Countdown to Historic Delta IV Heavy Launch with Classified Payload

United Launch Alliance (ULA) is preparing for the launch of the penultimate Delta IV Heavy rocket, which will carry out the secretive NROL-68 mission. The launch is scheduled for 3:29 AM ET (07:29 UTC) from Space Launch Complex-37 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

The Delta IV Heavy rocket was initially stacked at Space Launch Complex-37 in early 2023 and was originally planned for a mid-April launch. However, an undisclosed issue arose during pre-launch checkouts, resulting in a delay until now.

The 33-story Mobile Service Tower, which provides access to the rocket and protects it from Florida’s weather, is set to be rolled back this evening ahead of the launch. The tower is raised a few inches by 40 hydraulic cylinders and rolls back at a speed of 0.25 mph to a safe point approximately 100 yards away. However, this process may be delayed by afternoon thunderstorms. The launch window extends until 7:45 AM ET (11:45 UTC).

The Delta IV Heavy rocket consists of three core boosters, each equipped with an RS-68A engine. This hydrogen-fueled rocket generates 2.1 million pounds of thrust at liftoff, enabling it to launch payloads of up to 62,540 pounds (28,370 kg) to low Earth orbit.

After liftoff, the booster will follow an Easterly trajectory over the Atlantic Ocean. Approximately two and a half minutes into the flight, the two side boosters are expected to separate, according to ULA’s visibility map. However, due to the secrecy surrounding the payload, the exact details of the separation may not be disclosed. The payload fairing separation is anticipated to occur around seven minutes into the flight, marking the end of ULA’s launch live stream at the request of the National Reconnaissance Office.

The launch weather conditions are predicted to be 75% favorable at liftoff. ULA will closely monitor any lingering thunderstorms and high-ground winds that could affect the launch. If weather or technical issues prevent the launch, there are two backup opportunities available, 24 and 48 hours later.

Those interested in watching the launch can do so online, particularly during liftoff when the Delta IV Heavy ignites its engines.

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United Launch Alliance is fully prepared for the penultimate launch of the Delta IV Heavy rocket, marking another significant milestone in space exploration.

nrol-68 launch date

Ice Tower, which houses the Delta IV Heavy rocket, was rolled out to the launch pad on June 18, three days before the scheduled launch. This tower provides the necessary infrastructure and support for the rocket, including fueling and electrical connections.

The NROL-68 mission is classified, so details about its purpose and payload remain undisclosed. The National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), responsible for the United States’ reconnaissance satellite programs, is typically associated with these secretive missions. The payload is likely a classified satellite or a technology demonstration mission.

The live broadcast of the launch can be found on YouTube at the provided URL: “youtube.com/watch?v=qNLo5QbVhVM.” This livestream allows viewers to witness the launch in real-time, providing a rare opportunity to experience the excitement and grandeur of a rocket launch.

The launch is scheduled for 3:29 AM ET (07:29 UTC) on June 21, 2023. Space Launch Complex-37, located at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, will serve as the launch site. This complex has a long history of hosting important space missions, and the Delta IV Heavy rocket adds another significant chapter to its legacy.

Unfortunately, the search results do not provide information on the outcome of the launch or any updates after the scheduled time. It’s recommended to follow relevant news sources or check official United Launch Alliance (ULA) updates for the latest information on the launch and the NROL-68 mission.

Overall, United Launch Alliance (ULA) is preparing for the penultimate Delta IV Heavy rocket launch, which will carry out the secretive NROL-68 mission. With the launch scheduled for June 21, 2023, at 3:29 AM ET (07:29 UTC), viewers can watch the live broadcast on YouTube to witness this captivating event.