TDRS-M successfully launched 18 Aug 2017

TDRS-M successful launch 18 Aug 2017

NASA’s Tracking and Data Relay Satellite-M (TDRS-M), the last of a series of TDRS satellites, was successfully been placed into orbit following separation from an United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket, from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.



After about 5-6 months testing by its manufacturer, Boeing and NASA it will be put into service. TDRS-M provides navigation and high-data-rate upwards communications for the International Space Station, NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope, rockets and many other spacecraft.

References:

https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/nasa-successfully-launches-latest-communicati...

http://www.ulalaunch.com/uploads/docs/Mission_Booklets/AV/av_tdrsm_mob.pdf

A really nice fun, educational tool I've found is the ULA Rocket Builder where you can design/specify your own personaised rocket and find the price.

Go here: https://www.rocketbuilder.com/start/configure