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With patchy clouds, rain and wind blowing across the Space Coast this week, the final launch of the Delta IV Heavy rocket (and the last of the Delta rocket family) is still scheduled for Thursday but everyone is keeping an eye on the weather.
The question remains: Will Delta IV Heavy be launched on time?
When will Delta IV Heavy be launched?
Delta IV Heavy is set for 16y The final launch is at 1:40 p.m. Thursday from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Base Station. The National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) NROL-70 mission will be launched into orbit.
Its flight marked the end of an era in the history of American spaceflight United Launch Alliance (ULA) heavy-lift rocket It has delivered numerous satellites, national security missions, and even two essential NASA missions into space.
Now, the probe is ready for its final performance at the Cape, with its three primary boosters complete, weather permitting.
Upcoming launches: Is there a launch today? NASA's SpaceX's upcoming rocket launch schedule in Florida
Weather for a Delta IV Heavy launch
In order to launch a missile successfully and safely, weather conditions meet certain criteria. As the Space Force's 45th Weather Squadron and ULA monitor the situation, weather updates are being issued.
On Monday afternoon, ULA reported that the weather was only 30% clear at launch.
FLORIDA TODAY will bring you the latest updates through our launch coverage at Floridatoday.com/space.
What can we expect from this huge Delta IV Heavy launch?
When the Delta 4 Heavy launches, expect a bright rocket launch with its three primary boosters. Since the boosters don't land, don't expect any sonic booms.
What comes after the launch of Delta IV Heavy – ULA's next big rocket
After Delta 4's successful run, its successor, Vulcan Centaur, will take to the stage. Vulcan Centaur will replace the Delta and Atlas family of rockets.
Vulcan Centaur is designed to revolutionize ULA's launch capabilities, with the ability to launch satellites and manned missions from a single powerful rocket. According to ULA officials, reusability — a key feature of SpaceX rockets — is also under consideration
In the meantime, be sure to follow FLORIDA TODAY's live coverage of Delta IV Heavy's farewell flight at www.floridatoday.com/space.
Brooke Edwards is a satellite correspondent for Florida Today. Contact her at [email protected]
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