United Launch Alliance (ULA) has made a significant decision regarding the second flight of its Vulcan rocket. Due to delays in Sierra Space’s Dream Chaser spaceplane, ULA has opted to replace it with a dummy payload for the upcoming flight in September. This maneuver allows ULA to maintain its timeline for launching US military satellites on the Vulcan rocket by the end of the year.
The Dream Chaser spaceplane was initially scheduled to be part of the second Vulcan test flight, but Sierra Space has informed ULA that it will not be ready for launch by September. As a result, ULA will use a mass simulator to mimic the weight of a functional spacecraft without deploying it.
This decision comes as ULA works towards certifying the Vulcan rocket for national security missions. The Space Force has awarded ULA a backlog of military launches, with an urgent need for Vulcan to be ready to carry out these missions. The upcoming Cert-2 mission will play a crucial role in demonstrating Vulcan’s capabilities for future operational flights.
The dummy payload on the Cert-2 mission will not generate revenue for ULA, as it is primarily focused on certification at the company’s own expense. The mission will involve a series of maneuvers to test the upper stage’s capabilities and endurance in orbit. These tests will provide valuable data for ULA as it prepares for future missions.
Looking ahead, ULA plans to accelerate the pace of Vulcan launches to meet the growing demand for its rockets. The company aims to launch two flights per month by 2026, with a focus on meeting the needs of its customers. Despite challenges related to delays and production scale-up, ULA remains committed to delivering on its launch schedule.
In addition to its plans for Vulcan, ULA is also exploring the possibility of recovering and reusing BE-4 main engines from the rocket. The company is investing in engine recovery technology, including a detachable aft end and an inflatable heat shield for reentry. These efforts represent ULA’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in its rocket operations.
Overall, ULA’s decision to proceed with the Cert-2 mission with a dummy payload underscores the company’s dedication to meeting its certification goals and supporting national security missions. As ULA continues to advance its capabilities and expand its launch cadence, the future looks promising for the Vulcan rocket and its role in the space industry.
