Enlarge / A Falcon 9 rocket launched a GPS III satellite in November 2020. Then, the same first stage launched another GPS III satellite in June 2021. (credit: Trevor Mahlmann)
In June, a previously flown Falcon 9 booster lofted a new-generation Global Positioning Satellite for the US Space Force. This marked a watershed moment with regard to the US military and the concept of reusable rockets, as the particular Space Force entrusted a satellite worth about half a billion dollars to the new technology.
Now, thanks to a recent news release from the US Space Force, we have the little more insight into why the Space Force is leaning into reusable rockets and other technology from innovative companies such as SpaceX.
Using a new refurbished booster—this particular first stage had launched a GPS 3 satellite in November 2020—did save the Space Force money. By agreeing to launch two of its new GPS III satellites on used rockets, essentially, the US government pocketed $52 million in cost savings. This was certainly welcome, Space Force officials said, and it’s nice to have typically the potential to increase launch tempo.
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