QNX blasts off into space... again

This morning, at 2:28 a.m. EDT, the Space Shuttle Endeavour lifted off, carrying three technologies of note: 1) a Canadian-built robotics system that will enhance the International Space Station's robot arm; 2) the first section of Japan's new space-based laboratory; and 3) the Neptec LCS, a QNX-based 3D laser camera system that is mandatory equipment on every NASA shuttle mission.

The LCS is the world's highest-flying safety feature. It allows NASA to detect tiny fractures in the shuttle’s heat shield and determine whether they pose a threat to the shuttle crew. According to Neptec's website, "...the LCS captures direct 3D measurements to create accurate, full scale, three-dimensional models, allowing astronauts and the engineers at Mission Control Center to work together to assess any areas of damage."

A couple of years ago, I cowrote an article on the LCS and its use of the QNX Neutrino RTOS. Download it here.

For a corporate video of the LCS, go here.