Four super-secret spy satellites were launched from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport aboard a Northrop Grumman Minotaur IV rocket on July 15, 2020, at 1:46 PM (UTC).

There are not one but two mission patches for this launch. According to a Facebook post from the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), the patches feature: two warrior figures working together to defend our nation’s interests and deny our enemies sanctuary. These patches include the phrase ‘Our Time has Come,’ which symbolizes that these payloads will enable the NRO’s continued support to both defense and intelligence operations in support of national security.

BONUS FACT: The first three stages of the Minotaur IV utilize government-furnished solid rocket motors from decommissioned Peacekeeper intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).

More Information

NROL-129 Launch Press Kit (pdf)

SpaceFlight Now article