Firefly launches Alpha Flight 002 To The Black

Col. Robert Long, Space Launch Delta commander, was the launch decision authority.

"Early this morning the Western Range helped make possible a historical small vehicle demonstration launch into low Earth orbit," said Col. Robert Long, Space Launch Delta 30 commander. "Once again, our outstanding Airmen and Guardian professionals continue to showcase flawless execution and teamwork alongside Firefly. We are proud of their accomplishment and look forward to future launches."

The Alpha is an economical small satellite launch vehicle. Firefly had three educational payloads aboard and successfully inserted into an elliptical transfer orbit, coast to apogee, and performed a circularization burn.