Written By: Ashe S.
Published: Mon, Apr 10, 2023 10:06 PM
Latest Update: Sat, Apr 22, 2023 4:30 PM
On April 10th, Rocket Lab announced the preliminary launch timeline for the two dedicated launches of four NASA’s TROPICS satellites. The two launches are expected to be on May 1st and May 16th 2023, launching from Rocket Lab’s LC-1B in New Zealand.
The TROPICS program was built to monitor hurricane systems in the tropical region of earth, providing early warning alerts and more accurate predictions of hurricane systems around the world. The TROPICS constellation was originally planned to facilitate six satellites in earth orbit, working in tandem to provide accurate readings of weather systems.
Display of a TROPICS satellite
Following the failed launch of two TROPICS satellites onboard Astra’s Rocket 3.3, NASA canceled the launch contract and contracted Rocket Lab to launch the remaining four satellites to service the 2023 hurricane season. While not able to reach the projected six satellite constellation, TROPICS will operate with an altered four satellite configuration.
The current launch dates are subject to change. To see the current status of the TROPICS flights, please refer to the TLP launch calendar.
Rocket Like A Hurricane (TROPICS-2)
Coming To A Storm Near You (TROPICS-3)
ULA has announced a last-minute delay in the engine flight readiness testing for its highly anticipated Vulcan rocket. The test fire, originally scheduled for today, was halted approximately three hours before the planned ignition.
Virgin Orbit has sold its assets and equipment to a trio of aerospace companies through an auction, as confirmed by a court filing released on Tuesday.
The Spaceport Company has successfully demonstrated their capability to conduct launches from a floating platform in US territorial waters for the first time.
Astrobotic to provide cargo systems as part of the Blue Origin National Team's, who won NASA's Sustainable Human Landing System Contract for the Artemis program last week.
NASA has selected Blue Origin's new version of Blue Moon for the 2nd Human Landing System contract.