SpaceXengines boost ISS orbit, X-37B tests GPS-free navigation, Rocket Lab Neutron pad operational

SpaceX engineers have outfitted the Dragon spacecraft with two additional Draco rocket engines and dedicated propellant tanks. These thrusters will independently augment the 16 existing units to perform orbital reboosts for the International Space Station (ISS), adding approximately 20 mph to its velocity. This capability shifts the responsibility of maintaining the ISS orbit, previously held by Russia, to SpaceX.

The US military's X-37B spaceplane has launched on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket for its eighth mission. This flight will focus on demonstrating GPS-independent navigation using a high-performance quantum inertial sensor and will also feature a laser inter-satellite communications experiment. This mission returns the X-37B to low-Earth orbit after a previous flight utilized a Falcon Heavy rocket for a higher orbit.

Rocket Lab has officially opened Launch Complex 3 at the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport in Virginia, marking the completion of its new launch pad for the Neutron rocket. This facility is designed to accommodate Neutron, a medium-lift reusable launch vehicle capable of lifting 15 metric tons, supporting commercial constellations, national security missions, and interplanetary endeavors.

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