Firefly Delays Alpha Rocket Launch from Vandenberg

Firefly Aerospace has rescheduled the launch of its sixth Alpha rocket, carrying Lockheed Martin’s LM 400 satellite, following weather-related and range delays at Vandenberg Space Force Base. The mission, called 'Message in a Booster,' is the first under a new multi-launch agreement between Firefly and Lockheed Martin, which could include up to 25 launches over the next five years. The LM 400 satellite aims to demonstrate a new multi-mission satellite bus capable of serving military, civilian, and commercial needs in various orbits. The launch window opens each morning through Thursday, providing flexibility in case of further weather issues. This mission will test the LM 400’s capabilities during a 30-day on-orbit trial before a controlled de-orbit. Firefly’s Alpha rocket is marketed as a responsive, one-metric-ton class launcher, addressing growing industry demand for rapid and flexible access to space.