Vulcan VC2S (United Launch Alliance)
The Vulcan VC2S is a non-reusable, active launch vehicle manufactured by United Launch Alliance (established in 2006). It undertook its inaugural launch on 01/08/2024.
Vulcan Centaur is a two-stage-to-orbit, heavy-lift launch vehicle under development by United Launch Alliance (ULA) since 2014. It is principally designed to meet launch demands for the U.S. government's National Security Space Launch (NSSL) program for use by the United States Space Force and U.S. intelligence agencies for national security satellite launches. It will replace both of ULA's existing launchers (Atlas V and Delta IV Heavy) in this role, as these launchers are retiring.
Vulcan VC2S Specifications
| Variant | VC2S |
|---|---|
| Length | 61.6 m |
| Diameter | 5.4 m |
| Stages | 2 |
| Launch Mass | 663 T |
| Takeoff Thrust | 9303 kN |
| LEO Capacity | 19000 kg |
| GTO Capacity | 8400 kg |
| GEO Capacity | 2600 kg |
| SSO Capacity | 15200 kg |
Vulcan VC2S Launch Record
| Total Launches | 2 |
|---|---|
| Successful Launches | 2 |
| Pending Launches | 1 |
| Consecutive Successful Launches | 2 |
Manufacturer
Interim CEO: John Elbon
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.