Monday, November 2, 2009

Lunar Lander Challenge wrap

Doug Messier
Parabolic Arc

Reports out of Cantil indicate that Unreasonable Rocket has ended its quest to win the Northrop Grumman Lunar Lander Challenge. During a test flight using a crane and tether, Unreasonable’s Silver Ball lander oscillated, broke the tether, and fell back onto the launch pad on its side. A leg punctured the fuel tank, damaging the vehicle and preventing another flight attempt on the last day of the competition.

The end of Unreasonable’s effort brings the NASA sponsored contest to an end and means a big payday for Masten Space Systems, which won the $1 million first prize for Level 2 and $150,000 for finishing second in Level 1. Armadillo Aerospace will be awarded $500,000 for a second place finish in Level 2. Last year, Armdillo won $350,000 for winning first prize in Level 1.

Read the Story, HERE.

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