BY: TJ WALLER
Introduction
In a significant achievement for the United States Space Force’s Space Systems Command (SSC) and the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), the United Launch Alliance (ULA) has successfully launched the NROL-107/SILENTBARKER mission; marking ULA’s 98th launch for national security. This joint national security mission was carried out by an Atlas V 551 rocket, adding another feather to ULA’s cap of 157 launches with a 100 percent success rate. The not-so-silent Silent Barker lifted off at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on Sunday, September 10, 2023 at 8:47 AM EDT, and drew an exceptionally large crowd of spectators, media and photographers all along the Space Coast!
Launching the NROL-107/SILENTBARKER Mission
The NROL-107/SILENTBARKER mission was of utmost importance for the NRO and the SSC. ULA’s expertise in launching complex high-energy orbits made them the perfect partner for this critical mission. The goal was to deliver the payload directly to geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO), meeting the nation’s space protection needs. This successful launch not only showcased ULA’s capabilities but also highlighted the outstanding teamwork and collaboration with national security partners.
Transitioning to the Next Generation Vulcan Rocket
While the NROL-107/SILENTBARKER mission was the final NRO launch aboard an Atlas V rocket, ULA is gearing up for future missions with the next-generation Vulcan rocket. This transition will offer unprecedented flexibility, streamlined operations, and greater affordability. The Vulcan rocket promises to be a single system that can adapt to various mission requirements, ensuring ULA’s continued contribution to national security.
Looking Ahead
Amazon Project Kuiper Protoflight Mission With the successful completion of the NROL-107/SILENTBARKER mission, ULA now sets its sights on the Amazon Project Kuiper Protoflight mission. This upcoming launch from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, marks yet another milestone for ULA.
