ULA NROL-73 Vulcan
Trajectory
Trajectory profiles are typically finalized by the range a week prior to launch. Check back here for the trajectory and launch visibility map as the launch window approaches.
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About the NROL-73 Mission
| Type | Government/Top Secret |
|---|---|
| Orbit | Unknown |
Classified payload for the US National Reconnaissance Office
This classified mission is operated by the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), the U.S. government agency responsible for designing, building, and operating reconnaissance satellites. NRO missions support national security by providing critical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities from space.
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Launch Pad & Location
Space Launch Complex 3E
Vandenberg SFB, CA, USA
| Launches | 48 |
|---|---|
| Orbital Launch Attempts | 45 |
| Total Launches | 918 |
Vandenberg Space Force Base is a United States Space Force Base in Santa Barbara County, California. Established in 1941, Vandenberg Space Force Base is a space launch base, launching spacecraft from the Western Range, and also performs missile testing. The United States Space Force's Space Launch Delta 30 serves as the host delta for the base, equivalent to an Air Force air base wing. In addition to its military space launch mission, Vandenberg Space Force Base also hosts space launches for civil and commercial space entities, such as NASA and SpaceX.
ULA Vulcan Rocket
Vulcan
| Diameter | 5.4 m |
|---|---|
| Stages | 2 |
About ULA
United Launch Alliance (ULA) is a joint venture of Lockheed Martin Space Systems and Boeing Defense, Space & Security. ULA was formed in December 2006 by combining the teams at these companies which provide spacecraft launch services to the government of the United States. ULA launches from both coasts of the US. They launch their Atlas V vehicle from LC-41 in Cape Canaveral and LC-3E at Vandeberg. Their Delta IV launches from LC-37 at Cape Canaveral and LC-6 at Vandenberg.
| Total Launches | 175 |
|---|---|
| Successful | 175 |
| Pending | 73 |
| Consecutive Success | 175 |
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the ULA Vulcan NROL-73 launch scheduled?
The ULA Vulcan NROL-73 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 ULA Vulcan NROL-73 mission launching from?
The ULA Vulcan rocket will launch from Space Launch Complex 3E at Vandenberg SFB, CA, USA. Vandenberg Space Force Base is a United States Space Force Base in Santa Barbara County, California. Established in 1941, Vandenberg Space Force Base is a space launch base, launching spacecraft from the Western Range, and also performs missile testing. The United States Space Force's Space Launch Delta 30 serves as the host delta for the base, equivalent to an Air Force air base wing. In addition to its military space launch mission, Vandenberg Space Force Base also hosts space launches for civil and commercial space entities, such as NASA and SpaceX. For viewing location recommendations and tips, check the launch location details above.
What rocket is being used for the NROL-73 mission?
The NROL-73 mission will launch aboard a ULA Vulcan rocket. Vulcan Detailed rocket specifications and performance data are available in the rocket details above.
What weather conditions could delay the ULA Vulcan NROL-73 launch?
The ULA Vulcan NROL-73 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 ULA Vulcan NROL-73 launch is delayed?
This page is updated in real-time with the latest ULA Vulcan launch status, including any delays or scrubs for the NROL-73 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 ULA live streams for the most immediate range updates.
Last Updated
Last Updated:
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Adding launch