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Featured

SpaceX prepares Starship’s 10th launch on Sunday incorporating changes for reliability

August 17, 2025

The tenth flight test of Starship is preparing to launch as soon as Sunday, August 24. The launch window will open at 6:30 p.m. CT.

A live webcast of the flight test will begin about 30 minutes before liftoff, which you can watch on X @SpaceX. You can also watch the webcast on the X TV app. As is the case with all developmental testing, the schedule is dynamic and likely to change, so be sure to check in here and stay tuned to our X account for updates.

After completing the investigations into the loss of Starship on its ninth flight test and the Ship 36 static fire anomaly, hardware and operational changes have been made to increase reliability. You can read the full technical summary of the investigations here.

The upcoming flight will continue to expand the operating envelope on the Super Heavy booster, with multiple landing burn tests planned. It will also target similar objectives as previous missions, including Starship’s first payload deployment and multiple reentry experiments geared towards returning the upper stage to the launch site for catch.

The booster on this flight test is attempting several flight experiments to gather real-world performance data on future flight profiles and off-nominal scenarios. The Super Heavy booster will attempt these experiments while on a trajectory to an offshore landing point in the Gulf of America and will not return to the launch site for catch.

Following stage separation, the booster will flip in a controlled direction before initiating its boostback burn. This maneuver was demonstrated for the first time on Flight 9 and requires less propellant to be held in reserve, enabling the use of more propellant during ascent to enable additional payload mass to orbit.

The primary test objectives for the booster will be focused on its landing burn and will use unique engine configurations. One of the three center engines used for the final phase of landing will be intentionally disabled to gather data on the ability for a backup engine from the middle ring to complete a landing burn. The booster will then transition to only two center engines for the end of the landing burn, entering a full hover while still above the ocean surface, followed by shutdown and drop into the Gulf of America.

The Starship upper stage will again target multiple in-space objectives, including the deployment of eight Starlink simulators, similar in size to next-generation Starlink satellites. The Starlink simulators will be on the same suborbital trajectory as Starship and are expected to demise upon entry. A relight of a single Raptor engine while in space is also planned.

The flight test includes several experiments focused on enabling Starship’s upper stage to return to the launch site. A significant number of tiles have been removed from Starship to stress-test vulnerable areas across the vehicle during reentry. Multiple metallic tile options, including one with active cooling, will test alternative materials for protecting Starship during reentry. On the sides of the vehicle, functional catch fittings are installed and will test the fittings’ thermal and structural performance, along with a section of the tile line receiving a smoothed and tapered edge to address hot spots observed during reentry on Starship’s sixth flight test. Starship’s reentry profile is designed to intentionally stress the structural limits of the upper stage’s rear flaps while at the point of maximum entry dynamic pressure.

Flight tests continue to provide valuable learnings to inform the design of the next generation Starship and Super Heavy vehicles. With production ramping up inside Starfactory at Starbase alongside new launch and test infrastructure actively being built in Texas and Florida, Starship is poised to continue iterating towards a rapidly and fully reusable launch system.

Filed Under: Booster, Booster Recovery, Hardware, Investigation, Launch, Launch Support, Launch Vehicle, Launches, Operational, Payload Delivery, Reentry Missions, Rocket Motor Tests, SpaceX, Starlink, Starship (SpaceX), Static Fire Test Tagged With: Featured

U.S. Space Force’s L3Harris-built NTS-3 satellite successfully launches

August 13, 2025

The L3Harris-built (NYSE: LHX) advanced Navigation Technology Satellite-3 (NTS-3) has successfully launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Vulcan rocket.

NTS-3 is the Department of Defense’s first experimental navigation satellite system in nearly 50 years. It is also the first fully reprogrammable Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT) satellite that will provide warfighters with responsive and flexible capability to ensure mission success.

“The need for accurate and uninterrupted PNT has never been more essential to our warfighters who operate in GPS-denied environments,” said Ed Zoiss, President, Space and Airborne Systems, L3Harris. “The successful launch of the NTS-3 system is the first step in updating 20th century technology to help address current threats to our national security.”

The L3Harris-built Navigation Technology Satellite-3 (NTS-3) satellite launched on a United Launch Alliance Vulcan rocket Aug. 12 from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. NTS-3 will be used for a variety of experiments to include testing on-orbit, next-generation technologies that assist warfighters in contested environments.

L3Harris delivered NTS-3 three times faster and at lower cost than similar programs by leveraging industry standard form factors and interfaces. NTS-3 is also smaller and lighter than traditional PNT satellites and will operate at a higher altitude.

Once on-orbit, the satellite will perform experiments to shape the future of U.S. space-based PNT capabilities. NTS-3’s payload technology is modular, scalable and can be configured to fly on different satellite buses. This technology will be instrumental in achieving future affordability goals and mission timelines.

L3Harris propulsion and spaceflight avionics on the ULA Vulcan rocket were critical to delivering NTS-3 to a precise orbit. The rocket used two L3Harris RL10 engines, providing a combined total thrust of nearly 48,000 pounds. The rocket also used 12 MR-107 thrusters to help steer the upper stage and helium tanks that are essential to the rocket’s operation. Key company spaceflight avionics include controllers, data acquisition units, and the T-740U Transmitter, which are crucial for vehicle control and data relay during launch.US Space Force Successfully Launches L3Harris-Built NTS-3 Satellite

L3Harris NTS-3 NAVSAT preparing for launch

As the prime contractor of NTS-3, L3Harris is preparing its Navigation Technology Satellite-3 (NTS-3) for launch following successful tests earlier in 2024—designed, built, and tested by L3Harris, NTS-3 is the first U.S. experimental, integrated navigation satellite system in nearly 50 years.

In addition to the satellite, L3Harris is also supporting launch vehicle integration, integration with the control, and user segments and on-orbit operations. The company is also delivering novel mission applications software integrated into the NTS-3 ground control system to enable responsive reprogramming of the payload.

Together with Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL)-developed, reprogrammable, software-defined user equipment, the system demonstrates a multilayer, robust, and resilient Geosynchronous (GEO) augmentation to GPS to ensure U.S. freedom of navigation in air, space, and terrestrial domains.

General B. Chance Saltzman, Chief of Space Operations, pointed out in the Department of the Air Force Posture Statement Fiscal Year 2025, that as threats to our national security and space environment, to include GPS, increase at alarming rates, the U.S. is accelerating the pivot towards resilient satellite constellations, ground stations, networks, and data links.

To successfully navigate this rapidly evolving threat environment, the nation’s warfighters need to be able to operate in GPS-degraded and GPS-denied environments. To that end, the U.S. has been conducting transformational analysis based on current and future threats, operational needs, and costs to be able to deliver resilient, effective systems and architecture.

Given these considerations, NTS-3 is smaller and lighter than traditional satellites and will operate at a different altitude. Once on-orbit, it will be used to conduct experiments that will demonstrate the resiliency that NTS-3 technology can provide to U.S. and allied military PNT. These will include, but are not limited to, flexible and advanced signals, reprogrammability, enhanced timekeeping, regional military protection, beam forming, alternative concept of operations in an end-to-end space, ground-control, and user-equipment enterprise.

L3Harris delivered NTS-3 three times faster and at lower cost than similar programs by leveraging industry standard form factors and interfaces. Its use of commercial development platforms enabled early integration and testing of software and firmware, helping to reduce risk. In addition, the satellite’s payload technology is modular and scalable and can be accommodated on different platforms.

NTS-3’s innovative technologies include:

  • Active electronically steerable phased array: NTS-3 is the first U.S. satellite to use phased array antenna technology for a space-based PNT mission, allowing simultaneous transmission of Earth-coverage beams and multiple, independently configurable regional beams. This capability enables groups with diverse needs to be supported more efficiently. Phased array technology is more power-efficient than other options and allows for graceful degradation in case of failures, significantly enhancing reliability.
  • Agile waveform platform: This innovative platform features an on-board Enhanced Signal Processor and Ground Mission Application, enabling the rapid development and deployment of new signals. The Enhanced Signal Processor is fully reprogrammable on-orbit and supports legacy GPS as well as new, advanced waveforms. The Ground Mission Application enables operators to plan, configure and control Earth coverage and regional spot beams and signals to support multiple operations over a wide geographical area.
  • Cion antenna/receiver: Fully reprogrammable on-orbit, the NTS-3 Cion digital space receiver can navigate autonomously if needed thanks to its ability to synch its signals to GPS. This ensures continuity if ground contact is lost.

This past summer, L3Harris marked the one-year anniversary of its acquisition of power and propulsion provider, Aerojet Rocketdyne. The Vulcan rocket that will be used to launch the NTS-3 satellite is equipped with two Aerojet Rocketdyne RL10 engines, providing a combined total thrust of nearly 48,000 pounds to its Centaur V upper stage.

Additionally, the rocket uses 12 MR-107 thrusters and helium tanks provided by the company that are essential to the rocket’s operation.

MR-107 Thruster

Separately, L3Harris’ Integrated Mission Systems segment is also providing key spaceflight avionics including controllers, data acquisition units, and the T-740U Transmitter, which are crucial for vehicle control and data relay during launch.

From engines and avionics to an innovative new satellite, L3Harris technology and people are helping to launch a new era of PNT. As it readies for launch, the NTS-3 satellite will help pave the way for uninterrupted, assured PNT by testing innovative technologies and techniques across space, ground control and user equipment segments.

In today’s volatile geopolitical landscape, the need for accurate and uninterrupted PNT has never been more critical,” said Ed Zoiss, President, Space and Airborne Systems, L3Harris. “We’re looking forward to the launch and on-orbit tests of NTS-3’s cutting-edge capabilities, which are critical to updating 20th century technology for the 21st century threats that contested, degraded, and denied PNT poses to our country’s national security.”

Filed Under: Avionics, Department of Defense (DoD), Government, GPS, L3Harris Technologies, Military, MR-107 Thrusters (L3Harris), Navigation Satellite System, NTS-3, PNT, Position Navigation Timing (PNT), U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Space Force, United Launch Alliance, Warfighters Tagged With: Featured

Arianespace’s Ariane 6 successfully launches Metop-SGA1 weather satellite “This is the beginning of an exciting new chapter”

August 12, 2025

On August 12, 2025 at 9:37 p.m. local time in Kourou, French Guiana (00:37 a.m. UTC, 2:37 a.m. CEST, on August 13), Ariane 6 lifted off from Europe’s Spaceport carrying EUMETSAT’s Metop-SGA1 satellite.

With this second commercial flight, Ariane 6, the new European heavy-lift launcher operated by Arianespace, successfully placed Metop-SGA1 into Sun-synchronous orbit (SSO) at an altitude of 800 km. Spacecraft separation occurred 1 hour and 4 minutes after lift-off.

A few minutes after separation, EUMETSAT successfully acquired signals from the satellite.

David Cavaillolès, CEO of Arianespace, declared: “Tonight, Arianespace has successfully launched EUMETSAT’s Metop-SGA1 satellite, on board Ariane 6. The first of the next generation of European polar-orbiting weather satellites, Metop-SGA1 notably hosts the Copernicus programme Sentinel-5 atmospheric monitoring mission. This success pinpoints our dedication to ensuring Europe’s autonomous and reliable access to space while also supporting an ambitious environmental mission that will provide cutting-edge data for weather and climate monitoring. Ariane 6’s second commercial launch marks a significant milestone in our journey. We extend our gratitude to EUMETSAT and to all our partners across Europe for their trust and collaboration, driving Arianespace to deliver the utmost excellence.”

“The success of this second commercial launch confirms the performance, reliability, and precision of Ariane 6. Once again, the new European heavy-lift launcher meets Europe’s needs, ensuring sovereign access to space,” said Martin Sion, CEO of ArianeGroup. “The next rockets are well advanced in production thanks to the teams to whom I express my gratitude for their unwavering commitment. This demonstrates the ramp up taking place in ArianeGroup’s plants and those of our industrial partners.”

Phil Evans, Director-General of EUMETSAT, commented: “Extreme weather has cost Europe hundreds of billions of euros and tens of thousands of lives over the past 40 years—storms like Boris, Daniel and Hans, record heatwaves and fierce wildfires are just the latest reminders. The launch of Metop-SGA1 is a major step forward in giving national weather services in our member states sharper tools to save lives, protect property, and build resilience against the climate crisis. These positive impacts will be felt even beyond that and over the Atlantic, as Metop-SGA1 is Europe’s first contribution to the Joint Polar System with NOAA. This milestone reflects years of teamwork across EUMETSAT, ESA, the EU, CNES, DLR, Airbus, Thales Alenia Space, and many others. This is the beginning of an exciting new chapter as we work to ensure the satellite settles into orbit and starts delivering the vital data it was built to provide.”

For this second commercial mission, the Ariane 6 vehicle was in the two-booster Ariane 62 configuration with a short fairing.

Ariane 6 is a program developed within the framework of the European Space Agency (ESA). As prime contractor and design authority for the launcher, ArianeGroup is responsible for development and production alongside its industrial partners. Ariane 6 is marketed and operated by Arianespace.

The Metop-SGA1 (Second Generation A1) satellite will be the first of the next generation of European polar-orbiting weather satellites. Metop-SGA1 will host a total of six atmospheric sounding and imaging instrument missions that will provide optical, infrared, and microwave observations essential data for weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and a wide range of other services and applications. Amongst its hosts, Metop-SGA1 will carry the new Sentinel-5 atmospheric monitoring mission, part of the European Commission’s Copernicus programme. The spacecraft was built by Airbus Defence and Space, under a contract with the European Space Agency, and will be operated throughout its lifetime by EUMETSAT, that will also distribute its data to users.

The VA264 launch at a glance:

  • 355th launch by Arianespace
  • 3rd Ariane 6 launch and 2nd commercial flight
  • 15th satellite launched by Arianespace for EUMETSAT
  • 151st spacecraft built by Airbus Defence and Space launched by Arianespace
  • 21st meteorological satellite launched by Arianespace

Arianespace ready for Tuesday launch of EUMETSAT’s Metop-SG A1 weather satellite

Europe’s first MetOp Second Generation, MetOp-SG-A1, weather satellite — which hosts Copernicus Sentinel-5 as part of its instrument package — is set for liftoff on an Ariane 6 rocket from Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, on 13 August 2025 at 02:37 CEST (12 August 21:37 Kourou time).

First of EUMETSAT’s second generation of Metop weather satellites. Metop-SG A1 is the first satellite in the Metop Second Generation (Metop-SG) series, a joint project by the European Space Agency (ESA) and EUMETSAT. It will be launched in August 2025, alongside the Copernicus Sentinel-5 instrument, on an Ariane 6 rocket. Metop-SG A1 is designed to provide continuity of global observations for weather forecasting and climate analysis, offering enhanced data compared to the first generation of Metop satellites

The forecast calls for a temperature of 77°F, broken clouds, 54% cloud cover and a wind speed of 2mph.

Sealing MetOp-SG-A1 satellite within Ariane 6 fairing

Ariane Launch Area 4 has witnessed the launch of 2 rockets, including 2 orbital launch attempts. While Guiana Space Centre, French Guiana, has been the site for 326 rocket launches.

The Guiana Space Center is a European spaceport to the northwest of Kourou in French Guiana, a region of France in South America. Kourou is located at a latitude of 5°. In operation since 1968, it is a suitable location for a spaceport because of its equatorial location and open sea to the east. The Ariane 62, manufactured by ArianeGroup established in 2015, undertook its inaugural launch on 07/09/2024, is non-reusable and is active.

Ariane 62 has 2 successful launches and 0 failed attempts, with a cumulative tally of 2 launches, currently with 11 pending launches in the pipeline.

The Ariane 6 family is currently under development by the European Space Agency, with two variations including the Ariane 62 with two solid boosters intended for government and scientific missions.

Filed Under: ArianeGroup, Arianespace, Climate, Copernicus, ESA, EUMETSAT, European Space Operations Centre (ESA), France, French Guiana, Guiana Space Center, MetOp, MetOp-SG-A1, South America, Spaceport, Weather Forecasting, Weather Imagery, Weather Satellites, Weather Technology Tagged With: Featured

ULA, GO Vulcan! GO Centaur! GO USSF-106! and they did!

August 12, 2025

ULA’s recap: The United launch Alliance rocket departed Space Launch Complex-41 on Tuesday night at 8:56 p.m. EDT. The GEM 63XL solid rocket boosters burned for approximately 90 seconds and then separated, The methane-fueled first stage performed for five minutes before separating to allow the Centaur V to take over. Photos captured by Satnews.

The 10-hour countdown started at 10:09 a.m. EDT under the guidance of ULA Launch Conductor Scott Barney. The pad crew completed final preps at the complex and then cleared the area for fueling. The “go” for cryogenic tanking was given by ULA Launch Director James Whelan. Tanking operations were successfully performed as a million pounds of cryogenic propellants were placed into the rocket.

The clear to launch was given at 8:47 p.m. EDT by Space Force Mission Director Col. Jim Horne of Space Systems Command.

The USSF-106 payloads feature demonstrations and experiments from Department of Defense customers, including the Navigation Technology Satellite-3 (NTS-3). The Air Force Research Laboratory’s NTS-3 is the military’s first experimental navigation satellite system in nearly 50 years.

NTS-3 delivers enhanced GPS capabilities to the warfighter at faster speeds and lower cost and paves the way for a more robust, resilient and responsive architecture for satellite navigation technology.

NTS-3 will be the Department of Defense’s first experimental navigation satellite system in nearly 50 years. It builds on the legacy of NTS-1 and NTS-2, which were launched by ULA-heritage Atlas rockets in the 1970s and paved the way for today’s space-based PNT technology through the Global Positioning System (GPS).

Designed, developed, and integrated by L3Harris Technologies, NTS-3 will provide an on-orbit demonstration of game-changing technologies and techniques, preparing the way for a new generation of GPS receivers.

L-1 UPDATE: ULA Vulcan USSF-106 mission progressing towards launch of ‘2 firsts’ 

On August 12, 2025 between 7:59 and 8:59 p.m. EDT (2359-0059 UTC ) a Vulcan Centaur VC4S rocket, with four solid rocket boosters, will launch USSF-106 directly to geosynchronous orbit for the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command. This will be the first National Security Space Launch (NSSL) mission on a Vulcan rocket, and an experimetal navigation satelllite. The payload is classified.

Everything continues to progress towards the ULA Vulcan launch carrying the USSF-106 mission for the United States Space Force’s Space Systems Command (SSC). The mission is planned to lift off on Tuesday, August 12 from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The launch window is 7:59-8:59 p.m. EDT. Today’s forecast shows an 80 percent chance of favorable weather conditions for launch.  

 Launch Forecast Summary: 

  • Overall probability of violating weather constraints: 20%  
  • Primary concerns: Cumulus Cloud Rule
  • Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 24-hour delay: 20% 
  • Primary concern: Cumulus Cloud Rule

“Pretty historic point in our program history,” mission director Col. Jim Horne III said. “We officially end our reliance on Russian-made main engines with this launch, and we continue to maintain our assured access to space with at least two independent rocket service companies that we can leverage to get our capabilities on orbit.”

The first U.S. national security launch aboard a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Vulcan rocket will be the United States Space Force (USSF)-106 mission. Liftoff will occur from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

“I can’t tell you how excited I am to see it finally launched and finally start the on-orbit experimental mission,” said Joanna Hicks, a senior research aerospace engineer at the Air Force Research Laboratory.

L-2 Update: ULA Vulcan USSF-106 mission progresses towards Tuesday launch 

Launch Vehicle on Stand: Vulcan USSF-106
United Launch Alliance (ULA) hoists its Vulcan booster into the Government Vertical Integration Facility (VIF-G) adjacent to Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The rocket will carry the USSF-106 mission, Vulcan’s first national security launch for the U.S. Space Force Space Systems Command (SSC). Photo credit: United Launch Alliance

Everything continues to progress towards the ULA Vulcan launch carrying the USSF-106 mission for the United States Space Force’s Space Systems Command (SSC). The mission is planned to lift off on Tuesday, August 12 from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The launch window is 7:59-8:59 p.m. EDT. Today’s forecast shows a 75 percent chance of favorable weather conditions for launch.  

Weather 75% GO for Tuesday’s launch

The forecast from the Space Force’s Space Launch Delta 45 weather squadron and Launch Weather Officer Jimmy Taeger for Tuesday night’s launch of Vulcan indicates a 75 percent chance of acceptable conditions.

Liftoff is scheduled during a window of 7:59 to 8:59 p.m. EDT (2359-0059 UTC) from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

“Surface high pressure northeast of the Spaceport will maintain southeasterly surface flow across the region mid-week. The sea breeze will develop each day, with showers and thunderstorms developing across the area late morning/early afternoon and then more inland by the evening,” the weather team says.

“However, outflow boundary collisions could generate isolated showers and thunderstorms closer to the Spaceport near the launch windows. The highest Probabilities of Violation (PoV) are the Cumulus Cloud Rule and Surface Electric Fields Rule, with a lower PoV of the Lightning Rule.”

The launch time forecast includes scattered clouds and high cirrus, good visibility, southeasterly winds 9 to 14 knots and a temperature near 84 degrees F.

If the launch moves to the backup opportunity on Wednesday for some reason, there is again a 75 percent chance of meeting the weather rules with similar conditions.

Launch Forecast Summary:

Overall probability of violating weather constraints: 25%  

Primary concerns: Cumulus Cloud Rule, Surface Electric Fields Rule, Lightning Rule 

Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 24-hour delay: 25% 

Primary concern: Cumulus Cloud Rule, Surface Electric Fields Rule, Lightning Rule 

Launch Readiness Review completed

The Launch Readiness Review (LRR) is GO for Tuesday’s liftoff of the United Launch Alliance Vulcan rocket on its first U.S. national security mission, known as USSF-106.

The LRR, led by ULA Launch Director James Whelan, was completed this morning at the Advanced Spaceflight Operations Center (ASOC).

Leadership from ULA and the Space Force assessed the readiness of the rocket, payload and mission assets, discussed the status of pre-flight

ULA schedules first Vulcan rocket launch for National Security Space August 12

(Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Fla., Aug. 5, 2025) – The launch of a United Launch Alliance Vulcan rocket carrying the U.S. Space Force (USSF)-106 mission for the United States Space Force’s Space Systems Command (SSC) is planned for Tuesday, August 12, 2025, from Space Launch Complex (SLC)-41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, pending range approval.

This is the first national security space launch aboard the certified Vulcan rocket. The Vulcan rocket will deploy the USSF-106 mission directly to geosynchronous (GEO) orbit using the high-performance Centaur V upperstage. 

ULA continues to be a steadfast partner to the Space Force, fulfilling the rigorous, unique requirements needed to launch tremendous capabilities into space for national defense and the protection of our nation’s allies around the world. 

ULA continues launch prep of Vulcan for U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command USSF-106 mission

The first U.S. national security launch aboard a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Vulcan rocket will be the United States Space Force (USSF)-106 mission. Liftoff will occur at an as-yet-to-be-determined launch date from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

ULA is set to launch a Vulcan Centaur VC4S rocket, with four solid rocket boosters, to send USSF-106 directly to geosynchronous orbit for the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command. This will be the first National Security Space Launch (NSSL) mission on a Vulcan rocket.

From its inception, the Vulcan rocket was designed to deliver heavy payloads to any orbit. The upcoming USSF-106 mission utilizes this capability with Centaur V launching a multi-manifest U.S. national security payload directly to geosynchronous orbit for the Space Force.

Centaur Integration: Vulcan USSF-106
United Launch Alliance (ULA) hoists its Centaur V upper stage atop the Vulcan rocket that will launch the multi-manifest USSF-106 payload. This will be Vulcan’s first national security mission for the U.S. Space Force Space Systems Command (SSC). Photo credit: ULA

ULA technicians at Cape Canaveral are assembling the most powerful Vulcan rocket yet. Together with its twin BE-4 main engines and four side-mounted GEM 63XL solid rocket boosters, Vulcan will generate three million pounds (13 meganewtons) of liftoff thrust to launch the USSF-106 mission.

Launch Vehicle

Payload Fairing

The spacecraft is encapsulated in a 5.4-m- (17.7-ft-) diameter payload fairing (PLF), a sandwich composite structure made with a vented aluminum-honeycomb core and graphite-epoxy face sheets. The bisector (two-piece shell) PLF encapsulates the spacecraft. The payload attach fitting (PAF) is a similar sandwich composite structure creating the mating interface from spacecraft to second stage and payload fairing. The PLF separates using a debris-free horizontal and vertical separation system with spring packs and frangible joint assembly. The payload fairing is available in the 15.5-m (51-ft) standard and 21.3-m (70-ft) long configurations.

Centaur V

The Centaur V second stage is 17.7 ft (5.4 m) in diameter and 38.5 ft (11.7 m) in length. Its propellant tanks are pressure-stabilized and constructed of corrosion-resistant stainless steel. Centaur is a cryogenic vehicle, fueled with liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen, powered by two RL10C-1-1A engines producing 23,825 pounds (106 kilo-Newtons) of thrust. The cryogenic tanks are insulated with a combination of multilayer insulation (MLI) blankets, radiation shields and spray-on foam insulation (SOFI). A fault-tolerant avionics system is mounted on an aft equipment shelf. The payload attach fitting (PAF) provides structural and electrical interfaces with the spacecraft and is mounted to the Centaur V Launch Vehicle Forward Adapter (LVFA).

Booster

The booster is 17.7 ft (5.4 m) in diameter and 109.2 ft (33.3 m) in length. The booster’s tanks are structurally rigid and constructed of orthogrid aluminum barrels, spun-formed aluminum domes with a common bulkhead. The liquefied natural gas (LNG) / methane fueled booster will be powered by a pair of BE-4 engines, each producing 550,000 pounds (2,400 kN) of sea level thrust. Four graphite epoxy motor (GEM) 63XL solid rocket boosters (SRBs) generate the additional power required at liftoff, with each providing 459,600 lbs (2,044 kN) of thrust. The Centaur avionics system, provides guidance, flight control and vehicle sequencing functions during the booster and Centaur phases of flight.

Filed Under: Agencies, Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), GEM, GEM 63 Rocket Motors, Government, GPS, GPS III-7 (SSC), Methane, Navigation, Navigation Satellite System, Navigation Technology Satellite-3 (L3Harris + USSF), NTS-3, PNT, Position Navigation Timing (PNT), Solid Rocket Boosters, Space Launch Complex, U.S. Department of Defense, United Launch Alliance, Vulcan, Vulcan Centaur Tagged With: Featured

SpaceX delivers for Amazon, with launch of Project Kuiper’s smallsat KF-02 Mission

August 11, 2025

After the fourth delay due to weather, on Monday, August 11 at 8:35 a.m. ET, Falcon 9 launched the KF-02 mission to orbit from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

This is the second of a three launches contract for Amazon’s Kuiper low Earth orbit satellite internet constellation. 24 small satellites are on board.

Booster with a view.

This was the first flight for the Falcon 9 first stage booster supporting this mission. After stage separation, the first stage landed on the A Shortfall of Gravitas droneship, which was stationed in the Atlantic Ocean.

SpaceX is targeting Monday, August 11 for a Falcon 9 launch of the KF-02 mission to orbit from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The 27-minute window opens at 8:35 a.m. ET.

This is the fourth delay due to weather of SpaceX’s Falcon 9 launch for Amazon’s Project Kuiper satellites.

According to weather officials, there’s a 75% chance of favorable weather conditions at the time of the launch. Officials are monitoring weather conditions with concerns related to Cumulus Cloud Rule, Anvil Rules. The forecast calls for a temperature of 82°F, scattered clouds, 37% cloud cover and a wind speed of 10mph.

A live webcast of this mission will begin about 15 minutes prior to liftoff, which you can watch on X @SpaceX. You can also watch the webcast on the new X TV app.

This will be the first flight for the Falcon 9 first stage booster supporting this mission. After stage separation, the first stage will land on the A Shortfall of Gravitas droneship, which will be stationed in the Atlantic Ocean.

SpaceX set to launch Amazon’s mission Project Kuiper (KF-02) on Thursday from the Cape

SpaceX is targeting Thursday, August 7 for a Falcon 9 launch of the KF-02 mission to orbit from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The 27-minute window opens at 10:01 a.m. ET. If needed, a backup launch opportunity is available on Friday, August 8 with a 25-minute window that opens at 9:40 a.m. ET.

This is the second in three launches contract for Amazon’s Kuiper low Earth orbit 28 satellites internet constellation.

A live webcast of this mission will begin about 15 minutes prior to liftoff, which you can watch on X @SpaceX. You can also watch the webcast on the new X TV app.

This will be the first flight for the Falcon 9 first stage booster supporting this mission. After stage separation, the first stage will land on the A Shortfall of Gravitas droneship, which will be stationed in the Atlantic Ocean.

SpaceX’s ‘delivery’ of Amazon’s ProjectKuiper launch scrubbed and is now on Friday

SpaceX is now targeting Friday, August 8 for a Falcon 9 launch of the KF-02 mission to orbit from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The 25-minute window opens at 9:40 a.m. ET.

SpaceX officials just confirmed this morning’s mission was postponed “to perform additional vehicle checkouts.”

The countdown clock on SpaceX’s site stopped at 45 minutes, 29 seconds before liftoff.

A live webcast of this mission will begin about 15 minutes prior to liftoff, which you can watch on X @SpaceX. You can also watch the webcast on the new X TV app.

This will be the first flight for the Falcon 9 first stage booster supporting this mission. After stage separation, the first stage will land on the A Shortfall of Gravitas droneship, which will be stationed in the Atlantic Ocean.

SpaceX plans Amazon’s Kuiper mission on Thursday providing weather cooperates

SpaceX is targeting Thursday, August 7 for a Falcon 9 launch of the KF-02 mission to orbit from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The 27-minute window opens at 10:01 a.m. ET. If needed, a backup launch opportunity is available on Friday, August 8 with a 25-minute window that opens at 9:40 a.m. ET.

This is the second of a three launches contract for Amazon’s Kuiper low Earth orbit satellite internet constellation. 24 small satellites are on board.

According to weather officials, there’s a 85% chance of favorable weather conditions at the time of the launch. Officials are monitoring weather conditions with concerns related to Cumulus Cloud Rule. The forecast calls for a temperature of 83°F, overcast clouds, 99% cloud cover and a wind speed of 2mph.

A live webcast of this mission will begin about 15 minutes prior to liftoff, which you can watch on X @SpaceX. You can also watch the webcast on the new X TV app.

This will be the first flight for the Falcon 9 first stage booster supporting this mission. After stage separation, the first stage will land on the A Shortfall of Gravitas droneship, which will be stationed in the Atlantic Ocean.

Filed Under: Amazon, Amazon Project Kuiper, Booster, Booster Recovery, Cape Canaveral SFS, Droneship, Droneship Landings, Internet Connectivity, Launch, Launch Delay, Launch Facilities, Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Satellite Payloads, SmallSat, Smallsat Constellation, Smallsat Launch, Smallsat Launches, Space Launch Complex 40, SpaceX, SpaceX Falcon 9, SpaceX Transporter Missions Tagged With: Featured

RTX’s Blue Canyon Technologies announces new + larger spacecraft

August 7, 2025

Blue Canyon Technologies recently unveiled the firm’s latest spacecraft bus, the Saturn-400. This new, larger satellite offers flexibility and reliability to help customers achieve their mission objectives more effectively.

Additional smallsats available from the company

The Saturn-400 spacecraft offers increased payload capacity, allowing for more instruments and larger sensors for complex missions—up to 600 kg—depending on the launch vehicle. It’s also the company’s first satellite to offer an optional built-in attitude control system, known as a control moment gyroscope, which enhances its agility and stability.

As an alternative to the integrated control moment gyroscope, the Saturn-400 offers three reaction wheel options: Blue Canyon’s RW4, RW8, and the larger RW16. Reaction wheels use motor-driven flywheels for attitude control, while CMGs use a spinning rotor and motorized gimbals. Both options provide precise, low-jitter agility, allowing customers to optimize performance based on their mission needs and budget.

The Saturn-400 has rideshare capability while offering higher power and volume scaling through larger solar arrays and scalable power subsystems up to two kilowatts.

Our advanced control moment gyroscope technology is a key differentiator for Blue Canyon, and is now available in a turnkey spacecraft,” said Chris Winslett, general manager of Blue Canyon Technologies. “The Saturn-400 shares commonality with many BCT products, all of which leverage the same modular software. This approach enhances efficiency and lowers program risk, enabling customers to meet mission needs more quickly and affordably.”

Since the company’s inception, Blue Canyon has launched 83 small satellites and more than 2,700 components in support of successful missions in dynamic environments and in multiple orbital classifications, including interplanetary journeys.

Filed Under: Blue Canyon Technologies, Control Moment Gyroscope, LEO, Reaction Wheels, RTX, Saturn-400 (Blue Canyon), SmallSat, SmallSat Builds, Smallsat Bus, Smallsat Company, SmallSat Design, Smallsat Development, Smallsat Manufacturing, Smallsat Markets, SmallSat Technologies Tagged With: Featured

Rocket Lab’s successful launch from New Zealand of iQPS’ ‘The Harvest Goddess Thrives’

August 5, 2025

Rocket Lab Corporation (Nasdaq: RKLB) , a provider of launch services and space systems, today successfully launched its 69th Electron mission and deployed the latest satellite to orbit for Institute for Q-shu Pioneers of Space, Inc. (iQPS) — Rocket Lab’s fifth dedicated mission in a multi-launch contract to build their constellation in low Earth orbit.

‘The Harvest Goddess Thrives’ mission lifted off from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand at 04:10 UTC on August 5th. Electron deployed a single synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imaging satellite named QPS-SAR-12 (nicknamed KUSHINADA-I for the Japanese goddess of harvest and agriculture) to a 575km circular Earth orbit. It was Rocket Lab’s fourth launch this year for iQPS and fifth mission overall, making Electron the most prolific launcher of their constellation to date. Four more dedicated iQPS missions are scheduled to launch on Electron through the remainder of this year and in 2026.

Rocket Lab Founder and CEO, Sir Peter Beck, stated, “Every Electron launch is a demonstration of payload deployment precision for our customers — an especially critical element when scaling satellite constellations. Today’s fifth and flawless deployment for iQPS once again underscores Electron’s reliability and continues to prove that consistent tailored access to space is a reality on Electron for our customers.”

iQPS CEO, Dr. Shunsuke Onishi, continued, “Building a satellite constellation requires both timely development and manufacturing, as well as highly precise launch execution. We are deeply grateful to both our team and the Rocket Lab team for their continued dedication in making this possible. As the number of satellites increases, so too does the frequency and value of the data we are able to provide. We will continue to accelerate our efforts to ensure that our satellite data can be leveraged in even more fields and applications.”

‘The Harvest Goddess Thrives’ marks Rocket Lab’s 11th Electron mission of 2025 and its 69th launch overall. Details of the next Electron launch will be shared in the coming days.

‘The Harvest Goddess Thrives’ will be the fifth mission deployed on Electron for iQPS, following previous successful missions ‘The Moon God Awakens’ in December 2023 as well as ‘The Lightning God Reigns’,  ‘The Sea God Sees’ and ‘The Mountain God Guards’ in 2025. Three more dedicated iQPS missions are scheduled to launch on Electron through the remainder of this year and into 2026.

Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1 is a commercial spaceport located close to Ahuriri Point at the southern tip of Māhia Peninsula, on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island. It is owned and operated by private spaceflight company Rocket Lab and supports launches of the company’s Electron rocket for small satellites. With the launch of Electron on 25 May 2017, it became the first private spaceport to host an orbital launch attempt, and the first site in New Zealand to host an orbital launch attempt. With the Electron launch of 21 January 2018, it became the first private spaceport to host a successful orbital launch.

Kiwi’s Rocket Lab readies for Monday launch of iQPS’ ‘The Harvest Goddess Thrives’ Earth monitoring services

Rocket Lab Corporation (Nasdaq: RKLB) (“Rocket Lab” or “the Company”), a global leader in launch services and space systems, today announced the launch window for its next mission for multi-launch customer, Institute for Q-shu Pioneers of Space, Inc. (iQPS), a Japan-based Earth imaging company — marking Electron’s 69th mission to date and 11th launch this year.

The mission, named ‘The Harvest Goddess Thrives’, is scheduled to launch from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand during a launch window that opens on August 5, 2025 UTC. The mission will deploy QPS-SAR-12, nicknamed KUSHINADA-I for the Japanese goddess of harvest and prosperity, to a 575km circular Earth orbit to join the rest of the QPS-SAR constellation in providing high resolution synthetic aperture radar images and Earth monitoring services globally.

The forecast calls for a temperature of 55°F, overcast clouds, 100% cloud cover and a wind speed of 12mph.

‘The Harvest Goddess Thrives’ will be the fifth mission deployed on Electron for iQPS, following previous successful missions ‘The Moon God Awakens’ in December 2023 as well as ‘The Lightning God Reigns’,  ‘The Sea God Sees’ and ‘The Mountain God Guards’ in 2025. Three more dedicated iQPS missions are scheduled to launch on Electron through the remainder of this year and into 2026.

This upcoming launch falls within a year of records for Rocket Lab, which continues to demonstrate consistent responsive launch capabilities and operational excellence amid a steadily increasing launch cadence. Achieving 100% mission success for all Electron launches this year, Rocket Lab continues to solidify its position as the global leader in dedicated small satellite launches for commercial, civil, and government missions, all while preparing for the anticipated debut of its medium-lift reusable Neutron rocket.

Filed Under: Business Moves, Constellation, Contracts, Customers, Development, Electron, Imaging Satellite, Institute for Q-shu Pioneers of Space Inc. (iQPS), Launch, Launch Contract, Launch Facilities, Launch Management, Launch Services, Manufacturing, New Zealand, Orbital Launcher, Payload Delivery, QPSSAR-5 Satellite (iQPS), Rocket Lab, Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1, SAR, SAR Imagery, Spaceport Tagged With: Featured

Godspeed as SpaceX’s Dragon transports NASA’s Crew-11 astronauts on mission to the ISS

August 1, 2025

On Friday, August 1 at 11:43 a.m. ET, Falcon 9 launched Dragon’s 11th operational human spaceflight mission (Crew-11) to the International Space Station from Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Following stage separation, Falcon 9’s first stage landed on Landing Zone 1 (LZ-1) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

Dragon will autonomously dock with the space station on Saturday, August 2 at approximately 3:00 a.m. ET.

The live webcast of this mission will resume about one hour prior to docking, which you can watch on X @SpaceX. You can also watch the webcast on the new X TV app.

The Dragon spacecraft supporting this mission previously flew the Demo-2, Crew-2, Ax-1, Crew-6, and Crew-8 missions to and from the space station. Following stage separation, Falcon 9’s first stage will land on Landing Zone 1 (LZ-1) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

During their time on the orbiting laboratory, the crew will conduct new research to prepare for human exploration beyond low-Earth orbit and to benefit humanity on Earth.

SpaceX plans launch of astronauts from U.S. NASA, Japan JAXA and Russia Roscosmos to ISS

SpaceX and NASA are targeting no earlier than Thursday, July 31 for Falcon 9’s launch of Dragon’s 11th operational human spaceflight mission (Crew-11) to the International Space Station from Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Launch is targeted for 12:09 p.m. ET, with a backup opportunity available on Friday, August 1 at 11:43 a.m. ET.

SpaceX’s live webcast of this mission will begin about one hour prior to liftoff, which you can watch on X @SpaceX. You can also watch the webcast on the new X TV app.

NASA will send astronauts Zena Cardman, and Mike Fincke, along with JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Kimiya Yui and Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Platono

The Dragon spacecraft supporting this mission previously flew the Demo-2, Crew-2, Ax-1, Crew-6, and Crew-8 missions to and from the space station. Following stage separation, Falcon 9’s first stage will land on Landing Zone 1 (LZ-1) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

During their time on the orbiting laboratory, the crew will conduct new research to prepare for human exploration beyond low-Earth orbit and to benefit humanity on Earth.

Filed Under: Booster, Booster Recovery, Cape Canaveral SFS, International Space Station (ISS), Kennedy Space Center, Launch Complex 39A (Kennedy Space Center), Low Earth Orbit (LEO), NASA, Research, Research + Testing, SpaceX Crew Mission, SpaceX Dragon, SpaceX Transporter-11 Mission Tagged With: Featured

Gilmour Space Technologies’ giant leap for Australia’s space capability with successful first test launch of Eris rocket

July 29, 2025

Gilmour Space Technologies has completed the maiden test launch of Australia’s first locally designed and built orbital rocket — a major milestone toward offering low-cost, responsive launch services for small satellites globally. The 23-meter, 30-tonne Eris rocket, powered by new hybrid propulsion technology, successfully lifted off from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport in North Queensland, achieving approximately 14 seconds of flight.

The TestFlight 1 campaign was the first integrated attempt of an orbital-class rocket designed and built entirely in Australia. It also marked the first use of the newly licensed Bowen Orbital Spaceport — Australia’s first commercial orbital launch site, built by Gilmour Space to support future missions.

Eris was developed almost entirely in-house — including propulsion, structures, avionics, software, and the spaceport itself — on a fraction of the budget available to most global launch companies.

“Space is hard,” said Adam Gilmour, CEO of Gilmour Space Technologies. “SpaceX, Rocket Lab and others needed multiple test flights to reach orbit. We’ve learned a tremendous amount that will go directly into improving our next vehicle, which is already in production.”

“Getting off the pad and into flight is a huge step forward for any new rocket program. This was the first real test of our rocket systems, our propulsion technology, and our spaceport — and it proved that much of what we’ve built works.”

Importantly, there were no injuries to any person and no adverse environmental impacts.

“Only six nations currently launch to orbit regularly — and just a handful are developing sovereign capability to join them,” he said. “We’ve now taken a big step toward joining that group.”

“Clearing the tower was a major milestone for our team. It showed that Australia can design, build, and launch rockets right here at home,” Gilmour said.

As part of this historic campaign, Gilmour Space worked closely with many stakeholders and regulators — including the Australian Space Agency, Civil Aviation Safety Authority, Air Services Australia, Maritime authorities, and others — to help shape and navigate the rules needed to safely launch rockets from Australia for the first time.

Initial data confirms that key systems performed well until the anomaly, including ignition, liftoff, first-stage thrust, range tracking and telemetry. The team is now reviewing flight data to understand the cause of the anomaly that led to early termination, with lessons already being applied to the next vehicle, which is in production.

Looking Ahead:
The TestFlight 1 mission represents the culmination of years of effort by a team of more than 200 people, over 500 Australian suppliers, and strong support from government and industry and close coordination with the Australian Space Agency, CASA, Airservices Australia, maritime authorities, and others. It is the next step in Gilmour’s mission to provide low-cost, responsive launch services for small satellites — a capability in growing demand globally.

The team will now review flight data and apply lessons learned to the next Eris rocket, with plans to launch again within [XX] months.

“Every test, especially the first, is a learning opportunity,” said Gilmour. “Congratulations to our talented team for getting us this far. Onward to TestFlight 2.”

Aussie, Gilmour Space Technologies, posts launch ‘will be back’ Wednesday

MISSION: Gilmour Space’s Eris TestFlight1 will be the first Australian-made rocket to attempt orbit, and the nation’s first orbital launch in over 50 years. The launch will be from Bowen Orbital Spaceport, a private orbital launch facility owned and operated by Gilmour Space hosts of the Eris Pad.

The forecast calls for a temperature of 63°F, clear skies, 3% cloud cover and a wind speed of 3mph.

29 July 2025

SCRUBBED FOR TODAY – BACK JULY 30

(7.30am to 5.30pm)​​​​

We scrubbed today (Jul 29) due to upper level winds exceeding our limits.

We’ll be back July 30, 7.30am to 5.30pm AEST

​​LAUNCH SITE: Bowen Orbital Spaceport, North Queensland.

*FAQ: Why does the launch date keep moving?

Rocket launches are complex and delays are normal. Weather, range availability, regulatory checks, final system tests (and last-minute anomalies!) can all affect when a rocket is ready to fly.​

No Earlier Than (NET) is the global standard for space launches, giving teams the flexibility to launch safely within an approved launch window—esp. important for a first-of-its-kind test flight, where every system is being put through its full end-to-end test for the very first time.

In Australia, that also means close coordination with the Australian Space Agency, CASA, Airservices Australia, maritime authorities, and more.

We’ll keep sharing the latest NET date so you can stay up to date, or feel free to check back after launch day. 

Australia’s Gilmour Space Technologies posts delay of launch now Tuesday. hopefully

Announcement today regarding the Eris launch has been pushed out one day as shown below:

The launch will be from Bowen Orbital Spaceport, a private orbital launch facility owned and operated by Gilmour Space hosts of the Eris Pad which has witnessed the launch of 0 rockets, including 0 orbital launch attempts.

28 July 2025

LAUNCH UPDATE: CURRENTLY TRACKING NET JULY 29 (Afternoon)* ​​​​

Thank you for your patience and support as we take this next step in Australia’s space journey.

We are currently expecting our launch window to open No Earlier Than (NET) Tuesday Jul 29. However, do monitor our website for updates.

On launch days, please note:​​​

  • Launch may occur any time between 7:30am – 5:30pm​​
  • Avoid designated Hazard Areas in land, air, and sea (see orange button for details)

> Pilots:  Check current NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen)​​​

> Mariners:  Refer to NOTMARs (Notice to Mariners)​​​​

> All:  Please monitor updates from CASA, Airservices Australia, Maritime Safety, and Gilmour Space.​​​

  • No advance notice will be given before liftoff
  • If we stand down (or scrub) for the day, we will confirm that here (and our Facebook page) by 5.30pm
  • A post-launch video and update will be shared as soon as possible

Ad astra per ardua

Australia’s Gilmour Space Technologies is prepping for their first Eris test flight on Saturday

After several delays Gilmour Space Technologies is planning up for their first Eris Test flight on Saturday, July 26, at 2:30 PM – 12:30 AM PDT.

The forecast calls for a temperature of 65°F, clear skies, 4% cloud cover and a wind speed of 3mph.

The launch will be from Bowen Orbital Spaceport, a private orbital launch facility owned and operated by Gilmour Space hosts of the Eris Pad which has witnessed the launch of 0 rockets, including 0 orbital launch attempts.

This will be the first Australian-made rocket, #Eris, to attempt orbit, and the nation’s first orbital launch in over 50 years.

From Gilmour on 16 July 2025​: LAUNCH SCRUBBED: NEXT WINDOW NET JULY 27

We’re standing down from this week’s launch window and aiming for our next opportunity starting July 27.

​Unfortunately, operational delays set us back a day and the latest upper wind forecasts have now ruled out a safe launch from Thursday through the rest of the week.

Not the outcome we hoped for, but that’s the nature of test flights. Chin up and eyes forward to NET 27 July! 

Australia’s Gilmour Space plans Wednesday for maiden launch of Eris Test Flight1

Gilmour Space Technologies is gearing up for their first Eris Test flight on Wednesday, July 16, at 2:30 PM – 12:30 AM PDT.

The launch will be from Bowen Orbital Spaceport, a private orbital launch facility owned and operated by Gilmour Space hosts of the Eris Pad which has witnessed the launch of 0 rockets, including 0 orbital launch attempts.

This will be the first Australian-made rocket, #Eris, to attempt orbit, and the nation’s first orbital launch in over 50 years.

Gilmour’s vision: ALL ORBITS. ALL PLANETS ®

The forecast calls for a temperature of 62°F, clear skies, 1% cloud cover and a wind speed of 6mph.

Australia’s Gilmour Space Technologies plans maiden flight of Eris Test Flight1 on July 16, nation’s first orbital launch in over 50 years

Gilmour Space plans a Tuesday, July 15, launch for the maiden flight of Eris Test Flight1 at 2:30 PM – 12:30 AM PDT. The launch will be from Bowen Orbital Spaceport, a private orbital launch facility owned and operated by Gilmour Space hosts of the Eris Pad which has witnessed the launch of 0 rockets, including 0 orbital launch attempts.

Eris TestFlight1 will be the first Australian-made rocket, #Eris, to attempt orbit, and the nation’s first orbital launch in over 50 years. Gilmour’s vision: ALL ORBITS. ALL PLANETS ®

The forecast calls for a temperature of 53°F, few clouds, 15% cloud cover and a wind speed of 7mph.

Gilmour Space Technologies is a venture-funded Australian space company headquartered in Queensland, Australia that is developing hybrid-engine rockets and associated technology to support the development of a low-cost space launch vehicle.

Australia’s Gilmour Space Technologies ready to launch maiden Eris Test flight the nation’s first orbital launch in over 50 years

Gilmour Space Technologies is gearing up for their first Eris Test flight, no earlier than May 15. Gilmour Space’s Eris TestFlight1 will be the first Australian-made rocket, #Eris, to attempt orbit, and the nation’s first orbital launch in over 50 years. Gilmour’s vision: ALL ORBITS. ALL PLANETS ®

Weather forecast calls for a temperature of 77 °F, clear skies, 4% cloud cover and a wind speed of 5 mph.

Gilmour Space Technologies is the leading launch services company in Australia, located in Bowen Orbital Spaceport, North Queensland, ​providing valuable access to space to global Commercial and Defense customers. Backed by some of the country’s biggest investors, Gilmour Space is tracking to launch Eris orbital launch vehicles and ElaraSat bus/platforms to Low Earth Orbits (LEO) from 2025.

Bowen Orbital Spaceport hosts the Eris Pad which has witnessed the launch of 0 rockets, including 0 orbital launch attempts. While Bowen Orbital Spaceport, has been the site for 0 rocket launches. Private orbital launch facility owned and operated by Gilmour Space.

Gilmour has said that they plan to have fifty of their personnel based in Bowen for the inaugural launch. Eris’ maiden flight will be the first orbital launch attempt of an Australian rocket from Australian soil, according to co-founder and CEO Adam Gilmour.

Gilmour Space announces launch window for the Eris orbital rocket

The countdown is on—Gilmour Space Technologies has announced a launch window starting ‘no earlier than’ March 15 for the maiden flight of Eris, the first Australian-designed and built rocket aiming for orbit.

The news follows final airspace approvals from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and Airservices Australia, clearing the last regulatory hurdle before launch. It also marks the culmination of years of innovative R&D and manufacturing by the Gold Coast-based company, which developed the Eris launch vehicle and Bowen Orbital Spaceport in North Queensland.

Gilmour Space made history in March last year when its Bowen spaceport was granted the first orbital launch facility license in Australia, and when it secured the country’s first Australian Launch Permit for Eris Test Flight 1 in November. Now, with airspace arrangements finalised and mandatory notice given to the Australian Space Agency, the company is preparing for liftoff.

“This will be the first attempt of an Australian rocket to reach orbit from Australian soil,” said Adam Gilmour, co-founder and CEO of Gilmour Space. The company is backed by private investors including Blackbird, Main Sequence, Fine Structure Ventures, Queensland Investment Corporation, and superannuation funds such as HESTA and Hostplus. 

With the March 15 window fast approaching, Mr. Gilmour highlighted a few key points for those less familiar with rocket launches:

First, it’s important to understand that delays or ‘scrubs’ are a normal part of rocket launches. These can last anywhere from hours to days, or even weeks, and are often caused by weather conditions, technical issues, or other factors. “Safety is always the top priority. We’ll only launch when we’re ready, and when conditions are appropriate,” he said.

Secondly, the first launch is always the hardest. Reaching orbit is a highly complex engineering challenge, and every successful rocket company has faced setbacks in their early attempts—SpaceX, for one, did it on their fourth attempt. “It’s almost unheard of for a private rocket company to launch successfully to orbit the first time. Whether we make it off the pad, reach max Q, or get all the way to space, what’s important is that every second of flight will deliver valuable data that will improve our rocket’s reliability and performance for future launches.”

Thirdly, this is the path we must take to build the launch capability required to meet the growing demand for access to space. For Australia, launching locally-owned and controlled rockets from home soil also means more high-tech jobs, greater security, economic growth, and technological independence. “Only six countries in the world are launching regularly to space using their own technology, and Australia could soon join their ranks.”

Aerial photo of the Bowen Aerial Spaceport, courtesy of Gilmour Space.

Finally, he said: “I want to thank our incredible team for all their hard work and dedication in getting to this critical first flight. Whatever happens next, know that you’ve already made history—we now build rockets in Australia. And this is only the beginning.”

​

Filed Under: Australia, Australian Space Agency, Bowen Orbital Spaceport, Business Moves, CEO, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Eris Rocket (Gilmour Space), Gilmour Space Technologies, Hybrid Propulsion, Launch Delay, Launch Facilities, Launch Services, Maritime, Milestone, Orbital Test Flight, Rocket, SmallSat, Test Launch, Test Site Tagged With: Featured

MicroCarb launched

July 27, 2025

The launch of the MicroCarb satellite from Korou, French Guiana, by Arianespace.

The scientific mission, MicroCarb, led by the French space Agency CNES, was successfully launched from Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana.

Artistic rendition of MicroCarb on-orbit

MicroCarb is a joint mission between the UK Space Agency and French Space Agency, Centre National d’Études Spatiales (CNES), serving as the prime contractor. The mission is co-financed by these two agencies, as well as by the European Commission and the French government within the framework of the Investments for the Future Program (PIA), managed by the National Research Agency (ANR).

Working on the fairing for Vega-C flight VV27.
Photo credit: ESA-CNES-ARIANESPACE/Optique vidéo du CSG–S. Martin

The satellite is designed to precisely map atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂), capturing detailed data on emissions from human activities as well as absorption by natural sinks such as oceans and forests.

The satellite is built on the CNES Myriade platform. Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), completed the assembly, integration, and testing of the satellite platform at RAL Space in Harwell, UK, and was responsible for launch preparations. Airbus Defence and Space provided the instrument payload, the infrared spectrometer.

MicroCarb will operate in LEO at an altitude of 650 km and serves as a precursor to the European Union’s Copernicus Anthropogenic Carbon Dioxide Monitoring (CO2M) mission—a constellation of three satellites, with payloads supplied by Thales Alenia Space, that will deliver precise measurements for human-induced atmospheric carbon dioxide and methane. MicroCarb complements the CO2M mission by providing early observations and valuable data, enhancing our capability for CO₂ and methane monitoring to inform climate policy makers.

Additionally, a special city-scanning mode will enable the mapping of CO₂ distribution within urban areas, which are responsible for the majority of global emissions.

Richard Thorburn, CEO of Thales Alenia Space in the UK, said, “I am immensely proud of the contribution our teams in the UK and France have made to MicroCarb – Europe’s pioneering satellite for mapping carbon dioxide on a global scale. Huge thanks to CNES and to the UK Space Agency for the trust they have placed in us, enabling Thales Alenia Space to play a key role in advancing Europe’s leadership in climate monitoring and environmental science, and helping to protect our planet.”

Filed Under: Arianespace, CNES, European Union, Launch, Launch Facilities, Launch Support, Launchers, LEO, Microcarb (CNES), News, SmallSat, Smallsat Deployment, Smallsat Launch, Smallsat Launches, Smallsat Markets, Smallsat Missions, smallsats, UK Space Agency Tagged With: Featured

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