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As part of NASA\u2019s CubeSat Launch Initiative, Firefly Aerospace launched eight small satellites on July 3 aboard the company\u2019s Alpha rocket. Named \u201cNoise of Summer,\u201d the rocket successfully lifted off from Space Launch Complex 2 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California at 9:04 p.m. <\/em><\/strong>PDT.<\/p>\n The CubeSat missions were designed by universities and NASA centers and cover science that includes climate studies, satellite technology development, and educational outreach to students.<\/p>\n Firefly Aerospace completed its Venture-Class Launch Services Demonstration 2 contract with this launch. The agency\u2019s venture-class contracts offer launch opportunities for new providers, helping grow the commercial launch industry and leading to cost-effective competition for future NASA missions.<\/p>\n NASA\u2019s CubeSat Launch Initiative provides a low-cost way for universities, non-profits, science centers, and other researchers to conduct science and technology demonstrations in space.<\/p>\n