Rocketdyne Wins Propulsion Contract for GeoXO Satellites
The propulsion systems will power the satellites responsible for monitoring severe weather for the National Weather Service.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Space
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Rocketdyne has secured a contract from Lockheed Martin to supply propulsion systems for the upcoming Geostationary Extended Observations (GeoXO) satellite program. These systems will power the satellites used by the National Weather Service to monitor severe storms and meteorological phenomena.
Why it matters
This contract enables the development of next-generation environmental monitoring satellites that rely on precision propulsion for orbital stability and maneuverability. It secures the propulsion supply chain for the Geostationary Extended Observations program, which is critical for national weather forecasting.
Each GeoXO satellite is outfitted with 28 thrusters, incorporating both monopropellant and electric propulsion systems to provide spacecraft control. Rocketdyne brings a legacy of delivery to this program, having supplied over 22,000 thrusters for various satellite missions.
The players
Rocketdyne
An independent space technology firm specializing in satellite propulsion systems with a history of over 22,000 unit deliveries.
Lockheed Martin
A global aerospace and defense contractor that acts as the primary systems integrator for the GeoXO satellite program.
National Weather Service
The federal agency tasked with providing weather, water, and climate forecasts that will utilize the GeoXO satellite data.
The details
The propulsion array uses a combination of monopropellant thrusters—engines using a single liquid fuel that decomposes over a catalyst—and electric propulsion systems to manage station-keeping. These 28 individual thrusters allow operators to make precise adjustments to the satellite's position in geostationary orbit. This combination ensures that the spacecraft can maintain its orientation while monitoring clouds and severe weather patterns for the National Weather Service.
Timeline
Rocketdyne received the contract on October 29, 2026.
The Tech Race
This propulsion contract is a key milestone for the Geostationary Extended Observations satellite program as it matures from design to hardware integration. It ensures the program remains on track to replace current aging meteorological observation technology.
This development ensures the continuity of weather monitoring data that fuels National Weather Service forecasts. While the hardware is currently in production, the data from these systems will eventually reach the public through improved storm and meteorological tracking.
The takeaway
The propulsion systems for the GeoXO program are now in the active manufacturing pipeline to ensure the stability of future weather monitoring. Observers should track subsequent program updates from Lockheed Martin regarding satellite integration timelines.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in the Space sector.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Manila times.
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