The Problem This Solution Solves
The Department of Defense seeks low cost modular solutions capable of launching spacecraft up to 450 kg total mass to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) upon demand. Solutions should:
(a) accommodate timely and flexible launch of small payloads (to include spacecraft) from air, land, or sea;
(b) enable precision delivery of these payloads to prescribed orbits based on mission design and space traffic management requirements with minimal delay; and
(c) provide a viable commercialization path to achieve increased cadence and capacity to ensure responsive access to space.
Solutions capable of sustaining launch to LEO within 12 to 18 months are desired; however, novel approaches requiring more time to significantly increase flexibility, resiliency, and affordability will also be considered. This will be a competitive solicitation limited to U.S. companies only.
The Solution
Small, Responsive Launch: Rocket Lab USA, Inc.
Rocket Lab USA successfully demonstrated two (2) prototype launches that provided increased flexibility, resiliency, and affordability of delivering DoD material to LEO.