SpaceX Launches Cosmo-SkyMed Satellite for Italy from California

SpaceX successfully launched the Cosmo-SkyMed Second Generation Flight Model 3 (CSG-FM3) on December 28, 2023, from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The mission marked a significant achievement for the Italian government, as the CSG-FM3 is a dual-use Earth observation satellite designed for both civilian and military applications.

The CSG-FM3 satellite, weighing approximately 1,700 kg (3,748 lb), represents the third of four planned satellites in the Cosmo-SkyMed constellation. These satellites are intended to operate in low Earth orbit, providing crucial data for various applications, including environmental monitoring and disaster management.

SpaceX targeted liftoff at 18:09 PST (21:09 EST / 02:09 UTC) from Space Launch Complex 4 East. The Falcon 9 rocket followed a southerly trajectory after launch, leading to the deployment of the satellite roughly 17 minutes into its ascent. The rocket’s booster, designated B1081, successfully returned to Landing Zone 4 about 8.5 minutes post-launch, marking its 21st flight and contributing to the impressive tally of 554 Falcon booster landings to date.

The launch had initially been scheduled for December 27 but faced delays due to a hydraulic issue with the launch pad’s hold down clamps. A subsequent attempt on December 28 was delayed as SpaceX required additional time to resolve the problem.

In a statement on social media, Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto highlighted the significance of the Cosmo-SkyMed program, stating, “It is a model of public-private synergy that shows how innovation, research, and development can integrate with security and defense needs, generating strategic value for the Country.”

The CSG-FM3 satellite is designed for a lifespan of five years and will operate in a circular Sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of 620 km (385 mi). Utilizing synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology in the X-band, the satellite can capture images regardless of weather conditions or time of day. The project receives funding from both the Italian Space Agency and the Ministry of Defense, emphasizing the collaboration between governmental bodies and industry.

Before the launch of the CSG-FM3, the Cosmo-SkyMed constellation included four operational satellites: two first-generation and two second-generation models, all manufactured by Thales Alenia Space. With the successful deployment of CSG-FM3, Italy continues to strengthen its capabilities in Earth observation, contributing valuable data for various sectors, including agriculture, forestry, and disaster response.

As SpaceX embarks on this mission, the partnership between the Italian government and the aerospace industry illustrates the potential of space technology in addressing both civil and military needs, enhancing national security while fostering innovation.