes in space.

In addition, Gambit and Hexagon were launched aboard rockets built by Lockheed Martin heritage companies. Gambit 1 was launched on an Atlas rocket with the orbiting Agena D upper stage and Gambit 3 was launched using a Titan III B booster. Hexagon was launched aboard the larger Titan III D rocket.

Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company is a world leader in the most advanced space-based systems for government and global commercial customers. Its expertise in stabilized, remote sensing spacecraft for high-resolution remote sensing missions began with Corona, a ground-breaking system that achieved its first successful launch in 1960.

The company draws on its wealth of expertise in building and integrating remote sensing satellites to provide commercial customers with advanced systems such as the GeoEye’s IKONOS satellite and its next-generation Earth imaging program, known as GeoEye-2.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 126,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation’s 2010 sales from continuing operations were $45.8 billion.

Tags: earth imagery, lockheed martin space systems, lockheed martin team, national reconnaissance office, national security information, photo reconnaissance, reconnaissance satellite, reconnaissance satellites, reconnaissance systems, spacecraft production

Boeing to Build More WGS Satellites, Follows With Successful Launch of WGS-4

January 20, 2012 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Boeing, Business Line, Companies, Contract Additions, Contract Awards, Department of Defense, Events, logistics, production program, Satellites, Services, space, U.S. Air Force

The United States military and government relies heavily on satellite communications to support their operations. Boeing (BA) has been building the Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) satellite for several years. Yesterday the aerospace contractor received a contract from the Air Force for more of the systems as well as successfully launching the 4th system into space.

The contract for WGS-9 follows on one recently awarded for number 8 and has a value of about $377 million. This is the exercise of an option on a production contract Boeing won late in FY11. Combined with that for the 8th system Boeing has received contracts worth almost $700 million for WGS birds. Boeing had previously delivered 4 WGS systems.

Also last night Boeing saw a Delta IV rocket successfully place WGS-4 into orbit. WGS-1 was launched in 2007, WGS-2 in 2008 and WGS-3 in 2009. Ultimately a constellation of 9 of the WGS satellites will be launched. Boeing now has received production options for all of them.

The U.S. is also buying two other communication satellites under the Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) and Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) programs. WGS was originally a “gapfiller” to provide temporary capability to bridge until AEHF were ready. Now due to their capability and time pressures WGS is becoming a primary communication system.

Tags: aehf, communication satellites, delta iv rocket, global satcom, mobile user, objective system, production contract, production options, satellite communications, time pressures

Lockheed Wins Contract for More GPS Satellites

January 17, 2012 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Business Line, commercial aviation, Companies, Contract Additions, Contract Awards, Department of Defense, development program, Events, Lockheed Martin, logistics, Military Aviation, Satellites, Services, space, U.S. Air Force

Even though the U.S. defense budget and spending overall will decline in the next few years there is no doubt certain critical modernization and support programs that need to be funded. One of these is the U.S. investment in the Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) system. The United States military developed the system and has launched several satellites over the last thirty years and is now in the process of carrying out a program to build and place into orbit the GPS III Constellation.

GPS is now used not only for navigation of ships and aircraft as originally intended but also to support ground movement and provide guidance and targeting data for a host of weapons and unmanned vehicles. This is not even considering the capability it provides to the civilian world as well. In the near future GPS will become critical to international and national air traffic control and guidance as while the U.S. upgrades its system the European Union and Russia are deploying their own advanced constellation of updated satellites to provide similar capability.

The Block IIIA satellites have been under development and production by Lockheed Martin (LMT) and other contractors since 2008 when the program passed its Defense Acquisition Board (DAB) review. In early FY11 the Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report stating that the program was facing development and deployment delays due to not awarding the contract for the new satellites in a timely manner. This could lead to the GPS constellation being smaller then necessary to support all applications. The Air Force and Lockheed were working mitigation plans.

As the program has progressed the Air Force awarded Lockheed the contract to build the third and fourth satellites in this configuration. The initial value for the contract is almost $240 million. The initial contract awarded in 2008 covered the first two satellites in the program.

Ultimately up to 32 GPS III satellites will be manufactured and deployed over the enxt several years. The first is expected to be launched in 2014.

GPS is critical to support U.S. combat operations and new satellites need to be launched to replace the older, less capable systems from earlier constellations. Lockheed as long as it continues to meet the Air Force’s schedule and requirements should have the bulk of this work which should be due to its importance fairly well funded until its completion.

Tags: air traffic control, constellation gps, defense acquisition board, global positioning satellite, government accountability office, gps constellation, gps satellites, mitigation plans, national air traffic, satellite gps

ULA To Provide Launch Capability for Military

January 12, 2012 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Boeing, Business Line, Companies, development program, Lockheed Martin, production program, Satellites, space

The U.S. Air Force recently awarded a contract to United Launch Alliance (ULA) to provide vehicles to launch military payloads into space. ULA is a joint venture between Boeing (BA) and Lockheed Martin (LMT) and manufactures these vehicles primarily at their Decatur, AL facility.

ULA was an outgrowth of a program from the early part of this century called Assured Access to Space. The plan was to have the ability to launch when necessary and would rely on Boeing and Lockheed to provide their two main launch vehicles – the Atlas and Delta rockets. Originally the two companies would have competing contracts to control costs. After reviewing the requirements and to assure both systems were available it was decided to combine their efforts into ULA.

A contract to support various satellite launches was awarded this week with a value of over $1.5 billion. This is for 5 Atlas V and 4 Delta IV systems. The launches will all occur by 2014. The payloads include reconnaissance systems, GPS satellites and two weather ones.

ULA has been the primary provider of launch vehicles for military, science and foriegn payloads for several years. With the demise of the space shuttle which also had the ability to deliver satellites to some orbits unless the Air Force or NASA choose one of the newly emerging commercial space contractors, like Space X, ULA will continue to win most of the work.

Photo from Ryan Somma’s Flickr photostream.

Tags: delta iv, delta rockets, flickr photostream, iv systems, launch vehicles, Lockheed Martin, reconnaissance systems, satellite launches, space contractors, u s air force

COM DEV USA wins military contract — Press Release

October 3, 2011 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Countries, development program, England, Events, Press Releases, Satellites, space

COM DEV USA wins military contract

EL SEGUNDO, CA, Sept. 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ – COM DEV USA, LLC, a subsidiary of COM DEV International Ltd. (TSX: CDV), today announced that it has been awarded a contract to supply equipment for a military communications satellite. Valued in excess of US$5 million, the contract is a follow-on order for an additional flight set of equipment on a satellite program for which the Company is an incumbent supplier. COM DEV USA will be providing filters, diplexers, ferrite devices and switches for the satellite. Work on the contract will be carried out at the Company’s facility in El Segundo, California with completion expected by the end of fiscal 2012.

“When COM DEV entered the US military satellite communications market in 2008, our stated intention was to be the tier two supplier of choice for a full range of passive microwave devices into that market. Being the incumbent on a number of continuing milsatcom programs has given us the opportunity to demonstrate ourselves as an outstanding supply chain partner to the prime contractors in this market,” said Dan White, president of COM DEV USA. “More importantly, our performance on these programs has resulted in continuing contract awards, and we are grateful for the confidence our customer continues to show in us.”

Commenting on this contract award, Michael Pley, CEO of COM DEV International said, “Even as new government programs are delayed by spending restraint, our position as the incumbent supplier on a number of continuing legacy satellite programs, coupled with our demonstrated ability to deliver value to our customer, is providing our US based business with a significant and steady flow of work, which we expect will continue well into the future.”

About COM DEV

COM DEV International Ltd. (www.comdevintl.com) is a leading global provider of space hardware and services. With facilities in Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States, COM DEV manufactures advanced subsystems and microsatellites that are sold to major satellite prime contractors, government agencies and satellite operators, for use in communications, space science, remote sensing and defense applications. COM DEV’s majority-owned subsidiary, exactEarth Ltd., provides satellite data services.

This news release may contain certain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from results indicated in any forward-looking statements. The Company cautions that, among other things, in view of the rapid changes in communications markets and technologies, and other risks including the cost and market acceptance of the Company’s new products, the level of individual customer procurements and competitive product offerings and pricing, and general economic circumstances, the Company’s business prospects may be materially different from forward-looking statements made by the Company.

Tags: ferrite devices, incumbent supplier, leading global provider, microwave devices, military communications satellite, military satellite communications, passive microwave, satellite program, satellite programs, satellite work

Defence Geospatial Intelligence (DGI) 2012 — Conference

September 23, 2011 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, IT, logistics, Press Releases, Satellites, space, Trade Shows and Events

Defence Geospatial Intelligence (DGI) 2012

23-26th of January 2012
Westminster, London on
www.dgieurope.com

Defence Geospatial Intelligence (DGI) is Europe’s largest and most international annual gathering dedicated to the high-level discussion of the importance and the major challenges of the use of geospatial intelligence in both defence and national security operations.

DGI brings together heads of Geospatial Intelligence, Remote Sensing, GIS Mapping, Satellite Imagery and Analysis within the Military, Governmental and National Security sectors. It attracts professionals who are responsible for using, and integrating, geo based capabilities in their operations and organisations. DGI provides a unique forum for defence intelligence to discuss and debate the development of geospatial intelligence capabilities across the globe in defence and security sectors – With over 600 attendees year on year, DGI has becomes Europe’s key forum for geospatial strategy.

Addressing the use of geospatial information in scenarios such as international conflicts, defence operations, C4ISR, humanitarian disasters, crime, national security, border control, arms treaty monitoring and global climate change; a fundamental objective of DGI is to help organisations understand how to build the necessary infrastructure and architecture to take advantage of geospatial intelligence capabilities.

To find out more, contact the organisers today:

- W: www.dgieurope.com
- E: [email protected]
- T: +44 (0) 207 368 9465

Tags: defence operations, fundamental objective, global climate change, humanitarian disasters, intelligence capabilities, international conflicts, national security operations, necessary infrastructure, satellite imagery, security sectors

Lockheed Martin Is Leveraging Satellite and Missile Defense Expertise on Precision Tracking Space System Team — Press Release

September 20, 2011 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, development program, Events, Lockheed Martin, missile defense, Press Releases, S&T, Satellites, space

Lockheed Martin Is Leveraging Satellite and Missile Defense Expertise on Precision Tracking Space System Team

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Sept. 20, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) is leveraging its satellite and missile defense expertise on the Manufacturing and Production Readiness Integrated Systems Engineering Team for the Precision Tracking Space System (PTSS). PTSS will provide the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA) with a space-based system for post-boost tracking of ballistic missile threats in a global infrastructure.

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory awarded Lockheed Martin Space Systems a contract in February for $1.2 million covering a 24-month period of performance. Lockheed Martin participated in the PTSS system requirements review, which was completed in March. Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory is leading the Manufacturing and Production Readiness Integrated Systems Engineering Team, which is comprised of government, national laboratories and industry participants.

“Lockheed Martin has extensive experience in advanced sensors, satellite surveillance systems, and missile defense systems, which is ideally suited to help address this critical fire control sensor capability for the Ballistic Missile Defense System,” said Doug Graham, vice president of advanced programs, Strategic and Missile Defense Systems, Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company. “We are partnering with the Missile Defense Agency and Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab to provide the best integrated satellite solution for the agency’s network of sensors and weapon systems.”

Following the current prototype phase, the MDA has announced that it plans to competitively select one contractor for system development and production of an operational PTSS, consisting of nine to 12 spacecraft with associated ground control and processing equipment.

Tags: applied physics lab, ballistic missile threats, integrated systems engineering, johns hopkins applied physics lab, johns hopkins university applied physics laboratory, lockheed martin space systems, missile defense agency, missile defense system, missile defense systems, satellite surveillance systems

Boeing Contracts for Up To 2 More WGS Communications Satellites

September 6, 2011 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Boeing, Business Line, Companies, Contract Additions, Contract Awards, Department of Defense, EADS, EADS Astrium, Events, IT, logistics, Satellites, Services, space, U.S. Air Force

The U.S. Air Force and Boeing (BA) signed a contract for the seventh Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) satellite last week. The contract has a value of over $1 billion and includes the advanced procurement materials for the eighth satellite as well.

The WGS, also called the “Wideband Gapfiller Satellite”, is a new communication system used by the U.S. military as well as the Australian Ministry of Defence. The first of the systems was launched in 2007 and so far two others have been launched. With this contract Boeing will have up to five in production of the new communication system.

The U.S. military is increasingly dependent on satellite communications for its war fighting needs. Not only has it been investing in its own systems to support this need but has also been buying large amounts of commercial capability. The fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan has required large amounts of this support.

Recently the U.S. government began issuing omnibus contracts for commercial time for communications. This is a joint contract between the Department of Defense and the General Services Administration (GSA). It will allow any agency or part of the government to buy commercial satellite time from a variety of providers and the contract could have a value of over $5 billion.

This type of support is considered a growth area for defense contractors and is part of the reason that EADS (EADS:P) acquired the second largest commercial satellite provider recently.

At the same time the U.S. military will continue its investment in internal capability with systems such as WGS.

Tags: commercial capability, commercial time, communications satellites, fighting in iraq, general services administration, global satcom, internal capability, satellite provider, satellite time, u s air force

IBM Expands Security Offerings Through Acquisition

September 1, 2011 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, development program, EADS, EADS Astrium, General Dynamics, IT, logistics, medicine, production program, S&T, Satellites, space

IBM (IMB) expanded its capabilities in the area of security analytical support through the acquisition of British company i2 yesterday. i2 provides software that does data analysis in support of law enforcement and military operations. The value of the transaction was not announced.

IBM has invested several billion since 2006 on companies that provide this and other types of security related services in order to bolster its capabilities in this market. The move also illustrates the further commitment of government and defense contractors to what is to be an expected growth area in the future as the U.S. military and others invest in more sophisticated computer security and intelligence support functions.

While IBM did not say how much they paid for i2 in 2008 it was last sold for $185 million indicating that this deal would be substantially more as the company has had some growth since then.

It is expected that Merger & Acquisition (M&A) activity will be accelerating and the deals will be getting larger. Recently there have been two deals in the billion dollar range by larger aerospace and defense companies. First, General Dynamics (GD) acquired Vangent a health IT company for $980 million and EADS’ (EADS:P) satellite division, Astrium, agreed to acquire satellite communications company Vizada for $960 million.

These two deals expand the company’s capabilities in less traditional markets for them but ones that it is felt the U.S. especially will be spending billions on in the near future. This is move away from their past efforts in developing, producing and supporting large platforms such as aircraft, vehicles and military communication systems.

Tags: astrium, dollar range, intelligence support, merger acquisition, military communication systems, satellite communications, satellite division, security offerings, sophisticated computer, traditional markets

AIA Concerned by Defense Appropriations Cuts to National Security Space — Press Release

June 24, 2011 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Congress, Department of Defense, development program, Events, Press Releases, production program, Satellites, Services, space

AIA Concerned by Defense Appropriations Cuts to National Security Space

ARLINGTON, Va., June 23, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The Aerospace Industries Association is concerned about substantial cuts to national security space programs in the fiscal year 2012 House Defense Appropriations bill.

“We understand the need for belt-tightening in today’s economic climate,” said AIA President and CEO Marion C. Blakey. “However, we are deeply concerned that the cuts to national security space go too far.”

National security space systems provide essential capabilities such as global satellite communications; access to space; positioning, navigation and timing; environmental monitoring; Operationally Responsive Space support to the warfighter; situational awareness and missile warning. Stable funding for these mission areas is critical. Research and development in the House bill was reduced by $2 billion with some individual programs taking significant cuts. Overall, the bill’s reductions for space, not including classified programs, total nearly $600 million. AIA believes such a significant cut on this sector would pose economic and national security challenges because of the vital importance of space capabilities in both areas.

“Long-term funding, block buys and stability are more critical than ever to maintain cutting-edge, cost-effective space programs and a healthy national security space industrial base,” Blakey said. “Cuts of this magnitude risk the loss of skilled workforce and the capability to design and build the space assets on which our warfighters and economy depend.”

AIA urges full funding for:

The fiscal year 2012 budget request for national security space programs of $10.2 billion in addition to support of stable RDT&E funding required for development of future capabilities.

The Evolutionary Acquisition for Space Efficiency initiative, which will increase stability in the space industrial base.

The Operationally Responsive Space initiative consistent with the fiscal year 2011 appropriation of $93.9 million to mature new capabilities to provide rapid support to the warfighter.

SOURCE Aerospace Industries Association

Tags: aerospace industries association, defense appropriations bill, economic climate, global satellite communications, national security challenges, national security space, skilled workforce, space assets, space capabilities, space efficiency

Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne J-2X Engine for NASA’s Future Human Spaceflight Ready for Test — Press Release

June 14, 2011 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, development program, Events, Pratt & Whitney, Press Releases, S&T, space, UTC

Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne J-2X Engine for NASA’s Future Human Spaceflight Ready for Test

CANOGA PARK, Calif., June 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne completed assembly of the first J-2X upper-stage engine for NASA’s next era of human spaceflight in preparation for demonstration testing expected to begin this month at Stennis Space Center, Miss. The J-2X is a highly efficient and versatile rocket engine with characteristics to power the upper stage of a heavy-lift launch vehicle. Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne is a United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX) company.

“Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne is proud to have assembled and brought to test NASA’s first new human rated engine in 31 years,” said Jim Maser, President, Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne. “Built from a proven engine design, the J-2X is a safe and reliable solution for NASA’s future heavy-lift architecture.”

Fueled by liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen, the J-2X engine will generate 294,000 pounds of thrust to propel a spacecraft into low-Earth orbit. The J-2X can start and restart in space to support of a variety of mission requirements. To view a time-lapse video of engine assembly, click here: http://tinyurl.com/3vxm25f

Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne, a part of Pratt & Whitney, is a preferred provider of high-value propulsion, power, energy and innovative system solutions used in a wide variety of government and commercial applications, including the main engines for the space shuttle, Atlas and Delta launch vehicles, missile defense systems and advanced hypersonic engines. Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne is headquartered in Canoga Park, Calif., and has facilities in Huntsville, Ala.; Kennedy Space Center, Fla.; Stennis Space Center, Miss; West Palm Beach, Fla.; and ARDE, Carlstadt, NJ. For more information about Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne, go to www.prattwhitneyrocketdyne.com.

Pratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines, space propulsion systems and industrial gas turbines. United Technologies, based in Hartford, Conn., is a diversified company providing high technology products and services to the global aerospace and commercial building industries.

SOURCE Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne

Tags: carlstadt nj, human spaceflight, huntsville ala, jim maser, kennedy space center, low earth orbit, missile defense systems, pratt whitney rocketdyne, stennis space center, west palm beach fla

Air Force Moves Out on New Weather Satellite

May 27, 2011 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Congress, Contract Additions, Contract Awards, Department of Defense, development program, Events, Federal Budget Process, Northrop Grumman Corp., Restructuring, Satellites, Services, space, U.S. Air Force

In the Nineties it was decided that the U.S. military and the Department of Commerce would work jointly on a new weather satellite constellation to orbit near the Poles. Previously the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as part of Commerce developed and operated civil weather satellites. This decision led to the National Polar-orbiting Environmental Satellite System (NPOESS) which would deploy six systems to conduct data gathering in support of weather forecasting and earth science.

The program suffered various schedule and cost challenges which led to a Nunn-McCurdy breach and a major restructuring of the program in 2005. Major portions of the program were deleted and only four systems would be built. In 2010 as part of their budget the Obama Administration changed the program again with NOAA taking over management of one part of the program and DoD the other.

Photo from wharman’s flickr photostream.

In the summer of 2010 the Air Force proposed the establishment of the Defense Weather Satellite System (DWSS) which will be their part of the new NPOESS program. Northrop Grumman (NOC) was the prime contractor on NPOESS and will continue to support both Commerce and the Air Force.

This week Northrop announced that they had received authorization from the Air Force to begin work on the DWSS. This means that they begin the transition from the old contract and start the DWSS work.

The U.S. has seen several satellite programs started to replace aging Cold War era ones suffer from cost and schedule delays. Now many are starting to get on their feet and begin to make solid progress. DWSS will be one of those programs and illustrates again the difficulties of conducting joint programs between different services and parts of the government.

Photo from wharman’s flickr photostream.

Tags: environmental satellite system, flickr photostream, national oceanic and atmospheric administration, national oceanic and atmospheric administration noaa, northrop grumman, npoess, nunn mccurdy, satellite programs, weather satellite, weather satellites

Next Generation Missile Warning Satellite Successfully Reaches Orbit — Press Release

May 25, 2011 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, Lockheed Martin, Press Releases, Satellites, space

Next Generation Missile Warning Satellite Successfully Reaches Orbit

SBIRS GEO-1 Spacecraft to Deliver Unprecedented Infrared Surveillance for the Nation

DENVER, May 24, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — The first Lockheed Martin-built Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) geosynchronous (GEO-1) spacecraft has successfully reached its intended orbit and is performing as required following its successful May 7 launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.

After launch, the U.S. Air Force/Lockheed Martin SBIRS ground team executed a series of six Liquid Apogee Engine (LAE) burns to propel the spacecraft to its geosynchronous orbital slot. The team then deployed the satellite’s solar arrays, light shade and antenna wing assemblies in preparation for activating its sophisticated infrared sensors and the start of early orbit testing.

SBIRS GEO-1 is the most technologically advanced military infrared satellite ever developed and will enhance early warning of missile launches around the globe, support the nation’s ballistic missile defense system, greatly expand technical intelligence gathering capability, and bolster situational awareness for warfighters on the battlefield.

“Successfully reaching orbit and conducting deployments is a tremendous milestone for the SBIRS GEO-1 spacecraft. Thanks to a very talented and dedicated team, this first-of-its-kind spacecraft has performed flawlessly,” said Brig Gen (select) Roger W. Teague, the director of the U.S. Air Force’s Infrared Space Systems Directorate. “We anticipate continued success as we progress towards payload activation in the near future.”

SBIRS GEO-1 includes highly sophisticated scanning and staring sensors that will deliver improved infrared sensitivity and a reduction in area revisit times over the current constellation. The scanning sensor will provide a wide area surveillance of missile launches and natural phenomena across the earth, while the staring sensor will be used to observe smaller areas of interest with superior sensitivity.

“We are very pleased with the performance of SBIRS GEO-1 and we are looking forward to delivering unprecedented infrared surveillance capabilities for the nation,” said Jeff Smith, vice president of Lockheed Martin’s Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) mission area.

The SBIRS team is led by the Infrared Space Systems Directorate at the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center. Lockheed Martin is the SBIRS prime contractor, with Northrop Grumman as the payload integrator. Air Force Space Command operates the SBIRS system.

Lockheed Martin’s original SBIRS contract includes HEO payloads, two geosynchronous orbit (GEO) satellites, as well as ground-based assets to receive and process the infrared data. The team is also under a follow-on production contract to deliver additional HEO payloads and the third and fourth GEO satellites, and associated ground modifications.

Tags: ballistic missile defense, ballistic missile defense system, cape canaveral air force station, infrared satellite, infrared sensitivity, infrared sensors, Lockheed Martin, missile defense system, solar arrays, space based infrared system

NASA Awards Audit, Assessment and Assurance Services Contract — Press Release

May 17, 2011 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Contract Awards, Events, Honeywell, logistics, Press Releases, space

NASA Awards Audit, Assessment and Assurance Services Contract

CLEVELAND, May 16, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — NASA selected Honeywell Technology Solutions Inc. of Columbia, Md., to provide safety audits, technical assessments and mission assurance support services for the agency.

This cost-plus-fixed-fee, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract has a period of performance of five years with a potential value of $96 million. The contract will be managed at the NASA Safety Center in Cleveland.

Honeywell Technology Solutions will provide support services associated with institutional safety assessment and hazard analysis; system safety hazard analysis; reliability, maintainability and risk analysis; mishap investigations; quality engineering and assurance; software safety and assurance; assessments/audits; analysis of assessments and audit results; and training and outreach associated with these services.

The NASA Safety Center supports the safety and mission assurance requirements of NASA’s portfolio of programs and projects. The center reports to the Office of Safety and Mission Assurance at NASA Headquarters in Washington. For information about the NASA Safety Center, visit:

http://nsc.nasa.gov

For information about NASA and agency programs, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov

SOURCE NASA

Tags: honeywell technology, indefinite delivery indefinite quantity, indefinite quantity contract, mission assurance support, nasa awards, nasa headquarters, nasa safety, safety hazard analysis, technology solutions inc, usnewswire

U.S. Air Force Modifies SBIRS Contract with Lockheed for More Flexibility

April 6, 2011 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Contract Additions, Contract Awards, Department of Defense, development program, Events, Federal Budget Process, Lockheed Martin, MDA, missile defense, S&T, Satellites, Services, space, U.S. Air Force

The U.S. Air Force has been working with Lockheed Martin (LMT) for several years on the development, production and deployment of the Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS). This is a group of satellites that will be placed into orbit to detect and classify missile and other space launch vehicles as they are launched. It is replacing a Cold War era system.

The program will ultimately have six different satellites with two in a high orbit and four in geosynchronous orbit. Lockheed recently received a contract for the last of the geosynchronous satellites worth about $400 million. This follows work on the two high and the other three geosynchronous satellites.

All systems such as this also have a ground component that is used to control the satellites as well as receive data from them. Lockheed is also working on that aspect of the SBIRS system. As part of this Lockheed just received a contract modification for the Block 10 of the ground systems that is worth over $450 million. This will modify the contract to deliver a more flexible system that includes segregating the different mission areas as well as providing a means for delivering data to a variety of users. The new ground system will be deployed at at least two locations and will also be integrated with the legacy system the SBIRS is replacing.

The United States continues its investment in missile defense systems and part of this is a system that provides warning of potential threat launches. The SBIRS is one component of that and it makes no sense to develop programs like those deployed in Alaska and on Navy ships if you do not have good intelligence and support that allow you to detect, classify and engage enemy missiles. Programs like this are key to developing and maintaining that capability.

Photo from The U.S. Army flickr photostream.

Tags: enemy missiles, flickr photostream, geosynchronous satellites, ground component, launch vehicles, Lockheed Martin, missile defense systems, navy ships, space based infrared system, space launch

NASA Extends Crew Flight Contract with Russian Space Agency — Press Release

March 15, 2011 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, Press Releases, space

NASA Extends Crew Flight Contract with Russian Space Agency

Administrator Bolden repeats call for American-made commercial alternative

WASHINGTON, March 14, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — NASA has signed a $753 million modification to the current International Space Station contract with the Russian Federal Space Agency for crew transportation, rescue and related services from 2014 through June 2016. The firm-fixed price modification covers comprehensive Soyuz support, including all necessary training and preparation for launch, flight operations, landing and crew rescue of long-duration missions for 12 individual space station crew members.

NASA has efforts underway to develop an American-made commercial capability for crew transportation and rescue services to the station following this year’s retirement of the space shuttle fleet. Agency Administrator Charles Bolden cited this week’s Soyuz contract extension as a reminder of how critically important those efforts are.

“The President’s 2012 budget request boosts funding for our partnership with the commercial space industry and prioritizes our efforts to ensure that American astronauts and the cargo they need are transported by American companies rather than continuing to outsource this work to foreign governments,” Bolden said. “This new approach in getting our crews and cargo into orbit will create good jobs and expand opportunities for our American economy. If we are to win the future and out build our competitors, it’s essential that we make this program a success.”

NASA made Commercial Crew Development awards in 2010 to stimulate efforts within the private sector, encouraging them to develop and demonstrate human spaceflight capabilities. The agency anticipates these systems will be available by the middle of the decade.

These services will provide our primary transportation to and from the International Space Station for U.S., Canadian, European and Japanese astronauts. To ensure a smooth transition as this new capability is developed, Soyuz support will continue as a backup capability for about a year after commercial services begin.

With this contract modification, station crew members may launch on Soyuz vehicles during a 24-month period. The contract will provide for the launch of six people in calendar year 2014 and six more in 2015, as well as their return to Earth in the spring of 2016 after a six-month stay aboard the station. The extended contract ends June 30, 2016.

Under the contract modification, the Soyuz flights will carry limited cargo associated with crew transportation to and from the station, and assist with the disposal of trash. The cargo provided per Soyuz seat is approximately 110 pounds (50 kilograms) launched to the station, approximately 37 pounds (17 kilograms) returned to Earth and trash disposal of approximately 66 pounds (30 kilograms).

For more information about the International Space Station, visit:

http://www.nasa . gov/s t a t ion

SOURCE NASA

Tags: american astronauts, commercial capability, commercial space industry, crew transportation, duration missions, international space station, russian space agency, space shuttle fleet, space station crew, usnewswire

MilSpace 2011 – Conference

March 1, 2011 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, IT, S&T, Satellites, space, Trade Shows and Events

MilSpace 2011
http://www.smi-online.co.uk/military-space31.asp

4 & 5 April 2011
Radisson Blu Hotel, Paris Boulogne, France
http://www.smi-online.co.uk/military-space31.asp

Don’t miss this opportunity to attend SMi’s leading MilSpace conference. Taking place in Paris in April, and returning for its 5th year, this event will identify and explore the latest developments and issues in the military’s use of space across Europe and North America. MilSpace 2011 will focus on the changing nature of military space partnerships and the impact of recent government austerity measures. As military use of space continues to evolve, ensure that you stay ahead of the game and build future space partnerships!

This year’s outstanding line-up of speakers includes:

• Richard W McKinney, Deputy Under Secretary of the Air Force for Space Programs Senior Executive Service United States Air Force

• Brigadier General Yves Arnaud, Commander, Joint Space Command, French Joint Staff

• Colonel André Dupuis, Director of Space Development, Canadian Department of Defense

• Colonel Kary Mermet, Head of Space Surveillance Division, French Air Force

• Rodolphe Paris, PT SatCom Chairman, Space & Radio Spectrum Project Officer, Capabilities Directorate, European Defence Agency

Attend MilSpace 2011 to:

• Discuss the changing nature of European militarization of space – what is the way forward?

• Gain expert insights into the future direction and challenges facing Military Space in the US

• Hear about the European approach to BMD and the differences between the European and US approach

• Learn about the operational use of space and efforts to increase NATO spatial cooperation

• Identify future opportunities for military, civil and commercial co-operation

To Book Visit MilSpace 2011 http://www.smi-online.co.uk/military-space31.asp

Alternatively contact Teri Arri on tel: +44 (0) 20 7827 6162 or email: [email protected]

Tags: amp radio, boulogne france, brigadier general, european defence agency, french air force, government austerity measures, hotel paris boulogne, militarization of space, senior executive service, surveillance division

U.S. Department of Defense Concerned About Industry Consilidation

February 10, 2011 by Matthew Potter · 1 Comment
Filed under: BAE Systems, Boeing, Business Line, Companies, Congress, Department of Defense, development program, EADS, Events, Federal Budget Process, General Dynamics, Lockheed Martin, logistics, Military Aviation, northrop grumman, Northrop Grumman Corp., production program, Proposal, Raytheon, Restructuring, S&T, Services, space, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy

At a speech yesterday the Undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition Ashton Carter discussed the potential for shrinkage in the U.S. industrial base due to declines or flat spending by the Government on defense. He made it rather clear that while mergers and acquisitions would not be discouraged the Obama Administration is concerned about consolidation among the biggest defense contractors.

After the decline in spending in the Nineties caused by the collapse of the Soviet Union and the “Peace Dividend” the U.S. defense contracting world ended up with five big companies. These were Boeing (BA), which absorbed McDonnell Douglas; Lockheed Martin (LMT), which merged Lockheed and Martin Marietta; Northrop Grumman (NOC); which combined Northrop and Grumman; Raytheon (RTN) and General Dynamics (GD).

These companies became the major developers of systems and suppliers of large aircraft, ship, space and missile programs. The U.S. defense budget is very diverse and allows many other companies to participate including those that primarily provide services and consumable items such as fuel, ammunition and food to the military. The fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan has also allowed innovative systems like Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) to become important and a company like General Atomics can do very well through there product line.

The Nineties also led to penetration of the U.S. market by the large European defense contractors like BAE Systems (BAE:LSE) and EADS (EADS:P) necessitated by the need for competition and their acquisition of U.S. companies that provided or maintained systems like the M2 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV).

Carter made it clear that the desire to maintain competition for future contracts and projects will outweigh thoughts on future efficiencies caused by the lack of work for many different contractors. He was asked point blank about Northrop’s plans to either sell or spin off their ship building division due to concerns about the amount of work available for it in the future. Carter expressed concerns that if Northrop did separate this part it had to be a viable stand alone company able to support the U.S. military.

As the fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan winds down and the continued pressure to reduce overall government spending rises the defense budget will see reductions. This will most likely affect new, future programs as the budget for their development and production will take the biggest hit. The Defense Department is committed to the Joint Strike Fighter as the biggest item in future spending. That program alone may eat up most of the available investment funds in the near term.

The government may be faced with problems as it tries to maintain a competitive industrial base while reducing the amount of spending to a point where they might not be enough work to go around.

Photo from Kevin Burkett’s flickr photostream.

Tags: ashton carter, collapse of the soviet union, General Atomics, infantry fighting vehicle, m2 bradley, mergers and acquisitions, northrop and grumman, northrop grumman, peace dividend, undersecretary of defense

Air Force Awards Follow On Space Fence Development Contracts

February 9, 2011 by Matthew Potter · 1 Comment
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Contract Additions, Contract Awards, Department of Defense, development program, Events, Federal Budget Process, Lockheed Martin, missile defense, Raytheon, S&T, Satellites, Services, space, U.S. Air Force

The U.S. Air Force as part of its responsibilities is the lead service for dealing with space. This is a natural extension of their mission of providing defense surveillance of the U.S. by looking for enemy bombers and missiles. As part of this mission they operate a network of sensors that are used to track objects in orbit above the Earth. They are conducting a program to build a new “Space Fence” to replace the existing one that went in to service a few decades ago.

Almost two years ago the Air Force awarded three contracts to support concept development of new radars for the network. Due to budgetary restrictions only two of these contracts were fully executed. These contracts helped define requirements and understand technology with a goal of reducing life cycle costs and making sure the program will be delivered on time.

These have been completed and the program is entering the next phase where prototype radars will be developed and technical maturity demonstrated. Both Raytheon (RTN) and Lockheed Martin (LMT) received identical contracts for this next phase.

Once this phase is completed then the program will enter Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) to support a Milestone C production decision. At that time the Air Force will most likely select one design from competing contractors.

The two contracts have identical values of just over $100 million. It is estimated that the total program will cost over $3 billion so the winning contractor or contractors have a great deal of follow on work once this phase is passed.

The U.S. defense budget must not only pay for current operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, replace and recapitalize existing weapon systems, develop new ones but also support key functions like this. The balancing of current and future requirements and investments as the budget is reduced or limited will be one of the major issues facing the Congress and the Service leadership.

Tags: air force awards, budgetary restrictions, defense budget, development contracts, enemy bombers, Lockheed Martin, production decision, service leadership, technical maturity, u s air force

U.S.A.F. Contracts with Space Florida for Launch Support

February 2, 2011 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Congress, Contract Awards, Department of Defense, development program, Events, Federal Budget Process, Florida, logistics, NASA, Orbital Systems, Restructuring, S&T, Satellites, Services, space, States, U.S. Air Force

The State of Florida charted an entity called Space Florida to help grow their support to the space and aerospace industry using it to manage existing facilities located at Cape Canaveral and other sites. Set up in 2006 it combined three previous organizations related to space development and research into one. Space Florida operates a facility to assemble rockets and support launches at the Kennedy Space Center. This is part of a readjustment to the reorganization of NASA priorities that will see the last flight of the Space Shuttle in the near future.

As part of their work the U.S. Air Force issued Space Florida an ID/IQ contract to support launches of Orbital Sciences (OSC) Minotaur launch vehicles. This contract has a value of up to $48 million if all options are exercised. As with all ID/IQ contracts there is no guarantee that any work may be issued or ordered.

The Minotaur is a combination of existing ICBM rocket motors and other hardware used by the Air Force to launch small-to-medium payloads into orbit. It also is used to support testing and may carry targets and other systems. So far there have been eighteen launches of the system with thirty-one payloads placed in orbit.

The U.S. is moving to try and generate more commercial programs to provide access to space. The focus is on small companies developing new technologies or providing support services like this rather then relying on the large Defense and NASA infrastructure. This is not happening without pain as there will be significant job losses as the Florida economy adjusts to the end of the Space Shuttle with no near term U.S. replacement for heavy lift launch capability.

NASA had been developing the Ares and Orion systems to replace the Space Shuttle and support the International Space Station (ISS) as well as plan for longer missions in space but the Obama Administration restructured the program severely. This included ending work on most of the program and shifting funds to commercial companies trying to develop launch vehicles such as SpaceX.

It is too early to tell how well this strategy will work but right now the U.S. will soon be dependent on Russian systems to carry crew and supplies to the ISS until it develops the replacement for the Space Shuttle.

Photo by Nick Davis of the launch of Space Shuttle Discovery.

Tags: aerospace industry, developing new technologies, florida economy, international space station, kennedy space center, launch vehicles, orion systems, rocket motors, space shuttle, u s air force

ViviSat Launched — Press Release

January 13, 2011 by Matthew Potter · Comment
Filed under: Alliant Techsystems, Business Line, Companies, development program, Events, Press Releases, S&T, Satellites, space

ViviSat Launched

New Venture Will Provide Satellite Life Extension Services

PR Newswire

DULLES, Va., Jan. 13, 2011

DULLES, Va., Jan. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — U.S. Space LLC, a U.S.-based creator of dedicated space solutions for government and commercial clients, and ATK (NYSE: ATK), an aerospace, defense, and commercial products company, today announced the creation of ViviSat, a new satellite life extension venture. ViviSat provides geosynchronous satellite operators with flexible, scalable, capital-efficient, and low-risk in-orbit mission extension and protection services that can add several years to the revenue-producing life of a satellite.

ViviSat’s Mission Extension Vehicle (MEV) is designed to dock with the orbiting satellite, securely latch on to it, and serve as a back-up propulsion system. This enables a mission extension for satellites which have run out of maneuvering fuel yet still have plenty of electrical power to operate their payloads. ViviSat services include rendezvous and docking without interruption of satellite operation, long-term station-keeping and attitude control, relocation to different orbits or orbital slots, de-orbiting, and rescue and re-orbiting of satellites stranded in incorrect orbital slots.

Edward D. Horowitz, Chairman of ViviSat and Co-founder of U.S. Space, said, “ViviSat is a new company dedicated to providing satellite operators, the U.S. Government and its coalition government partners with in-orbit mission extension and protection services. ViviSat’s service model delivers a game-changing advance in financial efficiency, operating flexibility and risk mitigation. ViviSat provides satellite operators around the world solutions designed to improve performance, return and cash flow from existing space assets and activate new markets and new opportunities.” Ed Horowitz’s bio

Tom Wilson, Board Member of ViviSat and Vice President and General Manager of ATK Spacecraft Systems and Services, said, “In-orbit mission extension and operations protection are a brand new market and ViviSat will enable operators to extend satellite mission duration, drive asset value, and protect their franchises in ways no other provider can offer. ATK is an industry leader in space systems technology, subsystems, and components for satellites of all classes. We have a proven record of performance with a legacy of on-orbit success developed from numerous prior missions –Earth Observing-1, THEMIS, and TacSat-3. The ViviSat venture matches our overall objective to deliver innovative solutions based on customer needs.” Tom Wilson’s bio

Horowitz and Wilson outlined the roles of the two companies in the ViviSat venture. U.S. Space is the operating entity, with responsibility for mission management, marketing, legal, and finance. ATK is the mission prime contractor, with responsibility for manufacture and delivery of the spacecraft, launch and ground segments. Horowitz and Wilson also announced the ViviSat senior team:

* Major General, USAF (Ret.) Craig P. Weston is Chief Executive Officer of ViviSat. Craig Weston’s bio
* Bryan McGuirk is Chief Operating Officer of ViviSat. Bryan McGuirk’s bio
* Mark Piegza is Chief Financial Officer of ViviSat. Mark Piegza’s bio
* Dr. Dany Harel is Chief Technical Officer of ViviSat. Dany Harel’s bio

Weston said, “ViviSat has the space dream team – a deeply experienced and accomplished management backed by creative and customer-oriented investors. We look forward to growing this new mission area for the benefit of commercial and government operators.”

Further information about ViviSat can be found at the company’s website, http://www.vivisat.com

SOURCE U.S. Space LLC; ATK Spacecraft Systems and Services
Read more

Tags: attitude control, financial efficiency, orbit mission, orbital slots, pr newswire, propulsion system, risk mitigation, satellite life, space assets, spacecraft systems

Lockheed Receives Contract for Latest SBIRS Satellite

January 10, 2011 by Matthew Potter · 1 Comment
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Congress, Contract Additions, Contract Awards, Department of Defense, development program, Events, Federal Budget Process, IT, Lockheed Martin, MDA, missile defense, S&T, Satellites, Services, space, U.S. Air Force

The U.S. Government and military utilize satellites for a variety of missions. These include communications, intelligence collection, surveillance and other support functions. Due to their capabilities the U.S. has maintained a constellation of satellites for several decades whose role is to provide warning and detection of missile and rocket launches across the world.

The original system is being replaced by the Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) managed by the Air Force and currently being built by Lockheed Martin (LMT). The SBIRS system will have six satellites with two in high orbit and four in geosynchronous. The Air Force just placed a contract worth a little over $400 million for the fourth satellite in the planned geosynchronous series for this program.

The two high orbit systems have already been delivered. They have been involved in demonstration and testing since 2008.

This award follows the successful Critical Design Review (CDR) for the program in August. The CDR reviewed the plans for satellites #3 and 4 and validated the designs before production starts.

The current SBIRS – High program as managed by Lockheed includes ground stations and also managing the pre-SBIRS system currently in use. The program is run out of their Space Systems Company in Colorado.

Satellites are expensive especially ones carrying complicated payloads. The SBIRS program has been going on for several years and represents and investment of several billion dollars.

Photo form Ryan Somma’s flickr photostream.

Tags: communications intelligence, critical design, flickr photostream, geosynchronous, intelligence collection, Lockheed Martin, orbit systems, rocket launches, sbirs program, space based infrared system

Unisys Awarded Contract to Provide Software Development and Integration Services to Support NASA Langley Simulation and Flight Research for Aviation and Space Missions — Press Release

January 7, 2011 by Matthew Potter · 1 Comment
Filed under: Business Line, Companies, Events, Press Releases, space, Unisys

Unisys Awarded Contract to Provide Software Development and Integration Services to Support NASA Langley Simulation and Flight Research for Aviation and Space Missions

NASA contract, worth an estimated $48.5 million, extends 35-year relationship supporting the Langley Research Center simulation and flight research missions

BLUE BELL, Pa., Jan. 6, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — NASA has awarded a contract to Unisys (NYSE: UIS) to provide application development and systems integration services to support the simulation and flight research projects at the NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC).

The Langley Simulation and Aircraft Technical Services contract, a cost-plus-fixed-fee award, has a three-year base period valued at approximately $28 million, with one two-year option, exercisable at the discretion of the government and valued at approximately $20.5 million. This award was made to Unisys following a competitive bid process and extends the company’s 35-year relationship with NASA.

Under the contract, Unisys will be responsible for software and hardware design, development and testing; as well as operations and maintenance of the center’s simulation infrastructure and research systems. Unisys also will provide a range of technical services supporting NASA’s software and hardware technology, creativity and innovation initiatives for flight simulation facilities and research aircraft systems.

During its longstanding, collaborative relationship with NASA, Unisys developed the standard software framework used in LaRC simulators. The software, known as Langley Standard Real-Time Simulation in C++, was recognized as the LaRC Software of the Year in 2005, and was credited for saving NASA an estimated $17 million over 10 years through reduced labor costs due to high levels of software reuse.

“We are honored to be awarded this contract and for the opportunity to continue our successful collaboration and longstanding relationship with NASA Langley Research Center,” said Ted Davies, president, Unisys Federal Systems. “We look forward to supporting the center’s mission of providing innovative research support to NASA and its stakeholders.”

About Unisys

Unisys is a worldwide information technology company. We provide a portfolio of IT services, software, and technology that solves critical problems for clients. We specialize in helping clients secure their operations, increase the efficiency and utilization of their data centers, enhance support to their end users and constituents, and modernize their enterprise applications. To provide these services and solutions, we bring together offerings and capabilities in outsourcing services, systems integration and consulting services, infrastructure services, maintenance services, and high-end server technology. With approximately 23,000 employees, Unisys serves commercial organizations and government agencies throughout the world. For more information, visit www.unisys.com.

Forward-looking Statements

Any statements contained in this release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All forward-looking statements rely on assumptions and are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations. In particular, statements about the value of the contract assume that the contract will continue for its full term, and that the actual cost of performance will be approximately the same as the costs currently estimated. Further, because agreements with government agencies are terminable before the end of their terms and are subject to the availability of appropriated funds, there is no guarantee that the contract will continue for its full term. Additional discussion of factors that could affect Unisys future results is contained in periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

RELEASE NO.: 0106/9012

Unisys is a registered trademark of Unisys Corporation. All other brands and products referenced herein are acknowledged to be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

SOURCE Unisys Corporation

Tags: blue bell pa, flight research projects, flight simulation facilities, langley research center, nasa contract, nasa langley research, nasa langley research center, simulation infrastructure, systems integration services, technical services contract

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