On October 15th, 2017 a United Launch Alliance Atlas V booster launched from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 40 carrying a “Satellite Data System” communications satellite into orbit for the United States Department of Defense.
This launch was interesting in that it was originally planned earlier in the month, but was repeatedly delayed over a period of 10 days due to weather, then due to a transponder issue in the Atlas booster. On the 15th it finally launched, however, and was successfully put into its intended orbit.
From what I can gather, these satellites, sometimes known by the “Quasar” code name, are used for relaying signals from various other active reconnaissance satellites to ground stations in the United States. It’s entirely possible this launch is in support of the NROL-42 launch 3 weeks ago, but of course I can’t say for certain. It’s always a guessing game with these military payloads, but in a way they are really the fun ones to follow!
As always, we have video of the launch, and the “highlights” video from United Launch Alliance. Enjoy!
The launch highlights:
As a bonus, since the video was uploaded today, aerial views of the booster and the launch complex, well before liftoff.