Peacekeeper decommissioned intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) are being used as launchers for science missions. Fifty-four repurposed missiles are scheduled for recycling. Nine Peacekeeper motors are currently under contract for testing or upcoming space launches.
The Air Force oversees the decommissioned intercontinental ballistic missiles-to-launchers program. While it can't be considered eco-friendly, it saves a lot of money and makes use of hardware that would be scrapped otherwise.
Implications - The very first refurbished Peacekeeper missile was named Minotaur 4 and was flown into space in April of 2010. The launch of the Space Based Space Surveillance satellite will let people see how Minotaur 4 is doing up in space. The featured images show these awesome missiles being ejected high up and out of this world.
Recycling Warheads
Decommissioned Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles Repurposed as Launchers
Trend Themes
1. Repurposed Rockets - The trend of using decommissioned rockets as launchers for science missions creates opportunities for disruptive innovation in the space industry.
2. Cost-saving Technology - Repurposing decommissioned rockets instead of scrapping them represents a cost-saving trend, with potential disruptive innovations in the aerospace industry.
3. Sustainability in the Aerospace Industry - Using decommissioned rockets to launch science missions is a trend that could lead to innovations in sustainable practices in the aerospace industry.
Industry Implications
1. Aerospace - The aerospace industry benefits from the trend of repurposing decommissioned rockets as launchers for science missions.
2. Defense - The defense industry could benefit financially from the repurposing of decommissioned rockets instead of scrapping them.
3. Environmental Technology - The trend of sustainable repurposing of decommissioned rockets for space missions creates opportunities for disruptive innovation in the environmental technology industry.