# Firefly Eclipse

> proposed two-stage orbital launch vehicle

**Wikidata**: [Q108399251](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108399251)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eclipse_(rocket))  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/firefly-eclipse

## Summary
The Firefly Eclipse is a proposed two-stage medium-lift orbital launch vehicle developed by Firefly Aerospace and Northrop Grumman Space Systems. Designed for partial reusability, it aims to deliver up to 16,300 kg to low Earth orbit (LEO) and replace the Antares rocket. Its first launch is expected in 2026.

## Key Facts
- **Height**: 55.7 metres  
- **Diameter**: 5.4 metres (at payload fairing)  
- **Payload Capacity**:  
  - 16,300 kg to Low Earth Orbit (LEO)  
  - 3,200 kg to Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO)  
  - 2,300 kg to Trans-Lunar Injection (TLI)  
- **Stages**: Two-stage-to-orbit design  
- **Propulsion**: RP-1 / Liquid Oxygen  
- **Reusable**: Classified as a reusable launch vehicle  
- **Service Entry**: Expected 2026  
- **Manufacturer**: Firefly Aerospace, Northrop Grumman Space Systems  
- **Launch Sites**: Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport LP-0A, Vandenberg SLC-2W, Cape Canaveral SLC-20  
- **Replaces**: Antares  

## FAQs
### Q: What is the Firefly Eclipse?
A: The Firefly Eclipse is a proposed two-stage medium-lift orbital launch vehicle designed for partial reuse. It is being developed by Firefly Aerospace and Northrop Grumman Space Systems.

### Q: When will the Firefly Eclipse launch?
A: The Firefly Eclipse is expected to enter service in 2026.

### Q: How much can the Firefly Eclipse carry?
A: It can carry up to 16,300 kg to low Earth orbit, 3,200 kg to geostationary transfer orbit, and 2,300 kg to trans-lunar injection.

## Why It Matters
The Firefly Eclipse represents a next-generation medium-lift launch system with enhanced payload capacity and reusability features. As a successor to the Antares rocket, it plays a strategic role in supporting future U.S. government and commercial satellite deployments. With planned operations from multiple launch sites across the U.S., it enhances flexibility and access to space. Its development reflects broader industry trends toward cost efficiency and sustainable spaceflight infrastructure.

## Notable For
- Being a partially reusable, two-stage medium-lift vehicle  
- Replacing the legacy Antares rocket  
- Supporting missions to LEO, GTO, and TLI  
- Featuring multi-site operational capability  
- Developed through collaboration between Firefly Aerospace and Northrop Grumman  

## Body

### Overview
The Firefly Eclipse is a proposed medium-lift launch vehicle under development by Firefly Aerospace in partnership with Northrop Grumman Space Systems. It is designed to support national security, civil, and commercial space missions.

### Design & Specifications
- **Height**: 55.7 m  
- **Diameter**: 5.4 m (payload fairing)  
- **Stages**: Two-stage configuration  
- **Fuel Type**: RP-1 and liquid oxygen  
- **Classifications**:
  - Reusable launch vehicle  
  - Medium-lift launch vehicle  
  - Two-stage-to-orbit  

### Payload Performance
- **Low Earth Orbit (LEO)**: Up to 16,300 kg  
- **Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO)**: Up to 3,200 kg  
- **Trans-Lunar Injection (TLI)**: Up to 2,300 kg  

### Development & Timeline
- **Expected Service Entry**: 2026  
- **Predecessor**: Antares  
- **Development Partners**: Firefly Aerospace, Northrop Grumman Space Systems  

### Launch Infrastructure
Planned launch sites include:
- Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport Launch Pad 0A (NASA Wallops)  
- Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 2 West  
- Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 20  

### Aliases
Also known as:
- Medium Launch Vehicle (MLV)  
- Firefly MLV  
- Firefly Beta / β  
- Firefly Medium Launch Vehicle  
- Eclipse  

### Official Resources
- Website: [https://fireflyspace.com/eclipse/](https://fireflyspace.com/eclipse/)  
- Fact Sheet Source: [Northrop Grumman MLV Fact Sheet](https://cdn.northropgrumman.com/-/media/Project/Northrop-Grumman/ngc/space/MLV-Medium-Launch-Vehicle-fact-sheet.pdf)

## References

1. [Source](https://cdn.northropgrumman.com/-/media/Project/Northrop-Grumman/ngc/space/MLV-Medium-Launch-Vehicle-fact-sheet.pdf)