Delta 2 ICESat-2

Final Delta 2 launches ICESat-2

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A Delta 2 rocket lifted off Sept. 15 carrying a NASA Earth science satellite on the final flight of a vehicle whose heritage dates back to the beginning of the Space Age.

Launch Missions Delta 2ICESat-2
So far, NASA has launched just one of the 15 missions recommended in the 2007 Earth science decadal survey: the Soil Moisture Active Passive, or SMAP, mission. The $915 million mission launched Jan. 31, 2015. Less than six months later, its radar failed but its radiometer continues to function.

First-ever Earth science decadal survey was a call to action

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To gauge the impact of the National Academies’ first Earth science decadal survey, it’s important to look beyond its list of 15 recommended missions and consider the warning the panel began conveying in its 2005 interim report: The U.S. Earth-observing program was in danger of collapse.

From the Magazine Decadal SurveyICESat-2NASASMAP
SLS EM-1 target markings

NASA inspector general warns limited budget reserves could delay key programs

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As NASA prepares to update the schedule for the first flight of its Space Launch System, a report by the agency’s inspector general warns a lack of budget reserves could lead to more delays in the future.

Missions ICESat-2NASAOrionParker Solar ProbeSLS