December 2016

Vector Space Systems, a micro satellite space launch company , announced the successful test of its first stage 5K-lbf [22 kN] engine of the Vector-R launch vehicle. http://www.sat-nd.com/archive/?id=2016121600

The second ExoMars mission has been confirmed to complete its construction for a 2020 launch. ESA and Thales Alenia Space signed a contract today that secures the completion of the European elements of the next mission. http://www.sat-nd.com/archive/?id=2016121601

http://www.satellitetoday.com/nextspace/2016/12/16/else-ceo-2017-big-year-planned-64-satellite-constellation/

http://www.satellitetoday.com/nextspace/2016/12/16/ula-names-additive-manufacturing-contest-winners/

http://www.satellitetoday.com/technology/2016/12/16/bently-walker-provide-echostar-mss-voice-data/

http://www.satellitetoday.com/telecom/2016/12/16/eutelsat-appoints-sandrine-teran-group-financial-officer/

http://www.satellitetoday.com/broadcasting/2016/12/16/o3b-digicel-support-green-climate-fund-meeting-samoa/

Rocket: Pegasus XL; Payload: eight CYGNSS satellites; Date: 15 December 2016, 1337 UTC; Launch site: Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, USA. For the first phase of the launch, CYGNSS and the Pegasus rocket were carried into the atmosphere beneath Orbital ATK’s "Stargazer" L-1011 carrier aircraft. They were released from the plane at approximately 11.7 km,…

Europe’s own Galileo satellite navigation system has begun operating, with the satellites in space delivering positioning, navigation and timing information to users around the globe. Several contracts regarding the system’s operation have been signed. http://www.sat-nd.com/archive/?id=2016121501

ESA has handed over ownership of the Orion European Service Module test article to NASA at the agency’s Plum Brook facility – marking the end of individual testing for the structure. http://www.sat-nd.com/archive/?id=2016121502