Swedish Space Agency Signs Agreement with FAA on Launch Licensing
Swedish National Space Agency signed an agreement with FAA to enhance cooperation on licensing US rocket launches from Esrange Space Centre. This facility, operational since the 1960s, has primarily supported suborbital flights. The agreement aims to facilitate future orbital launch activities, marking a significant shift in the operational capabilities of the Esrange facility in 2023.
US military eyes high-energy ‘laser dome’ for domestic air defense
U.S. military is advancing the deployment of high-energy laser weapons for air defense against drones, following a landmark safety agreement with the FAA. This agreement stems from incidents involving the Army Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser (AMP-HEL), which prompted airspace shutdowns. The LOCUST Laser Weapon System was assessed for safety, confirming it poses no undue risk to aircraft.
Blue Origin pushes second flight of New Glenn mega-rocket to August
Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket's second flight is delayed to at least mid-August, as announced by CEO Dave Limp. Initially targeting late spring, the launch follows a first attempt on January 16, where the booster stage exploded during recovery. The company aims to implement seven corrective actions mandated by the FAA before the next launch attempt.