Space Systems Loral (SSL), a leading provider of commercial satellites, today announced that MDA US Systems, a division of MDA managed by SSL, will design and build the camera focus mechanisms for the NASA-JPL Mars 2020 Rover instrument, named SHERLOC, which will be used to research the surface of Mars and to support the selection of return samples. The Company is providing the focus mechanism to Malin Space Science Systems, a leader in space camera systems working directly with JPL on the Mars Rover cameras.
“It is an honor to have this opportunity to contribute to the MARS 2020 mission,” said Nick Zello, Director, Emerging Markets Operations. “SSL provides a unique combination of spacecraft, robotics, and other systems and mechanisms, and we believe our space hardware heritage, design creativity, and responsiveness provide a compelling value for our partners.”
The Company is an expert in the field of complex Space Mechanisms and robotics for extreme environments such as the surface of Mars. The focus mechanism for SHERLOC is the second contract award that the company announced for hardware on the NASA-JPL Mars 2020 Program. SSL also recently announced other work with JPL and is the industry partner for a potential NASA Discovery Mission to the asteroid Psyche and is participating in a first phase study for a spacecraft bus for NASA’s Asteroid Redirect Mission.
About SSL
SSL, a subsidiary of MDA, is a leading provider of commercial satellites with broad expertise to support satellite operators and innovative space related missions. The company designs and manufactures spacecraft for services such as direct-to-home television, video content distribution, broadband Internet, mobile communications, and Earth observation. As a Silicon Valley innovator for more than 50 years, SSL’s advanced product line also includes state-of-the-art small satellites, and sophisticated robotics and automation solutions for remote operations. For more information, visit www.sslmda.com.
About MDA
MDA is a global communications and information company providing operational solutions to commercial and government organizations worldwide.
MDA’s business is focused on markets and customers with strong repeat business potential, primarily in the Communications sector and the Surveillance and Intelligence sector. In addition, the Company conducts a significant amount of advanced technology development.
MDA’s established global customer base is served by more than 4,800 employees operating from 11 locations in the United States, Canada, and internationally.
MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd.’s (MDA) common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol “MDA.”
