Space Systems Command launches next-gen WSF-M weather satellite with SpaceX

Space Systems Command launches next-gen WSF-M weather satellite with SpaceX
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Apr 11, 2024

Today, at 7:25 a.m. PDT, the Space Systems Command (SSC) in collaboration with its mission partners, achieved the successful launch of the USSF-62 Weather System Follow-on - Microwave (WSF-M) satellite. The launch was conducted using a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 4 (SLC-4) at Vandenberg Space Force Base, California. This event marks a significant advancement in the U.S. Space Force's capabilities by initiating the deployment of a new generation of environmental monitoring satellites.

Col. Robert Davis, program executive officer at SSC Space Sensing, commented on the launch, stating, "The successful launch of SSC's WSF-M satellite is a tremendous accomplishment for the entire team and marks a critical moment in the U.S. Space Force's space-based environmental monitoring mission. We are strategically positioned to ensure our warfighters have the vital environmental monitoring data necessary for effective mission planning and operations globally."

Approximately 55 minutes post-launch, the SpaceX team confirmed the rocket's flawless performance and the successful separation of the satellite from the rocket's upper stage.

Col. Jim Horne, SSC's Launch Execution Delta senior materiel leader, remarked, "Today's launch was fantastic. Together with our mission partners, we deployed a major asset that enhances capabilities for both the nation and our allies. Launches like USSF-62 are crucial to our national security space strategy, reinforcing our commitment to enhancing our warfighting advantage."

The launch utilized a Falcon 9 booster that had previously been used in two commercial launches, demonstrating SpaceX's commitment to reusability, which has become a standard practice in their launch operations. "The re-use of boosters not only saves on costs but also meets national security standards, offering increased flexibility in managing launch schedules," stated Dr. Walt Lauderdale, SSC Falcon Division chief and deputy mission director.

The WSF-M satellite is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including a passive microwave-imaging radiometer and a hosted, government-furnished energetic-charged particle (ECP) sensor. These instruments are designed to fill critical gaps in the Department of Defense's Space-Based Environmental Monitoring (SBEM) capabilities, such as ocean-surface vector winds and tropical cyclone intensity.

Col. Daniel Visosky, SSC's Environmental and Tactical Surveillance Acquisition Delta senior materiel leader, added, "The WSF-M satellite now in orbit will soon take over critical functions currently served by the legacy Defense Meteorological Satellite Program. With the forthcoming launch of a second WSF-M satellite, we will continue to support these key environmental monitoring capabilities into the 2030s."

Space Systems Command is responsible for managing a $15 billion space acquisition budget and collaborates extensively with joint forces, industry, government agencies, academic institutions, and allies to counter evolving threats. For more information about their initiatives, visit ssc.spaceforce.mil.