Lockheed Martin is preparing to launch its latest self-funded technology demonstration, the LM 400, with a planned launch date no earlier than March 15. The demo mission, which will be launched aboard Firefly Aerospace’s Alpha rocket, comes after a successful static fire test.
Arriving in California on March 1, the satellite is now undergoing pre-launch payload processing at Astrotech Space Operations. The LM 400 satellite is specifically designed to showcase Lockheed Martin’s efforts in reducing risk and advancing the design of its mid-sized, multi-mission LM 400 satellite bus, while also demonstrating its operational capabilities in orbit for potential customers. This mission will also offer valuable training for the U.S. Space Force’s Space Safari Responsive Space program and the Commercial Augmentation Space Reserve (CASR).
Jeff Schrader, Lockheed Martin’s Vice President of Strategy and Business Development for Space, said, “As demand for more resilient and widespread space architectures grows, we’ve invested in this LM 400 demonstration to show relevant capabilities in orbit for our customers.” He added, “We are excited to collaborate with Firefly and enhance the technical and manufacturing readiness of the LM 400 platform.”
The LM 400 is Lockheed Martin’s most adaptable satellite platform, capable of supporting a wide range of missions for military, commercial, and civil customers. It can carry high-power payloads such as remote sensing, communications, imaging, and radar, and can operate in any orbit. The LM 400 is already under contract for various missions.
Lockheed Martin is a global leader in defense technology, dedicated to advancing scientific discovery and providing innovative solutions. The company’s comprehensive security and mission solutions are designed to ensure the continued readiness and technological superiority of its customers.
