Northrop Grumman Space Systems EWS OD-1 Minotaur IV
Trajectory
Trajectory profiles are typically finalized by the range a week prior to launch. Check back here for the trajectory and launch visibility map as the launch window approaches.
About the EWS OD-1 Mission
- Type: Earth Science
- Orbit: Sun-Synchronous Orbit
The Electro-Optical/Infrared Weather System (EWS) Operational Demonstration-1 (OD-1) is a weather satellite for the United States Space Force. It is a prototype satellite made by General Atomics that will be place in LEO for a three-year demonstration mission of new EO/IR sensor technologies to various US military branches, and to act as a stop-gap for Defense Department needs for weather data.
Launch Pad & Location
Space Launch Complex 8
Vandenberg SFB, CA, USA
The Space Launch Complex 8 launch pad has hosted 10 rocket launches, including 10 orbital launch attempts. The Vandenberg SFB, CA, USA launch site has been the location for 889 total rocket launches.
Vandenberg Space Force Base is a United States Space Force Base in Santa Barbara County, California. Established in 1941, Vandenberg Space Force Base is a space launch base, launching spacecraft from the Western Range, and also performs missile testing. The United States Space Force's Space Launch Delta 30 serves as the host delta for the base, equivalent to an Air Force air base wing. In addition to its military space launch mission, Vandenberg Space Force Base also hosts space launches for civil and commercial space entities, such as NASA and SpaceX.
Orbital ATK Minotaur IV Rocket
The Minotaur IV launch system is derived from the Peacekeeper ICBM. The first three stages are taken directly from decommissioned Peacekeeper missiles. A fourth stage, the Orion-38, is taken from the Pegasus family of air-launched rockets.
About Northrop Grumman Space Systems
Northrup Grumman Space Systems designs, builds and delivers space, defence and aviation-related systems to customers around the world. They aquired Orbital ATK in 2018 along with its launchers and ongoing missions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Northrop Grumman Space Systems Minotaur IV EWS OD-1 launch scheduled?
The Northrop Grumman Space Systems Minotaur IV EWS OD-1 launch is currently scheduled for:
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Launch times are subject to change based on weather conditions, technical readiness, and range availability. Check back regularly for the most up-to-date launch time and status updates.
Where is the Northrop Grumman Space Systems Minotaur IV EWS OD-1 mission launching from?
The Northrop Grumman Space Systems Minotaur IV rocket will launch from Space Launch Complex 8 at Vandenberg SFB, CA, USA. Vandenberg Space Force Base is a United States Space Force Base in Santa Barbara County, California. Established in 1941, Vandenberg Space Force Base is a space launch base, launching spacecraft from the Western Range, and also performs missile testing. The United States Space Force's Space Launch Delta 30 serves as the host delta for the base, equivalent to an Air Force air base wing. In addition to its military space launch mission, Vandenberg Space Force Base also hosts space launches for civil and commercial space entities, such as NASA and SpaceX. For viewing location recommendations and tips, check the launch location details above.
What rocket is being used for the EWS OD-1 mission?
The EWS OD-1 mission will launch aboard a Northrop Grumman Space Systems Minotaur IV rocket. The Minotaur IV launch system is derived from the Peacekeeper ICBM. The first three stages are taken directly from decommissioned Peacekeeper missiles. A fourth stage, the Orion-38, is taken from the Pegasus family of air-launched rockets. Detailed rocket specifications and performance data are available in the rocket details above.
What weather conditions could delay the Northrop Grumman Space Systems Minotaur IV EWS OD-1 launch?
The Northrop Grumman Space Systems Minotaur IV EWS OD-1 launch can be delayed by various weather conditions including lightning within 10 nautical miles, high winds (especially upper-level winds), thick cloud layers, precipitation, and poor visibility. Weather must be favorable at the launch site, downrange landing zones, and abort landing sites. Check the launch weather forecast above for current conditions and probability of favorable weather.
How can I get updates if the Northrop Grumman Space Systems Minotaur IV EWS OD-1 launch is delayed?
This page is updated in real-time with the latest Northrop Grumman Space Systems Minotaur IV launch status, including any delays or scrubs for the EWS OD-1 mission. You can also check our space launch schedule for the most current information. Enable push notifications through our mobile app to receive instant alerts about launch status changes, weather holds, or new launch times. We recommend following official Northrop Grumman Space Systems live streams for the most immediate range updates.