[Satellite Today 10-21-08] The third satellite in the Earth observation constellation, Cosmo-SkyMed is set to be launched Oct. 24 aboard a Boeing Delta 2 rocket from Vandenberg Air Force, Calif., satellite manufacturer Thales Alenia Space announced Oct. 21. The liftoff is scheduled for 10:28 p.m. EDT. 
    The Cosmo-SkyMed program is designed to enhance the monitoring and management of our planet for applications including management of environmental hazards, defense and security, as well as scientific and commercial applications. The total program cost is about 1 billion euros ($1.3 billion).
    The fourth satellite is scheduled for launch in early 2010.