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ABL Space Systems, a six-year-old launch startup based in El Segundo, California, has announced its exit from the commercial launch market to focus on missile defense programs for the Pentagon.
ABL Space Systems has confirmed a significant setback for its RS1 rocket program; the rocket, intended for the company's first launch in 18 months, suffered "irrecoverable" damage in a fire following a static fire test.
Space Systems Command's Assured Access to Space (AATS) office has awarded a $15 million contract to ABL Space Systems to facilitate the demonstration of a responsive launch capability.
ABL Space Systems has secured a $60 million contract from the US Space Force and US Air Force.
Following the devastating crash of the uncrewed RS1 rocket on its maiden flight, ABL has outlined probable cause of failure and plans to move forward to orbit.
ABL are targeting Monday, November 21st for the long awaited maiden flight of the companies RS1 rocket from Kodiak, Alaska. The TLP team will be providing live coverage here as engineers proceed through the launch countdown.
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