ATK’s (NYSE: ATK) Reusable Solid Rocket Motors propelled the Space Shuttle Discovery into orbit for the spacecraft’s last mission.
Discovery’s crew embarked on an 11-day mission to the International Space Station yesterday.
“As we near the conclusion of the Space Shuttle Program, we reflect on the dedicated workforce that has provided the most reliable, human-rated propulsion system in the world for more than two decades,” said Blake Larson, ATK Aerospace Systems Group president. “With the future of human space flight unfolding, it is critical to leverage proven technology to ensure a safe and robust transportation system as we explore outside of Low Earth Orbit.”
The rocket boosters helped launch the spacecraft 28 miles in a little over two minutes with each booster providing 15 million horsepower.