ULA Considers Dummy Payload For Next Vulcan Launch As Dream Chaser Faces Delays

The maiden flight of United Launch Alliance's (ULA) next-generation Vulcan rocket might not feature its originally planned payload, Sierra Space's Dream Chaser spaceplane. According to a report from SpaceNews citing a defense official, the Pentagon is mulling allowing ULA to use a mass simulator – essentially a dummy payload – for its Vulcan Cert 2.0 (Certification 2.0) mission if Dream Chaser isn't ready by year's end.

ULA successfully launched Vulcan on its maiden flight in January 2024. However, a second successful mission with a substantial payload is necessary for the rocket to achieve certification for carrying national security satellites for the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD).

While ULA maintains confidence in launching Dream Chaser by October, the Pentagon reportedly has concerns about potential delays. These concerns stem from a desire to see Vulcan operational and certified as soon as possible to address the needs of the military.

"There are concerns at high levels about ULA's ability to get the Vulcan rocket certified and flying at the rate needed to meet its contractual obligations," an unnamed defense official told SpaceNews.

This potential switch to a dummy payload highlights the tightrope walk ULA is navigating. The company is under pressure to demonstrate Vulcan's capabilities for the DoD while ensuring Dream Chaser remains on track for its own crucial missions.

"ULA could fly a mass simulator on its next Vulcan Centaur rocket flight if its planned payload, Sierra Space's Dream Chaser, is not ready by year's end," the SpaceNews report states.

The use of a mass simulator wouldn't be without precedent. Dummy payloads are often used in initial test flights to simulate the weight and handling characteristics of the actual payload that will be flown in the future.

Despite the potential switch, ULA reportedly remains confident in Dream Chaser's readiness. "ULA maintains confidence that it will launch Sierra Space's Dream Chaser space plane by October," according to SpaceNews.

The coming months will be crucial for both ULA and Sierra Space. A successful Dream Chaser launch would solidify Vulcan's capabilities and mark a significant milestone for both companies. However, a delay in Dream Chaser's development could force ULA to utilize a dummy payload, potentially pushing back the Vulcan certification timeline.

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