Northrop Grumman successfully launched Katalyst Space’s LINK spacecraft into orbit, a mission designed to support the continued operation of NASA’s Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory. The launch took place from the Kwajalein Atoll, marking the 46th flight for the company’s patented Pegasus air-launched rocket system.
The Pegasus vehicle was transported to an altitude of approximately 41,000 feet by Northrop Grumman’s Stargazer L-1011 aircraft. Following its release from the plane, the rocket ignited its first stage to begin the deployment process. The company noted that the system was prepared for launch in less than eight months, highlighting the speed of its operational readiness.
Wes Collier, vice president of launch systems at Northrop Grumman, stated that the rocket’s air-launch design and proven Orion motors allow payloads to reach orbits that are difficult for other launch systems to access. He described the vehicle as a responsive option for missions requiring rapid deployment.
The Pegasus is a three-stage, small-class launch vehicle that has been in service since its debut in 1990 as the first privately developed space launch vehicle. Since then, it has deployed nearly 100 satellites into low-Earth orbit. The system is capable of operating from various locations globally with minimal ground support requirements.
The Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory, which the LINK mission aims to extend, was constructed at Northrop Grumman’s facility in Gilbert, Arizona. Originally launched in 2004 with a planned two-year lifespan, the observatory has collected data for more than two decades. Northrop Grumman continues to provide operational support for the Swift mission.
