U. S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command and United Launch Alliance successfully launch USSF-87 mission aboard a Vulcan Rocket

Cape Canaveral Space Force Station

U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command System Delta 80 and its mission partners successfully completed a National Security Space Launch after a pre-dawn liftoff at 4:22 a.m. EST (1:22 a.m. PST) today aboard a United Launch Alliance Vulcan Centaur rocket from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida. This was the second NSSL mission for ULA’s Vulcan rocket.

“We’re proud of everyone and the work they’ve done to make today’s launch a success and increase America’s warfighting capability.” said Mr. Stephen Burke, Vulcan System Program Director.

The Vulcan rocket successfully delivered the mission to the designated orbits despite an observed anomaly early in flight on one of the four solid rocket motors. The USSF SYD 80 team will work closely with ULA per our mission assurance space flightworthiness process before the next Vulcan national security space mission.

The USSF-87 mission included a variety of payloads that will not only advance space technology but also benefit current and future programs of record. The Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP) space system is a capability supporting U.S. Space Command’s space surveillance operations as a high-performance, dedicated Space Surveillance Network sensor. Built by Northrop-Grumman, it was deployed approximately 6.5 hours after liftoff.

The system was delivered to orbit by ULA’s Vulcan in the “VC4S” configuration, featuring a Centaur V upper stage, four graphite epoxy motor (GEM) 63XL solid rocket boosters (SRBs) and a standard payload fairing. It capitalizes on ULA’s industrial base to deliver highly capable solutions that achieve space dominance for our national security.

In addition to GSSAP, USSF-87 included additional research, development and training systems, which Guardians will use to refine tactics, techniques and procedures for precision on-orbit maneuvers. These systems will also enhance and validate resiliency and protection in geosynchronous orbit.

Systems Delta 80 (SYD 80) -- who directed today’s mission -- executes the U.S. Space Force's core function of Space Access, performing space lift and range control missions in close partnership with the 30th and 45th Space Launch Deltas (SLD 30, SLD 45). Additionally, the Delta develops resilient and ready launch and test infrastructure to expand U.S. economic, technological, and scientific leadership. Furthermore, SYD 80 delivers servicing, mobility, and logistics capabilities that operate in, from, and to the space domain.

Space Systems Command (SSC) is the U.S. Space Force field command that SYD 80 falls under, is responsible for acquiring, developing, and delivering resilient capabilities to outpace emerging threats and protect our Nation’s strategic advantage in, from, and to space. SSC manages a $15.6 billion annual space acquisition budget for the Department of War, working with joint forces, industry partners, government agencies, academia, and allied nations.