SpaceX Achieves Another Successful National Security Mission with USSF-62 Launch
On April 11, SpaceX completed its second national security mission of the year by launching USSF-62 from Vandenberg Space Force Base. The mission carried the Weather System Follow-on — Microwave (WSF-M) satellite to low Earth orbit, providing vital weather intelligence for military operations.
The WSF-M satellite is equipped with a primary instrument, a microwave imager, and a space weather sensor provided by the U.S. government. The successful launch also saw the Falcon 9 rocket’s first stage safely return to Earth, a notable feat marking the third launch and landing for this particular booster.
In another first, the rocket’s payload fairing, a spaceflight veteran, was used for a national security launch for the first time. USSF-62 is SpaceX’s 37th launch of the year and its second national security mission for the U.S. Space Force in 2024.
Col. Jim Horne, senior materiel leader for Space Systems Command’s Launch Execution Delta, emphasized the importance of this successful launch in enhancing America’s capabilities and improving deterrence against growing threats. SpaceX’s continued success in national security missions highlights its critical role in supporting the nation’s defense and security efforts.
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