Northrop Grumman launches mission to extend life of Optus D3 satellite

Northrop Grumman has successfully launched its Mission Robotic Vehicle (MRV), carrying the Mission Extension Pod (MEP) that will be used to extend the operational life of Optus's D3 communications satellite. The MRV launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral on 22 July and is carrying three customer-owned MEPs, including one allocated to Optus D3. Developed by Northrop Grumman subsidiary SpaceLogistics, the spacecraft is designed to install the propulsion pods on satellites in geostationar