CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – United Launch Alliance’s plans for the second flight of its Vulcan rocket have shifted, with a dummy payload set to replace Sierra Space’s Dream Chaser spaceplane in September. This change allows ULA to potentially start launching US military satellites on the new rocket by the year’s end.
CEO Tory Bruno shared the altered flight plan for the second Vulcan rocket during a recent conference call with reporters. Sierra Space’s Dream Chaser was originally slated for the second test flight of the Vulcan rocket, but delays in the spaceplane’s readiness prompted the decision for the swap.
With the successful inaugural flight of the Vulcan rocket earlier this year and the upcoming Cert-2 mission, the US Space Force is eager for ULA to gain certification to launch critical national security satellites. The Space Force has a backlog of 25 military launches awaiting ULA’s services, making the completion of Cert-2 imperative.
Sierra Space’s Dream Chaser requires more preparation before being flight-ready, pushing ULA to opt for a dummy satellite in place of the spaceplane on the Cert-2 mission. This decision, although not revenue-generating, demonstrates ULA’s commitment to achieving certification for future national security space missions.
The upcoming Cert-2 mission will mimic the configuration of the inaugural Vulcan launch earlier this year, with the Centaur V upper stage conducting various maneuvers to showcase its capabilities. This data will aid ULA in assessing the endurance of the Centaur V in orbit for future operational missions.
In an effort to meet the increasing demand for Vulcan rockets, ULA plans to ramp up launch cadence significantly in the coming years. However, concerns have been raised regarding ULA’s ability to scale manufacturing and launch cadence to align with customer needs, prompting an independent review.
Looking ahead, ULA aims to advance its engine reuse program for the Vulcan rocket but refrains from providing a specific timeline. Developments include designing a detachable aft end for the booster and creating an inflatable heat shield in collaboration with NASA to facilitate engine reusability.
Overall, ULA’s progress in rocket production, certification, and engine reuse showcases its dedication to meeting the evolving demands of the space industry. With plans for accelerated launch cadence and ongoing infrastructure improvements, ULA is positioning itself for future success in the competitive space launch market.