Space Launch Delta 45

Published May 29, 2026 Space Launch Delta 45 Less than 12 hours after responding to a launch vehicle anomaly at Space Launch Complex 36, Space Launch Delta 45 successfully supported a SpaceX Falcon 9 launch from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, demonstrating the resilience, responsiveness, and mission readiness of the Eastern Range. On May 28, 2026, at approximately 9:00 p.m., a Blue Origin New Glenn rocket experienced an anomaly during a hot fire test.

Published May 21, 2026 By Gregory B. Harland Space Launch Delta 45 Space Launch Delta 45 Airmen and Guardians at Patrick Space Force Base played a key role in the rapid rescue of 11 Bahamian adults who survived the ditching of a Beechcraft King Air twin-engine turboprop aircraft in the Atlantic Ocean on May 12, 2026. The operation showcased seamless collaboration among U.S. military services, federal agencies and local partners.

Published May 20, 2026 By 1st Lt. Sarah Meginnes Natalie R. Riedel, a member of the Senior Executive Service and executive director of Space Systems Command, visited Space Launch Delta 45, the world’s busiest spaceport, May 7-8 to review base infrastructure and discuss ongoing efforts to accelerate launch capabilities. “The magnitude of development at SLD 45 is incredible,” said Riedel.

Published April 23, 2026 By 1st Lt. Sarah Meginnes Space Launch Delta 45 The Honorable Michael J. Borders, assistant secretary of the Air Force for energy, installations and environment, visited Space Launch Delta 45 and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on April 16, 2026. The visit featured a tour of key infrastructure at CCSFS and important projects underway to expand capacity on the Eastern Range, commonly referred to as the Eastern Spaceport.

For Master Sgt. Eric Beckham, leadership in vehicle management is not about engines or equipment-it's about people. As the senior noncommissioned officer overseeing the 45th Vehicle Management Flight, Beckham ensures his team remains ready so they can execute the mission without hesitation. "My role is to ensure the welfare, readiness and morale of the Vehicle Management Team is at its peak, so that they may perform their duties," Beckham said.

BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. - Paper rockets soared across a local school field as elementary students put their engineering skills to the test, guided by Guardians who brought the mission of space to life through hands-on STEM outreach. The event, led by Space Systems Command in partnership with Space Launch Delta 45 and Brevard Public Schools, connected students directly with the men and women who help execute America's space launch mission along the Space Coast.

For U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Anthony Utreras De Souza, Space Launch Delta 45 noncommissioned officer in charge of occupational safety, the mission is simple: "Make sure everybody gets home safe." That mindset earned him recognition as Space Systems Command's Safety NCO of the Year - an accomplishment that reflects not only individual excellence, but the measurable impact of a proactive safety culture across the installation.

The 45th Security Forces Squadron is conducting a Base Defense Field Training Exercise planned from approximately 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., on May 22, 2026, at the Malabar Annex, in Palm Bay, Florida. During the training exercise, the unit plans to utilize assets, which will create a noise similar to small explosions through the use of a Ground Burst Simulatorand will utilize smoke grenades that will create clouds of green-colored smoke. Residents should not be alarmed.

Earlier this year, a member of Space Launch Delta 45 was able to take part in a unique opportunity to assist in the accounting of missing personnel from the Vietnam War. During a mission lasting from mid May to late June of 2025, U.S. Air Force Technical Sergeant Brian Vosper, 45th Civil Engineer Squadron explosive ordnance disposal technician, went to Vietnam as part of a Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency team.

Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Fla.-He's armored, adventurous, and about to go where no armadillo has gone before. Rupert the Space Armadillo, beloved mascot of the Cape Canaveral Space Force Museum, is preparing for liftoff aboard NASA's upcoming Crew-11 mission. More than just a quirky character, Rupert represents exploration, history, and imagination-qualities deeply rooted in the legacy of Florida's Space Coast. "This is huge," said Mr. Jamie Draper, CCSFS Museum Director.