The event, held at the Aerospace Corporation in El Segundo, California, aimed to help commercial launch service providers better prepare for involvement in the critical National Security Space Launch (NSSL) program.
Colonel Eric Zarybnisky, program executive officer for Space Systems Command’s (SSC) Assured Access to Space (AATS), described the NSSL program as “our nation’s most reliable source for delivering critical space capabilities to the joint forces when and where needed”.
He emphasised SSC’s aim to foster greater flexibility and agility among commercial partners, with multiple launch vehicles and sites capable of quick turnarounds from requirement to launch.
The event featured updates from key members of the NSSL team, including Lieutenant Colonel Douglas Downs (Phase 3 materiel leader), Major Ryan Watson (Lane 1 technical lead), and Colonel Douglas Pentecost, outgoing deputy program executive officer for AATS. They outlined the latest developments and expectations for interested industry players.
In the afternoon, SSC facilitated one-on-one briefings between its team and emerging launch providers to explore specific capabilities these companies could contribute. Participants also received an overview from Kenneth Roads, the Space Development Agency’s launch program manager.
SSC’s AATS oversees both the National Security Space Launch and Rocket Systems Launch Programs. Currently, three companies – SpaceX, United Launch Alliance, and Blue Origin – hold contracts under NSSL Phase 3 Lane 2, which comprises “no-fail” missions requiring the highest reliability standards.