// communications · 2026

SPARCS

NASA-funded small satellite space telescope. SPARCS was launched on January 11, 2026 aboard a Falcon 9 from Vandenberg. Latest status in GCAT: in orbit.

COSPAR 2026-004VNORAD 67382Canada

Identity

Name in GCAT: Aether-11
Common name: SPARCS
Payload designation: Kepler 2B-9
International designator: 2026-004V
NORAD catalog number: 67382
GCAT identifier: S67382

Mission

Mission type: Communications
Use: Commercial
Program: Kepler
Owner: Kepler Comms
Country: Canada
Builder: Kepler Communications Inc.
Platform (bus): Kepler Gen2B

Launch

Date: January 11, 2026 · 13:44 UTC
Launch record: 2026-004Success
Rocket: Falcon 9
Spaceport: Vandenberg · pad SLC4E

Orbit and fate

Orbit class (GCAT): LEO/S
Perigee: 602 km
Apogee: 611 km
Inclination: 97.80°
Status: In orbit
Last known active: Jan 11, 2026

Size

Mass: 300 kg
Dry mass: 300 kg
Length: 1.0 m
Diameter: 1.50 m
Span: 6.0 m

Launched together

Umbra 12Radar imaging · Umbra Labs PandoraRadar imaging · RNAF BlackCATCommunications · Kepler Comms Capella 19Radar imaging · Capella Space Capella 18Radar imaging · Capella Space

Source: GCAT payload, deep-space and lander catalogs, Jonathan C. McDowell (CC BY 4.0); Wikidata Q60847539 (CC0).