Scheduled for (UTC) 2026-02-12 09:22
Scheduled for (local) 2026-02-12 04:22 (EST)
Launch site SLC-41, Cape Canaveral SFS, Florida.
Launch provider United Launch Alliance (ULA)
Launch vehicle Vulcan Centaur (VC4S configuration*)
Customer United States Space Force
Payload USSF-87 (GSSAP 7 & 8)
Target orbit Geosynchronous Orbit

VC4S configuration breakdown:

  • V: Vulcan first stage
  • C: Centaur V upper stage
  • 4: Four GEM 63XL solid rocket boosters on the first stage
  • S: Standard size fairing, 15.5 m in length

Livestreams

Stream Link
ULA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFw6xy2zGCo
NASASpaceFlight https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_uwK1uuKlk
Spaceflight Now https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cf2yrc3Uh3s
The Launch Pad https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JTJqTtH5hyQ
Space Affairs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trbHVwJzyF0

Stats

☑️ 1st Vulcan mission of 2026, 4th overall.

☑️ 1st launch of the VC4S configuration in 2026, 2nd overall

☑️ 1st ULA mission of 2026, 170th overall

Payload info

GSSAP 7 & 8 (Hornet 7 & 8)

Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP) satellites are a space-based capability operating in the near-geosynchronous orbit regime, supporting U.S. Space Command space surveillance operations as a dedicated Space Surveillance Network (SSN) sensor.

Propulsive ESPA

Also onboard USSF-87 is a propulsive ESPA-Ring carrying research, development, and training systems that USSF Guardians will use to refine tactics, techniques and procedures for precision on-orbit maneuvers, as well as enhance and validate resiliency and protection in geosynchronous orbit. This will be the aft-payload.

Previous ULA launch: Amazon Leo (LA-04)

Next ULA launch: TBD