Northrop Grumman launches robotic spacecraft to repair and extend life of satellites

Northrop Grumman Prepares Robotic Satellite Servicer to Extend Optus D3’s Life

Northrop Grumman has undocked a Mission Extension Vehicle from Australia’s Optus D3 communications satellite, clearing the way for a newer robotic spacecraft to take over its life-extension work. The next phase will use robotic arms to permanently attach a propulsion pod to Optus D3, potentially keeping the satellite operational for up to six more years. The Mission Extension Vehicle had been attached to Optus D3 for more than a year, providing …

Northrop Grumman launches robotic spacecraft to repair and extend life of satellites

Northrop Grumman has launched a sophisticated robotic spacecraft designed to service satellites in orbit, potentially allowing expensive space assets to be repaired, upgraded, moved and kept operational long after their original fuel supplies have been depleted. The company’s Mission Robotic Vehicle, or MRV, launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 […]