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September 1, 2009
Alcoa Powder Commercial Team Receives Recognition
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The employees at Alcoas Rockdale (TX) Atomizer Plant were awarded a letter of recognition from ATK Space Systems for completion of the last lot of aluminum powder for the Reusable Solid Rocket Motor for the U.S. Space Shuttle Program.
The last Space Shuttle launch, scheduled to fly in 2010, will be powered by propellant made with Alcoa aluminum powder. Alcoa's Rockdale plant has been a supplier to the U.S. space program since 1982 and will continue to provide aluminum powder for the next generation space shuttle. Rockdale has been the sole supplier of aluminum powder to ATK Space Systems since 1992.
ATK Space Systems is the prime contractor for the Ares I first stage, a single, five-segment reusable solid rocket booster derived from the Space Shuttle Programs reusable solid rocket motor.
Following is the recognition letter ATK wrote to Daniel Gray King, Commercial Director, Alcoa Aluminum Powder:
Dear Danny:
This year marks a significant but sad milestone in the Space Shuttle Program with the completion and shipment of the last lot of Alcoa aluminum powder from its Rockdale, TX facility. Alcoa has been a significant partner in the production of the Reusable Solid Rocket Motor (RSRM) produced by ATK. The last Space Shuttle launch, scheduled to fly in late 2010, will be powered by propellant made with Alcoa aluminum powder. Alcoa has powered most Space Shuttle flights since the first Space Shuttle flight in 1981 and has been our sole supplier for aluminum powder since 1992.
Alcoa and ATK have worked closely since the beginning of the Space Shuttle program. During these many years there have been significant challenges for both companies, but together we have overcome them by creative thinking, long hours and hard work. For this dedication, Alcoa employees should be commended.
ATK would like to recognize the dedication of the Alcoa employees and management team in completing this significant milestone. We thank you for helping to make the Space Shuttle Program so successful.
We look forward to working with you to meet the challenges of manned space flight in the future.
Mark Wallentine
Program Manager
RSRM Propellant and Motor
ATK Space Systems
Kelly Egli
Supply Chain Management
ATK Space Systems
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