Technology
Space Force moves GPS satellite launch to SpaceX due to ULA delays
The US Space Force has reassigned a GPS satellite launch to SpaceX after United Launch Alliance faced delays. This marks the fourth time in just over a year that the Space Force has had to seek alternatives due to ULA's inability to launch a satellite on schedule.
United Launch Alliance (ULA), a joint venture between Boeing and Lockheed Martin, was slated to launch the final satellite for the Space Force’s GPS Block III program this month. However, ULA's Vulcan launch vehicle remains grounded following a solid rocket booster anomaly last month. Space Systems Command, which procures spacecraft and rockets for the military, announced Friday the launch had been transferred to a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. The three most recent GPS satellites were also initially scheduled to launch on ULA’s Vulcan rocket, but were reassigned to SpaceX starting in 2024. In exchange, military officials moved three future launches from SpaceX to ULA, including the GPS III SV10 satellite launch.
Key Facts
- The Space Force reassigned a GPS satellite launch from ULA to SpaceX.
- ULA's Vulcan rocket is grounded for the second time in less than two years.
- The Space Force needs to replenish the military’s GPS navigation network.
- ULA was supposed to launch the final satellite for the Space Force’s GPS Block III program this month.
- Space Systems Command transferred the launch to a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
- The three most recent GPS satellites were also supposed to launch on ULA’s Vulcan rocket.
- Military officials moved three future launches from SpaceX to ULA in exchange.
Primary Source
Research Sources
- Ars Technica — Once again, ULA can't deliver when the US military needs a satellite in orbit