Past launch
Launched successfully
Swift Boost Mission
Pegasus XL, flown by Northrop Grumman Space Systems
Launches / Pegasus XL
Pegasus XL, flown by Northrop Grumman Space Systems
This was Northrop Grumman Space Systems' 2nd launch of 2026, and its 17th in all.
Counting every operator, it was the 158th orbital launch attempt anywhere in 2026, and the first from Kwajalein Atoll.
Northrop Grumman Space Systems
Contracted by NASA under the Small Business Innovation Research Phase 3 contract, Katalyst Space Technologies' LINK servicing spacecraft will rendezvous and attach to NASA’s Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory to re-boost its orbit. This aims to demonstrate a key capability for the future of space exploration and extending the Swift mission’s science lifetime in gamma ray astronomy.
The Pegasus is an air-launched rocket developed by Orbital Sciences Corporation (now part of Northrop Grumman Innovation Systems). Capable of carrying small payloads of up to 443 kilograms (977 lb) into low Earth orbit, the vehicle consists of three solid propellant stages and an optional monopropellant fourth stage. Pegasus is released from its carrier aircraft at approximately 40,000 ft (12,000 m), and its first stage has a wing and a tail to provide lift and attitude control while in the atmosphere.
Northrop Grumman Space Systems
Northrup Grumman Space Systems designs, builds and delivers space, defence and aviation-related systems to customers around the world. They aquired Orbital ATK in 2018 along with its launchers and ongoing missions.
17 launches so far, 17 of them successful. The last 17 in a row went to plan.
This one is done, but there is another along shortly. Flyby works out whether it climbs into your sky, and wakes you in time to get outside.
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