Wed, Jun 16, 2010
Formosat-5 Will Launch As Early As December 2013
Space Exploration Technologies
(SpaceX) and the National Space Organization (NSPO) have signed
contract for the launch of NSPO's Earth Observation Satellite,
Formosat-5. The spacecraft will be used to continue the image data
service for civilian users and may also carry instruments to
conduct space research and scientific experiments.
NSPO, the civilian space agency of
the Republic of China (Taiwan), is involved in the development of
space exploration, satellite construction and development as well
as related research, technologies and infrastructure, including the
FORMOSAT series of Earth observation satellites. With Formosat-5,
NSPO aims to build up capabilities for independent development of
spacecraft and payload instruments.
"The launch of Formosat-5 will build on the successful launch
and operation of the FORMOSAT satellites, " said Dr. H.P. Chang,
Formosat-5 Program Manager of NSPO. "SpaceX's approach to
launch services is very well-aligned with our goals and objectives
for the program."
Formosat-5 Artist's Rendering
"With over 40 flights now on manifest, SpaceX is positioned to
deliver launch services across the increasingly varied needs of our
commercial and government customers," said Gwynne Shotwell,
President of SpaceX. Formosat-5 is slated to launch as early as
December 2013 from the SpaceX launch site on Omelek Island at the
U.S. Army Kwajalein Atoll (USAKA) in the Central Pacific, about
2,500 miles southwest of Hawaii.
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