An Atlas 5 rocket successfully launches NASA’’s TDRS-L payload from Space Launch Complex-41. Photo: ULA

[Via Satellite 03-14-2014] Lockheed Martin Commercial Launch Services (LMCLS), a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin, has introduced a 100 percent space launch vehicle “refund or reflight” program to protect customers in the event of a total launch vehicle malfunction. The program will also provide partial refunds for partial malfunctions, and applies to all future LMCLS non-U.S. government contracts.

“We know how much our customers value affordability and assured access to space,” said Robert Cleave, president and chairman of the board of LMCLS. “This program demonstrates Lockheed Martin’s confidence in the Atlas launch vehicle, while saving customers costs and hassle. It also streamlines the launch process, allowing customers to focus on the success of their payloads and their businesses.”

The refund or reflight program will be a standard component in all future LMCLS launch service contracts, meaning customers will not need to negotiate and acquire space insurance for the Atlas launch vehicle on their own. LMCLS is the exclusive provider of all non-U.S. government Atlas launch services.