SpaceDev, Inc. (OTCBB: SPDV) announced today that it was awarded a subcontract in support of the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL), a key part of NASA's Mars Exploration Program.

MSL is scheduled for launch to Mars in late 2009 to determine if Mars maintains an environment able to sustain microbial life.

The subcontract is for the design, development and delivery of various SpaceDev gearbox subsystems used on the rover’s sample acquisition system, which will be used to acquire, process, and deliver soil samples from the Martian surface. This is SpaceDev’s second program it is supporting on MSL. Last year, SpaceDev was awarded a subcontract for the design, development and delivery of the MSL descent brake system.
MSL

“We are excited to engage with JPL on this important program. We provided the gearboxes on the Spirit and Opportunity rovers that have been exploring the Martian surface for nearly four years. This program will build on the experience from that highly successful program,” said Mark N. Sirangelo, SpaceDev’s Chairman and CEO. “Being part of these historic missions is a privilege. Our team is ready to design and deliver this hardware and looks forward to working with JPL on another Mars Exploration program.”

About SpaceDev

SpaceDev, Inc. is a space technology/aerospace company that creates and sells affordable and innovative space products and mission solutions.