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Vulcan Rocket Blasts Off for Secret Space Mission
12 Feb
Summary
- Vulcan Centaur rocket launched on a national security mission.
- Two GSSAP satellites were deployed to monitor GEO orbit.
- A secondary payload included research and training spacecraft.
On February 12, 2026, a United Launch Alliance Vulcan Centaur rocket commenced a critical national security mission, ascending from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The powerful rocket carried vital payloads destined for geosynchronous Earth orbit, more than 22,000 miles above the planet.
The primary objective of the mission, designated USSF-87, was the deployment of the Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP). This constellation of satellites is instrumental for the U.S. Space Force in monitoring activities within the highly strategic geosynchronous orbit. The GSSAP satellites are equipped with advanced optical sensors designed to track and characterize objects in this region.
In addition to the GSSAP constellation, the launch carried a secondary payload. This consisted of a propulsive ESPA ring, a specialized structure equipped with its own power and maneuvering capabilities, which hosted additional research, development, and training spacecraft for the Space Force. Both the primary and secondary payloads are now operating independently in orbit.
