Northrop Grumman Space Systems | Pegasus XL | Swift Rescue Mission Rocket Launch
Northrop Grumman Space Systems is scheduled to launch a Pegasus XL rocket as part of the Swift Rescue Mission mission. The launch is scheduled on 06/01/2026 00:00 UTC for the Mission Extension mission launching from Air launch to orbit. The status of the launch is Date/Time TBD. Don’t miss this exciting rocket launch! Watch the launch video of the Pegasus XL and experience the excitement for yourself.
Mission: Swift Rescue Mission
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.
Rocket: Pegasus XL
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.
Agency: 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.
