Ball Aerospace’s (NYSE: BLL) NPOESS Preparatory Project satellite came one step closer this week to NASA’s planned Oct. 25 launch date with the completion of thermal vacuum testing. The two-month process proved the satellite can function in space.
“Given the fact that the U.S. has more severe weather than any other country, it’s crucial that decision-makers have seamless data from the nation’s next weather satellite to protect the country’s economic stability, ” said Cary Ludtke, vice president and general manager for Ball Aerospace’s civil and operational space business unit. “This major milestone puts NPP a step closer to providing those continued observations.”
NPP will provide NASA weather and environmental data from a polar orbit. The satellite is equipped with infrared imaging, Cross-track infrared Sounder, Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder, the Ozone Mapping and Profiler Suite and the Clouds and the Earth Radiant Energy System.
