Airbus-built PAZ radar satellite successfully launched

Space X press release
http://www.spacex.com/sites/spacex/files/paz_press_kit_2.21.pdf



Airbus Press Release:

• Spain’s first radar satellite will start operations in May 2018 
• Airbus engineers to support LEOP and IOT phases 
• PAZ will join the Airbus high resolution SAR satellite constellation

Madrid, 22/02/2018 – The Airbus-built PAZ radar satellite has been successfully launched today from Vandenberg Air Force Base, in California, USA. Ten minutes after launch, the satellite separated from the launcher and will soon be positioned at its 514 km orbit.


First contact with the satellite was established from the DLR Ground Control Centre in Germany, where Airbus engineers are supporting the Launch and Early Orbit Phase (LEOP) to check out and configure the satellite, ensuring that all satellite critical systems and communications are functioning as planned. These activities will take around five days, then the satellite will be handed over to the Ground Control Centre located at INTA (Instituto Nacional de Técnicas Aeroespaciales) in Torrejón de Ardóz, near Madrid. The satellite will be operated by INTA and Hisdesat (owner of the satellite) technical teams.

During the next three months all In-Orbit Testing (IOT) activities will be carried out from Madrid, and will serve to validate the correct functioning of the spacecraft and its radar performance. The verification of the two secondary payloads, the sophisticated Automatic Identification System (AIS) for global control of the maritime scenario and the Radio Occultation and Heavy Precipitation experiment (ROHP), will be carried out.

As prime contractor, Airbus Spain built the PAZ satellite, leading a team of 15 European companies and three universities. “PAZ is the first Spanish radar satellite and has now joined the TerraSAR-X and TanDEM-X satellites. Operating on the same orbit, the three satellites form a very high-resolution SAR constellation providing reduced revisit time and increased acquisition capacity,” said Nicolas Chamussy, Head of Space Systems within Airbus. “PAZ is another good example of the advanced technologies that Airbus has to offer to improve our everyday lives. Environment monitoring, management of natural resources, urban and agricultural planning and crisis evaluation are just a few examples of the numerous applications this satellite will be used for.”

PAZ is equipped with advanced active SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) technology designed for high flexibility and the capability to operate in multiple modes with different image sizes and resolutions. It will take images 24/7 and in all weather conditions. PAZ is designed for a mission life time of five and a half years, serving both Spanish government and commercial needs. The initial investment made in the project was 160 million euros.

The new constellation will be jointly exploited by Hisdesat and Airbus. PAZ data will also be used as part of Copernicus, the European Union’s Earth monitoring programme.

EASA publishes the first Opinion on safe drone operations in Europe

Press Release

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) published the first formal Opinion on safe operations for small drones in Europe. This formal Opinion is an important stepping-stone to keep drone operations safe and secure and build a wider regulatory framework. The Opinion will serve as a basis for the European Commission to adopt concrete regulatory proposals later in the year. A first meeting chaired by the European Commission to discuss this Opinion with the EU Member States already took place on 21 February 2018.

Patrick Ky, EASA Executive Director said: “this regulation will enable the free circulation of drones and a level playing field within the European Union, while also respecting the privacy and security of EU citizens, and allowing the drone industry to remain agile, to innovate and continue to grow”.

The EASA Opinion comes up with an innovative way of regulating, where the rules are kept as simple as possible with a strong focus on the particular risk of the operation: flying the same drone over a city center or over the sea entails a completely different risk.

The Opinion also breaks new ground by combining product legislation and aviation legislation: design requirements for small drones (up to 25kg) will be implemented by using the well-known CE (“Conformité Européenne”) marking for products brought on the market in Europe. The operator will find in each drone package a consumer information with the “do’s and don’ts” on how to fly a drone without endangering other people.

Background:

The proposed approach is innovative and globally recognized as the best way forward to keep drone operations safe. The requirements do not focus on the drone itself, but consider a range of elements such as where the drone is flown (over the sea or over a city centre), who is flying the drone (a child or a professional pilot) or what drone is actually being used (how heavy is the drone or what safety features it does have).

• The ‘open’ category of operations’ does not require a prior authorisation by the competent authority, nor a declaration by the operator, before the operation takes place. Safety is ensured through a combination of operational limitations, technical requirements for the machine and the competency of the remote pilot. Examples of operations that fall into this category are filming and taking photographs, infrastructure inspections, and leisure activities in which the remote pilot keeps the unmanned aircraft in sight at all times.
• The ‘specific’ category of operations requires an authorisation by the competent authority before the operation takes place. Here, safe operations are guaranteed through a system in which the drone operator is required to carry out an operational risk assessment and put in place the resulting mitigation measures to obtain an authorisation to fly the drone. Examples of this category are flights where the operator can no longer see the drone (so-called beyond visual line of sight or BVLOS), flying over populated areas and operations with heavier drones.

The Opinion allows a high degree of flexibility for the EASA Member States. They will be able to define zones where drone operations will be either prohibited or restricted (for example, to protect sensitive areas), or where certain requirements are alleviated (for example, areas dedicated to model aircraft).

EASA will develop standard scenarios that will make it simpler to obtain authorisations for well‑defined operations (such as, for example, linear inspections conducted in BVLOS, or crop spraying). The proposal also recognises the good safety records of model flying clubs and associations and it provides special alleviations for members of those clubs and associations.

This Opinion follows a preceding consultation document (Notice of Proposed Amendment - published by EASA in May 2017), and it takes into account thousands of comments received from private citizens, industry, operators and national authorities during the four-month public consultation period. A detailed impact assessment supported the initial consultation document. The Opinion includes, for information draft Acceptable Means of Compliance and Guidance Material which will help operators to comply with the rules.

[video] Lanzamiento del satélite español PAZ

https://youtu.be/-p-PToD2URA

El primer A350 XWB de Iberia, en fase final de montaje

NdP




El primer A350-900 que recibirá Iberia va cobrando forma en la cadena de montaje final (FAL) Roger Béteille de Toulouse, Francia. El avión se encuentra ya en la fase de ensamblaje de las alas con el fuselaje. Además, se están instalando los pilones en los motores y los estabilizadores horizontal y vertical, y se está realizando el primer encendido de los sistemas eléctricos.



El avión se someterá después a una serie de ensayos en tierra, a los que seguirán la instalación de la cabina de pilotos, los últimos trabajos en la cabina de pasajeros, la pintura y la instalación de los motores. Por último, se realizarán ensayos en vuelo antes de que el avión pase al equipo del Centro de Entregas de Airbus.



Iberia, que opera con una flota entera de aviones Airbus, recibirá 16 unidades del modelo A350 XWB que se destinarán a sus rutas de largo recorrido. Este avión consume un 25% menos de combustible que modelos similares de la generación anterior, y una reducción equiparable en emisiones de CO2.

Para los clientes, la cabina de los Airbus A350/900 tiene grandes ventajas: se trata del avión más silencioso del mercado, con ventanas panorámicas, con pasillos más anchos y techos más altos, que confieren mayor sensación de espacio, y un sistema de renovación del aire que mejora los niveles de humedad a bordo hasta un 16%.

Carbures abre nueva oficina aeronáutica en Alemania

PR

• La Compañía prevé crecer en uno de los polos aeronáuticos más importantes de Europa, dónde Airbus tiene diferentes plantas operando tanto en aviación comercial como militar, y estando próxima a otros Tier 1 
• Carbures abre una nueva oficina de ingeniería en Múnich y crea una sociedad alemana, dentro de la división Carbures Aerospace & Defense, que ahora está en proceso de contratación de ingenieros locales para formar equipo. 
• Esta apertura refuerza el posicionamiento geoestratégico de la Compañía con el objetivo de seguir creciendo en el mercado internacional, en este caso en el europeo, y prestar servicios de ingeniería y fabricación y entrega de proyectos puerta con puerta con sus clientes.

Carbures aterriza en Alemania en el sector de la aeronáutica. La multinacional española especializada en la ingeniería y fabricación de estructuras en materiales compuestos abre una nueva oficina CarburesDefense Gmbh, una sociedad alemana 100 por ciento propiedad de Carbures Aerospace & Defense, desde donde se contratará a los ingenieros locales que formarán el equipo de Carbures Defense en Alemania.



Esta apertura entra dentro de la estrategia de la Compañía de seguir creciendo en el mercado internacional europeo, por un lado, y por estar más cerca de los clientes, por otro. Desde el año pasado, Carbures lleva ampliando su cartera de clientes europeos en el sector aeronáutico. Uno de ellos fue Société Anonyme Belge de Constructions Aéronautiques - SABCA, Tier 1 un proveedor de primer nivel de referencia en Bélgica, con el que consiguió un contrato para cubrir una parte de la producción de los Topcovers para los Flap Support Fairings del Airbus A350. Otro movimiento estratégico por parte de la Compañía ha sido la apertura de la planta en Harbin, cuyo objetivo principal es estar cerca de Airbus, y Hafei y fabricar materiales compuestos para clientes chinos.



Alemania es el polo aeronáutico más importante de Europa, junto con Francia, dada la amplia presencia de Airbus, que tiene repartidas por la geografía germana hasta 27 plantas para el desarrollo de actividades en aviones comerciales (Hamburgo, Bremen y Stade), helicópteros (Donauwörth y Kassel) , aviones militares (Manching, Ulm y Bremen) y satélites (Ottobrunn, Bremen y Friedrichshafen). Carbures además quiere aprovechar las instalaciones que ya tiene en Munich, donde lleva operando más de tres años, con un equipo de ingenieros alemanes especializados en el sector de la automoción y desde el cual trabaja con éxito para clientes de primer nivel del mundo de la automoción, como BMW, Audi, Mercedes Daimler, Jaguar LandRover o la ingeniería italiana Pininfarina.



La apertura de esta nueva oficina permitirá a Carbures extender a Alemania las actividades llevadas a cabo actualmente en España, donde Carbures ya trabaja directamente con Airbus, teniendo en la actualidad en torno a 190 ingenieros trabajando directamente en las plantas que el fabricante tiene en los dos polos aeronáuticos españoles más relevantes (el andaluz, con plantas en Sevilla, Puerto Real y Puerto de Santa María, y el central, con planta en Getafe).



El Presidente y fundador de Carbures, Rafael Contreras, destaca que “el tiempo y los resultados están demostrando que la estrategia marcada está funcionando en cuanto al posicionamiento geoestratégico de Carbures en el sector aeroespacial. La apertura de esta nueva oficina en uno de los polos aeroespaciales europeos de mayor volumen de fabricación es una oportunidad para que Carbures ofrezca el mejor servicio a sus clientes y aumente su cartera de clientes”.



El establecimiento de una ingeniería aeronáutica propia en el norte de Europa, y en concreto, como decimos, en el polo de referencia, supone abrir posibilidades de crecimiento importante para un mercado en el que Carbures es muy competitiva y dispone de gran experiencia. Cabe recordar que en 2016, el propio Airbus premió a Carbures en Toulouse con el premio Best Improver Supply Chain Quality & Improvement Program (SQIP), en reconocimiento a la fortaleza y calidad industrial de la Compañía, que suma más de 16 años de procesos tecnológicos e ingeniería pioneros para la fabricación de piezas en composites para el sector aeroespacial.




Sobre Carbures

Carbures es un grupo industrial especializado en la ingeniería y fabricación de estructuras con materiales compuestos, como la fibra de carbono, para los sectores relacionados con la movilidad, como el aeronáutico, la automoción y el de obra civil. A lo largo de más de una década, Carbures ha desarrollado una tecnología propia y unos sistemas que le posicionan como la compañía líder en Europa en la fabricación, tanto en series largas como cortas, de piezas de fibra de carbono para los sectores relacionados con la movilidad, así como elementos estructurales de construcción.

[Madrid] Próximas conferencias de la Sociedad Aeronáutica Española febrero / marzo2018

La Sociedad Aeronáutica Española celebrará dos nuevas conferencias durante este mes de febrero, en las instalaciones de B The Travel Brand Xperience de Madrid (Calle Miguel Ángel, 33. Metro Gregorio Marañón).

Conferencia 24 de febrero: "La apasionante historia de los dirigibles en España"
 

Esta conferencia, a cargo de D. Francisco González Redondo, Profesor titular de Historia de la Ciencia de la Universidad Complutense de Madrid , se celebrará el próximo 24 de febrero a las 12:00h

Para confirmar tu asistencia sólo tienes que mandar un correo al siguiente e-mail: flagship.xperience@bthetravelbrand.com

Para más información entra en la página web AQUÍ

 

 

 

Conferencia 3 de marzo: "La evolución del vuelo hasta nuestros días"
 

Esta conferencia, a cargo de D. Rodolfo Poole, Ingeniero Aeronáutico , se celebrará el próximo 3 de marzo a las 12:00h

Para confirmar tu asistencia sólo tienes que mandar un correo al siguiente e-mail: flagship.xperience@bthetravelbrand.com

Para más información entra en la página web AQUÍ

 

Weatherwatch: floating windfarms prove their worth

Potential for floating windfarms is huge, as many countries have windy sites close to shore Floating windfarms are likely to be the next large-scale development in renewable energy. The first Hywind Scotland, developed by the Norwegian state oil giant, Statoil, has proved a greater success than i...

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This Computer Uses Light—Not Electricity—To Train AI Algorithms

William Andregg ushers me into the cluttered workshop of his startup Fathom Computing and gently lifts the lid from a bulky black box. Inside, green light glows faintly from a collection of lenses, brackets, and cables that resemble an exploded telescope. It's a prototype computer that processes …

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China's J-20 stealth fighter jet has officially entered service

Ready to "safeguard China's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity." The People's Liberation Army Air Force has officially deployed its J-20 stealth fighters to frontline fighter squadrons. Shen Jinke, a PLAAF spokesman, told the Xinhua News Agency that the new fighters were ready to "sa...

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China is building the world's largest facility for robot ship research

Wanshan covers over 225 square miles of ocean. China is looking to establish itself as a leader in robotic warships, having made plans to open the world's largest facility for unmanned ship research just north of Macau. The Wanshan Marine Test Site is slated to span 225 square nautical miles of w...

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Boeing 737 MAX 9 Awarded FAA Certification

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Boeing 737 MAX 9 Awarded FAA Certification // MediaRoom
http://boeing.mediaroom.com/2018-02-16-Boeing-737-MAX-9-Awarded-FAA-Certification

U.S. regulator awards amended type certificate to newest member of 737 MAX family
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Oerlikon and Boeing to Collaborate in Additive Manufacturing Work

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Oerlikon and Boeing to Collaborate in Additive Manufacturing Work // MediaRoom
http://boeing.mediaroom.com/2018-02-20-Oerlikon-and-Boeing-to-Collaborate-in-Additive-Manufacturing-Work

- Oerlikon and Boeing to create standard processes for 3D-printed structural titanium aerospace
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ANALYSIS: Electric unmanned rotorcraft make economic case for air taxi role

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ANALYSIS: Electric unmanned rotorcraft make economic case for air taxi role // Latest news
http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/analysis-electric-unmanned-rotorcraft-make-economic-445805/

Airbus A3 gave employees working on Project Vahana the day off on 2 February. The team had spent the previous two days on an unmanned air systems test range in Oregon marking the first and second test flights of Alpha One, the San Francisco-based rapid innovation cell s concept for an electric-powered, vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
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ANALYSIS: UPS goes big with freighters as e-commerce booms

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ANALYSIS: UPS goes big with freighters as e-commerce booms // Airlines news
http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/analysis-ups-goes-big-with-freighters-as-e-commerce-445874/

In the early hours of 1 February, a gleaming white-and-brown Boeing 747 touched down in Louisville, Kentucky, and taxied to a stand.
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Press Release: Iberia’s first A350, with hump, in final assembly stage

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Press Release: Iberia's first A350, with hump, in final assembly stage // Runway Girl
https://runwaygirlnetwork.com/2018/02/21/press-release-iberias-first-a350-in-final-assembly-stage/

Iberia's first A350-900 is in the final assembly stage at the Airbus factory in Toulouse, France, with its wings now attached to the fuselage and the engine pylons and horizontal and vertical stabilisers being installed now, as the first electric system tests are also being carried out.

Iberia's first A350-900 will undergo numerous tests on the ground before the full cockpit and passenger cabin are installed, the engines attached, and the entire aircraft painted. Next come flight tests before the aircraft it is delivered to Airbus Delivery Center.

Related article: Iberia CCO explains carrier's long-haul IFEC decisions

Iberia, which flies only Airbus aircraft, has ordered 16 A350-900 that will operate long-haul routes.  These wide-bodied, twin-engine aircraft consume 25% less fuel than their predecessors, and thus emit 25% less CO2.

Iberia's long-haul passengers will notice that the new Airbus is the quietest airliner on the market. It also feature panoramic windows, wide aisles, and high ceilings, for a roomier sensation. Another innovation is the air-conditioning system which improves the level of humidity in the passenger cabin by 16.

About Iberia 

Iberia is the leading carrier on routes between Europe and Latin  America and it flies to 131 destinations in 48 countries in Europe, the Americas, Africa, Middle East and Asia. Together with its subsidiary Iberia Express and its franchise partner Iberia Regional/Air Nostrum, it operates about 600 flights each day with a fleet of some 135 aircraft. It offers easy and convenient connections at its hub in T4 in Madrid-Barajas airport.

In 2016 and 2017, Iberia was the world's most punctual airline according to FlightGlobal Incorporating FlightStats, while it was awarded its 4th Skytrax star in 2017.

The airline is a member of the oneworld alliance that operates more than 14,000 daily flights to some 1,000 destinations in more than 150 countries. For more information, please visit http://grupo.iberia.es

The post Press Release: Iberia's first A350, with hump, in final assembly stage appeared first on Runway Girl.


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Pontifications: Transformation is key to increasing production rates

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Pontifications: Transformation is key to increasing production rates // Leeham News
https://leehamnews.com/2018/02/19/pontifications-transformation-key-increasing-production-rates/

Airbus readies A350-1000 for delivery, dismisses Boeing 777-9

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Airbus readies A350-1000 for delivery, dismisses Boeing 777-9 // Leeham News
https://leehamnews.com/2018/02/20/airbus-readies-a350-1000-delivery-dismissed-boeing-777-9/

Boeing displaces Airbus at Hawaiian, wins 787-9 deal; airline cancels A330-800 order

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Boeing displaces Airbus at Hawaiian, wins 787-9 deal; airline cancels A330-800 order // Leeham News
https://leehamnews.com/2018/02/20/boeing-displaces-airbus-hawaiian-wins-787-9-deal-airline-cancels-a330-800-order/

NASA Funds Low-Boom X-Plane, Trims Aero Budget

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NASA Funds Low-Boom X-Plane, Trims Aero Budget // AviationWeek.com Commercial Aviation Channel
http://aviationweek.com/awinspace/nasa-funds-low-boom-x-plane-trims-aero-budget

NASA's fiscal 2019 budget request fully funds plans to fly a low-boom supersonic X-plane in 2021.

read more


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GE Pushes Passport For B-52 Engine Replacement

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GE Pushes Passport For B-52 Engine Replacement // AviationWeek.com Commercial Aviation Channel
http://aviationweek.com/awinbizav/ge-pushes-passport-b-52-engine-replacement

As the USAF launches a new program to replace the B-52H's TF33 engines, turbofan manufacturers are getting serious about their propulsion system offerings.

read more


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More Photos from MAKS-2017 Air Show [photos]

http://englishrussia.com/2018/02/16/more-photos-from-maks-2017-air-show-photos/

Russian Police Using Copter Drones to Track Drivers [photos/video]

http://englishrussia.com/2018/02/20/brave-new-world-russian-police-using-drones-to-track-drivers-issues-fines-photos-video/

Stelia uses 3D printing to create self-reinforcing aircraft fuselage panel

http://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/527519384/0/gizmag~Stelia-uses-D-printing-to-create-selfreinforcing-aircraft-fuselage-panel/

Boeing an Oerlikon team up to advance 3D printing of titanium aerospace components

http://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/527680894/0/gizmag~Boeing-an-Oerlikon-team-up-to-advance-D-printing-of-titanium-aerospace-components/

Scientific cooperation in Aeronautics: Meeting of the 9th Framework Program of the European Union

http://tsagi.ru/en/pressroom/news/3634/

Boeing partners Oerlikon to speed up adoption of 3D printing

http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-partners-oerlikon-to-speed-up-adoption-of-3d-446046/

Russian Helicopters to produce revamped An-2 in Ulan-Ude

http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/russian-helicopters-to-produce-revamped-an-2-in-ulan-446050/

Rolls-Royce 'confident' XWB will not suffer Trent 1000 issues

http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/rolls-royce-confident-xwb-will-not-suffer-trent-10-446074/

Delta says will take CSeries jets made in Canada, U.S. | Article [AMP] | Reuters

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-bombardier-results/bombardier-ebitda-jumps-50-percent-as-margins-improve-idUSKCN1FZ17R

Airbus in talks on further hike in single-aisle production | Article [AMP] | Reuters

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-airbus-results-engines/airbus-in-talks-on-further-hike-in-single-aisle-production-idUSKCN1FZ0RS

Mission to the Mars Desert Research Station in Utah – in pictures

http://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/gallery/2013/mar/15/mars-desert-research-utah-in-pictures 720 Photojournalist Jim Urquhart documents a team of space scientists who are using the Utah desert as …

Trump's Nasa budget: flying 'Jetson cars' and a return to the moon

Most of those goals, if realized, would come after the end of the Trump administration, which has allocated little of its budget for Nasa The Trump administration unveiled its 2019 budget for Nasa on Monday, promising an outpost on the moon, "Jetson cars" and new attempts to cut funding for the i...

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Bloodhound Diary: Getting a grip for 2018

A British team is developing a car that will be capable of reaching 1,000mph (1,610km/h). Powered by a rocket bolted to a Eurofighter-Typhoon jet engine, the vehicle aims to show its potential by going progressively faster, year after year. In 2018, Bloodhound wants to run above 500mph. In 2019, ...

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The barren desert preparing astronauts for life on Mars

It looks like something out of a sci-fi film. But this is the desert where scientists and volunteers test pressure-simulating suits in the inhospitable conditions of the Oman desert to prepare for life on Mars.

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Trump cuts US cash for International Space Station

President Donald Trump wants to end US funding for the International Space Station (ISS) by 2025 with the aim of putting it into private hands. His plans for ISS and the Nasa space programme were unveiled in his 2019 budget proposal. Mr Trump wants to increase Nasa spending by 3% next year. But i...

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Bombardier reports 57% rise in profits

Bombardier, the train and plane manufacturer at the centre of a trade row between the US the UK and Canada has seen a 57% rise in profits. The US Commercial department had threatened to impose 292% tariffs on its C-Series aircraft which employs some 4,000 workers in Belfast. But the US Internatio...

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China Wants to Make a Mark in Space—But It'll Need a Little Help

In a China Global Television Network video from 2003, taikonaut Yang Liwei leans back in his orbital capsule, the overstuffed stripes of his spacesuit legs filling the frame. His helmet shield is up, so the viewer can gaze into his eyes as he speaks: "Greetings to people around the world!" His ey...

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As Electric Cars Surge, the Gas Engine Keeps Getting Better

As one place after another makes moves to ban gasoline-powered vehicles in the next few decades—Norway, the Netherlands, the UK, India, China, California, Paris—it gets harder and harder to deny that the future is electric. And the internal combustion engine that has driven global movement for mo...

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Before They Can Take Off, Flying Cars Must Defeat Bureaucracy

At 8:52 on the morning of January 31, eight buzzing rotors lifted a black bubble of an aircraft off the ground for the first time. About 20 feet from nose to tail and the same from wingtip to wingtip, Vahana spent 53 seconds aloft, under its own power and autonomous control. It reached a height of …

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Self-Driving Servicer Now Baselined for NASA's Restore-L Satellite-Servicing Demonstration

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Self-Driving Servicer Now Baselined for NASA's Restore-L Satellite-Servicing Demonstration // Military Space News, Nuclear Weapons, Missile Defense
http://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Self_Driving_Servicer_Now_Baselined_for_NASAs_Restore_L_Satellite_Servicing_Demonstration_999.html

Greenbelt MD (SPX) Feb 14, 2018
One test changed the fortunes of an advanced 3-D imaging lidar system now baselined for NASA's Restore-L project that will demonstrate an autonomous satellite-servicing capability. Officials with NASA's Satellite Servicing Projects Division, or SSPD, have officially baselined the Kodiak system - formerly known as the Goddard Reconfigurable Solid-state Scanning Lidar, or GRSSLi - to provide
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Boeing Invests in Global Learning and Innovation Institute Singularity University

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Boeing Invests in Global Learning and Innovation Institute Singularity University // MediaRoom
http://boeing.mediaroom.com/2018-02-15-Boeing-Invests-in-Global-Learning-and-Innovation-Institute-Singularity-University

Partnership to generate advanced learning opportunities for Boeing employees worldwide
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Airbus group 2017: The A320 is the group moneymaker despite problems

Airbus group 2017: The A320 is the group moneymaker despite problems https://leehamnews.com/2018/02/15/airbus-group-2017-a320-group-moneymaker-despite-problems/

Is India serious about the F-35? | Airbus announces A400 hit amid better than expected profits | Pentagon orders initial production for King Stallions

https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/is-india-serious-about-the-f-35-airbus-announces-a400-hit-amid-better-than-expected-profits-pentagon-orders-initial-production-for-king-stallions-039181/

European airport operators call for adoption of drone rulebook

http://www.uasmagazine.com/articles/1817/european-airport-operators-call-for-adoption-of-drone-rulebook

Drones deliver green transportation option

http://www.uasmagazine.com/articles/1815/drones-deliver-green-transportation-option

NMA demand skeptics aren’t thinking outside the box, Boeing exec says

https://leehamnews.com/2018/02/13/nma-demand-skeptics-arent-thinking-outside-box-boeing-exec-says/

Boeing commercial aircraft discounts (update for 2017)

https://theblogbyjavier.com/2018/02/13/boeing-commercial-aircraft-discounts-update-for-2017/

Lightning Strike Tore A Person-Sized Gash In B-52 Bomber Tail

https://theaviationist.com/2018/02/12/lightning-strike-tore-a-person-sized-gash-in-b-52-bomber-tail/

US Air Force outlines future of bomber force

PR




WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- The Air Force outlined plans for its bomber fleet in its Fiscal Year 2019 President’s Budget Request February 12, 2018.

In line with the service’s bomber vector, the budget request detailed the Air Force plan to update the B-52 Stratofortress fleet and continue modifications to the B-1 Lancer and B-2 Spirit fleets while continuing to acquire B-21 Raiders.

“As part of our decisions presented in the FY19 President’s Budget, the Air Force will update the B-52 bomber fleet and fund development of replacement engines,” said Secretary of the Air Force Heather A. Wilson. “We will also continue necessary B-1 and B-2 modifications to keep them relevant until the B-21s come on line.”

Once sufficient B-21 aircraft are operational, the B-1s and B-2s will be incrementally retired. Delivery and retirement timelines are dependent on the B-21 production and delivery schedules.

“If the force structure we have proposed is supported by the Congress, bases that have bombers now will have bombers in the future,” Wilson said. “They will be B-52s and B-21s.”

The B-21, which the Air Force plans to start fielding in the mid-2020s, will eventually become the backbone of the U.S. strategic bomber fleet and serve as a visible, flexible deterrent to adversaries and assure U.S. partners and allies.

"Modernizing and recapitalizing our bomber force is absolutely central to the recently released National Defense Strategy and the Nuclear Posture Review," said Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. David L. Goldfein. "Our bomber force allows the commander in chief to hold targets at risk anywhere on the globe with unparalleled range and our most diverse payloads."

The decision to maintain the B-52 is based on numerous factors including maintenance and sustainment metrics, such as aircraft availability, mission capability, supply, maintenance hours per flying hour and total cost perspectives.

“With an adequate sustainment and modernization focus, including new engines, the B-52 has a projected service life through 2050, remaining a key part of the bomber enterprise well into the future,” said Gen. Robin Rand, Air Force Global Strike Command commander.

The Air Force’s bombers are an integral component of the nation’s strategic deterrence and global strike capabilities. The nation requires that the bomber force remain a potent and decisive asset throughout the spectrum of conflict in the modern battlespace.

“At the end of Desert Storm in 1991 we had 290 total bombers,” said Rand. “Today that force has dropped to 157 bombers at five bomb wings and 15 total force bomb squadrons. That’s a 46 percent decrease in our bomber force while we have conducted continuous combat operations such as Allied Force, Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, Odyssey Dawn, Inherent Resolve and Freedom’s Sentinel, in addition to continuous bomber rotations in the (U.S. Central Command) and (U.S. Pacific Command) areas of responsibility.”

TsAGI scientist discuss strategic aeroacoustic issues with European colleagues

PR




The negative health and environmental impact of aircraft noise is considered by the international scientific community as one of the key factors for consolidation of efforts in the development of aviation. Hence, representatives of the European Commission, Clean Sky program and the Innovation and Networks Executive Agency (INEA) opened a discussion. A seminar on “EU policy on aircraft noise studies” was held in mid-January in Brussels (Belgium) in which a TsAGI delegation participated.

The participants reviewed the entire spectrum of research on aeroacoustics, from the creation of new technologies to the norms and standards set by the ICAO Committee on Aviation Protection (CAEP). In particular, they discussed the work carried out by the European Community together with TsAGI. A relevant example is the RUMBLE project, which is focused on the development of proposals to ICAO regarding the formation of generally accepted international norms of the sonic boom level from a supersonic passenger aircraft.

An important achievement for the Institute was to maintain the status of Contact Point from Russia in the X-Noise International consortium to coordinate the research on aircraft noise. The Aviation Noise Impact Management through Novel Approaches (ANIMA) project is meant to become the next stage of development in this multi-year project. ANIMA will provide support to the roadmap of European aeroacoustics research by attracting experts at the national level, defined by the X-Noise contact points, and managers of existing projects.

Also, attendees agreed to organize a seminar for European and Russian scientists with financial support from X-Noise. It is planned that the event dedicated to the formulating of directions for joint research on noise, will take place in Berlin.

Victor Kopyev, head of the Aeroacoustics and Aviation Ecology Division of TsAGI gave his evaluation of the meeting in Brussels. “Most important for us is the example of a multi-year integrated management of noise, which involved research institutes, universities, aviation companies, airports, the European aviation safety agency EASA and ICAO,” he noted. “A unique support structure is created for the environmental management and further advanced research. The evolution of approaches in creating noise reduction technology is reflected in new projects, AERIALIST, ARTEM TURBONOISE, RUMBLE, TILDA and their position in the working map of X-Noise. We can say with confidence that the seminar was frank and exhaustive.”

CSeries engines not afflicted with PW1100G issues

https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/cseries-engines-not-afflicted-with-pw1100g-issues-445889/

ANALYSIS: How F-16I loss will reshape Israel's offensive strategy

https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/analysis-how-f-16i-loss-will-reshape-israels-offen-445921/

Full-Year 2017 results: Airbus overachieved on all key performance indicators

PR

• Strong underlying business performance
• Revenues €67bn; EBIT Adjusted €4.3bn; EBIT (reported) €3.4bn; EPS (reported) €3.71
• Proposed 2017 dividend €1.50 per share, up 11 percent from 2016
• Solid commercial environment: book-to-bill of 1.5, record backlog supporting ramp-up
• Free cash flow before M&A and customer financing € 2.9 billion
• A400M charge € 1.3 billion in 2017; clear roadmap mitigating future risk
• Airbus expects around a 20 percent increase in EBIT Adjusted in 2018

Airbus SE (stock exchange symbol: AIR) reported 2017   financial results and provided an outlook for 2018.  It overachieved on its 2017 guidance for all key performance indicators, driven by a strong underlying performance.

“We overachieved on all our 2017 KPIs thanks to a very good operational performance, especially in the last quarter,” said Airbus Chief Executive Officer Tom Enders. “Despite persistent engine issues on the A320neo, we continued the production ramp-up and finally delivered a record number of aircraft. On A400M, we made progress on the industrial and capabilities front and agreed a re-baselining with government customers which will significantly reduce the remaining programme risks. This is reflected in a substantial one-off charge. Overall, the strength of our 2017 achievements is reflected in our dividend proposal which is up 11 percent against last year. This also endorses our earnings and cash growth story for the future.”

Accident: Delta A332 at Lagos on Feb 13th 2018, engine fire

http://avherald.com/h?article=4b4ea714&opt=0

[video] What Do You Get When You Cross an Airplane With a Submarine?

Time-lapse image of the EagleRay transitioning from underwater to the air. Image credit: Matthew Bryant. Click to enlarge.

 

 

Bryant, Weisler and Stewart (from left to right), with a prototype of the EagleRay. 

North Carolina State University's press release

https://youtu.be/Aw01NnG9hu0

Researchers from North Carolina State University have developed the first unmanned, fixed-wing aircraft that is capable of traveling both through the air and under the water – transitioning repeatedly between sky and sea. The EagleRay XAV, which was developed with funding and assistance from Teledyne Scientific, holds promise for use in applications such as tracking and observing wildlife.



“Maintaining aerial surveillance can use a lot of energy,” says Warren Weisler, a Ph.D. student at NC State who worked on the EagleRay project. “The EagleRay can conserve energy by spending some of its time in the water.

“For example, the EagleRay could track a fast-moving pod of dolphins from the air, then spend time loitering in the water if the dolphins stop to take advantage of a good feeding spot. The EagleRay could then resume flight when the dolphins begin moving again.”

“The EagleRay could also rapidly move underwater sensors from location to location,” says William Stewart, another NC State Ph.D. student who worked on the project. “It could even perform underwater monitoring that most unmanned aerial vehicles can’t.

“For example, sonar only works underwater. If you’re seeking a sonar target, the EagleRay could fly to a site, submerge to take sonar readings, and then resume flight to take readings elsewhere. Historically, an aircraft would have to drop sonobuoys to collect sonar data.”

The project started when a team of four NC State faculty, led by Matthew Bryant, an assistant professor in NC State’s Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, won a research contract from Teledyne in 2014. Professors Kara Peters, Ashok Gopalarathnam, and Larry Silverberg served as co-principle investigators on the project. By spring of 2016, Bryant’s team had developed a fully functional prototype – and they published a paper on the work in 2017. Video of the EagleRay in action can be seen at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aw01NnG9hu0.

“A key point regarding the EagleRay design is that it is scalable – you can make larger or smaller models as needed,” Stewart says. “It really depends on the size of the desired payload, how long you’d need it to operate, and so on.”

The current model of EagleRay has a wingspan of 59 inches and is 55 inches long, weighing in at 12.6 pounds. It has a dual-use propeller, powered by an electric motor, that propels it through both air and water.

“We’re currently developing a custom controller for the EagleRay,” Weisler says. “Existing controllers aren’t designed for a vehicle that transitions from air to sea and back again – they’re designed to be one or the other, with no transition stage.”

The researchers are also refining a dynamic model of the EagleRay, for use in simulations that can be used for training purposes, to predict performance under various conditions and to refine the vehicle design.

“This project has been extremely challenging and rewarding,” Weisler says.

“Seeing it fly during field trials was exhilarating,” says Stewart.





Testing and Characterization of a Fixed Wing Cross-Domain Unmanned Vehicle Operating in Aerial and Underwater EnvironmentsThe paper, “Testing and Characterization of a Fixed Wing Cross-Domain Unmanned Vehicle Operating in Aerial and Underwater Environments,” is published in the IEEE Journal of Oceanic Engineering. Weisler is lead author of the paper. Co-authors include Stewart, Bryant, Peters, Gopalarathnam and Mark Anderson of Teledyne.

Abstract:

This paper presents test results and performance characterization of the first fixed-wing unmanned vehicle capable of full cross-domain operation in both the aerial and underwater environments with repeated transition and low-energy loitering capabilities. This vehicle concept combines the speed and range of an aircraft with the persistence, diving capabilities, and stealth of a submersible. The paper describes the proof-of-concept vehicle including its concept of operations, the approaches employed to achieve the required functions, and the main components and subsystems. Key subsystems include a passively flooding and draining wing, a single motor and propeller combination for propulsion in both domains, and aerodynamic–hydrodynamic control surfaces. Experiments to quantify the vehicle performance, control responses, and energy consumption in underwater, surface, and flight operation are presented and analyzed. Results of several full-cycle tests are presented to characterize and illustrate each stage of operation including surface locomotion, underwater locomotion, water egress, flight, and water ingress. In total, the proof-of-concept vehicle demonstrated 12 full-cycle cross-domain missions including both manually controlled and autonomous operation.

Airbus’ A321LR goes the distance to open new horizons for airlines

PR

Nonstop Paris-New York flight demonstrates the jetliner’s capabilities, including on busy North Atlantic routes

The best-selling A320 Family marked a new milestone with yesterday’s Paris-to-New York nonstop flight flown by the A321LR – demonstrating this jetliner version’s ability to serve new markets and operate on heavily-travelled North Atlantic routes with the highest levels of efficiency and comfort.

The LR designation is for ‘long range’ and with good reason: the A321LR has the longest range of any single-aisle commercial aircraft today, able to fly 7,400 kilometres nonstop.

Its ‘long legs’ are signified by the No. 1 A321LR’s livery featuring the Eiffel Tower and Statue of Liberty – a representation of the Paris/New York route flown yesterday from Le Bourget Airport near the French capital to the New York region’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. The aircraft also is well suited for intra-regional airline segments in Asia, the United States and other markets.

Improved aerodynamics and efficient jet engines

The A321LR’s unrivalled efficiency – driven by aerodynamic improvements and state-of-the-art efficient turbofan jet engines – has established its popularity among airlines, with Airbus already notching more than 100 orders for the aircraft; the first customer delivery is expected in late 2018. The interior of the A321LR will be passenger-pleasing as well, with unmatched comfort from the widest single-aisle cabin in the sky, comfortable seats, extra-large luggage bins and the latest in-flight-entertainment technology.

Operators can outfit the A321LR in state-of-the-art two-class configurations with full-flat seats for true long-haul comfort, or in a single-class layout capable of accommodating up to 240 passengers.

The A321LR is the next evolutionary step of Airbus’ twin-engine A321neo that has captured more than an 80 percent share in its middle-of-the-market category. Airbus expects the A321LR to continue this trend, as it offers a thoroughly modern replacement for the large number of ageing narrowbody and widebody aircraft facing retirement in the coming years.

Value from continual investment in the A320 Family

Airbus continuously invests in the A320 Family – some $300 million per year – to keep this jetliner product line at the leading edge of technology, thereby creating value for its customers and providing continued comfort for passengers.

The A321LR performed its maiden flight on 31 January of this year. Yesterday’s transcontinental flight, with the aircraft powered by two CFM International LEAP-1A engines, is part of nearly 100 hours of flight tests in advance of the jetliner’s airworthiness certification, expected in the second quarter of 2018. Read the press release on yesterday’s Paris-New York flight with the A321LR.

La Belgie rejoint officiellement le programme multinational d’avions de ravitaillement en vol

Ce 14 février, signature du Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) du Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) program @NATO. La 🇧🇪 rejoint officiellement le programme multinational d’avions de ravitaillement en vol. 🇳🇱 🇩🇪 🇳🇴 🇱🇺 #Horizon2030 @BeAirForce @AirbusDefence pic.twitter.com/g4sHpucQdM

— Belgian Air Force🇧🇪 (@BeAirForce) 12 de febrero de 2018

Voom, On-demand helicopter booking platform, joins Airbus Helicopters

Airbus' Press Release

On-demand helicopter booking platform to become part of the company’s services offering

Marignane, Voom, the world's premier on-demand helicopter booking platform, is now joining Airbus Helicopters as part of the company’s strategy to provide new urban mobility solutions for commuters. Initially incubated in A^3, Airbus’ Silicon Valley outpost, Voom launched commercial operations in April 2017 in Sao Paulo, flying thousands of passengers over the last ten months, and plans to expand its presence this year.

“Urban transportation on and below ground is reaching its limits, and naturally Airbus is looking to the skies to redefine a third axis for public transportation solutions,” said Matthieu Louvot, Airbus Helicopters Executive Vice-President Customer Support and Services. “Voom will allow us to grow the usage of existing helicopters for the benefit of urban citizens and operators. With Voom we will also explore and develop new business models in order to support our innovation roadmap.”

Voom is building the future of urban air mobility today by making helicopter transportation accessible and affordable to urban commuters. The platform connects travellers with trusted and licensed helicopter operator partners, providing a new escape to urban congestion by taking to the skies. Voom air taxi flights can be booked on their website in as little as 60 minutes in advance.

“We are thrilled to join Airbus Helicopters to build the urban air mobility experience around the world,” said Voom CEO Uma Subramanian. “Our services provide convenient, reliable and affordable air transit to urban areas that so desperately need an alternative to traditional ground transportation. Following our launch in Brazil, we are expanding into additional cities, beginning with Mexico City early this year.”

As part of its bold vision for the future of vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) systems, Airbus is exploring a range of breakthrough urban mobility solutions. This includes on-demand helicopter rides for events; the four passenger, self-piloted CityAirbus eVTOL demonstrator; the single passenger, self-piloted Vahana eVTOL aircraft by A^3; the Altiscope project by A^3 helping to shape future regulations and air traffic control requirements to safely integrate eVTOL aircraft in urban skies; autonomous urban parcel delivery by drones through the Skyways project; and finally the Racer high-speed demonstrator, which aims to connect the heart of distant cities.

Airbus is determined to shape the future of urban air mobility to help people travel smarter, work more efficiently, and live better.

For more information on Voom, visit www.voom.flights

About Airbus
Airbus is a global leader in aeronautics, space and related services. In 2016 it generated revenues of €67 billion and employed a workforce of around 134,000. Airbus offers the most comprehensive range of passenger airliners from 100 to more than 600 seats and business aviation products. Airbus is also a European leader providing tanker, combat, transport and mission aircraft, as well as one of the world’s leading space companies. In helicopters, Airbus provides the most efficient civil and military rotorcraft solutions worldwide.

Voom's Press Release


Today, Voom, an on-demand helicopter service operating in São Paulo, Brazil, announced that it has joined Airbus Helicopters as part of the company’s strategy to provide new urban mobility solutions for commuters. Voom was initially launched in 2016 as a project of A³, Airbus’ Silicon Valley innovation outpost.

Since launching operations in São Paulo in April 2017, Voom has experienced significant growth in its business,, achieving 200%+ month-over-month growth in journeys and 220%+ monthly growth in riders acquired. Voom’s progress to date provides strong evidence that air travel could provide a viable alternative to ground transportation in the world’s most congested cities. Today, Voom has expanded its operation to eight (8) helipads and more than fifteen (15) routes in São Paulo. We’ve launched new features, including pre-booking, scenic flights and an in-app integration with Cabify.

“We are excited to partner with Airbus Helicopters to build the future of Urban Air Mobility, as we scale Voom. We appreciate all the support that we have received from A³ over the past 18 months in getting the business off the ground,” said Uma Subramanian, CEO of Voom.

“Urban transportation on and below ground is reaching its limits, and naturally Airbus is looking to the skies to redefine a third axis for public transportation solutions,” said Matthieu Louvot, Airbus Helicopters Executive Vice-President Customer Support and Services. “Voom will allow us to grow the usage of existing helicopters for the benefit of urban citizens and operators. With Voom, we will also explore and develop new business models in order to support our innovation roadmap and projects, such as the multi-passenger, self-piloted electric vertical take-off and landing CityAirbus, designed for urban air mobility.”

With Airbus’ additional financial commitment, Voom will expand its operations in São Paulo as well as launch new markets in 2018, beginning with Mexico City, Mexico. 

United 777 loses cowling on approach to Honolulu

https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/united-777-loses-cowling-on-approach-to-honolulu-445893/

http://avherald.com/h?article=4b4e8ca7&opt=0

EASA issues EAD regarding A320 Neo and A321 Neo engines, withdraws ETOPS with immediate effect

http://avherald.com/h?article=4b4c4509&opt=0

US seeks to privatize its share in the International Space Station

https://newatlas.com/us-privatize-international-space-station/53369/

https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/nasa-acting-administrator-statement-on-fiscal-year-2019-budget-proposal

This people-moving drone has completed more than 1,000 test flights

The flying taxi could soon be spotted in Dubai and Las Vegas. Most drones are small, and carry nothing except cameras. But Ehang Corp, a major Chinese drone maker, has been busy testing its Ehang 184 flying taxis, a drone designed to transport people. It's now completed more 1,000 test flights wi...

http://flip.it/PmfJLj

Enviado a través de Flipboard, tu revista personal.
Consíguela gratis para mantenerte al día con las noticias que te interesan.

China shot down another missile in space

Like a hypersonic bullet hitting another hypersonic bullet. On February 5, China used a long-range missile interceptor, tentatively identified as the DN-3, to destroy a target missile in space. This isn't the first time the nation has managed it; in 2010, China used a midcourse interceptor, likel...

http://flip.it/un6q_d

Enviado a través de Flipboard, tu revista personal.
Consíguela gratis para mantenerte al día con las noticias que te interesan.

Lockheed Martin Invites Innovators and Entrepreneurs to Join the Next Space Age with 'Open Space' Satellite Innovation Project

PR



Company Releases Satellite Specs; Offers New Opportunities to Aspiring Space Technologists

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Feb. 8, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- For the first time, Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT) has publicly released specifications for its satellite platforms with the goal of offering new opportunities for collaboration to companies aspiring to send innovative technologies to space.

As part of a new satellite innovation initiative called Lockheed Martin Open Space, and building on expertise from the more than 800 satellites Lockheed Martin has produced, the company is publishing technical details about the payload accommodation information for its flagship LM 2100 satellite platform, its LM 400 small satellite, and two variants of its new LM 50 nanosat series.

In an event yesterday in Silicon Valley, Lockheed Martin invited start-ups, researchers and established companies alike to propose technologies that could help solve some of today's most pressing challenges in space. With numerous launches and hosted payload slots on the docket, the company is looking to collaborate with a new generation of companies to find opportunities to put innovations in orbit and beyond.

"Our goal with Lockheed Martin Open Space is twofold: first, to help more companies and innovators do amazing things in space, and second, to create new avenues for collaboration so we can move faster to tackle our customers' most pressing challenges," said Rick Ambrose, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin Space. "We're not just offering launch slots, we're ready to help new companies integrate their groundbreaking technologies with powerful satellite platforms. We believe there's significant untapped potential out there waiting to be unleashed."

The company is looking for non-proprietary technologies that will help protect, connect and inspire the world. Potential applications include helping first responders address crises faster, studying the environment, creating ultra-high-capacity communications links and adapting low-cost commercial technology to the punishing environments of space.

Interested companies or individuals can download the payload accommodation specifications at www.lockheedmartin.com/openspace and submit their concepts online. The submission page will be open from now through May 11. A team of Lockheed Martin experts will review each submission and follow up to discuss opportunities and provide feedback to submitters.

"We're ready to explore and collaborate on new opportunities, and we're challenging the best and brightest to join us," said Ambrose. "Space isn't just a place to go. It's a place to do. So let's get new innovators plugged in to tomorrow's space opportunities. Let's collaborate on the country's toughest challenges. Let's do great things in space together."

The venerable LM 2100 is the foundation for more than 40 satellites in orbit today, including weather, missile warning and commercial communications satellites. The LM 400 is a reconfigurable bus that can go to LEO and GEO orbits and can be delivered as quickly as 24 months from order. The LM 50 is a small but powerful satellite series that can host a wide array of remote sensing, communications and scientific payloads. For more information about Lockheed Martin's family of satellites visit www.lockheedmartin.com/satellites.

Lockheed Martin Delivers 400th C-130J Super Hercules Aircraft

PR



MARIETTA, Ga., Feb. 12, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) reached a major milestone with the delivery of its 400th C-130J Super Hercules aircraft on Feb. 9. This Super Hercules is an MC-130J Commando II Special Operations aircraft that is assigned to the U.S. Air Force's Special Operations Command (AFSOC).


The C-130J Super Hercules is the current production model of the legendary C-130 Hercules aircraft, with operators in 17 nations. To date, the global fleet of C-130Js has surpassed more than 1.7 million flight hours supporting almost any mission requirement — any time, any place.

"We celebrate this accomplishment with our employees, industry partners and the Super Hercules operator community that spans 17 countries," said George Shultz, vice president and general manager, Air Mobility & Maritime Missions at Lockheed Martin. "These first 400 C-130Js meet a global demand for the proven performance and unmatched versatility found only in a Super Hercules. Its durability, relevancy and capability will continue to set the C-130J apart as the world's choice in tactical airlift for decades to come."

The C-130J is defined by its versatility. To date, the C-130J supports 17 different mission configurations to include transport (military and commercial), firefighting, search and rescue, Special Operations, weather reconnaissance, and aerial refueling.

This aircraft has another distinction in addition to being the 400th C-130J delivered: it is the 13th MC-130J to be converted into an AC-130J Ghostrider gunship. It will be assigned to the 1st Special Operations Wing at Hurlburt Field, Florida. The AC-130J is a highly modified C-130J that provides close-air support, air interdiction and armed reconnaissance.

The U.S. government operates the largest C-130J Super Hercules fleet in the world. This delivery represents the U.S. government's continued transition to the C-130J as the common platform across Air Mobility Command, AFSOC, Air Combat Command, U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Marine Corps. The Air National Guard and Reserve still operate a mixed fleet of C-130J and legacy aircraft.

To learn more about Lockheed Martin's C-130J Super Hercules,
visit www.lockheedmartin.com/c130

1st satellite capable of performing global wind-component-profile observation successfully passes all tests in Liège

PR

• Airbus-built Aeolus successfully passes all tests in Liège (Belgium), and has arrived in Toulouse for final checks
• ESA’s wind sensing spacecraft Aeolus will be the first satellite capable of performing global wind-component-profile observation on a daily basis in near real-time. 

Stevenage, 12/02/2018 - Aeolus, the European Space Agency’s wind sensing satellite, has left Liège in Belgium having successfully completed an extensive thermal and functional performance test campaign under in-orbit conditions. It will now undergo final checks at InteSpace test centre in Toulouse, France, before being shipped to French Guiana in the summer ready for launch on a Vega launcher.

The 1.4-tonne spacecraft, primed by Airbus, features the LIDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) instrument called Aladin, which uses the Doppler effect to determine the wind speed at varying altitudes.


Aladin fires a powerful ultraviolet laser pulse down through the atmosphere and collects backscattered light, using a large 1.5m diameter telescope, which is then analysed on-board by highly sensitive receivers to determine the Doppler shift of the signal from layers at different heights in the atmosphere.


The data from Aeolus will provide reliable wind-profile data on a global scale and is needed by meteorologists to further improve the accuracy of weather forecasts and by climatologists to better understand the global dynamics of Earth’s atmosphere.
Aeolus will orbit the Earth 15 times a day with data delivery to users within 120 minutes of the oldest measurement in each orbit. The orbit repeat cycle is 7 days (every 111 orbits) and the spacecraft will fly in a 320 km orbit and have a lifetime of three years.

General Atomics to partner with Boeing on MQ-25 Stingray

http://www.janes.com/article/77855/general-atomics-to-partner-with-boeing-on-mq-25-stingray

USAF's Controversial New Plan To Retire B-2 And B-1 Bombers Early Is A Good One

http://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/18410/usafs-controversial-new-plan-to-retire-b-2-and-b-1-bombers-early-is-a-good-one

The Jet Engine: A Futuristic Technology Stuck in the Past - The Atlantic

https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2018/02/engine-failure/552959/

Airbus halts some deliveries, tests after engine snag: sources

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-airbus-engine/airbus-halts-some-deliveries-tests-after-engine-snag-sources-idUSKBN1FU0CB

Boeing 787 orders, cancellations, deliveries & backlog through 2017

https://theblogbyjavier.com/2018/02/12/boeing-787-orders-cancellations-deliveries-backlog-through-2017/

Munich Public Prosecutor ends Eurofighter Austria investigation

PR

• Resolution of legacy compliance cases continues
• Administrative penalty notice recognises full cooperation with authorities and major efforts by Airbus to foster compliance processes and organisation since 2012

The investigation of Airbus Defence and Space GmbH by the Munich Public Prosecutor (Staatsanwaltschaft München I) related to the sale of Eurofighter aircraft to the Republic of Austria in 2003 has been terminated. The result of the investigation by the Munich Public Prosecutor, which had been ongoing since 2012, did not confirm the allegations of bribery.


In order to conclude the investigation, the Munich Public Prosecutor has issued an administrative penalty notice against Airbus Defence and Space GmbH under the German Act on Administrative Misdemeanours (“Ordnungswidrigkeitengesetz”) amounting to € 81.25 million. The total amount comprises an administrative fine of € 250,000 and a disgorgement of € 81 million. Airbus Defence and Space GmbH has accepted this notice.

The notice is based on the allegation of a negligent breach of supervisory duties of non-identified members of Airbus Defence and Space GmbH’s former management. The notice alleges that certain former management negligently failed to ensure proper internal controls that would have prevented employees from making payments to business partners without proven documented services in exchange.


On the other hand, the notice explicitly recognizes the major efforts undertaken by Airbus and its management since 2012, which have resulted in a new Compliance culture and a serious Compliance programme.
Since the beginning of the investigation, Airbus has fully cooperated with the Munich Public Prosecutor. This included the provision of an independent fact finding report of the law firm Clifford Chance, which Airbus shared with the Munich Public Prosecutor in 2014.

Emirates firms up order for up to 36 additional A380s

PR




Aircraft of choice to continue airline’s successful growth

Emirates and Airbus firmed up an earlier Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and signed a contract for the 20 additional A380s with a further 16 options to be confirmed at a later date. The total agreement for 36 aircraft is valued at US$16 bn based on latest list prices. Deliveries are to start as early as 2020.


The agreement was signed at the World Government Summit by HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group; and Mikail Houari, Airbus President for Africa and Middle East. HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, ruler of the Emirate of Dubai and Edouard Philippe, Prime Minister of France were also present.


HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group said: “This agreement underscores our commitment to the A380 programme, providing stability to the A380 production line and supporting thousands of high-value jobs across the aviation supply chain. For Emirates, the A380 has been a successful aircraft for our customers, our operations, and our brand. We look forward to continue working with Airbus to further enhance the aircraft and onboard product.”

“We thank Emirates, HH Sheikh Ahmed, Tim Clark and Adel Al-Redha for their continued confidence in the A380, which has so successfully transformed air travel in the 21st century,” said Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President Commercial Aircraft and Chief Operating Officer. “This latest agreement further demonstrates the strength of our valued partnership with Emirates in support of their impressive growth.”

The A380 is an essential part of the solution to sustainable air traffic growth, alleviating congestion at busy airports by transporting more passengers with fewer flights. The aircraft is the best way to capture growing world air traffic, which doubles every 15 years. The flagship airliner can accommodate 575 passengers in 4 classes and offers a range of 8,200 nautical miles (15,200 kilometres).

The double-decker has become the passenger’s favourite resulting in higher load factors wherever it flies. The A380 is the world’s roomiest aircraft, offering the widest seats, wide aisles and more floor space. The A380 has the unique capability to generate revenue, stimulate traffic and attract passengers, who can now specifically select the A380 when booking a flight via the innovative iflyA380.com web site and the new IOS app.
To date more than 200 million passengers have already enjoyed the unique comfort of flying on board an A380. Every two minutes an A380 either takes off or lands at some of the 240 airports around the world, ready to welcome this magnificent aircraft. To date, 222 A380s have been delivered to 13 Airlines.

Falcon Heavy is Not Only a Revolution in Space Travel, But Also in Aerospace Media

https://theaviationist.com/2018/02/09/falcon-heavy-is-not-only-a-revolution-in-space-travel-but-also-in-aerospace-media/

[video] Boeing 777X folding wingtips

https://youtu.be/RGsz_toWM5A

 

Subaru Corporation Completes First Boeing 777X Center Wing Section

Press Release




Tokyo, February 9, 2018 – Subaru Corporation today announced that its Aerospace Company completed the production of the Center Wing Section*1 and its integration with the Main Landing Gear Wheel Wells at its Handa Plant (Handa City, Aichi Prefecture) as the first Boeing 777X Center Wing work package.

Subaru manufactures center wing boxes for Boeing 777, large-size twin-engine commercial aircraft, and Boeing 787, mid-size commercial aircraft, as well as center wing boxes for maritime patrol aircraft (P-1) and cargo transport aircraft (C-2) for Japan Ministry of Defense at its Handa Plant. The first delivery of the 777X Center Wing work package, from a manufacturing complex for center wing boxes that has no parallel in the world, marked a significant milestone at Subaru.

To celebrate the milestone, Subaru held a delivery ceremony at Handa Plant on February 9, 2018 with the attendance of honored guests including Boeing representatives Mr. Eric Lindblad, Vice President & General Manager 777X Program, and Mr. Jason Clark, 777/777X Vice President, Operations, as well as representatives of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Chubu Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry, Aichi Prefectural Government, Japan Aircraft Development Corporation and other organizations.

The first delivery of the 777X airplane to an airline customer is scheduled in 2020 according to Boeing.

Subaru has been participating in the 777X program since its initial design development phase, and is newly responsible for side-of-body section, in addition to center wing box, integration of the center wing section with the main landing gear wheel wells, main landing gear doors, and wing-to-body fairings (forward) as with the existing 777.

In addition to the manufacture of completed aircrafts, Subaru has expertise in the development and manufacture of center wing boxes and wings as one of its core businesses. Subaru will continue to strive to further enhance its technologies, and expand its business at Handa Plant as a base of manufacturing complex of center wing boxes, with trust of customers and partnering together with domestic partners.

Draft documents reveal USAF plans for more A-10 upgrades

The US Air Force has released draft acquisition documents showing plans to buy up to 116 new wing sets for the Fairchild Republic A-10 fleet that call for reviving production after March 2019 with a new contractor. https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/draft-documents-reveal-usaf-plans-for-more-a-10-upgr-445784/

London City Airport shut as WW2 bomb found in Thames

http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london-43027472

Singapore Air Show 2018 - Day 3 and Summary

https://www.aerosociety.com/news/singapore-air-show-2018-day-3-and-summary/

[video] Intel Drone Light Show Breaks Guinness World Records Title at Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018

Press Release

https://youtu.be/eIk6j6dprnA




Intel Takes Entertainment to New Heights with Spectacular Drone Performance during the Opening Ceremony

• 1,218 Intel® Shooting Star™ drones lit up the sky for the PyeongChang 2018 Opening Ceremony, setting a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the most drones flown simultaneously.
• Advanced Intel drone technology will enhance the Olympic Games through 2024.

PYEONGCHANG, SOUTH KOREA, Feb. 9, 2018 – 1,218 Intel® Shooting Star™ drones made history for the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018 Opening Ceremony with the Winter Olympics’ first-ever drone light show that also set a Guinness World Records* title for the “most unmanned aerial vehicles airborne simultaneously.” The world record flight was prerecorded for the event.

Kicking off the 2018 Olympic Winter Games in PyeongChang, viewers from around the globe were treated to a record-breaking light show during the opening ceremony that surpassed Intel’s previous record of 500 drones flown simultaneously in Germany in 2016. Intel designed and developed custom animations for the opening ceremony and nightly victory ceremony performances, which include animations of different sports and various Olympic-related logos including the formation of the iconic Olympic rings.




“The Olympics are a time when the sports and entertainment industries are buzzing with record-setting performances, so it was the perfect stage for Intel Shooting Star drones and our team to set their own kind of record,” said Natalie Cheung, general manager of Intel’s drone light show team.



“It’s been exciting for us to partner with Intel on the Winter Olympics, as they continue to push the limits with their advanced drone light show technologies,” said Sam Prosser, commercial director EMEA APAC Guinness World Records. “From flying 100 drones simultaneously in 2015, to 500 drones in 2016, and now more than 1,000 drones – the sky is the limit with entertaining through Intel drone light shows.”

Following the PyeongChang 2018 Opening Ceremony, Intel ran a 30-second ad spot featuring the power of Intel Shooting Star drones and their unique entertainment possibilities.



As a member of “The Olympic Partner” (TOP) worldwide sponsorship program, Intel is helping to transform the fan experience by creating immersive opportunities for viewers to be a part of the Olympic Games.

The Intel Shooting Star drones are a type of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) specifically designed for entertainment purposes, equipped with LED lights that can create countless color combinations and easily be programmed for any animation. The fleet of drones is controlled by one pilot.

“We are honored to have Intel drones playing several roles at the Olympic Games,” said Anil Nanduri, vice president and general manager, Intel Drone Group. “Not unlike the athletes competing in the events, we continue to push to innovate and develop the drone technologies that inspire people all over the world.”

For full details on Intel Shooting Star drones, visit the drone show fact sheet. For more information on Intel’s TOP worldwide sponsorship, visit the company’s Olympic Games news portal, which includes an interactive map of Intel’s activities in PyeongChang. For all other details regarding the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018, visit www.olympic.org.

Crash: Saratov A148 at Moscow on Feb 11th 2018, lost height after departure

A Saratov Airlines Antonov AN-148-100, registration RA-61704 performing flight 6W-703 from Moscow Domodedovo to Orsk (Russia) with 65 passengers and 6 crew, was climbing out of Moscow's runway 14R when the aircraft reached a maximum altitude of 6000 feet then descended again and disappeared from radar at about 14:28L (11:28Z). The aircraft was subsequently found crashed … continue reading: http://avherald.com/h?article=4b4cb236&opt=0

Don’t panic, but SpaceX launch didn’t go as planned: Tesla heads for asteroid belt, main booster destroyed

The whimsical mock payload of the Falcon Heavy rocket now faces an uncertain future, instead of a billion years orbiting the Sun: Elon Musk’s cherry red Tesla sports car and its dummy test pilot Starman were on a new course hurtling towards the asteroid belt on Wednesday after overshooting their planned trajectory. Continue reading: http://www.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/2132526/dont-panic-spacex-launch-didnt-go-planned-tesla