United Launch Alliance – USSF-57 (NGG-1)

Launch Date: No Earlier Than March 2026
Launch Time: TBD
Launch Site: Space Launch Complex-41 (SLC-41), Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida
Launch Vehicle: Vulcan Centaur
Payload: NGG-1 (Next-Generation GEO Satellite)
Mission Type: National Security / Missile Warning & Tracking

Mission Overview & Payload Insight

USSF-57 (NGG-1) marks the first launch of the U.S. Space Force’s Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (Next-Gen OPIR) system, replacing the legacy Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS). This satellite represents a major leap forward in U.S. missile-warning and tracking capability.

The NGG-1 satellite is designed to operate in geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO) and will provide enhanced detection, tracking, and characterization of advanced missile threats—including hypersonic glide vehicles and maneuvering targets.

This mission is also a key certification milestone for ULA’s Vulcan Centaur rocket under the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 2 program.

Technical & Strategic Highlights

• Enhanced Infrared Sensors: Improved sensitivity and discrimination against modern threats

• Persistent Global Coverage: Continuous monitoring of missile activity worldwide

• Resilient Architecture: Designed to counter jamming, cyber threats, and anti-satellite risks

• Next-Generation Capability: Supports the evolving missile-defense and space-domain awareness mission

• Launch Vehicle Significance: One of Vulcan Centaur’s earliest national security missions

Why This Launch Matters

• Represents the future of U.S. missile-warning architecture

• First deployment of the Next-Gen GEO constellation

• Demonstrates Vulcan Centaur’s role as America’s next-generation national security launch vehicle

• Highlights Cape Canaveral’s continued importance in global defense and space operations

Visitor & Viewing Tips

• Best Viewing Locations:

  • Jetty Park

  • Playalinda Beach

  • Titusville riverfront parks

  • Cocoa Beach Pier

• Arrive Early: National security launches often draw large crowds and have limited public detail

• What to Bring: Camera, binoculars, water, sunscreen, folding chair

• Livestream: ULA typically provides a webcast, though mission details may be limited due to classification

Launch Note

As a U.S. Space Force national security mission, some mission details—including orbit insertion and payload operations—will remain classified. Launch timing is subject to change based on vehicle readiness and range availability.

If you’d like, I can also:

• Create a “Next-Generation Missile Warning” explainer sidebar

• Build a Vulcan Centaur spotlight feature

• Prepare a national security launch series page for FLspaceTourism.com

Just tell me how you’d like to package it.