Orbex achieves a significant step with the successful completion of Prime launch simulation
In the realm of space exploration and technology, several significant advancements have been made by various companies and organisations.
Orbex, a UK-based space industry company, has completed its first full simulation of the Prime vehicle launch. This milestone is a significant achievement for Orbex, bringing them one step closer to operational launch services. The simulation tested mission-critical systems, including flight software, engine control, and tracking, providing valuable insights for the launch team.
Orbex's avionics, software, and GNC teams collaborated to ensure the success of this integrated presentation simulation. The company's CEO, Phil Chambers, hailed the simulation as a demonstration of Orbex's progress. The specific engineers and employees involved in this collaborative work, however, have not been publicly listed.
The test demonstrated successful control of Prime's patented coaxial tank system, a complex design requiring precise software-hardware integration. This coaxial tank structure is central to the design of Prime and enables a uniquely low mass rocket that is around 30% lighter than similarly sized launchers.
Meanwhile, Lockheed Martin is upgrading the Republic of Korea Air Force's F-16 Block 52 flight simulators to mirror the advanced capabilities of its modernised F-16 Viper (F-16V) aircraft. This upgrade will provide Korean pilots with a more realistic training experience, enhancing their readiness for combat missions.
NASA is also making strides in space technology. The agency has begun assembling the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket for the Artemis III lunar mission at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Preparations are also underway for the Artemis II launch, the second step in NASA's effort to return humans to the Moon and eventually reach Mars.
Elsewhere, the X-37B spaceplane, built by Boeing, is now in orbit, performing well, and undergoing routine system checks. The X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle recently launched on its eighth mission, using a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
In addition, Boeing has introduced a 3D printed solar array substrate that can reduce composite build times by up to six months. This new substrate offers a 50% improvement in production speed compared to current cycle times.
Lastly, Brookhouse Aerospace has invested over £500,000 in additional machinery to extend its engineering capabilities. The National Composites Centre (NCC) has also adopted Dassault Systèmes' 3DEXPERIENCE platform on the cloud and extended its use to other innovation centres within the UK High Value Manufacturing Catapult network.
These advancements in space technology and aerospace engineering are paving the way for future missions and innovations. As these companies and organisations continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, we can look forward to exciting developments in the field of space exploration.
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