Orbital Sciences' latest Antares launch was cut short when the rocket exploded shortly after taking off. The aerospace firm still has a contract with NASA so it turned to United Launch Alliance to help fulfill its obligations to the agency.
Orbital will be using ULA's Atlas V rocket in launching at least one Cygnus cargo run to the International Space Station later in 2015, with another mission following in 2016, if needed. Compared to the previous mission though, Cygnus will be carrying 35 percent more now that it is being fitted with an Atlas V rocket.
There were already plans of replacing or updating the AJ26 rocket engines on the Antares, according to Orbital. With the recent launch mishap, it is now believed that a problem with the AJ26 engine, refurbished versions of Soviet Union engines built in the ‘60s and ‘70s, was at fault. Fortunately, no injuries were reported due to the explosion but it did do a number on the launch pad. The launch pad is under repair as well as nearby facilities, and won't be operational until late 2015. It is hoped that recertification will also be achieved by 2015's end.
"Orbital is pleased to partner with ULA for these important cargo missions to the International Space Station. [The company's] ability to integrate and launch missions on relatively short notice demonstrates [its] manifest flexibility and responsiveness to customer launch needs," said Frank Culbertson, Orbital executive vice president and Advanced Programs Group general manager.
"We could not be more honored that Orbital selected ULA to launch its Cygnus spacecraft," responded Jim Sponnick, Atlas and Delta Programs vice president, adding that the mission was given to the company amid high competition, that is why ULA is looking forward to continue providing highly reliable and cost-effective services to its launch customers.
ULA has over a century of experience backing it, making it the most experienced launch service provider in the country. This is very evident in the company's work, which has so far included 90 successful satellite launches. These launches have enabled GPS navigation, provided troops in the field with critical capabilities, aided meteorologists in tracking down severe weather conditions and allowed astronomers to further study the solar system.
Orbital is one of two companies hired by NASA to fly cargo to the ISS after space shuttles retired in 2011. With a contract worth $1.9 billion, it is to deliver 40,000 pounds of cargo for the agency.
