The FINANCIAL -- On October 26, one day before NASA's first Ares I test flight, The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] submitted a proposal to NASA for the Exploration Ground Launch Services (EGLS) contract to manage the ground systems integration and launch operations services for NASA's Constellation Program.

NASA is expected to award the EGLS contract in April 2010 through its Kennedy Space Center facility.

"Boeing stands ready to support the Constellation Program," said John Elbon, Boeing vice president and EGLS team leader. "New capabilities and cost-effective approaches, proven in our space, defense and commercial airplane programs, will enable us to provide safe and reliable ground operations for Constellation and help NASA achieve the United States' space exploration goals.

"Boeing has a legacy of more than 50 years of support to Kennedy Space Center and the surrounding community," added Elbon. "EGLS is key to our continued presence at Kennedy, and we are looking forward to partnering with NASA to launch a new era in space."

Approximately 1,000 Boeing employees work on the Checkout, Assembly and Payload Processing Services (CAPPS), International Space Station, and Space Shuttle programs at Kennedy. Boeing serves as NASA's prime contractor for CAPPS and the International Space Station. The company also is providing the Ares I rocket's upper stage and avionics for NASA's Constellation Program.

Boeing has received the Kennedy Space Center Large Business of the Year recognition 14 times. The company also has earned distinction as a three-year finalist and the most recent winner of the George M. Low Award, NASA's premier award for quality and performance.

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