The next Boeing Delta II launch will complete the launch of the 52-bird LEO communications network being developed by Globalstar.
The launch, scheduled for 3:54 p.m. EST, Feb. 8 from Space Launch Complex 17B at Cape Canaveral Air Station, Fla., will send four spares into orbit to join the 48 main satellites that comprise the Globalstar global mobile satellite network. There is a 30-minute launch window. With its satellite infrastructure now complete, Globalstar is focusing on launching worldwide service.
The launch will be the 276th for the Delta family of expendable launch vehicles and the first Delta mission in 2000.
“Delta II rockets have carried 24 Globalstar satellites into orbit,” said Darryl Van Dorn, Boeing director for NASA and Delta II commercial programs. “We are proud of our partnership with Space Systems/Loral and Globalstar,” he added.
