Credit: NASA
The selections entail six key areas for future development as well as a category for other exploration technologies. They are: advanced communications, navigation and avionics; entry, descent and landing; in-space manufacturing and assembly; advanced materials; power; and propulsion. Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin will collaborate with NASA on advanced navigation and guidance systems to enable safe, precise landings on the Moon, says the agency. And NASA says the company will also partner with them on advancing a fuel cell power system for the company’s Blue Moon lander. The system, says NASA, could provide uninterrupted power during the lunar night, which lasts for about two weeks in most locations.
Spirit Aerosystem, Inc. of Wichita, Kan., will partner with NASA on improving the durability of low-cost reusable rockets manufactured using friction stir welding, says the agency. This welding method which is already being used for NASA’s Space Launch System allows for stronger, more defect-free seals.
Has Oracle sued yet