Orbital Sciences Corp. [ORB] has launched successfully the TSX 5 satellite, which it built for the U.S. Air Force for a series of scientific experiments. The satellite was launched June 7 aboard one of the company’s Pegasus air-launched rockets using its L-1011 Pegasus carrier.

OSC said today that initial communications have been established between the satellite and its control center at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, N.M. Once the checkout procedures are completed, the satellite will be ready to begin its experiments.

The 250-kg (551-lb.) satellite is in an orbit inclined at 69 degrees to be equator and measuring 406 km by 1706 km. OSC said the launch was the 15th successful one for Pegasus.