Northrop Grumman launches mission to extend life of Optus D3 satellite
Northrop Grumman has launched its Mission Robotic Vehicle to extend the operational life of the Optus D3 communications satellite. The mission utilizes a Mission Extension Pod to provide propulsion and maintenance to satellites currently in geostationary orbit.
Why it matters
Satellite life-extension technology reduces space debris and provides a cost-effective alternative to launching new hardware for telecommunications providers.
Northrop Grumman has successfully launched its Mission Robotic Vehicle (MRV), carrying the Mission Extension Pod (MEP) that will be used to extend the operational life of Optus's D3 communications satellite. The MRV launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral on 22 July and is carrying three customer-owned MEPs, including one allocated to Optus D3. Developed by Northrop Grumman subsidiary SpaceLogistics, the spacecraft is designed to install the propulsion pods on satellites in geostationar
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