NRO

NGA wants faster access to commercial geospatial data
The NGA and NRO are stepping up research to better understand the emerging commercial geospatial intelligence market.

SpaceX wraps up 2020 with Falcon 9 launch of classified NRO satellite
A Falcon 9 carrying the NROL-108 mission lifted off at Dec. 19 at 9:00 a.m. Eastern from Space Launch Complex 39 at Kennedy Space Center.

NGA evaluates Hawkeye 360 data through pilot program
Hawkeye 360 is delivering radio frequency data and analytics to the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency as part of a pilot program to evaluate the value of the information for intelligence activities.



NGA adds Planet, BlackSky to imagery delivery system used by government agencies
Planet and BlackSky imagery will be added to NGA's unclassified system that delivers geospatial data to government agencies.

New initiative to promote satellite servicing and in-space assembly technologies
A new “national initiative” wants to promote the development of satellite servicing and in-space assembly technologies among U.S. government agencies that have differing views on the value of such capabilities.



ULA to launch Delta 4 Heavy for its 12th mission, four more to go before rocket is retired
NROL-44 is the first of the final five missions to be flown by Delta 4 Heavy between now and 2024

Scolese: NRO sees growing opportunities to use small satellites
Scolese said the NRO "will be able to do more with smaller satellites.”

Northrop Grumman Minotaur 4 launches NRO mission, its first from Virginia spaceport
This was the NRO’s 54th launch since 1996 and its first launch on a Minotaur 4.

Analysts: NRO’s commercial imagery purchases could reach $400 million by 2023
A report from Quilty Analytics projects Maxar will retain the bulk of future NRO imagery contracts and emerging competitors Planet and BlackSky will gradually gain market share.

NRO to award multiple imagery contracts by year’s end
By the end of the year, the National Reconnaissance Office plans to issue “multiple operational commercial imagery contracts to support defense, security and many other U.S. government missions,” said Pete Muend, director of NRO’s Commercial Systems Program Office.

NRO to increase investments in commercial space technology
Small satellites and responsive launch are areas of particular interest to the NRO.