From PCMAG · Jon Martindale · · 1m 20s
Air Force Tests SpaceX Rocket for Supply Deliveries
US Air Force uses SpaceX rocket to test emergency supply deliveries to remote areas.
In brief
US Air Force uses SpaceX rocket to test emergency supply deliveries to remote areas. US Air Force successfully tested SpaceX's Starfall cargo pod for delivering emergency supplies to remote locations. Originally reported by PCMAG.
US Air Force tests SpaceX rocket
The United States Air Force Research Laboratory recently tested SpaceX's Starfall orbital cargo delivery pod, successfully delivering it to a deployment location in the Pacific Ocean.
Pod includes emergency supplies
The pod included emergency survival gear, medical equipment, batteries, and a SATCom-enabled tracker to test point-to-point rocket deliveries.
Test launched from Cape Canaveral
The test launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on Oct. 20 with researchers monitoring temperature, shock, vibration, and radiation effects.
System can handle tens of tons
The Rocket Cargo system can potentially handle tens of tons per launch, allowing cargo delivery anywhere in the world.
Potential UNI-PAC III life raft delivery
Researchers are discussing alternative payloads, such as delivering a UNI-PAC III life raft, though viability remains uncertain.
Military and emergency response uses
The system could also be used for rapid emergency responses, battling natural disasters, and responding to chemical or biological hazards.
Collaborating with commercial partners
The AFRL is now working with SpaceX, Blue Origin, Rocket Lab, Sierra Space, Anduril, Inversion Space, and Outpost Space for future testing and deployment.
At a glance
US Air Force successfully tested SpaceX's Starfall cargo pod for delivering emergency supplies to remote locations.
