Jena-Optronik Secures Aerospace Contract

Space travel specialist Jena-Optronik GmbH of Jena, Germany, has received an order from Eads Space Transportation for 12 rendezvous sensors for six space transporters. Based on a laser optic system, the sensors provide for automated approach and docking of supply vehicles for use with the International Space Station. Eads, of Les Mureaux, France, is the general contractor for the European automated transfer vehicles.

Two of the sensors were delivered last spring and are scheduled for launch with the first vehicle, named Jules Verne, in October 2005. Under the contract, which applies to subsequent years, two Jena sensors will be used for each planned flight.