The Delta IV Heavy, a powerful rocket known for its iconic fireball engine start-up, has completed its final mission by launching a top-secret payload for the National Reconnaissance Office. The historic launch took place from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station at 12:53 pm ET after a brief delay caused by a failed pump.
Despite the setback, the Delta IV Heavy successfully passed through Max Q, jettisoned boosters, and completed its mission six hours after lift-off. United Launch Alliance (ULA) confirmed the success of the mission, marking the end of the Delta family of rockets. ULA will now shift its focus to the Vulcan rocket, which promises to be more cost-effective while maintaining the same capabilities.
As the Delta IV Heavy era comes to a close, the future of SLC-37B, the launch site for the rocket, is uncertain. There are possibilities that SpaceX may take over the site or it could be left vacant. ULA’s next launch is scheduled for May 6th, when the Boeing Starliner capsule will be sent to the International Space Station.
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