Orbital ATK, a global leader in aerospace and defense technologies, contributed to the successful launch of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket as it lifted off Saturday from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, carrying the first Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS-1) spacecraft. Orbital ATK’s contributions to the Delta II include nine Graphite Epoxy Motors (GEM 40) and a large composite fairing for the rocket. This event marks the penultimate launch of the Delta II rocket. It is also the last launch to use nine GEM 40 motors.
In addition to the GEM 40 motors, Orbital ATK manufactured the composite 10-foot diameter payload fairing, which encapsulates and protects the payload, at its facility in Iuka, Mississippi.
Orbital ATK Supports Launch of ULA's Delta II Rocket
Published : May 15, 2026
