Northrop Grumman Space Systems Swift Boost Mission Pegasus XL
Rocket Launch Timeline
Track every phase of the rocket launch with our detailed mission timeline. From T-minus countdown events and pre-launch preparations through liftoff, stage separation, and orbital insertion, follow each critical milestone in real-time. Our comprehensive launch sequence timeline includes payload integration, propellant loading, engine ignition, and post-launch telemetry tracking.
| View Complete Launch Timeline | |
|---|---|
| T+ 00 : 00 : 00 | Liftoff First upwards movement of the rocket |
| T+ 00 : 00 : 05 | Ignition Start of the engine ignition sequence |
| T+ 00 : 01 : 19 | MECO Cut-off of the main engine |
| T+ 00 : 01 : 35 | SES Start of the second engine |
| T+ 00 : 02 : 17 | Fairing Separation Separation of the payload fairing |
| T+ 00 : 02 : 50 | SECO Cut-off of the second engine |
| T+ 00 : 06 : 35 | Stage 3 Ignition Third stage engine ignites. |
| T+ 00 : 07 : 44 | Stage 3 Cutoff Third stage engine shuts down. |
| T+ 00 : 12 : 44 | Payload Separation Final deployment of the payload from the rocket |
About the Swift Boost Mission Mission
- Type: Mission Extension
- Orbit: Low Earth Orbit
- Launch Cost: $40,000,000
Contracted by NASA under the Small Business Innovation Research Phase 3 contract, Katalyst Space Technologies' LINK servicing spacecraft will rendezvous and attach to NASA’s Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory to re-boost its orbit. This aims to demonstrate a key capability for the future of space exploration and extending the Swift mission’s science lifetime in gamma ray astronomy.
Launch Pad & Location
Kwajalein Atoll
Air launch to orbit
The Kwajalein Atoll launch pad has hosted 4 rocket launches, including 4 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 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 Pegasus XL Swift Boost Mission launch scheduled?
The Northrop Grumman Space Systems Pegasus XL Swift Boost Mission 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 Pegasus XL Swift Boost Mission mission launching from?
The Northrop Grumman Space Systems Pegasus XL rocket will launch from Kwajalein Atoll at Air launch to orbit. For viewing location recommendations and tips, check the launch location details above.
What rocket is being used for the Swift Boost Mission mission?
The Swift Boost Mission mission will launch aboard a Northrop Grumman Space Systems 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 delay the Northrop Grumman Space Systems Pegasus XL Swift Boost Mission launch?
The Northrop Grumman Space Systems Pegasus XL Swift Boost Mission 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 Pegasus XL Swift Boost Mission launch is delayed?
This page is updated in real-time with the latest Northrop Grumman Space Systems Pegasus XL launch status, including any delays or scrubs for the Swift Boost Mission 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.