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NASA placed a big order on Monday for new Orion space capsules, demonstrating the space agency's commitment to exploring the moon and expanding major new work at Johnson Space Center in Houston.
US Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and other lawmakers of the Lone Star State criticized the agency this summer when it handed responsibility for developing the lunar satellite at Alabama's Marshall Space Flight Center, but Cruz praised the Orion order.
"It's a great day for the men and women at the Johnson Space Center. They are essential to our national space program and have an undeniable legacy and track record of success in promoting US leadership in the human exploration of space, "said Cruz. "I am delighted that Director Bridenstine has responded to my calls and is taking important steps to ensure that Johnson continues to grow with the promising future of human exploration. Much remains to be done and I look forward to seeing production increase in the weeks and months ahead, as well as more opportunities with NASA. "
NASA is committed to purchasing at least six and at most twelve Orion capsules until September 30, 2030 from Lockheed Martin, of Littleton, Colorado. The production of spacecraft, managed by Johnson, will focus on reuse and building a long-term presence on the surface of the Moon.
"This contract guarantees the production of Orion over the next decade, demonstrating NASA's commitment to establish a sustainable presence on the moon to bring new knowledge and prepare for sending astronauts to Mars" said Jim Bridenstine, director of NASA. "Orion is a state-of-the-art spacecraft, specifically designed for deep space missions with astronauts, and an integral part of NASA's infrastructure for Artemis missions and the 39, future exploration of the solar system. "
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