Launch Log (2012-2014)

This listing shows the completed space launches from spaceports around the globe in 2012, 2013 and 2014. Dates and times are given in Greenwich Mean Time.For other years, see pages listing launches from 2004 through 2008, from 2009 through 2011, from 2015 through 2016, from 2017 through 2018, and from 2019 through present day.

2014

Dec. 30/31, 2014Long March 3A • Fengyun 2G
Launch time: 0102 GMT on 31st (8:02 p.m. EST on 30th)
Launch site: Xichang, China
A Chinese Long March 3A rocket launched the Fengyun 2G geostationary weather satellite. Read our full story. [Dec. 31]
Dec. 27, 2014Proton • ASTRA 2G
Launch time: 2137:49 GMT (4:37:49 p.m. EST)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
An International Launch Services Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the ASTRA 2G communications satellite for SES of Luxembourg. ASTRA 2G will deliver next generation broadcast, VSAT and broadband services in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Delayed from May, June and Nov. 27. Read our full story. [Dec. 27]
Dec. 26, 2014Soyuz • Resurs P2
Launch time: 1855 GMT (1:55 p.m. EST)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the Resurs P2 Earth observation satellite to collect remote sensing data for Russian government agencies and foreign customers. Read our full story. [Dec. 26]
Dec. 24/25, 2014Soyuz • Lotos S
Launch time: 0301 GMT on 25th (10:01 p.m. EST on 24th)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched a Lotos S electronic intelligence spy satellite. The rocket flew in the Soyuz 2-1b configuration. Read our full story. [Dec. 25]
Dec. 23, 2014Angara 5 • Maiden Flight
Launch time: 0557 GMT (12:57 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Russian Angara 5 rocket launched on its first flight with a dummy payload. The rocket flew with five Angara first stage cores strapped together and a Breeze M upper stage. Moved up from Dec. 25. Read our full story. [Dec. 23]
Dec. 18/19, 2014Strela • Kondor E1
Launch time: 0443 GMT on 19th (11:43 p.m. EST on 18th)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Strela launch will launch the Kondor E1 radar reconnaissance satellite. The government of South Africa is believed to be the owner of the satellite. Scrubbed on Dec. 18. Read our full story. [Dec. 19]
Dec. 18, 2014Soyuz • O3b F3
Launch time: 1837 GMT (1:37 p.m. EST)
Launch site: ELS, Sinnamary, French Guiana
An Arianespace Soyuz rocket, designated VS10, launched on a mission from the Guiana Space Center in South America. The Soyuz carried four satellites for O3b Networks, which will provide broadband service to developing countries. The Soyuz 2-1b (Soyuz ST-B) rocket used a Fregat upper stage. Arianespace managed the launch. Delayed from November. Moved up from early 2015. See our Mission Status Center. [Dec. 18]
Dec. 17/18, 2014GSLV Mk. 3 • CARE
Launch time: 0400 GMT on 18th (11:00 p.m. EST on 17th)
Launch site: Satish Dhawan Space Center, Sriharikota, India
India’s Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk.3 launched on a suborbital test flight. The GSLV Mk.3 is powered by two large solid rocket boosters, a liquid-fueled core second stage and a cryogenic third stage. This suborbital test flight demonstrated the performance of the GSLV Mk.3 in the atmosphere and carried a prototype capsule for India’s human space program called the Crew Module Atmospheric Re-entry Experiment, or CARE. Delayed from May, June, July and August. See our Mission Status Center. [Dec. 18]
Dec. 14/15, 2014Proton • Yamal 401
Launch time: 0016 GMT on 15th (7:16 p.m. EST on 14th)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
An International Launch Services Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the Yamal 401 communications satellite for Gazprom Space Systems of Russia. Yamal 401 will deliver C-band and Ku-band communications services to Russia and neighboring countries. Delayed from Dec. 12. See our Mission Status Center. [Dec. 15]
Dec. 12/13, 2014Atlas 5 • NROL-35
Launch time: 0319 GMT on 13th (10:19 p.m. EST; 7:19 p.m. PST on 12th)
Launch site: SLC-3E, Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
A United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket launched a classified spacecraft payload for the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office. The rocket flew in the 541 vehicle configuration with a five-meter fairing, four solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. The rocket also flew a new upper stage powerplant designated the RL10C engine. Scrubbed on Dec. 11. See our Mission Status Center. [Dec. 13]
Dec. 10, 2014Long March 4C • Yaogan 25
Launch time: 1933 GMT (2:33 p.m. EST)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Chinese Long March 4C rocket launched the Yaogan 25 surveillance payload. Read our full story. [Dec. 10]
Dec. 6/7, 2014Long March 4B • CBERS 4
Launch time: 0326 GMT on 7th (10:26 p.m. EST on 6th)
Launch site: Taiyuan, China
A Chinese Long March 4B rocket launched the CBERS 4 remote sensing satellite. CBERS 4 is the fourth China-Brazil Earth Resources Satellite for the collection of global imagery for environmental, urban planning and agricultural applications. Read our full story. [Dec. 7]
Dec. 6, 2014Ariane 5 • DirecTV 14 & GSAT 16
Launch time: 2040 GMT (3:40 p.m. EST)
Launch site: ELA-3, Kourou, French Guiana
Arianespace used an Ariane 5 ECA rocket, designated VA221, to launch the DirecTV 14 and GSAT 16 satellites. DirecTV 14 will provide direct-to-home television broadcasts across the United States. GSAT 16 will supply communications services for the Indian Space Research Organization. Scrubbed on Dec. 4. See our Mission Status Center. [Dec. 6]
Dec. 5, 2014Delta 4-Heavy • Orion EFT-1
Launch time: 1205 GMT (7:05 a.m. EST)
Launch site: SLC-37B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A United Launch Alliance Delta 4-Heavy rocket will launch NASA’s Orion multi-purpose crew vehicle on Exploration Flight Test-1. The uncrewed test flight of the Orion spacecraft will reach an altitude of 3,600 miles before re-entering the atmosphere to demonstrate the capsule’s heat shield. The largest of the Delta 4 family, the Heavy version features three Common Booster Cores mounted together to form a triple-body rocket. Delayed from September. Scrubbed on Dec. 4. See our Mission Status Center. [Dec. 5]
Dec. 2/3, 2014H-2A • Hayabusa 2
Launch time: 0422:04 GMT on 3rd (11:22:04 p.m. EST on 2nd)
Launch site: Tanegashima Space Center, Japan
A Japanese H-2A rocket launched the Hayabusa 2 asteroid sample return mission. Hayabusa 2 will encounter asteroid 1999 JU3 in 2018 and return at least a gram of samples to Earth in December 2020. Delayed from Nov. 30 and Dec. 1. Read our full story. [Dec. 3]
Nov. 30, 2014Soyuz • Glonass K
Launch time: 2152 GMT (4:52 p.m. EST)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched a Glonass K navigation satellite. The rocket flew in the Soyuz 2-1b configuration with a Fregat upper stage. Moved forward from Nov. 23. Delayed from Nov. 20. Read our full story. [Nov. 30]
Nov. 23, 2014Soyuz • ISS 41S
Launch time: 2101:14 GMT (4:01:14 p.m. EST)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched a manned Soyuz spacecraft to the International Space Station with members of the next Expedition crew. The capsule will remain at the station for about six months, providing an escape pod for the crew. Moved forward from Nov. 24. See our Mission Status Center. [Nov. 23]
Nov. 21, 2014Kuaizhou • Kuaizhou 2
Launch time: 0637 GMT (1:37 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Kuaizhou rocket launched the Kuaizhou 2 spacecraft into orbit. Read our full story. [Nov. 21]
Nov. 20, 2014Long March 2D • Yaogan 24
Launch time: 0712 GMT (2:12 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Chinese Long March 2D rocket launched the Yaogan 24 reconnaissance satellite. Read our full story. [Nov. 20]
Nov. 14, 2014Long March 2C • Yaogan 23
Launch time: 1853 GMT (1:53 p.m. EST)
Launch site: Taiyuan, China
A Chinese Long March 2C rocket launched the Yaogan 23 reconnaissance satellite. Read our full story. [Nov. 14]
Nov. 6, 2014Dnepr • ASNARO 1
Launch time: 0735 GMT (2:35 p.m. EST)
Launch site: Dombarovsky, Russia
An ISC Kosmotras Dnepr rocket launched the ASNARO 1 Earth observation satellite for Japan’s Institute for Unmanned Space Experiment Free Flyer. Four Japanese microsatellites also be launched on the Dnepr rocket. Delayed from October. Read our full story. [Nov. 6]
Oct. 29/30, 2014Soyuz • Meridian
Launch time: 0143 GMT on 30th (9:43 p.m. EDT on 29th)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched a Meridian communications satellite for the Russian Ministry of Defense. Read our full story. [Oct. 30]
Oct. 29, 2014Atlas 5 • GPS 2F-8
Launch time: 1721 GMT (1:21 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-41, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket launched the Air Force’s eighth Block 2F navigation satellite for the Global Positioning System. The rocket flew in the 401 vehicle configuration with a four-meter fairing, no solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. See our Mission Status Center. [Oct. 29]
Oct. 29, 2014Soyuz • Progress 57P
Launch time: 0709:43 GMT (3:09:43 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the 57th Progress cargo delivery ship to the International Space Station. Read our full story. [Oct. 29]
Oct. 28, 2014Antares • Orb-3
Launch time: 2222:38 GMT (6:22:38 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Pad 0A, Wallops Island, Virginia
The Orbital Sciences Antares rocket failed in the launch of the fourth Cygnus cargo freighter on the third operational cargo delivery flight to the International Space Station. The mission was known as Orb-3. The Antares rocket flew with an upgraded Castor 30XL second stage motor for the first time. Delayed from Oct. 3. Moved forward from Oct. 21. Delayed from Oct. 14, Oct. 20, Oct. 22 and Oct. 24. Scrubbed on Oct. 27. See our Mission Status Center. [Oct. 28]
Oct. 27, 2014Long March 2C • Shijian 11-08
Launch time: 0659 GMT (2:59 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Chinese Long March 2C rocket launched the Shijian 11-08 satellite. Read our full story. [Oct. 27]
Oct. 23, 2014Long March 3C • Chang’e 5 Precursor
Launch time: 1800 GMT (2:00 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Xichang, China
A Chinese Long March 3C rocket launched a mission to demonstrate re-entry technologies for the planned Chang’e 5 lunar sample return mission. Read our full story. [Oct. 21]
Oct. 21, 2014Proton • Express AM6
Launch time: 1509:32 GMT (11:09:32 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage will deploy the Express AM6 satellite to provide television and radio broadcasting, broadband Internet, multimedia services and mobile communications for the Russian Satellite Communications Co. Delayed from July 14. Read our full story. [Oct. 21]
Oct. 20, 2014Long March 4C • Yaogan 22
Launch time: 0631 GMT (2:31 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Taiyuan, China
A Chinese Long March 4C rocket launched the Yaogan 22 reconnaissance satellite. Read our full story. [Oct. 20]
Oct. 16, 2014Ariane 5 • Intelsat DLA 1 & Arsat 1
Launch time: 2143:45 GMT (5:43:45 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: ELA-3, Kourou, French Guiana
Arianespace used an Ariane 5 ECA rocket, designated VA220, to launch the Intelsat DirecTV Latin America 1 and Arsat 1 satellites. Intelsat DLA 1, also known as Intelsat 30, will broadcast direct-to-home television services to Latin America in a partnership between Intelsat and DirecTV. Arsat 1 is the first communications satellite to be built in Argentina. See our Mission Status Center. [Oct. 16]
Oct. 15, 2014PSLV • IRNSS 1C
Launch time: 2002 GMT (4:02 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Satish Dhawan Space Center, Sriharikota, India
India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), flying on the PSLV-C26 mission, launched the IRNSS 1C navigation satellite. The payload is the third spacecraft in the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System, which aims to improve positioning services over India and neighboring regions. Delayed from Oct. 9. See our Mission Status Center. [Oct. 15]
Oct. 7, 2014H-2A • Himawari 8
Launch time: 0516 GMT (1:16 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Tanegashima Space Center, Japan
A Japanese H-2A rocket launched the Himawari 8 weather satellite for the Japan Meteorological Agency. Himawari 8 will collect weather imagery over the East Asia and Western Pacific regions. See our Mission Status Center. [Oct. 7]
Sept. 28, 2014Long March 2C • Shijian 11-07
Launch time: 0513 GMT (1:13 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Chinese Long March 2C rocket launched with the experimental Shijian 11-07 satellite. Read our full story. [Sept. 27]
Sept. 27, 2014Proton • Olymp
Launch time: 2023 GMT (4:23 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed a secretive payload reportedly known as Olymp or Luch. Delayed from June 5, June 20 and July 8. Read our full story. [Sept. 27]
Sept. 25, 2014Soyuz • ISS 40S
Launch time: 2024 GMT (4:24 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched a manned Soyuz spacecraft to the International Space Station with members of the next Expedition crew. The capsule will remain at the station for about six months, providing an escape pod for the crew. See our Mission Status Center. [Sept. 16]
Sept. 21, 2014Falcon 9 • SpaceX CRS 4
Launch time: 0552:03 GMT (1:52:03 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-40, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched the sixth Dragon spacecraft on the fourth operational cargo delivery mission to the International Space Station. The flight is being conducted under the Commercial Resupply Services contract with NASA. Delayed from April 6, April 29, June 6, June 8, July 25, Aug. 8, Sept. 12 and Sept. 19. Scrubbed on Sept. 20 by bad weather. See our Mission Status Center. [Sept. 16]
Sept. 16/17, 2014Atlas 5 • CLIO
Launch time: 0010 GMT on 17th (8:10 p.m. EDT on 16th)
Launch site: SLC-41, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket, designated AV-049, launched the CLIO mission on a commercial flight for a U.S. government customer. See our Mission Status Center. [Sept. 16]
Sept. 11, 2014Ariane 5 • Measat 3b & Optus 10
Launch time: 2205 GMT (6:05 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: ELA-3, Kourou, French Guiana
Arianespace used an Ariane 5 ECA rocket, designated VA218, to launch the Measat 3b and Optus 10 satellites. Measat 3b will provide Ku-band direct-to-home broadcasting and other telecommunications services over Malaysia, India and Indonesia for Measat Global of Malaysia. NewSat Ltd. of Australia has also leased some of Measat 3b’s capacity to be marketed as Jabiru 2. Optus 10 will deliver television broadcasts and two-way voice and data services to customers in Australia and New Zealand for SingTel Optus. Delayed from May 28 and June 6. See our Mission Status Center. [Sept. 11]
Sept. 7/8, 2014Long March 4B • Yaogan 21
Launch time: 0322 GMT on 8th (11:22 p.m. on 7th)
Launch site: Taiyuan, China
A Chinese Long March 4B rocket launched the Yaogan 21 remote sensing satellite. Read our full story. [Sept. 8]
Sept. 7, 2014Falcon 9 • AsiaSat 6
Launch time: 0500 GMT (1:00 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-40, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched the AsiaSat 6 communications satellite. AsiaSat 6 will support video broadcasting and broadband networks for customers in Asia, Australia, India and the Pacific islands. Delayed from May, Aug. 26, Aug. 27 and Sept. 6. See our Mission Status Center. [Sept. 7]
Sept. 3/4, 2014Long March 2D • Chuangxin 1-04
Launch time: 0015 GMT on 4th (8:15 p.m. on 3rd)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Chinese Long March 2D rocket launched the Chuangxin 1-04 data relay satellite and a co-passenger designed to conduct multimedia technological experiments. Read our full story. [Sept. 3]
Aug. 22, 2014Soyuz • Galileo FOC-1
Launch time: 1227:11 GMT (8:27:11 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: ELS, Sinnamary, French Guiana
An Arianespace Soyuz rocket, designated VS09, failed to put its payloads in the correct orbit after launch from the Guiana Space Center in South America. The Soyuz carried two Galileo full operational capability satellites for Europe’s Galileo navigation constellation. The Soyuz 2-1b (Soyuz ST-B) rocket used a Fregat-MT upper stage. Arianespace oversaw the launch. Delayed from April, July and October 2013. Delayed from June. Scrubbed on Aug. 21. See our Mission Status Center. [Aug. 22]
Aug. 18/19, 2014Long March 4B • Gaofen 2
Launch time: 0315 GMT on 19th (11:15 p.m. EDT on 18th)
Launch site: Taiyuan, China
A Chinese Long March 4B rocket launched the Gaofen 2 high-resolution remote sensing satellite. Gaofen 2 will collect high-resolution images of Earth’s surface for research and civil government applications. The main users of the satellite are the Chinese Ministry of Land and Resources, the Chinese Ministry of Agriculture, and the Chinese Ministry of Environmental Protection. Delayed from December. Read our full story. [Aug. 19]
Aug. 13, 2014Atlas 5 • WorldView 3
Launch time: 1830:30 GMT (2:30:30 p.m. EDT; 11:30:30 a.m. PDT)
Launch site: SLC-3E, Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
A United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket launched the WorldView 3 Earth observation satellite for DigitalGlobe. The rocket flew in the 401 vehicle configuration with a four-meter fairing, no solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. Delayed from mid-2014. See our Mission Status Center. [Aug. 5]
Aug. 9, 2014Long March 4C • Yaogan 20
Launch time: 0545 GMT (1:45 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Chinese Long March 4C rocket launched the Yaogan 20 payload for the Chinese military. Read our full story. [Aug. 9]
Aug. 5, 2014Falcon 9 • AsiaSat 8
Launch time: 0800 GMT (4:00 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-40, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched the AsiaSat 8 communications satellite. AsiaSat 8 will support direct broadcasting, private networks and broadband connectivity for customers in China, India, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Delayed from April, May, June and Aug. 4. See our Mission Status Center. [Aug. 5]
Aug. 1/2, 2014Atlas 5 • GPS 2F-7
Launch time: 0323 GMT on 2nd (11:23 p.m. EDT on 1st)
Launch site: SLC-41, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket launched the Air Force’s seventh Block 2F navigation satellite for the Global Positioning System. The rocket flew in the 401 vehicle configuration with a four-meter fairing, no solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. Delayed from July 31. See our Mission Status Center. [Aug. 1]
July 29, 2014Ariane 5 • ATV 5
Launch time: 2347:38 GMT (7:47:38 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: ELA-3, Kourou, French Guiana
Arianespace used an Ariane 5 ES rocket, designated VA219, to launch the European Space Agency’s fifth Automated Transfer Vehicle, named Georges Lemaitre. The ATV is a cargo-carrying spacecraft to deliver supplies and equipment to the orbiting International Space Station. Delayed from June 17 and June 25. Moved forward from July 25. Delayed from July 24. See our Mission Status Center. [July 29]
July 28, 2014Delta 4 • AFSPC 4
Launch time: 2328 GMT (7:28 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-37B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A United Launch Alliance Delta 4 rocket launched the AFSPC 4 mission for the U.S. Air Force. The rocket flew in the Medium+ (4,2) configuration with two solid rocket boosters. The payloads included two satellites for the Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program. Delayed from February. Moved forward from December. Scrubbed on July 23, July 24, July 25 and July 26. See our Mission Status Center. [July 28]
July 23, 2014Soyuz • Progress 56P
Launch time: 2144:44 GMT (5:44:44 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the 56th Progress cargo delivery ship to the International Space Station. Delayed from July 1. Read our full story. [July 23]
July 18, 2014Soyuz • Foton M4
Launch time: 2050 GMT (4:50 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket will launch the recoverable Foton M4 spacecraft with a payload of biological and materials science experiments. After orbiting the Earth for a few weeks, the craft’s re-entry capsule will return to Earth under a parachute. The rocket will fly in the Soyuz 2-1a configuration. Delayed from May. Read our full story. [July 18]
July 14, 2014Falcon 9 • Orbcomm OG2
Launch time: 1515 GMT (11:15 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-40, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched six second-generation Orbcomm communications satellites. The satellites will operate for Orbcomm Inc., providing two-way data messaging services for global customers. The rocket flew in the Falcon 9 v1.1 configuration with upgraded Merlin 1D engines, stretched fuel tanks, and a payload fairing. Delayed from September, November, April 30, May 10, May 27, June 11, June 12, June 15, June 20, June 21, June 22 and June 24. See our Mission Status Center. [July 14]
July 13, 2014Antares • Orb-2
Launch time: 1652:14 GMT (12:52:14 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Pad 0A, Wallops Island, Virginia
The Orbital Sciences Antares rocket launched the third Cygnus cargo freighter on the second operational flight to the International Space Station. The mission is known as Orb-2. Moved forward from May 8. Delayed from May 1, May 6, June 10, June 17, July 1, July 10, July 11 and July 12. See our Mission Status Center. [July 13]
July 10, 2014Soyuz • O3b F2
Launch time: 1855:56 GMT (2:55:56 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: ELS, Sinnamary, French Guiana
An Arianespace Soyuz rocket, designated VS08, launched on a mission from the Guiana Space Center in South America. The Soyuz carried four satellites for O3b Networks, which will provide broadband service to developing countries. The Soyuz 2-1b (Soyuz ST-B) rocket used a Fregat upperstage. Arianespace oversaw the launch. Delayed from August, early September, Sept. 30, March and June 27. See our Mission Status Center. [July 10]
July 9, 2014Angara 1.2PP • Suborbital
Launch time: 1200 GMT (8:00 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Russian Angara rocket launched on a suborbital demonstration flight. The mission was the first flight of Russia’s new Angara launch vehicle. Delayed from June 25. Scrubbed on June 27. Read our full story. [July 8]
July 8, 2014Soyuz • Meteor M2
Launch time: 1558:28 GMT (11:58:28 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the Meteor M2 weather satellite and several secondary payloads, including the SkySat 2 spacecraft for Skybox Imaging, the TechDemoSat 1 spacecraft for the UK government and Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd., and other small passengers. The Soyuz 2-1b rocket will use a Fregat upper stage. Delayed from June 19, June 26 and June 28. Read our full story. [July 8]
July 3, 2014Rockot • Gonets M
Launch time: 1243 GMT (8:43 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Russian government Rockot vehicle launched three Gonets M communications satellites. Read our full story. [July 3]
July 2, 2014Delta 2 • OCO 2
Launch time: 0956:23 GMT (5:56:23 a.m. EDT; 2:56:23 a.m. PDT)
Launch site: SLC-2W, Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
A United Launch Alliance Delta 2 rocket will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observatory 2 satellite for NASA. OCO 2 will make precise, time-dependent global measurements of atmospheric carbon dioxide from space. The rocket will fly in the 7320 configuration with three solid rocket boosters and no third stage. Scrubbed on July 1. See our Mission Status Center. [July 2]
June 30, 2014PSLV • Spot 7
Launch time: 0422 GMT (12:22 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Satish Dhawan Space Center, Sriharikota, India
India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), flying on the PSLV-C23 mission, launched the Spot 7 remote sensing satellite for Astrium Services. Spot 7 is a commercial medium-resolution imaging satellite by and owned by Astrium. Delayed from December and 1st quarter 2014. Read our full story. [June 30]
June 19, 2014Dnepr • Multi-payload
Launch time: 1911:11 GMT (3:11:11 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Dombarovsky, Russia
An ISC Kosmotras Dnepr rocket launched the Deimos 2 Earth observation satellite for Elecnor Deimos of Spain, the KazEOSat 2 remote sensing satellite for Kazakhstan, and several more payloads. Read our full story. [June 19]
June 14, 2014Soyuz • Glonass M
Launch time: 1716 GMT (1:16 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched a Glonass M navigation satellite. The rocket flew in the Soyuz 2-1b configuration with a Fregat upper stage. Read our full story. [May 23]
May 28, 2014Soyuz • ISS 39S
Launch time: 1957:41 GMT (3:57:41 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the manned Soyuz spacecraft to the International Space Station with members of the next Expedition crew. The capsule will remain at the station for about six months, providing an escape pod for the crew. See our Mission Status Center. [May 28]
May 26, 2014Zenit 3SL • Eutelsat 3B
Launch time: 2110 GMT (5:10 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Odyssey platform, Pacific Ocean (154° West, 0° North)
The Sea Launch Zenit 3SL rocket carried into orbit the Eutelsat 3B communications satellite. Eutelsat 3B will provide telecommunications services over Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia and South America. Delayed from April 15. See our Mission Status Center. [May 26]
May 23/24, 2014H-2A • ALOS 2
Launch time: 0305:14 GMT on 24th (11:05:14 p.m. EDT on 23rd)
Launch site: Tanegashima Space Center, Japan
A Japanese H-2A rocket launched the second Advanced Land Observing Satellite for the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. ALOS 2 carries a high-resolution radar payload for environmental, infrastructure and disaster monitoring. See our Mission Status Center. [May 24]
May 23, 2014Rockot • Rodnik
Launch time: 0527 GMT (1:27 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Russian government Rockot vehicle launched three Rodnik communications satellites for the Russian military. Read our full story. [May 23]
May 22, 2014Atlas 5 • NROL-33
Launch time: 1309 GMT (9:09 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-41, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket, designated AV-046, launched a classified spacecraft payload for the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office. The rocket flew in the 401 vehicle configuration with a four-meter fairing, no solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. Delayed from May 7. See our Mission Status Center. [May 22]
May 16/17, 2014Delta 4 • GPS 2F-6
Launch time: 0003 GMT on 17th (8:03 p.m. EDT on 16th)
Launch site: SLC-37B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A United Launch Alliance Delta 4 rocket deployed the Air Force’s sixth Block 2F navigation satellite for the Global Positioning System. The rocket flew in the Medium+ (4,2) configuration with two solid rocket boosters. Scrubbed on May 15 by weather. See our Mission Status Center. [May 16]
May 15, 2014Proton • Express AM4R
Launch time: 2142 GMT (5:42 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage failed on a launch with the Express AM4R satellite to provide television broadcasting, broadband Internet, multimedia services and mobile communications for the Russian Satellite Communications Co. Delayed from April 6. Read our full story. [May 15]
May 6, 2014Soyuz • Kobalt
Launch time: 1349 GMT (9:49 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched a Kobalt optical reconnaissance satellite for Russian intelligence authorities. Read our full story. [May 6]
April 29/30, 2014Vega • KazEOSat 1
Launch time: 0135:14 GMT on 30th (9:35:14 p.m. EDT on 29th)
Launch site: ZLV, Kourou, French Guiana
A European Vega rocket, designated VV03, launched the DZZ-HR (KazEOSat 1) Earth observation satellite for Astrium and the Republic of Kazakhstan. DZZ-HR will provide high-resolution images to Kazakh authorities for homeland surveillance, resource management and environmental monitoring. Delayed from April 25. Scrubbed by ventilation umbilical issue April 29. See our Mission Status Center. [April 29]
April 28, 2014Proton • Luch 5V & Kazsat 3
Launch time: 0425 GMT (12:25 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the Luch 5V satellite to relay data from Russian spacecraft to ground sites, including the International Space Station, and the Kazsat 3 communications satellite for Kazakhstan. Read our full story. [April 28]
April 18, 2014Falcon 9 • SpaceX CRS 3
Launch time: 1925:22 GMT (3:25:22 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-40, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched the fifth Dragon spacecraft on the third operational cargo delivery mission to the International Space Station. The flight is being conducted under the Commercial Resupply Services contract with NASA. Delayed from April 6, Sept. 30, Nov. 11, Dec. 9, Jan. 15, Feb. 11, Feb. 22, March 1, March 16 and March 30. Scrubbed on April 14. See our Mission Status Center. [April 18]
April 16, 2014Soyuz • EgyptSat 2
Launch time: 1620 GMT (12:20 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the EgyptSat 2 Earth observation satellite for Egypt’s National Authority for Remote Sensing and Space Sciences. Read our full story. [April 16]
April 10, 2014Atlas 5 • NROL-67
Launch time: 1745 GMT (1:45 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-41, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket, designated AV-045, launched a classified spacecraft payload for the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office. The rocket flew in the 541 vehicle configuration with a five-meter fairing, four solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. Delayed from March 25 by range instrumentation issue. See our Mission Status Center. [April 10]
April 9, 2014Shavit 2 • Ofeq 10
Launch time: 1915 GMT (3:15 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Palmachim, Israel
Israel launched a Shavit 2 rocket with the Ofeq 10 reconnaissance satellite to spy on neighboring countries, including Iran. Ofeq 10 carries a high-resolution radar imager, but its exact dimensions are classified. Read our full story. [April 9]
April 9, 2014Soyuz • Progress 55P
Launch time: 1526 GMT (11:26 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the 55th Progress cargo delivery ship to the International Space Station. Read our full story. [March 31]
April 4, 2014PSLV • IRNSS 1B
Launch time: 1144 GMT (7:44 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Satish Dhawan Space Center, Sriharikota, India
India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), flying on the PSLV-C24 mission, launched the IRNSS 1B navigation satellite. The payload was the second spacecraft in the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System, which aims to improve positioning services over India and neighboring regions. Delayed from March 31. Read our full story. [March 31]
April 3, 2014Soyuz • Sentinel 1A
Launch time: 2102:26 GMT (5:02:26 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: ELS, Sinnamary, French Guiana
An Arianespace Soyuz rocket launched on a mission from the Guiana Space Center in South America. The Soyuz carried the Sentinel 1A radar observation satellite for the European Space Agency and the European Commission. The Soyuz 2-1a (Soyuz ST-A) rocket used a Fregat upper stage. Arianespace oversaw the launch. Delayed from late 2013 and March 28. See our Mission Status Center. [April 3]
April 3, 2014Atlas 5 • DMSP F19
Launch time: 1446 GMT (10:46 a.m. EDT; 7:46 a.m. PDT)
Launch site: SLC-3E, Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
A United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket, designated AV-044, launched the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program 19 spacecraft for the U.S. Air Force. Built by Lockheed Martin, this polar-orbiting weather satellite will be used by the military for global weather forecasting. The rocket flew in the 401 vehicle configuration with a four-meter fairing, no solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. Delayed from March. See our Mission Status Center. [April 3]
March 30/31, 2014Long March 2C • Shijian 11-06
Launch time: 0246 GMT on 31st (10:46 p.m. EDT on 31st)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Chinese Long March 2C rocket launched with the experimental Shijian 11-06 satellite. Read our full story. [March 31]
March 25, 2014Soyuz • ISS 38S
Launch time: 2117 GMT (5:17 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the manned Soyuz spacecraft to the International Space Station with members of the next Expedition crew. The capsule will remain at the station for about six months, providing an escape pod for the crew. See our Mission Status Center. [March 25]
March 23, 2014Soyuz • Glonass M
Launch time: 2254 GMT (6:54 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched a Glonass M navigation satellite. The rocket flew in the Soyuz 2-1b configuration with a Fregat upper stage. Delayed from March 11. Read our full story. [March 23]
March 22, 2014Ariane 5 • ASTRA 5B & Amazonas 4A
Launch time: 2204 GMT (6:04 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: ELA-3, Kourou, French Guiana
Arianespace used an Ariane 5 ECA rocket, designated VA216, to launch the ASTRA 5B and Amazonas 4A satellites. ASTRA 5B will provide Ku-band and Ka-band television broadcasting services for SES of Luxembourg, and the satellite hosts an L-band navigation payload for the European Commission’s European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS). Amazonas 4A will expand Ku-band broadcast television services over Latin America for Hispasat of Madrid. Moved forward from Dec. 13. Delayed from Dec. 6, Feb. 19 and March 7. Delayed from March 21 by strong winds preventing rollout. See our Mission Status Center. [March 22]
March 15, 2014Proton • Express AT1 & Express AT2
Launch time: 2308 GMT (7:08 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the Express AT1 and Express AT2 communications satellites for the Russian Satellite Communications Co. Read our full story. [March 15]
Feb. 27, 2014H-2A • GPM Core
Launch time: 1837 GMT (1:37 p.m. EST)
Launch site: Tanegashima Space Center, Japan
A Japanese H-2A rocket launched the Global Precipitation Measurement mission Core satellite, a joint project between NASA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. The GPM Core observatory is equipped with an advanced radar and microwave imager to provide data and set a new standard for precipitation measurements from space. Delayed from Feb. 14. See our Mission Status Center. [Feb. 27]
Feb. 20/21, 2014Delta 4 • GPS 2F-5
Launch time: 0159 GMT on 21st (8:59 p.m. EST on 20th)
Launch site: SLC-37B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A United Launch Alliance Delta 4 rocket deployed the Air Force’s fifth Block 2F navigation satellite for the Global Positioning System. The rocket will fly in the Medium+ (4,2) configuration with two solid rocket boosters. Delayed from Oct. 17, Oct. 23 and Dec. 12. See our Mission Status Center. [Feb. 20]
Feb. 14, 2014Proton • Turksat 4A
Launch time: 2109 GMT (4:09 p.m. EST)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
An International Launch Services Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the Turksat 4A communications satellite. Delayed from Feb. 10. See our Mission Status Center. [Feb. 14]
Feb. 6, 2014Ariane 5 • ABS 2 & Athena-Fidus
Launch time: 2130 GMT (4:30 p.m. EST)
Launch site: ELA-3, Kourou, French Guiana
Arianespace used an Ariane 5 ECA rocket, designated VA217, to launch the ABS 2 and Athena-Fidus communications satellites. ABS 2 will provide C-band, Ku-band and Ka-band direct-to-home, cable TV, VSAT and data services over the Middle East, Africa, Russia and the Asia-Pacific for Asia Broadcast Satellite of Bermuda and Hong Kong. Athena-Fidus is a joint French-Italian dual-use communications satellite for French and Italian military and civil authorities. Delayed from Jan. 23. See our Mission Status Center. [Feb. 6]
Feb. 5, 2014Soyuz • Progress 54P
Launch time: 1623:33 GMT (11:23:33 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the 54th Progress cargo delivery ship to the International Space Station. Read our full story. [Feb. 5]
Jan. 23/24, 2014Atlas 5 • TDRS L
Launch time: 0233 GMT on 24th (9:33 p.m. EST on 23rd)
Launch site: SLC-41, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket, designated AV-043, launched the TDRS L communications and data relay satellite for NASA. The Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS) connects mission control with the International Space Station and other orbiting satellites. The rocket flew in the 401 vehicle configuration with a four-meter fairing, no solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. See our Mission Status Center. [Jan. 23]
Jan. 9, 2014Antares • Orb-1
Launch time: 1807:05 GMT (1:07:05 p.m. EST)
Launch site: Pad 0A, Wallops Island, Virginia
The Orbital Sciences Antares rocket launched the second Cygnus cargo freighter on the first operational cargo delivery flight to the International Space Station. The mission is known as Orb-1. The Antares rocket flew with an upgraded Castor 30B second stage motor for the first time. Delayed from November, Dec. 8, Dec. 17, Dec. 18 and Dec. 19. Moved forward from Jan. 13. Delayed from Jan. 7 by cold temperatures. Delayed from Jan. 8 by solar radiation. See our Mission Status Center. [Jan. 9]
Jan. 6, 2014Falcon 9 • Thaicom 6
Launch time: 2206 GMT (5:06 p.m. EST)
Launch site: SLC-40, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched the Thaicom 6 communications satellite. Thaicom 6 will provide C-band and Ku-band communications services across Southeast Asia and Africa. The rocket flew in the Falcon 9 v1.1 configuration with upgraded Merlin 1D engines, stretched fuel tanks, and a payload fairing. Delayed from August, October, Dec. 12, Dec. 20 and Jan. 3. See our Mission Status Center. [Jan. 6]
Jan. 5, 2014GSLV • GSAT 14
Launch time: 1048 GMT (5:48 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Satish Dhawan Space Center, Sriharikota, India
India’s Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), flying on the GSLV-D5 mission, launched the GSAT 14 communications satellite. The rocket flew in the GSLV Mk.2 configuration with an Indian-built cryogenic third stage. Delayed from October, December, January, February, April, July and Aug. 6. Scrubbed on Aug. 19 by second stage fuel leak. Delayed from Dec. 15. Read our full story. [Jan. 5]

2013

Dec. 28, 2013Soyuz 2-1v • AIST & Calibration Spheres
Launch time: 1230 GMT (7:30 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Russian government Soyuz 2-1v rocket with a Volga upper stage launched with the AIST student-built microsatellite and SKRL 756 calibration spheres. The Soyuz 2-1v rocket and Volga upper stage were making their first flight. The new rocket is a smaller version of the Soyuz launch vehicle without strap-on boosters. Delayed from Dec. 24. Scrubbed on Dec. 25. [Dec. 28]
Dec. 26, 2013Proton • Express AM5
Launch time: 1049:56 GMT (5:49:56 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the Express AM5 civil communications satellite for the Russian Satellite Communications Co. Read our full story. [Dec. 26]
Dec. 24/25, 2013Rockot • Rodnik
Launch time: 0031 GMT on 25th (7:31 p.m. EST on 24th)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Russian government Rockot vehicle launched three Rodnik communications satellites for the Russian military. Read our full story. [Dec. 25]
Dec. 20, 2013Long March 3B • Tupac Katari
Launch time: 1642 GMT (11:42 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Xichang, China
A Chinese Long March 3B/E rocket launched the Tupac Katari communications satellite for the government of Bolivia. Read our full story. [Dec. 20]
Dec. 19, 2013Soyuz • Gaia
Launch time: 0912:19 GMT (4:12:19 a.m. EST)
Launch site: ELS, Sinnamary, French Guiana
An Arianespace Soyuz rocket, designated VS06, launched on a mission from the Guiana Space Center in South America. The Soyuz launched the Gaia mission, which will survey more than one billion stars, creating an astronomical census and map to help scientists chart the evolution of the Milky Way galaxy. The Soyuz 2-1b rocket used a Fregat upper stage. Arianespace oversaw the launch. Delayed from Sept. 19 and Nov. 20. Moved forward from Dec. 20. See our Mission Status Center. [Dec. 19]
Dec. 8/9, 2013Long March 4B • CBERS 3
Launch time: 0326 GMT on 9th (10:26 p.m. EST on 8th)
Launch site: Taiyuan, China
A Chinese Long March 4B rocket failed in the launch of the CBERS 3 remote sensing satellite. CBERS 3 was the third China-Brazil Earth Resources Satellite for the collection of global imagery for environmental, urban planning and agricultural applications. Delayed from December 2012, January, February and October. Moved forward from Dec. 27. Read our full story. [Dec. 9]
Dec. 8, 2013Proton • Inmarsat 5 F1
Launch time: 1212 GMT (7:12 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
An International Launch Services Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the Inmarsat 5 F1 communications satellite for Inmarsat of London. See our Mission Status Center. [Dec. 8]
Dec. 5/6, 2013Atlas 5 • NROL-39
Launch time: 0714:30 GMT on 6th (2:14:30 a.m. EST; 11:14:30 p.m. PST on 5th)
Launch site: SLC-3E, Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
A United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket, designated AV-042, launched a classified spacecraft payload for the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office. The rocket flew in the 501 vehicle configuration with a five-meter fairing, no solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. See our Mission Status Center. [Dec. 6]
Dec. 3, 2013Falcon 9 • SES 8
Launch time: 2241 GMT (5:41 p.m. EST)
Launch site: SLC-40, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched the SES 8 communications satellite. SES 8 will provide Ku-band and Ka-band direct-to-home broadcasting and network services over the Asia-Pacific region. The rocket flew in the Falcon 9 v1.1 configuration with upgraded Merlin 1D engines, stretched fuel tanks, and a payload fairing. Delayed from July, August, October, Nov. 1, Nov. 12 and Nov. 22. Scrubbed on Nov. 25 and Nov. 28. Delayed from Nov. 30 and Dec. 2. See our Mission Status Center. [Dec. 3]
Dec. 1, 2013Long March 3B • Chang’e 3
Launch time: 1730 GMT (12:30 p.m. EST)
Launch site: Xichang, China
A Long March 3B rocket launched the Chang’e 3 mission, China’s third lunar probe and its first robotic lander and rover. Read our full story. [Dec. 1]
Nov. 25, 2013Soyuz • Progress 53P
Launch time: 2053:06 GMT (3:53:06 p.m. EST)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the 53rd Progress cargo delivery ship to the International Space Station. Delayed from Oct. 16. Read our full story. [Nov. 25]
Nov. 24/25, 2013Long March 2D • Shiyan 5
Launch time: 0212 GMT on 25th (9:12 p.m. EST on 24th)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Chinese Long March 2D rocket launched the Shiyan 5 experimental satellite. Read our full story. [Nov. 25]
Nov. 22, 2013Rockot • Swarm
Launch time: 1202:29 GMT (7:02:29 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Eurockot Rockot vehicle launched the Swarm mission for the European Space Agency. Swarm is an Earth Explorer mission comprising three satellites in different polar orbits to probe the geomagnetic field and its temporal evolution, in order to gain new insights into the Earth system by improving our understanding of the Earth’s interior and physical climate. Delayed from July 16, 2012, by launcher issue. Delayed from November 2012 by Breeze M investigation. Delayed from February by launcher issue. Delayed from April, May and summer timeframe. Delayed from Oct. 4 and Nov. 14. See our Mission Status Center. [Nov. 22]
Nov. 21, 2013Dnepr • Multi-payload
Launch time: 0710:11 GMT (2:10:11 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Dombarovsky, Russia
An ISC Kosmotras Dnepr rocket launched the DubaiSat 2 Earth observation satellite for the United Arab Emirates, the STSAT 3 remote sensing and astronomy satellite for South Korea, the SkySat 1 Earth observation satellite for Skybox Imaging of California, and several more payloads. Read our full story. [Nov. 21]
Nov. 19/20, 2013Long March 4C • Yaogan 19
Launch time: 0331 GMT on 20th (10:31 p.m. EDT on 19th)
Launch site: Taiyuan, China
A Chinese Long March 4C rocket launched the Yaogan 19 observation satellite. Read our full story. [Oct. 29]
Nov. 19/20, 2013Minotaur 1 • ORS 3
Launch time: 0115 GMT on 20th (8:15 p.m. EST on 19th)
Launch site: Pad 0B, Wallops Island, Va.
A U.S. Air Force Minotaur 1 rocket launched the Operationally Responsive Space 3, or ORS 3, mission. ORS 3 tested space-based rocket tracking technology and an autonomous flight termination system. The rocket also launched the STPSat 3 satellite, a host platform for several U.S. military experiments, and 28 CubeSats. Delayed from June, September, Oct. 30 and Nov. 4. Delayed from Oct. 21 and Oct. 28. See our Mission Status Center. [Nov. 19]
Nov. 18, 2013Atlas 5 • MAVEN
Launch time: 1828 GMT (1:28 p.m. EST)
Launch site: SLC-41, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket, designated AV-038, launched the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution, or MAVEN, mission. The MAVEN orbiter will study the upper atmosphere of Mars and determine the role the loss of atmospheric gas to space played in changing the Martian climate through time. The rocket flew in the 401 vehicle configuration with a four-meter fairing, no solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. See our Mission Status Center. [Nov. 18]
Nov. 11, 2013Proton • Raduga
Launch time: 2346 GMT (6:46 p.m. EST)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed a Raduga military communications satellite. Delayed from Nov. 5. Read our full story. [Nov. 11]
Nov. 6/7, 2013Soyuz • ISS 37S
Launch time: 0414:15 GMT on 7th (11:14:15 p.m. EST on 6th)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the manned Soyuz spacecraft to the International Space Station with members of the next Expedition crew. The capsule will remain at the station for about six months, providing an escape pod for the crew. Moved forward from Nov. 25. See our Mission Status Center. [Nov. 6]
Nov. 5, 2013PSLV • Mars Orbiter Mission
Launch time: 0908 GMT (4:08 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Satish Dhawan Space Center, Sriharikota, India
India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), flying on the PSLV-C25 mission, launched the Mars Orbiter Mission, India’s first probe to the red planet. The Mars orbiter, also named Mangalyaan, will study the red planet with imaging cameras and atmospheric sensors. Delayed from Oct. 21 and Oct. 28. See our Mission Status Center. [Nov. 5]
Oct. 28/29, 2013Long March 2C • Yaogan 18
Launch time: 0250 GMT on 29th (10:50 p.m. EDT on 28th)
Launch site: Taiyuan, China
A Chinese Long March 2C rocket launched the Yaogan 18 observation satellite. Read our full story. [Oct. 29]
Oct. 25, 2013Proton • Sirius FM6
Launch time: 1808:54 GMT (2:08:54 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
An International Launch Services Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the Sirius FM6 satellite for Sirius XM Radio. Delayed from 2012, Oct. 9, Oct. 20 and Oct. 21. See our Mission Status Center. [Oct. 25]
Oct. 24/25, 2013Long March 4B • Shijian 16
Launch time: 0350 GMT on 25th (11:50 p.m. EDT on 24th)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Chinese Long March 4B rocket launched the Shijian 16 technology demonstration satellite. Read our full story. [Oct. 25]
Sept. 29, 2013Proton • ASTRA 2E
Launch time: 2138:10 GMT (5:38:10 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
An International Launch Services Proton rocket launched the ASTRA 2E communications satellite for SES of Luxembourg. ASTRA 2E will provide Ku-band and Ka-band direct-to-home broadcast and broadband services over Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Delayed from July. See our Mission Status Center. [Sept. 29]
Sept. 29, 2013Falcon 9 • Cassiope
Launch time: 1600 GMT (12 p.m. EDT; 9 a.m. PDT)
Launch site: SLC-4E, Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched the Cassiope satellite for the Canadian Space Agency. Cassiope carries a communications relay payload for a commercial digital broadcast courier service and an instrument to observe the Earth’s ionosphere. The rocket flew in the Falcon 9 v1.1 configuration with upgraded Merlin 1D engines, stretched fuel tanks, and a payload fairing. Delayed from April, June 18, July 9, Sept. 5, Sept. 10, Sept. 14 and Sept. 15. See our Mission Status Center. [Sept. 29]
Sept. 25, 2013Soyuz • ISS 36S
Launch time: 2058:50 GMT (4:58:50 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the manned Soyuz spacecraft to the International Space Station with members of the next Expedition crew. The capsule will remain at the station for about six months, providing an escape pod for the crew. See our Mission Status Center. [Sept. 25]
Sept. 25, 2013Kuaizhou • Kuaizhou 1
Launch time: 0437 GMT (12:37 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Chinese Kuaizhou rocket launched the Kuaizhou 1 satellite to monitor natural disasters. The satellite was likely integrated with the upper stage of the launch vehicle, which is designed for quick-reaction flights. The responsive launcher was making its first flight. [Sept. 25]
Sept. 22/23, 2013Long March 4C • Fengyun 3C
Launch time: 0307 GMT on 23rd (11:07 p.m. EDT on 22nd)
Launch site: Taiyuan, China
A Chinese Long March 4C rocket launched the Fengyun 3C polar-orbiting weather satellite. Read our full story. [Sept. 22]
Sept. 18, 2013Antares • Cygnus 1
Launch time: 1458 GMT (10:58 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Pad 0A, Wallops Island, Virginia
The Orbital Sciences Antares rocket launched the first Cygnus cargo freighter on a test flight to the International Space Station. Orbital Sciences developed the Cygnus spacecraft to deliver supplies to the space station. Delayed from June and December 2011. Delayed from Feb. 23, April 28, Aug. 20, Sept. 1, and October 2012. Delayed from April 5, May 3, June, Sept. 14, Sept. 15 and Sept. 17. See our Mission Status Center. [Sept. 18]
Sept. 18, 2013Atlas 5 • AEHF 3
Launch time: 0704 GMT (3:04 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-41, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
The United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket, designated AV-041, launched the third Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) satellite. Built by Lockheed Martin, this U.S. military spacecraft will provide highly-secure communications. The rocket flew in the 531 vehicle configuration with a five-meter fairing, three solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. Delayed from Sept. 13. See our Mission Status Center. [Sept. 18]
Sept. 14, 2013Epsilon • SPRINT-A
Launch time: 0500 GMT (1 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Uchinoura Space Center, Japan
Japan’s Epsilon rocket launched the SPRINT-A satellite with a small space telescope to observe Mercury, Venus, Mars and Jupiter, focusing on the interaction between the planets’ atmospheres and the solar wind. This launch was the first flight of Japan’s small Epsilon launch vehicle. Scrubbed on Aug. 27. See our Mission Status Center. [Sept. 14]
Sept. 11, 2013Rockot • Gonets M
Launch time: 2323 GMT (7:23 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Russian government Rockot vehicle launched three Gonets M communications satellites. Delayed from March 20, April 23, July 25 and Sept. 10. Read our full story. [Sept. 11]
Sept. 6/7, 2013Minotaur 5 • LADEE
Launch time: 0327 GMT on 7th (11:27 p.m. EDT on 6th)
Launch site: Pad 0B, Wallops Island, Va.
A U.S. Air Force Minotaur 5 rocket launched the Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment Explorer, or LADEE, mission for NASA. LADEE will study the moon’s tenuous atmosphere and dust from lunar orbit. Delayed from Aug. 12 and Sept. 5. See our Mission Status Center. [Sept. 7]
Sept. 1, 2013Long March 4C • Yaogan 17
Launch time: 1916 GMT (3:16 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Chinese Long March 4C rocket launched the Yaogan 17 payload for the Chinese military. Read our full story. [Sept. 1]
Aug. 31, 2013Zenit 3SLB • Amos 4
Launch time: 2005 GMT (4:05 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Land Launch Zenit 3SLB rocket carried into orbit the Amos 4 communications satellite. Amos 4 will provide direct-to-home television, broadband Internet and video distribution services to Russia and the Middle East for Spacecom Ltd. of Israel. Moved forward from Sept. 5. Read our full story. [Aug. 31]
Aug. 29, 2013Ariane 5 • Eutelsat 25B & GSAT 7
Launch time: 2030 GMT (4:30 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: ELA-3, Kourou, French Guiana
Arianespace used an Ariane 5 ECA rocket, designated VA215, to launch the Eutelsat 25B and GSAT 7 satellites. Eutelsat 25B, also known as Es’hail 1, will provide Ku-band and Ka-band direct television broadcasting, enterprise communications and government services over Europe, North Africa and the Middle East for Eutelsat and ictQatar. GSAT 7 will provide multi-band communications services for the Indian Navy. Delayed from Aug. 24. See our Mission Status Center. [Aug. 29]
Aug. 28, 2013Delta 4-Heavy • NROL-65
Launch time: 1803 GMT (2:03 p.m. EDT; 11:03 a.m. PDT)
Launch site: SLC-6, Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
A United Launch Alliance Delta 4-Heavy rocket launched a classified spy satellite cargo for the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office. The largest of the Delta 4 family, the Heavy version features three Common Booster Cores mounted together to form a triple-body rocket. See our Mission Status Center. [Aug. 28]
Aug. 22, 2013Dnepr • KOMPSAT 5
Launch time: 1439 GMT (10:39 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Dombarovsky, Russia
A Kosmotras Dnepr rocket launched the KOMPSAT 5 Earth observation satellite for the Korea Aerospace Research Institute. KOMPSAT 5 will use a synthetic aperture radar payload to collect all-weather remote sensing imagery. Read our full story. [Aug. 22]
Aug. 7/8, 2013Delta 4 • WGS 6
Launch time: 0029 GMT on 8th (8:29 p.m. EDT on 7th)
Launch site: SLC-37B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A United Launch Alliance Delta 4 rocket launched the sixth Wideband Global SATCOM spacecraft, formerly known as the Wideband Gapfiller Satellite. Built by Boeing, this geostationary communications spacecraft will serve U.S. military forces. The rocket flew in the Medium+ (5,4) configuration with four solid rocket boosters. Delayed from June and July. See our Mission Status Center. [Aug. 7]
Aug. 3, 2013H-2B • HTV 4
Launch time: 1948 GMT (3:48 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Tanegashima Space Center, Japan
A Japanese H-2B rocket launched the fourth H-2 Transfer Vehicle. The HTV serves as an unmanned cargo vehicle to deliver equipment and supplies to the International Space Station. Delayed from June 10. See our Mission Status Center. [Aug. 3]
July 27, 2013Soyuz • Progress 52P
Launch time: 2045 GMT (4:45 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the 52nd Progress cargo delivery ship to the International Space Station. Delayed from July 24. Read our full story. [July 27]
July 25, 2013Ariane 5 • Alphasat XL & INSAT 3D
Launch time: 1953 GMT (3:53 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: ELA-3, Kourou, French Guiana
Arianespace used an Ariane 5 ECA rocket, designated VA214, to launch the Alphasat XL and INSAT 3D satellites. Alphasat XL, also called Inmarsat XL, is the first satellite to use the Alphabus platform in a public-private partnership between the European Space Agency, Astrium, Thales Alenia Space and Inmarsat. Alphasat XL will provide mobile communications services to Africa and Europe and test experimental technologies for ESA. INSAT 3D is a meteorological satellite with an imager, sounder and a search-and-rescue payload. See our Mission Status Center. [July 25]
July 19, 2013Long March 4C • Shijian 15
Launch time: 2337 GMT (7:37 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Chinese Long March 4C rocket launched the Shijian 15 satellite for the Chinese military, the Shiyan 7 technology demonstration satellite, and the Chuangxin 3 secondary payload. [July 19]
July 19, 2013Atlas 5 • MUOS 2
Launch time: 1300 GMT (9 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-41, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket, designated AV-040, launched the second Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) satellite for the U.S. Navy. Built by Lockheed Martin, this U.S. military spacecraft will provide narrowband tactical communications designed to significantly improve ground communications for U.S. forces on the move. The rocket flew in the 551 vehicle configuration with a five-meter fairing, five solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. See our Mission Status Center. [July 19]
July 15, 2013Long March 2C • Shijian 11
Launch time: 0927 GMT (5:27 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Chinese Long March 2C rocket launched the Shijian 11-05 satellite. The satellite is the fifth Shijian 11 satellite, believed to by designed for missile warning applications. [July 15]
July 1/2, 2013Proton • Glonass
Launch time: 0238 GMT on 2nd (10:38 p.m. EDT on 1st)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
An Russian government Proton rocket with a Block DM upper stage failed to deploy a trio of Glonass M navigation satellites. Read our full story. [July 1]
July 1, 2013PSLV • IRNSS 1A
Launch time: 1811 GMT (2:11 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Satish Dhawan Space Center, Sriharikota, India
India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), flying on the PSLV-C22 mission, launched the IRNSS 1A navigation satellite. The payload is the first spacecraft in the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System, which aims to improve positioning services over India and neighboring regions. Delayed from May. Read our full story. [July 1]
June 27/28, 2013Pegasus XL • IRIS
Launch time: 0227 GMT on 28th (10:27 p.m. EDT; 7:27 p.m. PDT on 27th)
Launch site: L-1011, Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
The air-launched Orbital Sciences Pegasus XL rocket deployed NASA’s Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS). IRIS will make detailed measurements of the flow of energy and plasma through the sun’s atmosphere and heliosphere. Delayed from Dec. 1, Jan. 22 and April 28. See our Mission Status Center. [June 27]
June 27, 2013Strela • Kondor 1
Launch time: 1653 GMT (12:53 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Strela rocket launched the Kondor 1 reconnaissance satellite for the Russian military. Kondor 1 carries a radar imaging payload capable of taking pictures of Earth’s surface at night and in all weather conditions. [June 27]
June 25, 2013Soyuz • O3b F1
Launch time: 1927:03 GMT (3:27:03 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: ELS, Sinnamary, French Guiana
An Arianespace Soyuz rocket, designated VS05, launched on a mission from the Guiana Space Center in South America. The Soyuz carried four satellites for O3b Networks, which will provide broadband service to developing countries. The Soyuz 2-1b rocket used a Fregat upper stage. Arianespace oversaw the launch. Delayed from March. Moved forward from May 29. Delayed from May 27. Scrubbed on June 24 by unfavorable winds. See our Mission Status Center. [June 25]
June 25, 2013Soyuz • Resurs P1
Launch time: 1728 GMT (1:28 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the Resurs P1 Earth observation satellite to collect remote sensing data for Russian government agencies and foreign customers. Delayed from Nov. 30. Delayed from February due to disagreement on drop zones. Delayed from June 23. Read our full story. [June 25]
June 11, 2013Long March 2F • Shenzhou 10
Launch time: 0938 GMT (5:38 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Long March 2F rocket launched the Shenzhou 10 spacecraft, a crewed mission to dock with the orbiting Tiangong 1 laboratory module. The flight is China’s fifth human space mission. See our Mission Status Center. [June 11]
June 7, 2013Soyuz • Persona
Launch time: 1837 GMT (2:37 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched a Persona reconnaissance satellite for the Russian military. The rocket flew in the Soyuz 2-1b configuration with a digital flight control system and an upgraded third stage engine. Read our full story. [June 7]
June 5, 2013Ariane 5 • ATV 4
Launch time: 2152:11 GMT (5:52:11 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: ELA-3, Kourou, French Guiana
Arianespace used an Ariane 5 ES rocket, designated VA213, to launch the European Space Agency’s fourth Automated Transfer Vehicle, named Albert Einstein. The ATV is a cargo-carrying spacecraft to deliver supplies and equipment to the orbiting International Space Station. Delayed from March 12, April 18 and May 7. See our Mission Status Center. [June 5]
June 3, 2013Proton • SES 6
Launch time: 0918 GMT (5:18 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
An International Launch Services Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the SES 6 satellite. SES 6 will provide Ku-band direct-to-home television, VSAT services and government digital inclusion programs in Latin America, plus C-band cable services to the Americas and Europe. Read our full story. [June 3]
May 28, 2013Soyuz • ISS 35S
Launch time: 2031 GMT (4:31 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched a manned Soyuz spacecraft to the International Space Station with members of the next Expedition crew. The capsule will remain at the station for about six months, providing an escape pod for the crew. See our Mission Status Center. [May 28]
May 24/25, 2013Delta 4 • WGS 5
Launch time: 0027 GMT on 25th (8:27 p.m. EDT on 24th)
Launch site: SLC-37B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A United Launch Alliance Delta 4 rocket launched the fifth Wideband Global SATCOM spacecraft, formerly known as the Wideband Gapfiller Satellite. Built by Boeing, this geostationary communications spacecraft will serve U.S. military forces. The rocket flew in the Medium+ (5,4) configuration with four solid rocket boosters. Delayed from Jan. 18, February, March, May 8 and May 22. Scrubbed on May 23 by pressurization issue. See our Mission Status Center. [May 25]
May 15, 2013Atlas 5 • GPS 2F-4
Launch time: 2138 GMT (5:38 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-41, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
A United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket, designated AV-039, deployed the Air Force’s fourth Block 2F navigation satellite for the Global Positioning System. The rocket flew in the 401 vehicle configuration with a four-meter fairing, no solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. Delayed from March. See our Mission Status Center. [May 15]
May 14, 2013Proton • Eutelsat 3D
Launch time: 1602 GMT (12:02 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
An International Launch Services Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the Eutelsat 3D satellite. Eutelsat 3D will provide customers in Europe and Africa with communications services. See our Mission Status Center. [May 14]
May 6/7, 2013Vega • Proba-V & VNREDSat
Launch time: 0206:31 GMT on 7th (10:06:31 p.m. EDT on 6th)
Launch site: ZLV, Kourou, French Guiana
A European Vega rocket, designated VV02, launched on its second flight with the Proba-V Earth observation satellite for the European Space Agency and the VNREDSat 1A imaging satellite for Vietnam. Proba-V carries an instrument to provide a daily overview of global vegetation growth, and VNREDSat 1A will collect optical imagery. Delayed from March. Delayed from May 2 for extra checks on mobile gantry. Scrubbed on May 3 by high-altitude winds. See our Mission Status Center. [May 7]
May 1, 2013Long March 3B • Chinasat 11
Launch time: 1606 GMT (12:06 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Xichang, China
A Chinese Long March 3B rocket launched the Chinasat 11 communications satellite for the China Satellite Communications Corp. Chinasat 11 will provide broadcasting, broadband, and data transmission services over China, the Middle East, Africa, Australia, and the Asia-Pacific region. Read our full story. [May 1]
April 26, 2013Soyuz • Glonass
Launch time: 0523 GMT (1:23 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched a Glonass M navigation satellite. The rocket flew in the Soyuz 2-1b configuration with a Fregat upper stage. Delayed from Dec. 25, February and March 1. Read our full story. [April 26]
April 26, 2013Long March 2D • Gaofen 1
Launch time: 0413 GMT (12:13 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Chinese Long March 2D rocket launched the Gaofen 1 high-resolution remote sensing satellite. Gaofen 1 will collect high-resolution images of Earth’s surface for research and civil government applications. The main users of the satellite are the Chinese Ministry of Land and Resources, the Chinese Ministry of Agriculture, and the Chinese Ministry of Environmental Protection. Read our full story. [April 26]
April 24, 2013Soyuz • Progress 51P
Launch time: 1012 GMT (6:12 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the 51st Progress cargo delivery ship to the International Space Station. Read our full story. [April 24]
April 21, 2013Antares • Demo
Launch time: 2100 GMT (5 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Pad 0A, Wallops Island, Virginia
The first Orbital Sciences Antares rocket, formerly known as the Taurus 2, launched a simulated Cygnus spacecraft on a demonstration flight. Delayed from October and December 2011. Delayed from Jan. 23, February, July 6, Aug. 9, late September, October and December 2012. Delayed from February and March. Delayed from April 16. Scrubbed on April 17 by disconnected umbilical. Scrubbed on April 20 by upper level winds. See our Mission Status Center. [April 21]
April 19, 2013Soyuz • Bion M1
Launch time: 1000 GMT (6 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the Bion M1 capsule into low Earth orbit with an international payload of live animals, plants and other life sciences experiments for exposure to microgravity. The capsule will parachute back to Earth after a one-month mission. The rocket flew in the Soyuz 2-1a configuration. Several CubeSat secondary payloads were also aboard the launch. Read our full story. [April 19]
April 15, 2013Proton • Anik G1
Launch time: 1836 GMT (2:36 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
An International Launch Services Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the Anik G1 satellite. Anik G1 will provide Ku-band direct-to-home television broadcasting services to Canada, C-band and Ku-band programming to South America and North America, and a commercial X-band payload for military users for Telesat of Canada. Delayed from January. See our Mission Status Center. [April 15]
March 28, 2013Soyuz • ISS 34S
Launch time: 2043 GMT (4:43 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the manned Soyuz spacecraft to the International Space Station with members of the next Expedition crew. The capsule will remain at the station for about six months, providing an escape pod for the crew. See our Mission Status Center. [March 28]
March 26, 2013Proton • Satmex 8
Launch time: 1906 GMT (3:06 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
An International Launch Services Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the Satmex 8 satellite. Satmex 8 will provide video distribution, broadband, cellular backhaul and distance learning services in North America and South America. Delayed from Dec. 27. See our Mission Status Center. [March 26]
March 19, 2013Atlas 5 • SBIRS GEO 2
Launch time: 2121 GMT (5:21 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-41, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
The United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket (AV-037) launched the U.S. military’s second Space Based Infrared System Geosynchronous satellite, or SBIRS GEO 2, for missile early-warning detection. The rocket flew in the 401 vehicle configuration with a four-meter fairing, no solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. Moved forward from May. Delayed from March 14. See our Mission Status Center. [March 19]
March 1, 2013Falcon 9 • SpaceX CRS 2
Launch time: 1510 GMT (10:10 a.m. EST)
Launch site: SLC-40, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched the fourth Dragon spacecraft on the second operational cargo delivery mission to the International Space Station. The flight is being conducted under the Commercial Resupply Services contract with NASA. Delayed from December and Jan. 18. See our Mission Status Center. [March 1]
Feb. 25, 2013PSLV • SARAL
Launch time: 1231 GMT (7:31 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Satish Dhawan Space Center, Sriharikota, India
India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), flying on the PSLV-C20 mission, launched the SARAL ocean altimetry satellite. SARAL is a collaboration between France and India designed to measure sea surface height from space. The rocket also carried Canada’s Sapphire space surveillance payload and NEOSSat space telescope to search for near-Earth asteroids. Delayed from October and Dec. 12, 2012. Delayed from Jan. 12, Jan. 28, Feb. 11 and Feb. 18. Read our full story. [Feb. 25]
Feb. 11, 2013Atlas 5 • LDCM
Launch time: 1802 GMT (10:02 a.m. PST; 1:02 p.m. EST)
Launch site: SLC-3E, Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
A United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket (AV-035) launched the Landsat Data Continuity Mission for NASA and the U.S. Geological Survey. LDCM will obtain Earth observation data to be used in agriculture, education, business, science, and government. The data from the Landsat spacecraft constitute the longest record of the Earth’s continental surfaces as seen from space. The rocket flew in the 401 vehicle configuration with a four-meter fairing, no solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. See our Mission Status Center. [Feb. 11]
Feb. 11, 2013Soyuz • Progress 50P
Launch time: 1441 GMT (9:41 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the 50th Progress cargo delivery ship to the International Space Station. Delayed from Dec. 26. Read our full story. [Feb. 11]
Feb. 7, 2013Ariane 5 • Amazonas 3 & Azerspace
Launch time: 2136 (4:36 p.m. EST)
Launch site: ELA-3, Kourou, French Guiana
Arianespace used an Ariane 5 ECA rocket, designated VA212, to launch the Amazonas 3 and Azerspace communications satellites. Amazonas 3 will provide telecommunications services and broadband connectivity in Europe and the Americas for Hispasat of Madrid. Azerspace, also known as Africasat 1a, will provide communications services over Azerbaijan, Central Asia, Europe and Africa for the Azerbaijan communications ministry. See our Mission Status Center. [Feb. 7]
Feb. 6, 2013Soyuz • Globalstar
Launch time: 1604 GMT (11:04 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Starsem Soyuz rocket launched six second-generation Globalstar mobile communications satellites. The rocket flew in the Soyuz 2-1a configuration and used a Fregat upper stage. Starsem and Arianespace oversaw the commercial launch. Delayed from June, September and November 2011. Delayed from mid-2012. Delayed from Feb. 5 by unfavorable high-altitude winds. See our Mission Status Center. [Feb. 6]
Feb. 1, 2013Zenit 3SL • Intelsat 27
Launch time: 0656 GMT (1:56 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Odyssey platform, Pacific Ocean (154° west, 0° North)
A Sea Launch Zenit 3SL rocket failed to deliver the Intelsat 27 communications satellite into orbit. Intelsat 27 was to provide communications services for media, network and government customers over the Americas and Europe. Delayed from Jan. 31. See our Mission Status Center. [Feb. 1]
Jan. 30/31, 2013Atlas 5 • TDRS K
Launch time: 0148 GMT on 31st (8:48 p.m. EST on 30th)
Launch site: SLC-41, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
The United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket (AV-036) launched the TDRS K communications and delay relay satellite for NASA. The Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS) connects mission control with the International Space Station and other orbiting satellites. The rocket flew in the 401 vehicle configuration with a four-meter fairing, no solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. Delayed from June 12, Dec. 6, Dec. 13, Jan. 18 and Jan. 29. See our Mission Status Center. [Jan. 30]
Jan. 30, 2013KSLV 1 • STSAT 2C
Launch time: 0700 GMT (2 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Naro Space Center, South Korea
The Korea Space Launch Vehicle launched on its third flight from a launch site on the southern tip of Korea. The first two KSLV flights failed. The KSLV 1 rocket uses a Russian liquid-fueled first stage and a Korean solid-fueled upper stage. The payload for this launch is the Science and Technology Satellite 2C (STSAT 2C) demonstration spacecraft. Scrubbed on Oct. 26 and Nov. 29. Read our full story. [Jan. 30]
Jan. 26/27, 2013H-2A • IGS
Launch time: 0440 GMT on 27th (11:40 p.m. EST on 26th)
Launch site: Tanegashima Space Center, Japan
A Japanese H-2A rocket launched two Information Gathering Satellites for the Japanese government. The payloads were a radar reconnaissance satellite and an optical demonstration satellite. Read our full story. [Jan. 27]
Jan. 15, 2013Rockot • Rodnik
Launch time: 1625 GMT (11:25 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Russian government Rockot vehicle launched three Rodnik communications satellites for the Russian military. Delayed from Nov. 29 and Dec. 7. Read our full story. [Jan. 15]

2012

Dec. 19, 2012Ariane 5 • Skynet 5D & Mexsat 3
Launch time: 2149 GMT (4:49 p.m. EST)
Launch site: ELA-3, Kourou, French Guiana
Arianespace used an Ariane 5 ECA rocket, designated VA211, to launch the Skynet 5D and Mexsat 3 communications satellites. Skynet 5D will provide military communications services for the British Ministry of Defence. Mexsat 3, also known as Mexsat Bicentenario, will provide communications services for the federal government of Mexico. See our Mission Status Center. [Dec. 19]
Dec. 19, 2012Soyuz • ISS 33S
Launch time: 1212 GMT (7:12 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the manned Soyuz spacecraft to the International Space Station with members of the next Expedition crew. The capsule will remain at the station for about six months, providing an escape pod for the crew. Delayed from Dec. 5. See our Mission Status Center. [Dec. 19]
Dec. 18, 2012Long March 2D • Gokturk 2
Launch time: 1613 GMT (11:13 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Chinese Long March 2D rocket launched the Gokturk 2 Earth imaging satellite for Turkey. Gokturk 2 will gather high-resolution images of Earth for civilian and military applications. Moved up from Dec. 19. Read our full story. [Dec. 18]
Dec. 11/12, 2012Unha 3 • Kwangmyongsong 3
Launch time: 0049 GMT on 12th (7:49 p.m. EST on 11th)
Launch site: Sohae Satellite Launch Center, North Korea
A North Korean Unha 3 rocket launched from the Tongchang-ri launch base and placed an object into orbit. North Korea claims the object is a small communications satellite. Read our full story. [Dec. 12]
Dec. 11, 2012Atlas 5 • OTV 3
Launch time: 1803 GMT (1:03 p.m. EST)
Launch site: SLC-41, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
The United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket (AV-034) deployed the U.S. military’s X-37B, a prototype spaceplane also called the Orbital Test Vehicle, on the program’s third mission. The rocket flew in the 501 vehicle configuration with a five-meter fairing, no solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. Moved up from Oct. 26. Delayed from Oct. 25, Oct. 30, Nov. 13 and Nov. 27. See our Mission Status Center. [Dec. 11]
Dec. 8, 2012Proton • Yamal 402
Launch time: 1313:43 GMT (8:13:43 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
An International Launch Services Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the Yamal 402 satellite in an unplanned orbit. Yamal 402 will provide communications over Russia, Europe, the Middle East and Africa for Gazprom Space Systems. Read our full story on the mishap. [Dec. 8]
Dec. 3, 2012Zenit 3SL • Eutelsat 70B
Launch time: 2044 GMT (3:44 p.m. EST)
Launch site: Odyssey platform, Pacific Ocean (154° west, 0° north)
A Sea Launch Zenit 3SL rocket delivered the Eutelsat 70B communications satellite into orbit. Eutelsat 70B, previously known as W5A, will provide government communications services, broadband access and professional video exchanges in Europe, Africa, Central Asia and Southeast Asia. Delayed from Dec. 2. See our Mission Status Center. [Dec. 3]
Dec. 1/2, 2012Soyuz • Pleiades 1B
Launch time: 0202:50 GMT on 2nd (9:02:50 p.m. EST on 1st)
Launch site: ELS, Sinnamary, French Guiana
An Arianespace Soyuz rocket, designated VS04, launched from the Guiana Space Center in South America. The Soyuz carried the Pleiades 1B optical high-resolution Earth observation satellite for CNES. The Soyuz 2-1a rocket used a Fregat upper stage. Arianespace oversaw the launch. Scrubbed on Nov. 30. See our Mission Status Center. [Dec. 1]
Nov. 27, 2012Long March 3B • Chinasat 12
Launch time: 1013 GMT (5:13 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Xichang, China
A Chinese Long March 3B rocket launched the Chinasat 12 communications satellite for the China Satellite Communications Corp. Chinasat 12 will provide broadcasting, broadband, and data transmission services over China, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific region. Scrubbed on Nov. 22. Read our full story. [Nov. 27]
Nov. 24/25, 2012Long March 4C • Yaogan 16
Launch time: 0406 GMT on 25th (11:06 p.m. EST on 24th)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Chinese Long March 3C rocket launched the Yaogan 16 payload for the Chinese military. Read our full story. [Nov. 25]
Nov. 20, 2012Proton • EchoStar 16
Launch time: 1831 GMT (1:31 p.m. EST)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
An International Launch Services Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the EchoStar 16 satellite. EchoStar 16 is a direct-to-home television broadcasting satellite covering North America for EchoStar Corp. Delayed from July 20. See our Mission Status Center. [Nov. 20]
Nov. 18, 2012Long March 2C • Huanjing 1C
Launch time: 2253 GMT (5:53 p.m. EST)
Launch site: Taiyuan, China
A Chinese Long March 2C rocket launched the Huanjing 1C environmental satellite with a radar observation payload. Read our full story. [Nov. 18]
Nov. 14, 2012Soyuz • Meridian
Launch time: 1142 GMT (6:42 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched a Meridian military communications satellite for the Russian armed forces. The rocket flew in the Soyuz 2-1a configuration with a Fregat upper stage. Read our full story. [Nov. 14]
Nov. 10, 2012Ariane 5 • Eutelsat 21B & Star One C3
Launch time: 2105 GMT (4:05 p.m. EST)
Launch site: ELA-3, Kourou, French Guiana
Arianespace used an Ariane 5 ECA rocket, designated VA210, to launch the Eutelsat 21B and Star One C3 communications satellites. Eutelsat 21B, formerly designated W6A, will provide data, video and government services to Europe, North Africa, the Middle East and Central Asia. Star One C3 will provide C-band and Ku-band communications coverage over South America for Star One S.A. of Brazil. Scrubbed on Nov. 9 by high-altitude winds. See our Mission Status Center. [Nov. 10]
Nov. 2, 2012Proton • Luch 5B & Yamal 300K
Launch time: 2104 GMT (5:04 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the Luch 5B data relay satellite for Roscosmos and the Yamal 300K communications payload for Gazprom Space Systems. Read our full story. [Nov. 2]
Oct. 31, 2012Soyuz • Progress 49P
Launch time: 0741 GMT (3:41 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the 49th Progress cargo delivery ship to the International Space Station. See our Mission Status Center. [Oct. 31]
Oct. 25, 2012Long March 3C • Beidou
Launch time: 1533 GMT (11:33 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Xichang, China
A Chinese Long March rocket launched a Beidou navigation satellite into geosynchronous transfer orbit for the Chinese government. Read our full story. [Oct. 25]
Oct. 23, 2012Soyuz • ISS 32S
Launch time: 1051 GMT (6:51 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the manned Soyuz spacecraft to the International Space Station with members of the next Expedition crew. The capsule will remain at the station for about six months, providing an escape pod for the crew. Delayed from Sept. 26 and Oct. 15. See our Mission Status Center. [Oct. 23]
Oct. 14, 2012Proton • Intelsat 23
Launch time: 0837 GMT (4:37 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
An International Launch Services Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the Intelsat 23 satellite. Intelsat 23 will provide enhanced communications services over the Americas, Europe and Africa. See our Mission Status Center. [Oct. 14]
Oct. 13/14, 2012Long March 2C • Shijian 9
Launch time: 0325 GMT on 14th (11:25 p.m. EDT on 13th)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Chinese Long March 2C rocket launched a pair of Shijian 9 technology research satellites. Read our full story. [Oct. 14]
Oct. 12, 2012Soyuz • Galileo IOV
Launch time: 1815 GMT (2:15 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: ELS, Kourou, French Guiana
An Arianespace Soyuz rocket, designated VS03, launched on its third mission from the Guiana Space Center in South America. The Soyuz carried two Galileo in-orbit validation satellites for Europe’s Galileo navigation constellation. The Soyuz 2-1b rocket used a Fregat-MT upper stage. Arianespace oversaw the launch. Delayed from August and Sept. 28. See our Mission Status Center. [Oct. 12]
Oct. 7/8, 2012Falcon 9 • SpaceX CRS 1
Launch time: 0035 GMT on 8th (8:35 p.m. EDT on 7th)
Launch site: SLC-40, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched the third Dragon spacecraft on the first operational cargo delivery mission to the International Space Station. The flight is being conducted under the Commercial Resupply Services contract with NASA. Delayed from Aug. 9 and Sept. 24. See our Mission Status Center. [Oct. 7]
Oct. 4, 2012Delta 4 • GPS 2F-3
Launch time: 1210 GMT (8:10 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-37B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
The United Launch Alliance Delta 4 rocket deployed the Air Force’s third Block 2F navigation satellite for the Global Positioning System. The rocket flew in the Medium+ (4,2) configuration with two solid rocket boosters. Delayed from Sept. 20. See our Mission Status Center. [Oct. 4]
Sept. 29, 2012Long March 2D • VRSS 1
Launch time: 0412 GMT (12:12 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Chinese Long March 2D rocket launched the first Venezuelan Remote Sensing Satellite (VRSS 1). Also named the Francisco de Miranda after a Venezuelan revolutionary, VRSS 1 is an Earth observation and remote sensing satellite built by China for the government of Venezuela. Read our launch story. [Sept. 29]
Sept. 28, 2012Ariane 5 • ASTRA 2F & GSAT 10
Launch time: 2118 GMT (5:18 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: ELA-3, Kourou, French Guiana
Arianespace used an Ariane 5 ECA rocket, designated VA209, to launch the ASTRA 2F and GSAT 10 communications satellites. ASTRA 2F will deliver direct-to-home broadcasting services to Europe, the Middle East and Africa. GSAT 10 will provide telecommunications, broadcasting and navigation services for the Indian Space Research Organization. Delayed from Sept. 21. See our Mission Status Center. [Sept. 28]
Sept. 18, 2012Long March 3B • Beidou
Launch time: 1910 GMT (3:10 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Xichang, China
A Chinese Long March 3B rocket launched two Beidou navigation satellites into medium Earth orbit for the Chinese government. Read our launch story. [Sept. 18]
Sept. 17, 2012Soyuz • MetOp B
Launch time: 1628 GMT (12:28 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Starsem Soyuz rocket launched the MetOp B weather satellite for the European Space Agency and the European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites, or Eumetsat. The rocket flew in the Soyuz 2-1a configuration with a Fregat upper stage. Delayed from April and May 23 by Kazakhstan drop zone dispute. Moved up from Sept. 19. See our Mission Status Center. [Sept. 17]
Sept. 13, 2012Atlas 5 • NROL-36
Launch time: 2139 GMT (2:39 p.m. local; 5:39 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-3E, Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
The United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket (AV-033) launched a classified spacecraft payload for the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office. The rocket flew in the 401 vehicle configuration with a four-meter fairing, no solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. Delayed from June. Scrubbed Aug. 2 by Range instrumentation problem. Launch opportunities for Aug. 3 and 4 called off in advance. Delayed from Aug. 30 and Sept. 6. See our Mission Status Center. [Sept. 13]
Sept. 9, 2012PSLV • Spot 6
Launch time: 0423 GMT (12:23 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Satish Dhawan Space Center, Sriharikota, India
India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), flying on the PSLV-C21 mission, launched the Spot 6 remote sensing satellite for Astrium Services. Spot 6 is a commercial medium-resolution imaging satellite by and owned by Astrium. Delayed from August. Read our launch story. [Sept. 9]
Aug. 30, 2012Atlas 5 • RBSP
Launch time: 0805 GMT (4:05 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-41, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
The United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket (AV-032) deployed the twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes (RBSP) for NASA. Built and managed by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, this mission includes two spacecraft to fly in highly elliptical orbits to study Earth’s radiation belts and probe the influences of the sun. The rocket flew in the 401 vehicle configuration with a four-meter fairing, no solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. Delayed from May and Aug. 23. Scrubbed by tracking beacon concern on Aug. 24 and thunderstorms on Aug. 25. See our Mission Status Center. [Aug. 30]
Aug. 19, 2012Zenit 3SL • Intelsat 21
Launch time: 0655 GMT (2:55 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Odyssey platform, Pacific Ocean (154° West, 0° North)
A Sea Launch Zenit 3SL rocket delivered the Intelsat 21 communications satellite into orbit. Intelsat 21 will serve video distribution and direct-to-home television markets in Latin America. Delayed from July and Aug. 18. Read our launch story. [Aug. 19]
Aug. 6, 2012Proton • Telkom 3 & Express MD2
Launch time: 1931 GMT (3:31 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage failed in its launch with the Telkom 3 and Express MD2 satellites. Telkom 3 would have provided communications services over Indonesia. Express MD2 is owned by Russian Satellite Communications Co. and would have provided secure communications for senior Russian government leaders, digital broadcasting services and Internet access for other customers. Delayed from July 5 and July 25. Read our full story. [Aug. 3]
Aug. 2, 2012Ariane 5 • Intelsat 20 & HYLAS 2
Launch time: 2054 GMT (4:54 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: ELA-3, Kourou, French Guiana
Arianespace used an Ariane 5 ECA rocket, designated VA208, to launch the Intelsat 20 and HYLAS 2 communications satellites. Intelsat 20 will provide C-band and Ku-band video, voice and data network services over Asia, Africa and the Middle East. HYLAS 2 carriess a Ka-band payload for high-speed, low-cost data, Internet and video services to Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Delayed from July. See our Mission Status Center. [Aug. 2]
Aug. 1, 2012Soyuz • Progress 48P
Launch time: 1935 GMT (3:35 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the 48th Progress cargo delivery ship to the International Space Station. Delayed from July 25 and July 31. See our Mission Status Center. [Aug. 1]
July 27/28, 2012Rockot • Gonets M
Launch time: 0135 GMT (9:35 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Rockot vehicle launched two Gonets M message relay satellites and the MiR spacecraft, which carries technology demonstration payloads developed by researchers and students. Delayed from July 2 and July 13. [July 28]
July 25, 2012Long March 3C • Tianlian 1
Launch time: 1543 GMT (11:43 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Xichang, China
A Long March 3C rocket launched a China’s third Tianlian 1 data relay satellite. [July 25]
July 22, 2012Soyuz • Kanopus-V & BelKA 2
Launch time: 0641 GMT (2:41 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Soyuz rocket and Fregat upper stage launched the Kanopus-Vulkan remote sensing satellite for the Russian government and the BelKA 2, or BKA, Earth observation spacecraft for Belarus. The Soyuz rocket also deployed the TET 1 technology demonstration satellite for DLR, the German Aerospace Center. Several other secondary payloads will also be launched. [July 22]
July 20/21, 2012H-2B • HTV 3
Launch time: 0206:18 GMT on 21st (10:06:18 p.m. EDT on 20th)
Launch site: Tanegashima Space Center, Japan
The Japanese H-2B rocket launched the third H-2 Transfer Vehicle. The HTV serves as an unmanned cargo vehicle to deliver equipment and supplies to the International Space Station. Delayed from Jan. 20, Feb. 18, June 26 and July 18. See our Mission Status Center. [July 20]
July 14/15, 2012Soyuz • ISS 31S
Launch time: 0240 GMT on 15th (10:40 p.m. EDT on 14th)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the manned Soyuz spacecraft to the International Space Station with members of the Expedition 32 crew. The capsule will remain at the station for about six months, providing an escape pod for the crew. Delayed from May 30. See our Mission Status Center. [July 15]
July 9, 2012Proton • SES 5
Launch time: 1838 GMT (2:38 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
An International Launch Services Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the SES 5 satellite. SES 5 will provide communications services over Africa, Europe and the Middle East. SES 5 will also carry the first hosted L-band payload for the European Commission’s European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS). Delayed from June 18 and June 19. Delayed from July 7. See our Mission Status Center. [July 9]
July 5, 2012Ariane 5 • EchoStar 17 & MSG 3
Launch time: 2136 GMT (5:36 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: ELA-3, Kourou, French Guiana
Arianespace used an Ariane 5 ECA rocket, designated VA207, to launch the EchoStar 17 and MSG 3 satellites. EchoStar 17, formerly known as Jupiter 1, will provide high-throughput broadband services across North America for Hughes Network Systems. MSG 3 is a geostationary weather satellite for Eumetsat, the European satellite meteorology agency. Delayed from June 19 by EchoStar 17 issue. Delayed from June 29 following Intelsat 19 mishap. See our Mission Status Center. [July 5]
June 29, 2012Delta 4-Heavy • NROL-15
Launch time: 1315 GMT (9:15 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-37B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
The United Launch Alliance Delta 4-Heavy rocket launched a classified spy satellite cargo for the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office. The largest of the Delta 4 family, the Heavy version features three Common Booster Cores mounted together to form a triple-body rocket. Delayed from December 2011. Delayed from June 28 by Tropical Storm Debby. See our Mission Status Center. [June 29]
June 20, 2012Atlas 5 • NROL-38
Launch time: 1228 GMT (8:28 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-41, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
The United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket (AV-023) launched a classified spacecraft payload for the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office. The rocket flew in the 401 vehicle configuration with a four-meter fairing, no solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. Moved up from June 20. Delayed from June 18. See our Mission Status Center. [June 20]
June 16, 2012Long March 2F • Shenzhou 9
Launch time: 1037 GMT (6:37 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Long March 2F rocket launched the Shenzhou 9 spacecraft, a crewed mission to dock with the orbiting Tiangong 1 laboratory module. The flight is China’s fourth human space mission. See our Mission Status Center. [June 16]
June 13, 2012Pegasus XL • NuSTAR
Launch time: 1600 GMT (12:00 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: L-1011, Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands
The air-launched Orbital Sciences Pegasus XL rocket deployed NASA’s Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR) spacecraft. NuSTAR will study high energy X-rays in the universe. Delayed from Feb. 3, March 14, March 21 and March 22. See our Mission Status Center. [June 13]
June 1, 2012Zenit 3SL • Intelsat 19
Launch time: 0523 GMT (1:23 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Odyssey platform, Pacific Ocean (154¡ West, 0¡ North)
A Sea Launch Zenit 3SL rocket delivered the Intelsat 19 communications satellite into orbit. Intelsat 19 will provide C-band and Ku-band communications services to the Asia-Pacific region, reaching users from Australia to the United States. See our Mission Status Center. [June 1]
May 29, 2012Long March 4C • Yaogan 15
Launch time: 0731 GMT (3:31 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Taiyuan, China
A Long March 4C rocket launched the Yaogan 15 military surveillance satellite. Read our full story. [May 26]
May 26, 2012Long March 3B • Chinasat 2A
Launch time: 1556 GMT (11:56 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Xichang, China
A Long March 3B rocket launched the Chinasat 2A military communications satellite. Read our full story. [May 26]
May 22, 2012Falcon 9 • Dragon C2+
Launch time: 0744:38 GMT (3:44:38 a.m. EDT) Launch site: SLC-40, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched the second Dragon spacecraft, called Dragon C2+, to demonstrate rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station for cargo-delivery. The company is building the Dragon to fly on operational resupply missions to the orbiting lab. Delayed from June 6, Oct. 8, Nov. 30, Dec. 19, Jan. 7, Feb. 7, March 20, April 30, and May 7. Scrubbed May 19 by high engine turbopump pressure. See our Mission Status Center. [May 22]
May 17, 2012Proton • Nimiq 6
Launch time: 1912 GMT (3:12 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
An International Launch Services Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the Nimiq 6 satellite. Nimiq 6 will provide Ku-band HDTV and other video services across Canada for Telesat. See our Mission Status Center. [May 17]
May 17, 2012H-2A • GCOM W1 & Kompsat 3
Launch time: 1639 GMT (12:39 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Tanegashima Space Center, Japan
The Japanese H-2A rocket launched the GCOM W1 and Kompsat 3 satellites. GCOM W1, nicknamed Shizuku, is the first Global Change Observation Mission dedicated to tracking precipitation and the water cycle around the world. Kompsat 3 is a South Korean Earth observation satellite. The rocket flew in the H-2A-202 configuration with two large solid rocket boosters. Delayed from February. See our Mission Status Center. [May 17]
May 17, 2012Soyuz • Kobalt
Launch time: 1405 GMT (10:05 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Plesetsk Cosmodrome, Russia
A Soyuz rocket launched a Kobalt optical reconnaissance satellite for the Russian ministry of defense. Read our full story. [May 17]
May 15, 2012Ariane 5 • JCSAT 13 & Vinasat 2
Launch time: 2213 GMT (6:13 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: ELA-3, Kourou, French Guiana
Arianespace used an Ariane 5 ECA rocket, designated VA206, to launch the JCSAT 13 and Vinasat 2 communications satellites. JCSAT 13 will provide communications and television broadcast services to Japan. Vinasat 2 is Vietnam’s second communications satellite. See our Mission Status Center. [May 15]
May 14/15, 2012Soyuz • ISS 30S
Launch time: 0301 GMT on 15th (11:01 p.m. EDT on 14th)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the manned Soyuz spacecraft to the International Space Station with members of the next Expedition crew. The capsule will remain at the station for about six months, providing an escape pod for the crew. Delayed from March 30 replace descent module. See our Mission Status Center. [May 15]
May 10, 2012Long March 4B • Yaogan
Launch time: 0706 GMT (3:06 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Taiyuan, China
A Long March 4B rocket launched the Yaogan 14 satellite for the Chinese military. Read our full story. [May 10]
May 6, 2012Long March 2D • Tianhui 1B
Launch time: 0710 GMT (3:10 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Jiuquan, China
A Chinese Long March 2D rocket launched a Tianhui land survey and mapping satellite for the Chinese government. Read our full story. [May 6]
May 4, 2012Atlas 5 • AEHF 2
Launch time: 1842 GMT (2:42 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-41, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
The United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket (AV-031) launched the second Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) satellite. Built by Lockheed Martin, this U.S. military spacecraft will provide highly-secure communications. The rocket flew in the 531 vehicle configuration with a five-meter fairing, three solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. Delayed from February 2011 due to orbit-raising delays with AEHF 1. Moved up from May 5. Scrubbed on May 3 by interstage helium purge issue. See our Mission Status Center. [May 4]
April 29, 2012Long March 3B • Beidou
Launch time: 2050 GMT (4:50 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Xichang, China
A Chinese Long March rocket launched two Beidou navigation satellites for the Chinese government. It was the first tandem launch of two Beidou satellites on a single rocket. Read our full story. [April 29]
April 25/26, 2012PSLV • RISAT 1
Launch time: 0017 GMT on 26th (8:17 p.m. EDT on 25th)
Launch site: Satish Dhawan Space Center, Sriharikota, India
India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) launched the RISAT 1 Earth observation satellite. RISAT 1 carries a radar payload for all-weather, day-and-night observations for national security and environmental applications. Delayed from January, March, April 20, and April 26. Moved forward from April 28. Read our full story. [April 25]
April 23, 2012Proton • Yahsat 1B
Launch time: 2218 GMT (6:18 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
An International Launch Services Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the Yahsat 1B satellite. Yahsat 1B will provide commercial and government services to the Middle East, Africa, Europe and Southwest Asia for Al Yah Satellite Communications Co. of Abu Dhabi. Delayed from Feb. 17. See our Mission Status Center. [April 23]
April 20, 2012Soyuz • Progress 47P
Launch time: 1250 GMT (8:50 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket launched the 47th Progress cargo delivery ship to the International Space Station. Moved up from April 25. Read our full story. [April 20]
April 12, 2012Unha 3 • Kwangmyongsong 3
Launch time: 2239 GMT (6:39 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: Sohae Satellite Launch Center, North Korea
A North Korean Unha 3 rocket launched from the Tongchang-ri launch base. North Korea claimed the failed launch would carry an Earth observation satellite. Read our full story. [April 12]
April 3, 2012Delta 4 • NROL-25
Launch time: 2312:57 GMT (4:12:57 p.m. local; 7:12:57 p.m. EDT)
Launch site: SLC-6, Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
The United Launch Alliance Delta 4 rocket launched a classified payload for the National Reconnaissance Office, the U.S. government agency that develops and owns spy satellites. The rocket flew in the Medium+ (5,2) configuration with two solid rocket boosters. Delayed from March 29, March 30 and April 2. See our Mission Status Center. [March 31]
March 31, 2012Long March 3B • Apstar 7
Launch time: 1027 GMT (6:27 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Xichang, China
A Chinese Long March 3B rocket launched the Apstar 7 communications satellite for APT Satellite Co. Ltd. of Hong Kong. The rocket flew in the Long March 3B/E configuration with an enlarged first stage and liquid-fueled strap-on boosters. Read our full story. [March 31]
March 30, 2012Proton • Oko
Launch time: 0549 GMT (1:49 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Proton rocket with a Block DM upper stage deployed an Oko early warning satellite. Read our full story. [March 30]
March 25, 2012Proton • Intelsat 22
Launch time: 1210 GMT (8:10 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
An International Launch Services Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the Intelsat 22 satellite to provide C-band and Ku-band communications services over Africa, Asia, Europe and the Middle East. Intelsat 22 also carries a hosted UHF payload for the Australian Defence Force. Moved up from March 27. See our Mission Status Center. [March 25]
March 23, 2012Ariane 5 • ATV 3
Launch time: 0434 GMT (12:34 a.m. EDT)
Launch site: ELA-3, Kourou, French Guiana
Arianespace used an Ariane 5 ES rocket, designated VA205, to launch the European Space Agency’s third Automated Transfer Vehicle, named Edoardo Amaldi. The ATV is a cargo-carrying spacecraft to deliver supplies and equipment to the orbiting International Space Station. Delayed from March 7 and March 9. Docking to space station is planned for March 28. See our Mission Status Center. [March 23]
Feb. 24, 2012Atlas 5 • MUOS 1
Launch time: 2215 GMT (5:15 p.m. EST)
Launch site: SLC-41, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
The United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket (AV-030) launched the first Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) satellite for the U.S. Navy. Built by Lockheed Martin, this U.S. military spacecraft will provide narrowband tactical communications designed to significantly improve ground communications for U.S. forces on the move. The rocket flew in the 551 vehicle configuration with a five-meter fairing, five solid rocket boosters and a single-engine Centaur upper stage. Scrubbed on Feb. 16 by upper level winds. Scrubbed on Feb. 17 by weather. Delayed from Feb. 22. See our Mission Status Center. [Feb. 24]
Feb. 24, 2012Long March 3C • Beidou
Launch time: 1612 GMT (11:12 a.m. EST)
Launch site: Xichang, China
A Long March 3C rocket launched a Beidou navigation satellite for the Chinese government. Read our full story. [Feb. 24]
Feb. 14, 2012Proton • SES 4
Launch time: 1936 GMT (2:36 p.m. EST)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
An International Launch Services Proton rocket with a Breeze M upper stage deployed the SES 4 satellite to provide telecommunications services over the Americas, Africa, Europe and the Middle East. Delayed from November. Moved up from Dec. 28. Scrubbed by avionics issue on Dec. 26. Scrubbed from Jan. 28 by wiring problem. See our Mission Status Center. [Feb. 14]
Feb. 13, 2012Vega • LARES
Launch time: 1000 GMT (5:00 a.m. EST)
Launch site: ZLV, Kourou, French Guiana
The European Vega rocket, designated VV01, launched on its first flight with the Laser Relativity Satellite, or LARES, a small spacecraft named ALMASat 1, and nine CubeSat payloads. Delayed from 2010, mid-2011 and October. Delayed again from Jan. 26 and Feb. 9. See our Mission Status Center. [Feb. 13]
Feb. 2/3, 2012Safir • Navid
Launch time: Approx. 0004 GMT on 3rd (7:04 p.m. EST on 2nd)
Launch site: Semnan, Iran
A Safir rocket orbited Iran’s Navid observation satellite in the country’s third successful space launch. Read our full story. [Feb. 3]
Jan. 25, 2012Soyuz • Progress 46P
Launch time: 2306 GMT (6:06 p.m. EST)
Launch site: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
A Russian government Soyuz rocket will launch the 46th Progress cargo delivery ship to the International Space Station. Delayed from Dec. 27. Read our full story. [Jan. 25]
Jan. 19/20, 2012Delta 4 • WGS 4
Launch time: 0038 GMT on 20th (7:38 p.m. EST on 19th)
Launch site: SLC-37B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
The United Launch Alliance Delta 4 rocket launched the fourth Wideband Global SATCOM spacecraft, formerly known as the Wideband Gapfiller Satellite. Built by Boeing, this geostationary communications spacecraft will serve U.S. military forces. The rocket flew in the Medium+ (5,4) configuration with four solid rocket boosters. Delayed from Nov. 17 and Dec. 8. Read our Mission Status Center. [Jan. 19]
Jan. 12/13, 2012Long March 3A • Fengyun 2F
Launch time: 0056 GMT on 13th (7:56 p.m. EST on 12th)
Launch site: Xichang, China
A Chinese Long March 3A rocket launched the Fengyun 2F geostationary weather satellite. Read our full story. [Jan. 9]
Jan. 8/9, 2012Long March 4B • Ziyuan 3
Launch time: 0317 GMT on 9th (10:17 p.m. on 8th)
Launch site: Taiyuan, China
A Chinese Long March 4B rocket launched the Ziyuan 3 high-resolution remote sensing satellite. The mission also orbited the VesselSat 2 asset-tracking communications satellite for Orbcomm Inc. Read our full story. [Jan. 9]