LAUNCH CENTER

Launch Image
Success
Thu Dec 15 2016
Orbital ATK

8 x CYGNSS

Launch Successful
LAUNCH PREVIEW

Launch Time

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(1:37 PM UTC)

Launch Window Start

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(1:21 PM UTC)

Launch Window End

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(2:21 PM UTC)

RECOVERY OVERVIEW

Location

No Recovery Specified

Type

No Recovery Specified

Rocket Details

Name:

Pegasus XL

Description:

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.

Pegasus XL rocket
MISSION OVERVIEW
  • Type: Earth Science
  • CYGNSS or Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System is a NASA developed system to improve hurricane forecasting. It is a constellation of 8 small observation satellites, 27.5 kg each, that will make accurate measurements of ocean surface winds in and near the eye of the storm throughout the lifecycle of tropical cyclones, typhoons & hurricanes.
COMPLEX OVERVIEW

Location

Air launch to orbit

Pad

Cape Canaveral