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Ionospheric Connection Explorer (ICON)

Pegasus XL

Northrop Grumman Space Systems

Launch Status
Success

Weather Forecast During Launch

According to weather officials, there's a 70% chance of favorable weather conditions at the time of the launch.

Mission

Ionospheric Connection Explorer (ICON)

  • Type: Earth Science
  • Orbit: Low Earth Orbit
  • Launch Cost: $40,000,000

Ionospheric Connection Explorer (ICON) is a NASA mission to study Earth's thermosphere and ionosphere and the connection between space weather and weather on our planet. Mission is planned to last for two years.

Location

Cape Canaveral

Air launch to orbit

Cape Canaveral has witnessed the launch of 7 rockets, including 7 orbital launch attempts. While Air launch to orbit, has been the site for 51 rocket launches.

Rocket

Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus XL

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.

Learn more about the Pegasus XL

Agency

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.

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