Varda’s inaugural manufacturing satellite and reentry vehicle are connected to a Rocket Lab Photon bus.
Space startup Varda has finally received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration to bring its first spacecraft back to Earth after producing drugs in space.
The small W-Series 1 capsule, or W-1, has been orbiting for eight months since its launch. Varda has been waiting for regulatory authorization to attempt a landing in Utah, at the Air Force’s Utah Test and Training Range. The FAA has confirmed that it has issued the license to Varda.
The FAA’s approval means Varda will attempt to land the W-1 mission on Feb. 21.
“We are extremely proud to have this opportunity with our government partners and appreciate their commitment to safe innovation in the United States,” Varda said in a statement.
The W-1 mission is a demonstration of the company’s automated in-space manufacturing process. Last year, Varda announced the successful completion of the W-1 mission…
2024-02-14 17:42:16
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