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NASA Selects Blue Origin as Mars Telecommunications Network Provider
NASA has awarded Blue Origin a contract to develop the Mars Telecommunications Network, a high-bandwidth communications and navigation system for missions to Mars.
Why it matters
This network provides the data capacity and reliability necessary for robotic and future human missions to Mars, ensuring critical science and navigation data reaches Earth.
The details
- The architecture consists of a high-performance spacecraft orbiting Mars to transmit science data and imagery. - The selection follows a request for proposal issued in May. - The initiative uses private-sector capabilities to allow NASA to focus on scientific discovery.
What's next
Blue Origin will design, develop, launch, and operate the network to make it operational by 2030.
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