NGSS Pegasus XL Odyssey (TacRL-2)
Pegasus XL
Status
Success
Date
13 JUN 2021
08:11
Launch Provider
Northrop Grumman Space Systems
Launch Pad
Vandenberg Space Force Base
Air launch to orbit
Mission Overview
Payload for the US Space Force’s Tactically Responsive Launch program. It is a space domain awareness satellite that was procured under the Space Force's responsive launch program. The spacecraft was built in under a year and the launch provider was given three weeks of notice for the launch.
Rocket
Pegasus XL
Mission Type
Government/Top Secret
Orbit
Sun-Synchronous Orbit
Stages
3
Livestream
Not availableRocket Details
The Pegasus is an air-launched rocket developed by Orbital Sciences Corporation (now part of Northrop Grumman Innovation Systems). Capable of carrying small payloads of up to 443 kilograms (977 lb) into low Earth orbit, the vehicle consists of three solid propellant stages and an optional monopropellant fourth stage. Pegasus is released from its carrier aircraft at approximately 40,000 ft (12,000 m), and its first stage has a wing and a tail to provide lift and attitude control while in the atmosphere.
Height
17.6 m
Diameter
1.27 m
Launch Mass
23 T
Thrust
580 kN
