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Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) launched the SpaceLoft-XL 18 rocket on Nov. 19 at Spaceport America, New Mexico, in partnership with UP Aerospace. The launch tested a new deployable heat shield developed with Redwire Space and NASA Ames Research Center.

The rocket reached approximately 72 miles in altitude, deploying the aeroshell for payload protection during descent. This launch was the sixth in a series since 2021, allowing for rapid testing of sensors and experiments every six months. The vehicle was recovered with minimal damage, enhancing the efficiency of aerospace research in New Mexico.