Lockheed Satellite's Short-Lived Space Safari Due to Firefly Software Snafu

A software error in Firefly Aerospace's Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) software algorithm caused Lockheed Martin's Electronic Steerable Antenna (ESA) demonstrator to be left in the wrong orbit following a botched Alpha launch. Despite the setback, Lockheed's primary mission objectives were completed, demonstrating faster on-orbit sensor calibration. Firefly is working on fixing the software issue and updating its processes to ensure no repeat of the problem, with plans for Alpha to fly again in the coming months.