Alliant Techsystems will help boost space shuttle

Article by: Dee DePass , Star Tribune
Updated: December 8, 2007 - 12:34 AM

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When NASA launches the space shuttle, a little more of Minnesota will be headed skyward.

Edina-based Alliant Techsystems Inc. designed and built the new motors that will separate the fire-breathing rocket boosters from the astronauts' craft at the brink of space.

For years the separation motors were made by Pratt & Whitney, until a fatal explosion at a fuel manufacturing plant in California opened a window for Alliant to compete.

NASA gave Alliant the $13 million manufacturing contract in 2003, but it has taken four years to develop, build, test and retest the separation motors. This mission marks their first flight as the shuttle again heads to the international space station, which is under construction.

Alliant already makes the reusable rocket boosters that blast the shuttle into orbit. Now eight of its new booster-separation motors are attached to each booster.

Dee DePass • 612-673-7725

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