Overview
- A software glitch in the Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) algorithm caused a Lockheed Martin satellite to enter the wrong orbit after a December launch.
- Despite the mishap, Lockheed Martin's technology demonstration satellite completed its primary mission objectives in a shortened timeline.
- Firefly Aerospace has implemented corrective actions and process changes to prevent similar issues in future launches.
- The Alpha rocket, responsible for the error, is expected to be ready for its next launch in the coming months.
- This incident marks the fourth orbital mission for Firefly's Alpha rocket, with previous launches experiencing mixed success.