SpaceX launches Northrop Grumman satellite servicing mission
SpaceX launched Northrop Grumman's mission robotic vehicle (MRV) and three mission extension pods (MEPs) from Cape Canaveral on July 21, starting a first deployment of the company's new life-extension pods for geostationary satellites. The MRV, operated by SpaceLogistics, carries two 10-foot robotic arms to capture and attach each pod in geostationary orbit; the pods supply propulsion and momentum management and can extend a satellite's operational life by up to eight years. Optus reserved one pod and Intelsat two. The MRV will remain in orbit to support future servicing and carries a Passive Refueling Module approved by the US Space Force, while SpaceX did not recover the Falcon 9 booster on its 32nd and final flight.
MRV will deploy three MEPs to extend satellite service lives.
Context
Northrop Grumman used MEV missions in 2019 and 2020 to dock with client satellites. The MRV will now rendezvous in geostationary orbit, attach pods to satellites, and remain to support future servicing.
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