The Knowledge Base: A Conference for Cleaning and Coating of Mission-critical Electronics
Defense Speak Interpreted: Is DARPA Still Around After CHIPS?
Beyond the Board: Orbital High Ground—Why Space Superiority Is Slipping Away
Aerojet Rocketdyne Propulsion Plays Key Role in Atlas V Mission
November 16, 2020 | Globe NewswireEstimated reading time: 1 minute
Aerojet Rocketdyne propulsion hardware played a key role in the successful launch of a classified U.S. National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) payload from Space Launch Complex 41 here aboard a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket.
“We take our role in helping to launch critical national security assets into orbit for the National Reconnaissance Office very seriously,” said Eileen P. Drake, Aerojet Rocketdyne’s CEO and president. “Our flight proven and reliable RL10 upper-stage engines have supported these types of missions for nearly six decades, and we look forward to providing them for many years to come.”
The Atlas V’s Centaur cryogenic upper stage is powered by Aerojet Rocketdyne’s RL10 engine, which is built in West Palm Beach, Florida, and completed its 500th flight earlier this year. The highly reliable RL10 has long been a mainstay of U.S. national security and space exploration programs, a legacy that will continue with ULA’s Vulcan Centaur rocket, which is expected to debut next year.
For pitch, yaw and roll control, the Centaur relies on 12 Aerojet Rocketdyne MR-106 reaction control thrusters built in Redmond, Washington. Pressure tanks provided by Aerojet Rocketdyne’s ARDÉ subsidiary, located in Carlstadt, New Jersey, support both the Centaur as well as the rocket’s first stage.
Share on:
Suggested Items
Zero Defects International Partner, Epoch International, Announces Sale on Precision Control Systems
06/21/2025 | Zero Defects InternationalZero Defects International partner, EPOCH INTERNATIONAL, has announced significantly reduced overstock pricing for a large quantity of precision industrial motor, actuator, and sensor control systems.
Microchip Enhances Digital Signal Controller Lineup with Industry-Leading PWM Resolution and ADC Speed
06/21/2025 | MicrochipEvolving security and functional safety demands, coupled with the growing complexity of real-time embedded applications, are driving designers to seek innovative solutions that deliver greater accuracy, improved reliability and compliance with industry standards.
Scanfil Signs New Customer and Starts Manufacturing Control Units for Emerson
06/19/2025 | ScanfilScanfil and Emerson signed an agreement concerning the Rosemount Tank Radar for Advanced Level Measurement Solutions. Emerson is a global technology, software and engineering company domiciled in the USA.
Sierra Circuits Boosts High Precision PCB Manufacturing with Schmoll Technology
06/16/2025 | Schmoll MaschinenSierra Circuits has seen increased success in production of multilayer HDI boards and high-speed signal architectures through the integration of a range of Schmoll Maschinen systems. The company’s current setup includes four MXY-6 drilling machines, two LM2 routing models, and a semi-automatic Optiflex II innerlayer punch.
Preventing Surface Prep Defects and Ensuring Reliability
06/10/2025 | Marcy LaRont, PCB007 MagazineIn printed circuit board (PCB) fabrication, surface preparation is a critical process that ensures strong adhesion, reliable plating, and long-term product performance. Without proper surface treatment, manufacturers may encounter defects such as delamination, poor solder mask adhesion, and plating failures. This article examines key surface preparation techniques, common defects resulting from improper processes, and real-world case studies that illustrate best practices.