Firefly Officially "On Call" For US Space Force Responsive Space Launch Demo

In a significant stride towards advancing rapid-response space missions, Firefly Aerospace and Millennium Space Systems have announced they are ready and awaiting instructions from the U.S. Space Force to initiate the launch of a satellite.

The two aerospace companies were selected last year to jointly execute a pioneering demonstration named Victus Nox, aimed at showcasing the feasibility of conducting a a rapid-response space mission to deploy a satellite into low Earth orbit, within hours rather than weeks or month.

Months of meticulous rehearsals and strategic planning have been invested in this historic mission. 

The intent behind Victus Nox extends beyond its immediate mission; it serves as a platform for the U.S. Space Force and industry contractors to refine and expedite processes essential for the effective planning and execution of national security missions.

Both Firefly and Millennium have now officially entered a six-month "hot standby phase." During this period, the U.S. Space Force reserves the prerogative to issue an alert notification, thereby initiating a 60-hour window for the two companies to swiftly transport the satellite payload to Firefly's designated launch site at the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The subsequent activities include essential fueling operations and the seamless integration of the payload with the Alpha rocket's payload adapter.

Credit: Firefly Aerospace

Upon the successful completion of these tasks, the Space Force officials will furnish Firefly with the final launch notice, specifying the orbit requirements. Following this directive, Firefly will have a mere 24 hours to execute an intricate series of operations. This includes updating trajectory and guidance software, encapsulating the satellite payload, transporting it to the launch pad, conducting the mating process with the Alpha rocket, and ensuring absolute readiness for an immediate launch opportunity.

Credit: Firefly Aerospace

The satellite payload itself is a compact imaging satellite meticulously engineered by Millennium Space, a subsidiary of the aerospace giant Boeing. The satellite is poised to embark on its mission to space aboard Firefly's expendable Alpha small-satellite launcher—a collaboration that showcases the synergy between the two companies.

"We’ll be setting a new standard, proving nominal launch operations can be completed in a matter of hours rather than weeks to months." - Bill Weber, CEO of Firefly Aerospace

Once successfully deployed into low Earth orbit, Millennium Space Systems will undertake the challenge of activating the imaging satellite within a window of less than 48 hours. Subsequently, the satellite will commence its mission to track and capture images of objects orbiting Earth—an innovative feat that underscores the groundbreaking nature of the Victus Nox initiative.

"What we’re doing with Victus Nox has never been done before." - Jason Kim, CEO of Millennium Space Systems

This mission is not only a demonstration of technical prowess but also a testament to human ingenuity and determination.

In preparation for this historic mission, Firefly Aerospace dedicated substantial efforts to manufacturing and thoroughly testing major vehicle components and engines. These efforts culminated in a successful static fire exercise. 

Credit: Firefly Aerospace

Both Firefly and Millennium conducted multiple rehearsals, one of which included the precise packing and delivery of a satellite mockup to Firefly's integration facility at Vandenberg Space Force Base. This rehearsal replicated launch operations within the stipulated 24-hour timeframe, ensuring that the companies are primed to execute with precision.

Firefly Aerospace and Millennium Space Systems are ready and eagerly await their moment to make history when the US Space Force calls.