Witnessing the ULA Vulcan rocket's launch from Florida on Thursday, February 12, 2026, was an awe-inspiring spectacle. The mission, USSF-87, aimed to deploy a satellite to monitor objects in geosynchronous orbit, enhancing the Space Force's situational awareness. However, the highlight of the event was the unexpected light show, with sparks briefly appearing from the solid rocket boosters shortly after liftoff. This phenomenon is currently under review by ULA, with no impact on the mission's success.
The ULA Vulcan rocket, powered by two core BE-4 engines and four side-mounted solid rocket boosters, reached impressive heights in just two and a half minutes. The four solid rocket boosters detached from the core stage, creating a captivating display of four tiny points of light. FLORIDA TODAY photographers captured the moment, observing a flash and sparks from the rocket during its ascent.
This launch was not without precedent. The Vulcan had previously encountered a solid rocket booster mishap during a test flight in October 2024, with a brief spark observed from the side of the rocket. Despite this, the payload successfully reached orbit. The USSF-87 mission, developed by Northrop Grumman, is a Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP) spacecraft, designed to enhance the Space Force's ability to monitor and assess disruptions in geosynchronous orbit, including potential satellite collisions.
ULA's future plans include an increase in launch cadence, with missions ranging from national security to Amazon Leo internet satellites. The company is well-positioned for the future, as stated by interim CEO John Elbon. The next ULA mission is anticipated to launch a batch of Amazon Leo internet satellites atop a Vulcan rocket, while NASA's SpaceX Crew-12 is set to launch from Cape Canaveral on February 13, 2026, marking another significant event in the space exploration calendar.
