United Launch Alliance’s Delta IV Heavy space launch vehicle takes off for the final time. [Courtesy: United Launch Alliance]
Key Takeaways:
The Delta IV Heavy, a powerful and expensive U.S. commercially made space launch vehicle by United Launch Alliance (ULA), completed its 16th and final mission (NROL-70) on Tuesday, marking its retirement.
The rocket has been instrumental in U.S. national security missions for the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) and supported significant NASA projects, including Mars rovers and the Orion capsule's first orbital test flight.
ULA is transitioning to its new, less expensive Vulcan Centaur rocket as the successor to the Delta and Atlas families, which recently had its maiden voyage and aims to serve both government and commercial customers while competing with SpaceX's reusable rockets.
One of America’s most powerful and expensive commercially made space launch vehicles is flying into the sunset.
Tuesday marked the swan song for Delta IV Heavy, a heavy-lift launcher headed for retirement. The spacecraft was built by United Launch Alliance (ULA)—a joint venture between Lockheed Martin and Boeing—and is considered one of the most prolific in U.S. history.
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Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.
