SpaceX

Smallsat launch integrator SEOPS has purchased a Falcon 9 launch for a dedicated rideshare mission to geostationary transfer orbit (GTO).

SEOPS announced at Space Tech Expo Europe here Nov. 19 that it signed a contract with SpaceX for the mission, planned for late 2028 from Florida. It is also acquiring capacity on unspecified other SpaceX launches through 2028.

“With the surge demand for access to cislunar space, we’re approaching a pivotal moment where prolific access to GTO is a must,” Chad Brinkley, CEO of SEOPS, said in a statement, describing the contract as a way to “proactively generate the options the market demands” for rideshare missions.

Brinkley said at the conference that the company does not have any firm customers yet for that mission. However, the strong interest SEOPS has seen from commercial and government customers was enough to warrant signing a contract.