Seeking to capitalize on steady growth in Earth observation, European satellite manufacturers are taking steps to boost output as export customers materialize among emerging space economies.
A spate of Proton launch mishaps has created a de facto duopoly of Arianespace and SpaceX, two companies vying to dominate the global commercial launch market.
It allows the company to negotiate better terms with suppliers, thus lower costs, and adapt its operating system in ways that will drive efficiency internally.
The transonic wind tunnel at ARA in the U.K. is being upgraded to generate accurately shaped gusts that last mere milliseconds, to help with the design and certification of commercial aircraft.
Multirotors that fly for longer; CarterCopter stops tinkering, gets serious; airport robots could handle bags, move aircraft; drone industry tries some financial self-help.
By Jens Flottau, Jen DiMascio, Guy Norris, Tony Osborne
Few fireworks are expected at Paris this year, but retrenching and refocusing of products will be highlighted in all arenas—commercial, defense, space and technology.
Riccardo Procacci discusses how Avio Aero is building business in new markets and maintaining relationships with old customers 2.5 years after its acquisition by GE.