New Earth-imaging Satellite Tyche Launched by Ministry of Defence

The UK military has successfully launched its inaugural satellite, Tyche, designed to capture daytime images and videos of the Earth’s surface. The satellite, which will aid military operations and monitor environmental disasters, was launched on Friday from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) emphasized the satellite's role in supporting climate change tracking and mapping information development, marking a significant advancement in the UK's space capabilities. Tyche, comparable in size to a washing machine, was developed under a £22 million contract with Surrey Satellites Technology Limited (SSTL) and is the first satellite fully owned by the MoD. The MoD highlighted the importance of space in military operations, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. SSTL confirmed the successful reception of signals from Tyche shortly after its launch, indicating a smooth deployment as part of the Transporter 11 mission. Over its five-year lifespan, the 150kg satellite will provide critical imagery to support the UK armed forces and is the first in a planned constellation under the MoD's space-based Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) programme. Maria Eagle, Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, stated that Tyche represents the UK's commitment to innovation in science and technology, fostering growth and high-skilled jobs within the sector. UK Space Commander Major General Paul Tedman praised the launch as a significant achievement for UK space capabilities, while Defence Equipment and Support Space Team Leader Paul Russell described the project as an exciting journey, celebrating Tyche as a pivotal development in the UK's military satellite capabilities.