Cape Canaveral saw an extraordinary day of activity on Thursday, November 13, 2025 as the Metis Pad Safety Team supported two major launches with a single 24-hour window, reinforcing its vital role on the Eastern Range.
The day began with the high-profile launch of Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket, carrying NASA’s ESCAPADE mission. The twin spacecraft, tasked with studying Mars’ magnetosphere, successfully deployed, activated, and began transmitting data through Viasat’s HaloNet technology demonstration. The mission concluded with a precision landing of New Glenn’s fully reusable first stage aboard the recovery vessel Jacklyn, marking another step forward in reusable launch technology.
That evening, the momentum continued. At 10:04 p.m., a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket lifted off, delivering a powerful communications satellite for Viasat. Once operational, the spacecraft will bring significant new capacity to the company’s global, multi-orbit communications network.
Throughout both launches, the Metis Pad Safety Team maintained its essential role in safeguarding Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Kennedy Space Center, and the surrounding communities. The team manages hazardous operations, oversees fuel loading, installs flight termination systems, and monitors countdown activities, making them a trusted and indispensable partner to Range Safety.
Thursday’s double launch marked a historic achievement for the Eastern Range. Together with Space Launch Delta 45 Range Safety, Metis officially surpassed the previous world record of 93 supported launches set in 2024. With these two missions completed, the team has supported 96 launches in 2025, with more expected before the year concludes.
Reflecting on the achievement, Thomas Michaud, PSSC II Program Manager, shared his appreciation for the team’s dedication, noting that he is “so proud of the professionals on the Pad Safety Team,” adding that “they worked long hours for months to ensure these missions were a success!”
This milestone highlights the expertise, professionalism, and dedication of the Metis Pad Safety Team, whose behind-the-scenes efforts help ensure every mission, from pre-launch preparations to liftoff, operates with the highest regard for safety and excellence. Metis is proud to celebrate this achievement and to honor the individuals who make it possible.