Orbital Sciences Corporation APEX Pegasus
About the APEX Mission
| Type | Planetary Science |
|---|---|
| Orbit | Elliptical Orbit |
| Launch Cost | $40,000,000 |
APEX (Advanced Photovoltaic & Electronic Experiment) successfully tested a wide array of advanced photovoltaic and electronic components in a harsh radiation environment, provided significant data to support improved designs for future space systems. During operation, APEX's highly elliptical orbit allowed the investigation of space plasma effects on high-voltage operation (current leakage at positive voltages and arcing at negative voltages) in the perigee region, plus the investigation of space radiation effects (decreased array power output from passage through the inner radiation belt) in the apogee region.
Launch Pad & Location
Edwards Air Force Base
Air launch to orbit
| Launches | 5 |
|---|---|
| Orbital Launch Attempts | 5 |
| Total Launches | 52 |
Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus Rocket
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.
| Length | 16.9 m |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 1.3 m |
| Stages | 3 |
| Launch Mass | 18.0 T |
| Takeoff Thrust | 580.0 kN |
| Apogee | 4,000.0 km |
| LEO Capacity | 443 kg |
| Launch Cost | $40,000,000 |
| Maiden Flight | 4/5/1990 |
Learn more about the Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus Rocket
About Orbital Sciences Corporation
| Total Launches | 72 |
|---|---|
| Successful | 65 |
| Failed | 7 |
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus APEX launch scheduled?
The Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus APEX launch was scheduled for:
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Where did the Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus APEX mission launch from?
The Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus rocket launched from Edwards Air Force Base at Air launch to orbit.
What rocket was used for the APEX mission?
The APEX mission launched aboard a Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus rocket. 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. Detailed rocket specifications and performance data are available in the rocket details above.
What weather conditions could have delayed the Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus APEX launch?
The Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus APEX launch could have been 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.
How can I get updates if the Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus APEX launch was delayed?
This page was updated in real-time with the latest Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus launch status, including any delays or scrubs for the APEX mission. You can also check our space launch schedule for historical launch information. Our mobile app provides push notifications for instant alerts about launch status changes. Official Orbital Sciences Corporation live streams provided the most immediate range updates during the launch window.
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