KICS contract awarded
NASA has announced the selection of InDyne, Inc. of McLean, Va., as prime contractor for its Kennedy Integrated Communication Services (KICS) contract, valued at approximately $190.7 million. InDyne will provide communications services at KSC in support of the Space Shuttle Program, International Space Station Program, Payload Carriers Program and Launch Services Program Office Payloads. InDyne will also provide Center-wide business engineering logistics, facilities management, hardware and software integration and development for voice, video and data communications.

The KICS contract, with a period of performance of approximately five years, is a small business set-aside and the first of the five work packages contained in the Space Mission Communications and Data Services (SMCDS) solicitation. SMCDS will succeed the current NASA Consolidated Space Operations Contract (CSOC). KICS will also incorporate the requirements from the Visual Information Technical Contract (VITC), and the telephone service requirements of the Outsourcing Desktop Initiative for NASA (ODIN). For more information about SMCDS and KICS, visit http:\\www.hq.nasa.gov/smcds

ELV Update:Gravity Probe B
The first and second stages of the Boeing Delta II were erected on Space Launch Complex 2, Vandenberg AFB, last week. Attachment of the nine strap-on solid rocket boosters in sets of three is scheduled for Oct. 6-8. Gravity Probe B will be transported from the spacecraft hangar to Space Launch Complex 2 on Nov. 18 and hoisted atop the second stage. The Delta II fairing will be installed around the spacecraft Nov. 24 as part of final preparations for launch.

NASA Science News
High above Earth, NASA satellites have taken some remarkable pictures of Hurricane Isabel hitting North America. Read the full story at http://science.nasa.gov/headlines/y2003/18sep_isabel.htm

Faculty needed
Webster University is currently accepting applications for adjunct faculty for Computer Science at KSC. College teaching experience and work experience in the field are required. Doctorate preferred. Submit resume to: Director, Webster University, 150 N. Sykes Creek Pkwy., Suite 200, Merritt Island, FL 32953.

Being energy conscious
During the summer months, the most effective way to keep your home cool is to prevent the heat from building up in the first place. A primary source of heat buildup is sunlight absorbed by your home’s roof, walls, and windows. Light-colored home exteriors effectively reflect most of the heat away from your home. Landscaping can also help block and absorb the sun’s energy to help decrease heat buildup in your home by providing shade and evaporative cooling.