The scheduled final liftoff of a United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket, set to take place on Friday at 1:37 p.m. EDT, has been postponed due to an issue with the gaseous nitrogen pipeline. The launch was scrubbed just before liftoff as the team identified the problem and initiated procedures to secure the vehicle. The updated launch time is now set for Friday, March 29, at 1:37 p.m. EDT.
The United Launch Alliance’s (ULA) Delta rocket, on its 64-year legacy, is slated for its last mission tomorrow, March 29, at 1:37 p.m. ET. Carrying out a classified mission for the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), this launch marks the end of a significant era for the Delta rocket fleet. The Delta IV Heavy, the 16th of its kind since 2004, will embark on its final journey, carrying undisclosed cargo, from Space Launch Complex-37 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.
While the nature of the payload remains undisclosed, it is speculated to be a sophisticated satellite, as commonly deployed by the NRO for surveillance purposes. The agency is known for its secretive operations, seldom revealing details about its reconnaissance missions to the public.
The mission, identified as NROL-70, aims to enhance the NRO’s capabilities in providing timely intelligence information to national decision-makers, military personnel, and intelligence analysts worldwide.
Uncertainty looms over the rescheduled launch time due to unfavorable weather conditions, particularly ground winds and cumulus clouds. The 45th Weather Squadron forecasts a 30% chance of suitable weather for launch on Thursday and a 60% chance on Friday, March 29.
The impending retirement of the Delta IV Heavy rocket marks the end of an era for ULA, with plans also underway to phase out the Atlas V. These retirements pave the way for the introduction of the Vulcan Centaur rocket, marking a new chapter in space launch capabilities.
