T+3: Falcon 9 GTO Mission Drone Ship Landing, Orbital ATK’s Current and Future Launch Vehicles

SpaceX landed another Falcon 9 first stage on their drone ship—this time on a GTO launch, which is a major milestone on their way to full reusability and Falcon Heavy flights. Orbital ATK’s Antares launch vehicle is set for an early July return to flight, and they’re in the planning stages of a new heavy-launch vehicle.

• Falcon 9 launches with JCSAT-14 – lands another stage | NASASpaceFlight.com
• SpaceX undecided on payload for first Falcon Heavy flight – Spaceflight Now
• Antares Fact Sheet
• Key return to flight milestone looms for Antares rocket – Spaceflight Now
• Orbital ATK eye VAB and MLP for potential EELV-class rocket | NASASpaceFlight.com
• Jeff Foust on Twitter: “Dave Thompson: Orbital ATK starting work on a “modular” large launch vehicle; Air Force contract earlier this year covers initial work.”
• Jeff Foust on Twitter: “Thompson: decision in the first half of next year on whether to proceed; overall program would take about four years.”
• Email feedback to anthony@mainenginecutoff.com
• Follow @WeHaveMECO
• Support Main Engine Cut Off on Patreon