Quantum Space is targeting a mid-2026 launch for its inaugural Ranger spacecraft, aiming to showcase its potential for national security endeavors. The company revealed on October 22nd that the Ranger Prime mission is slated for a June 2026 liftoff.
This mission, utilizing Quantum Space’s Ranger 500 bus, will assess the spacecraft's performance and its "remote proximity targeting operations." The announcement followed a successful manufacturing readiness review, paving the way for production to commence.
“With the manufacturing readiness review complete, our team will begin spacecraft assembly and testing ahead of shipment to the launch services contractor in early 2026,” stated Phil Bracken, Quantum Space’s chief technology officer. The launch provider remains undisclosed, though the mission is scheduled to launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
The development of the Ranger line began several years ago, initially focusing on cislunar applications, such as serving as a transfer vehicle in cislunar space and use cases like space situational awareness and communications. More recently, the focus has shifted towards defense applications, including possible roles in the Golden Dome missile defense initiative.
In June, Quantum Space secured $40 million to finance Ranger’s development, touting the spacecraft's high maneuverability and ability to support missile-tracking sensors or space-based interceptors. “Our Ranger Space Superiority Vehicle fleet, with its game-changing propulsion capability and payload capacity, can form the backbone of America’s Golden Dome space element,” said Richard Matlock, Quantum Space’s senior vice president for national security space programs.
Beyond defense, Quantum Space envisions commercial applications for Ranger, including satellite life extension. A Ranger spacecraft could dock with a satellite in geostationary orbit and manage maneuvering, potentially extending its operational lifespan by three to five years.
To bolster Ranger development, Quantum Space announced on September 22nd its acquisition of the multi-mode propulsion assets of Phase Four, a satellite propulsion company. This technology allows the system to function as either a chemical thruster for high thrust or an electric thruster for high efficiency. The acquisition also included Phase Four’s integration and test facility in Southern California.
Quantum Space intends to follow the Ranger Prime mission with the first launch of its largest variant, the Ranger 2000, in late 2026.