WASHINGTON Top NASA managers are considering a two-step option for flying humans to orbit that would give International Space Station crews a U.S.built lifeboat for emergency return to Earth as early as 2009 and two-way transport with the same basic vehicle a few years later.

WASHINGTON The emergence of more sophisticated long-range surface-to-surface rockets is raising doubts among Israelis about a planned effort with the U.S. to develop a laser-based air-defense system. U.S. and Israeli negotiators are in the final stages of formulating an agreement to begin development of the Mobile Tactical High-Energy Laser (Mthel). U.S. officials are trying to remain low-key concerning the discussions owing to the tensions in the Middle East, but the deal could be concluded soon.

WASHINGTON Previewing how the U.S. Air Force will try to sell Congress on leasing 100 Boeing 767s for aerial refueling, the service last week informed lawmakers that it wants to structure a much smaller version of such a deal to lease four 737700 Boeing Business Jets.

SAN FRANCISCO Talks were expected to intensify last weekend concerning Northrop Grumman’s proposed acquisition of TRW Inc., and an announcement could come as early as July 1, officials close to the negotiations said. A deal would not close until September or later, however.

WASHINGTON The begin U.S. a sorely Coast needed, Guard is across-thepoised to board upgrade of ships, aircraft and command-and-control systems funded by an $11-billion, 20-year contract just inked. Equal-partners Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin have been working with the Coast Guard for four years to develop a solution to its Integrated Deepwater System needs.

TOKYO An expert panel of the Council for Science and Technology Policy, a planning body headed by Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, has proposed streamlining Japan’s space budget and concentrating on programs that enhance Japan’s space industry and national security.

PARIS Bell Helicopters’ selection of Thales to provide helmet-mounted displays for 280 U.S. Marine Corps helicopters could be a lucrative breakthrough into the American military market for the European avionics company. Thales will supply its TopOwl sight/display systems, which offer binocular 40deg.