Orbital Sciences Corporation ST-5 FWD Pegasus XL
About the ST-5 FWD Mission
- Type: Test Flight
- Orbit: Low Earth Orbit
- Launch Cost: $40,000,000
NASA's three micro-sats were launched to test and validate new technologies for future science missions. ST5's objective was to demonstrate and flight qualify several innovative technologies and concepts for application to future space missions.
Launch Pad & Location
Vandenberg Space Force Base
Air launch to orbit
The Vandenberg Space Force Base launch pad has hosted 22 rocket launches, including 22 orbital launch attempts. The Air launch to orbit launch site has been the location for 51 total rocket launches.
Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus XL 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.
Learn more about the Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus XL Rocket
About Orbital Sciences Corporation
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus XL ST-5 FWD launch scheduled?
The Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus XL ST-5 FWD launch was scheduled for:
.
Where did the Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus XL ST-5 FWD mission launch from?
The Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus XL rocket launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base at Air launch to orbit.
What rocket was used for the ST-5 FWD mission?
The ST-5 FWD mission launched aboard a Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus XL 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 XL ST-5 FWD launch?
The Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus XL ST-5 FWD 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 XL ST-5 FWD launch was delayed?
This page was updated in real-time with the latest Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus XL launch status, including any delays or scrubs for the ST-5 FWD 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.