The space agency NASA has signed a million-dollar contract with SpaceX, among others, to replace their old satellites.
That’s quite remarkable. This is because NASA has traditionally been the space agency. Nevertheless, the organization is going to replace its existing older satellites with commercial ones. This is what Reuters has today published† SpaceX, but also Amazon, have made a deal with NASA.
NASA to use SpaceX satellites
SpaceX and Amazon are thus ahead of the government when it comes to developing satellites and the systems that go with them. The US government has signed multi-million dollar deals with the two companies. This is because it would otherwise be much, much more expensive if NASA did it itself, especially with regard to the infrastructure for satellite communications. The American space agency still uses many of its own systems, such as the Tracking and Data Delay Satellite system. This system enables communication with spacecraft.
The deal is worth a good 250 million euros. Amazon can use this to expand its Project Kuiper with an investment of 60 million euros. Like SpaceX, the company will launch thousands of satellites into space to provide remote areas with internet access. In addition, 65 million euros will go to SpaceX. Other companies also benefit from the deal and receive money to develop. These are the companies ViaSat, SES, Telesat and Inmarsat.
outsource
Like many governments, NASA is now going to outsource a lot. The reason for this is money. With these deals the organization will (hopefully) save money in the long term. The first results should be visible in 2025. Then all companies mentioned must show what they have developed. The space agency then aims to gradually switch to these new systems.
Also interesting!
-
Images of a Starlink satellite collapsing -
An overnight stay on the ISS is so ridiculously expensive -
NASA to launch rockets into space -
SpaceX sends Starlink internet to planes
†
