Cape Canaveral – The newly created United States Space Force launched its first national security satellite Thursday during an event in which there were few people because of the coronavirus pandemic.
“Nothing stops the space launch mission!” Tweeted the 45th Space Brigade.
The U.S. SPACE FORCE has successfully launched their First Rocket into Orbit. ?? pic.twitter.com/FGTfI8xIjm
– Benny (@bennyjohnson) March 26, 2020
The approximately $ 1 billion satellite is the sixth and final in the US Army’s Extremely High Advanced Frequency series. Upgraded from previous Milstar satellites, the constellation has provided secure communications at nearly 22,000 miles (35,400 kilometers) high for nearly a decade.
A powerful Atlas V rocket was commissioned to carry the 6,168-kilogram (13,600-pound) satellite. The new Space Force logo decorated the United Launch Alliance rocket.
The Space Force officially became a branch of the US military last December.
The sighting area remained closed due to the coronavirus outbreak, so fewer people than usual were able to witness the launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
United Launch Alliance CEO Tory Bruno said nonessential personnel were banned from entering the control room to reduce the number of people.
“There are no 6 feet (1.8 meters) between them all. Surfaces will be cleaned between people, etc.,” tweeted Bruno, who monitored the launch from the company’s Denver facility. Bruno usually travels to the launch site.
Another effect of the pandemic: The official name change from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station to Cape Canaveral Space Force Station is temporarily suspended.
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