KBR Played a Key Role in the Successful Operation and Retirement of Landsat 7
KBR played a key role in the successful launch, operation, and retirement of Landsat 7, which the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) officially decommissioned on June 4 after more than 25 years in orbit.
Launched in 1999, the satellite spent more than two decades capturing detailed images of Earth’s surface, tracking changes in climate, landscapes and urban growth across the globe.
As the prime contractor on the Landsat 7 Flight Operations Team task order, KBR supported the mission from launch through final command. The team provided end-to-end mission support, including flight operations, systems engineering, calibration/validation and science data management. The company worked in close collaboration with the USGS, NASA and subcontractor Embedded Flight Systems, Inc., to ensure the mission’s long-term success.
“Landsat 7’s retirement marks the close of a historic chapter in Earth observation, one that KBR was honored to help write,” said Todd May, Senior Vice President of KBR’s Science and Space business. “As we celebrate its accomplishments, we remain committed to supporting the next generation of space-based missions that deepen our understanding of the planet and drive progress in science, innovation and discovery.”
Originally designed for a five-year lifespan, Landsat 7 went on to collect more than two million images over its 25-year mission. It supported everything from environmental monitoring and disaster response to scientific discovery around the globe. It was instrumental in:
- Tracking glacial retreats in Greenland, Alaska and the Himalayas.
- Monitoring deforestation and land degradation in tropical forests to support global conservation efforts.
- Providing critical imagery after hurricanes, floods, wildfires and other emergencies to aid in disaster response.
- Mapping urban growth to help planners and policymakers manage land use and infrastructure.
- Supporting agricultural productivity to help monitor crop health and irrigation needs.
Congratulations to the KBR Landsat 7 Flight Operations Team for over 26 years of outstanding performance!
