Space Force Readying Launch Of AFRL Cislunar SSA Satellite

The U.S. Space Force is preparing to launch a new satellite called Oracle-M, designed to track objects in cislunar space—the region between Earth and the Moon. The satellite, led by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) in partnership with Space Systems Command (SSC), could launch by the end of 2026. However, the schedule is under review because it was planned to fly on a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Vulcan rocket, which is currently grounded for National Security Space Launch missions due to a recent solid rocket motor issue. Oracle-M has completed major development milestones, including engine testing, ground system checks, and operational rehearsals. The spacecraft is now in storage at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico while awaiting launch vehicle readiness. It is manifested on the USSF-12 mission, where it will fly alongside a classified primary payload. Previously known as Defense Deep Space Sentinel, the mission aims to improve space domain awareness in cislunar space. It will demonstrate advanced tracking, trajectory estimation, navigation, communications, and cloud-based ground operations using commercial systems. The satellite includes a bus from Blue Canyon Technologies (part of RTX), solar arrays from Redwire, and a propulsion system from Astra. Growing interest in cislunar space stems from both civil and military objectives. Alongside NASA’s Artemis Moon missions, the U.S. government views the region as strategically important for national security. Officials emphasize the need to monitor this area to prevent potential military advantages by other nations. Oracle-M is expected to play a key role in strengthening U.S. awareness and operations beyond Earth orbit.