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L3Harris Delivers Optical System to NASA for Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope

SA
Space & Airborne Systems
Nov 14, 2024 | 1 MINUTE Read

MELBOURNE, Fla., Nov. 14, 2024 — L3Harris Technologies (NYSE:LHX) has delivered the Optical Telescope Assembly (OTA) to NASA that serves as the critical “eye” for the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope by providing precise and stable imagery. 

“L3Harris is helping shape the future of space exploration for NASA by providing a key technology that will assist astronomers in their understanding of the cosmos,” said Ed Zoiss, President, Space and Airborne Systems, L3Harris. “The measured optical performance exceeds any telescope we have ever produced in this size class.” 

The telescope’s primary mirror is the major component within the OTA, and at 7.9 feet is the element that will collect light from exoplanets, stars, galaxies and supernovae. L3Harris tested the telescope’s mirrors down to -82 degrees Fahrenheit, verifying the precision of its optical alignment under extreme conditions, a capability that is crucial to the telescope’s performance when in orbit one million miles from Earth.

L3Harris built the telescope in Rochester, New York, and it is now being integrated and tested at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. NASA is scheduled to launch the observatory by May 2027.

About L3Harris Technologies

L3Harris Technologies is the Trusted Disruptor in the defense industry. With customers’ mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security. Visit L3Harris.com for more information.

Forward-Looking Statements 

This press release contains forward-looking statements that reflect management's current expectations, assumptions and estimates of future performance and economic conditions. Such statements are made in reliance upon the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results and future trends to differ materially from those matters expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. Statements about technology capabilities and future performance are forward-looking and involve risks and uncertainties. L3Harris disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

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Irene Lockwood

Space and Airborne Systems
C: 585-465-3592

Sara Banda

Corporate Media Relations
C: 321-306-8927