Success
Pegasus XL | Wide Field Infrared Explorer (WIRE)
Orbital Sciences Corporation(OSC)Commercial
Pegasus XL
Friday, March 5, 1999 at 2:56 AM
Mission details
Orbital Attempt
#4,300
OSC Mission
#29
Pad Launch
#12
Location Launch
#25
Designator
1999-011
Launch Window
NET
Mar 5, 1999, 2:56 AM
Schedule Changes
1 update
Air launch to orbit
Total Launches
51
Total Landings
0
Coordinates
34.7328, -120.5681
Pegasus XL Specs
The Pegasus is an air-launched rocket developed by Orbital Sciences Corporation (now part of Northrop Grumman Innovation Systems). Capable of carrying small payloads of up to 443 kilograms (977 lb) into low Earth orbit, the vehicle consists of three solid propellant stages and an optional monopropellant fourth stage. Pegasus is released from its carrier aircraft at approximately 40,000 ft (12,000 m), and its first stage has a wing and a tail to provide lift and attitude control while in the atmosphere.
Length
17.6 m
Diameter
1.27 m
Launch Mass
23 t
Thrust
580 kN
LEO Capacity
443 kg
GTO Capacity
0 kg
Launch Cost
$40M
Reusable
No
Maiden Flight
1994
Fastest Turnaround
6d 6h
Total Launches
31
Successful
28
Failed
3
Consecutive Success
25
Maiden flight: Jun 27, 1994
