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BAE Systems microprocessors to help NASA study comet nucleus

  • United Arab Emirates: Thursday, March 03 - 2005 at 13:51
  • PRESS RELEASE

BAE Systems radiation-hardened microprocessors have begun a six-month, 83-million mile journey on NASA's Deep Impact mission to study the nucleus of comet Tempel 1.

Deep Impact will be the first space mission to make contact with a comet's surface. In July 2005, the spacecraft will launch an 820-lb. probe into the nucleus of comet Tempel 1 to reveal what is underneath its icy surface.

BAE Systems RAD750 microprocessors will process and help return the data of the probe's collision to scientists on Earth. The three RAD750 computers will also help navigate the satellite to the comet and maintain a precise position while the advanced telescopes on-board record the event.

"This mission will increase scientists understanding of comets," said Simon Keith, Managing Director, BAE Systems Middle East. "Our RAD750 computers are critical to transmit this data back to Earth and provide scientists the first-ever look at the nucleus of a comet."

BAE Systems has a 20-year history of providing radiation-hardened solutions for US space programs. Its RAD6000 computers were installed on each of the still-broadcasting Mars Rovers - the only control and data computers aboard the two Rovers - to execute flight, landing and exploration operations on Mars. The RAD750 represents the next-generation of space microprocessors.
The Deep Impact space mission blasts off on its six month mission to study the comet Tempel 1. 
The Deep Impact space mission blasts off on its six month mission to study the comet Tempel 1.
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Notes and Media Contacts »

About BAE Systems:
BAE Systems is an international company engaged in the development, delivery, and support of advanced defence and aerospace systems in the air, on land, at sea, and in space.

The company designs, manufactures, and supports military aircraft, surface ships, submarines, radar, avionics, communications, electronics, and guided weapon systems. It is a pioneer in technology with a heritage stretching back hundreds of years. It is at the forefront of innovation, working to develop the next generation of intelligent defence systems.

BAE Systems has major operations across five continents and customers in some 130 countries. The company employs more than 90,000 people and generates annual sales of £12 billion through its wholly owned and joint-venture operations.

BAE Systems, innovating for a safer world.

For further information, please contact:
Jayne Thomson, BAE SYSTEMS Middle East
Tel: +44 (0) 1252 384 841

Issued by:
MCS/Action: Tel: +9714 390 2960; fax: +9714 3908161.
On behalf of:
BAE SYSTEMS, Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 6YU, UK.
Tel: +44 (0) 1252 384605 Fax: +44 (0) 1252 383947

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