Cape Canaveral, FL — On July 30, 2024, Early this morning, United Launch Alliance (ULA) successfully launched the USSF-51 mission from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The Atlas V rocket lifted off at 6:45 a.m. ET, it was the final military mission for the Atlas V and the 100th national security mission for ULA.
The USSF-51 mission aboard a ULA Atlas V rocket carried a classified payload for the United States Space Force’s Space Systems Command. The rocket’s 551 configuration, which includes five solid rocket boosters and a 17-foot diameter payload fairing, successfully deployed its payload into geostationary Earth orbit.
Optimal Launch Conditions
Launch conditions were ideal, with a 90% likelihood of favorable weather. Light winds from the south helped keep any potential showers over the ocean, providing clear skies for the launch. A beautiful sunrise painted the perfect background for this morning’s launch in shades of red, pink, and purple. A light ground fog softened the scene for a surreal picturesque vibe.
Significance of the Launch
This mission marks the end of an era for the Atlas V rocket as ULA transitions to the Vulcan Centaur rocket. Gary Wentz, ULA’s Vice President of Government and Commercial Programs, emphasized the importance of this transition, noting that Vulcan Centaur will combine the best elements of the Atlas and Delta rockets to meet future national security satellite deployment needs.
Reflecting on the milestone, Colonel Jim Horne, Senior Materiel Leader of the Launch Execution Delta, said, “This is a bittersweet moment for us. I’ve had the privilege of overseeing the very first national security Atlas launch in 2007, and now we are concluding with the last.” He expressed appreciation for the enduring partnership between the government and ULA over the past 20 years.
Future Prospects
With the successful execution of the USSF-51 mission, ULA will now turn its focus to certifying the Vulcan Centaur for future national security missions. The next critical milestone for Vulcan is its second certification launch, slated for later this year. This new rocket is set to enhance ULA’s capabilities and maintain its significant role in the national security space launch sector.
