Boeing has established an Exploration Launch Systems Engineering and Integration office in Titusville to support the operational readiness of NASA's next launch system, currently under study.

"This new Boeing office near NASA's Kennedy Space Center expands our capability to execute our current Upper Stage Production and Instrument Unit Avionics contracts, as well as continue our support of NASA as it lays the groundwork for development of heavy-lift launch vehicle concepts," said Jim Chilton, Exploration Launch Systems vice president for Boeing.

"We plan to ensure critical skills and capabilities are retained to provide a smooth workforce transition from the Space Shuttle program that builds on accomplishments and investments made to date."

The Florida office complements Boeing's ongoing work on the Upper Stage Production and Instrument Unit Avionics contracts held at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Ala., and the Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans.

"We continue to make excellent progress on the contracts we competed for and won a few years ago, using the re-prioritization allowed by NASA," said Chilton.

"The design is proving to be sound, as is our innovative manufacturing process."

"This strategic decision reflects Boeing's commitment to provide the most effective, reliable and competitive assembly integration and launch services in support of the nation's next-generation space activities in Florida," said Frank DiBello, head of economic development agency Space Florida.

"Florida is pleased to be Boeing's partner in leveraging key infrastructure and critical skills in support of future space exploration program initiatives."

Boeing recently submitted trade studies and detailed cost and schedule information to NASA so the agency can evaluate the company's heavy-lift launch vehicle system concepts, propulsion technologies and affordability. Boeing's 50-year history in human spaceflight and its skilled workforce will enable missions beyond Low Earth Orbit to transport payloads such as large-array telescopes and to explore deep space.

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