Aerospace

Why FedEx is seeking approval for an anti-missile system on its cargo planes

FedEx plans to equip some of its cargo planes with laser technology to keep off incoming heat-seeking missiles.

The action was taken in response to a threat regarding the aircraft’s heat tracking. An Airbus A330 belonging to DHL was struck by a surface-to-air missile in 2003 shortly after it took off from Baghdad. The crew made a safe return to the airport. “In recent years, in several incidents abroad, civilian aircraft were fired upon by man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS),” stated the document from the FAA.

The proposal also addresses possible safety issues because infrared laser radiation may pose a risk to individuals inside the aircraft, outside of it, or in another aircraft. Furthermore, infrared laser energy is undetectable to the human eye, which raises risks.

In response to the concerns raised, the FAA issued a list of requirements, one of which was that the design must prevent “inadvertent operation of the system” while the aircraft is on the ground, including during maintenance.

In addition, a lot of businesses have created and designed systems that can be modified to use a laser-based missile defense system that can deflect heat-seeking missiles by aiming infrared energy in their direction in an attempt to stop the missile from tracking the aircraft’s heat.

Aerospace

Boeing Transfers Rocket Stage to NASA, Paving Way for Human Moon Mission

Image:Boeing

Boeing has achieved a significant milestone by providing NASA with the second core stage of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket.

This crucial component, crafted at NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility (MAF), is set to propel the Artemis II crew into lunar orbit, marking humanity’s return to deep space after a 50-year hiatus.

The monumental Boeing-built rocket stage, the largest element of the Artemis II mission, will embark on a journey aboard the Pegasus barge, traveling 900 miles to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.

Comparison of two legendary aircraft B777x vs B747 aircraft:Click here

Upon arrival, it will be meticulously integrated with other essential Artemis II components, including the upper stage, solid rocket boosters, and NASA’s Orion spacecraft within the iconic Vehicle Assembly Building. This intricate integration process is a vital step toward the eagerly anticipated Artemis II launch, slated for 2025.

“Boeing-built products helped land humankind on the moon in 1969, and we’re proud to continue that legacy through the Artemis generation,” remarked Dave Dutcher, vice president and program manager for Boeing’s SLS program. “Together, with NASA and our industry partners and suppliers, we are building the world’s most capable rocket and paving the way to deep space through America’s rocket factory in New Orleans.”

NASA, Lockheed Martin Reveal X-59 Quiet Supersonic Aircraft:Click here

The delivery of Core Stage 2 marks a significant achievement in the evolution of the SLS rocket. Towering over 200 feet and powered by four RS-25 engines, this core stage, coupled with two solid-fueled booster rockets, will generate a staggering 8.8 million pounds of thrust. This immense power is crucial to launching Artemis II and future missions into the vast expanse of space.

The SLS rocket stands unparalleled in its capability to transport both crew and substantial cargo to the moon and beyond in a single launch. Its extraordinary capacity will facilitate the delivery of human-rated spacecraft, habitats, and scientific missions to destinations including the moon and Mars, ushering in a new era of space exploration.