ULA Successfully Launches its ‘Most Metal’ Rocket for the Last Time
United Launch Alliance (ULA), a joint venture between Boeing and Lockheed Martin, recently achieved a significant milestone by successfully launching its ‘most metal’ rocket for the last time. The Delta IV Heavy, known for its impressive power and capabilities, lifted off from Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.
The Delta IV Heavy is a massive rocket, standing at over 230 feet tall and weighing more than 1.6 million pounds. It is capable of delivering payloads of up to 62,540 pounds to low Earth orbit and 31,350 pounds to geostationary transfer orbit. Its three common booster cores, each powered by a RS-68A engine, provide an awe-inspiring thrust of over 2.3 million pounds.
This final launch of the Delta IV Heavy marked the 12th mission for this powerful rocket. It carried a classified payload for the National Reconnaissance Office, adding to the long list of successful missions that the Delta IV Heavy has accomplished over the years.
ULA’s decision to retire the Delta IV Heavy is part of its ongoing efforts to streamline its launch vehicle portfolio and transition to more advanced and cost-effective options like the Vulcan Centaur. The Vulcan Centaur, currently in development, will offer improved performance and reliability while reducing overall launch costs.
As the Delta IV Heavy gracefully soared into the sky one last time, it symbolized the end of an era for ULA. However, it also marked the beginning of a new chapter in space exploration as ULA continues to innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible.
