Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR)
Pegasus XL
Orbital Sciences Corporation
Rocket Launch Video
Mission
Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR)
- Type: Astrophysics
- Orbit: Low Earth Orbit
- Launch Cost: $40,000,000
Designed to image high-energy X-ray radiation, the Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR) is tasked with surveying regions surrounding the center of own Milky Way Galaxy and performing deep observations of the extragalactic sky, studying black holes and supernovas.
Location
Kwajalein Atoll
Air launch to orbit
Kwajalein Atoll has witnessed the launch of 4 rockets, including 4 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.
