Weather Forecast Shows 95% 'Go' for Vulcan Launch from Cape Canaveral

United Launch Alliance's Vulcan rocket set to deliver national security spacecraft to geosynchronous orbit for U.S. Space Force

Feb. 11, 2026 at 7:47pm

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The U.S. Space Force's Space Launch Delta 45 weather squadron and Launch Weather Officer Rachel have forecasted a 95% chance of favorable weather conditions for the upcoming launch of a United Launch Alliance Vulcan rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida. The Vulcan rocket will deliver national security spacecraft directly to geosynchronous orbit for the U.S. Space Force Space Systems Command on the USSF-87 mission.

Why it matters

This launch marks an important milestone for the U.S. Space Force as it continues to expand its capabilities in delivering national security payloads to orbit. The Vulcan rocket's ability to directly reach geosynchronous orbit is a significant technological advancement that will enhance the Space Force's surveillance and communications capabilities.

The details

The Vulcan rocket, developed by United Launch Alliance, is designed to deliver payloads directly to geosynchronous orbit, which is a crucial orbit for national security satellites. This mission, designated USSF-87, will see the Vulcan rocket transport national security spacecraft for the U.S. Space Force Space Systems Command.

  • The launch is scheduled for Thursday, February 13, 2026.

The players

United Launch Alliance (ULA)

A joint venture between Lockheed Martin and Boeing that develops and operates launch vehicles, including the Vulcan rocket.

U.S. Space Force Space Systems Command

The command responsible for the development, acquisition, and operation of space systems for the U.S. Space Force.

Rachel

The Launch Weather Officer from the Space Force's Space Launch Delta 45 weather squadron.

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What they’re saying

“The forecast from the Space Force's Space Launch Delta 45 weather squadron and Launch Weather Officer Rachel shows a 95% chance of favorable weather conditions for the Vulcan launch.”

— Rachel, Launch Weather Officer

What’s next

The Vulcan rocket is scheduled to lift off from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on Thursday, February 13, 2026, at 8:00 PM EST.

The takeaway

This Vulcan launch represents a significant step forward for the U.S. Space Force's ability to deliver national security payloads to the critical geosynchronous orbit, enhancing the country's space-based surveillance and communications capabilities.