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Commercial and US Government Launch Vehicles => ULA - Delta, Atlas, Vulcan => Topic started by: Blackstar on 04/14/2012 02:32 am

Title: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Blackstar on 04/14/2012 02:32 am
Live update section for the Atlas V NROL-36 mission
Title: Re: NROL-36
Post by: Ben the Space Brit on 04/14/2012 08:15 pm
"Freedom's Shield and Hope?" Orbital ballistic missile early-warning tied to the ABM system that's in development?
Title: Re: NROL-36
Post by: William Graham on 04/19/2012 11:47 am
This is generally expected to be a pair of NOSS satellites, but I'm still keeping a fairly open mind.

The Atlas is flying with an extended mission kit, and an Aft Bulkhead Carrier containing nine CubeSats. The EMK is needed to accommodate the ABC, so its presence doesn't necessarily mean that the Atlas will fly an extended mission. The CubeSats are going to a 470 km by 770 km by 63 degree orbit. Inclination is consistent with NOSS, Improved Trumpet or SDS. The mission profile given for the CubeSat deployment was two burns before primary S/C sep, and one after, however this was given as something of a generic mission, so it may not be the case for this launch.

A NOSS launch using an Atlas V 411 would be direct ascent to an 1,100 km orbit. It is known that Centaur has enough fuel to deorbit itself after such a deployment (as seen with NROL-34), so in theory it should be able to reach the CubeSat deployment orbit post-separation.

A Trumpet launch would leave the Centaur in a higher orbit, although it is known that it has excess capacity from the presence of secondary payloads on previous launches, and the fact that the Delta IVM+(4,2) can carry such payloads (Payload capacities aren't given for Molniya orbits, but Delta IV capacities seem to tail off quicker than Atlas V for higher orbits, so I'm basing this comparison on GTO payload, please correct me if I'm wrong). I doubt if it could make it back to the deployment orbit without making a total of four burns - I'm not sure if Centaur can even make that many restarts.

SDS launches typically use Atlas V 401 rockets, and it is very unlikely that this would have changed; NROL-38 is believed to be an SDS and is still using a 401, and it is illogical to use a larger rocket just to accommodate secondary payloads. That said, an SDS would fit the mission profile; two burns up, and it could probably get back to LEO with one.


The mission patch contains several interesting symbols. The three rivets and three trails behind the star the bull is stomping on could suggest that it is the third in a series of satellites, and if this were Trumpet, then that would be true. The star with trails behind it has also appeared on both previous Improved Trumpet patches, albeit with four trails, not three. If it were Trumpet, the seven or eight background stars could correspond to the seven Jumpseat satellites, or the eight unidentified stars on the NROL-4 patch (my guess is that these relate to Jumpseat, plus one more spacecraft - either a Jumpseat that has been misidentified as an SDS, or something else). The three rivets could relate to the three original Trumpet satellites and the three trails to the three current satellites.

Alternatively, the three could denote a third-generation NOSS doublet. The trail does appear to include eight or nine stars (the bull's leg may obscure one) behind the big one - if it were nine, then it could just be related to the nine secondary payloads.

The bull's horns can be interpreted as either a symbol of the NOSS or Trumpet system; two gold horns for two satellites (NOSS), or symbolising a SIGINT antenna (Trumpet).


Overall, NOSS does seem the most likely candidate, but I think it is far from definite.
Title: Re: NROL-36
Post by: Skyrocket on 04/19/2012 11:59 am
I have seen conflicting information about the Atlas version. Do we now know for sure, wether it is a 401 or a 411 version?
Title: Re: NROL-36
Post by: kevin-rf on 04/23/2012 02:18 pm
Looks like an Atlas, and a Centaur are being airlifted to Vandenberg ( http://www.flightglobal.com/blogs/the-dewline/2012/04/volga-dnepr-airlines-asks-for.html ). Is NROL-36's ride already on site, or is it likely these flights?

I wonder if it is fallout from the Delta Mariner bridge incident earlier in the year.
Title: Re: NROL-36
Post by: William Graham on 04/23/2012 07:46 pm
I have seen conflicting information about the Atlas version. Do we now know for sure, wether it is a 401 or a 411 version?

I was assuming it was a 411, but I've been seeing more and more references to it being a 401. If it is a 401 I can't see it being NOSS or Trumpet; as either would require a four-burn profile to deploy the CubeSats. I would guess SDS, but it could be something new.
Title: Re: NROL-36
Post by: Art LeBrun on 04/23/2012 07:59 pm
Looks like an Atlas, and a Centaur are being airlifted to Vandenberg ( http://www.flightglobal.com/blogs/the-dewline/2012/04/volga-dnepr-airlines-asks-for.html ). Is NROL-36's ride already on site, or is it likely these flights?

Does the transport trailer explain the 40,000 pound Atlas Centaur III tank?
Title: Re: NROL-36
Post by: Prober on 04/23/2012 09:07 pm
Looks like an Atlas, and a Centaur are being airlifted to Vandenberg ( http://www.flightglobal.com/blogs/the-dewline/2012/04/volga-dnepr-airlines-asks-for.html ). Is NROL-36's ride already on site, or is it likely these flights?

I wonder if it is fallout from the Delta Mariner bridge indecent earlier in the year.

With all the threats flying around the world, wouldn’t be surprised if as many NRO assets as possible get moved up a notch in the timelines.
Title: Re: NROL-36
Post by: kevin-rf on 04/24/2012 12:51 pm

With all the threats flying around the world, wouldn’t be surprised if as many NRO assets as possible get moved up a notch in the timelines.


Beyond the current juggernaut of an EELV tempo? I think there is a phrase involving blood and a turnip that applies to getting payloads ready faster, raising the launch rate, and decreasing the amount of time needed for in orbit checkout.
Title: Re: NROL-36
Post by: William Graham on 05/24/2012 09:49 pm
Both patches now out. Rocket is named "Rosie".
The picture on the vehicle patch looks like a 401.
Title: Re: NROL-36
Post by: catdlr on 06/03/2012 03:39 am
Here is an update reported on www.spacearchive.info

Quote:
Vehicle will launch the classified NROL-36 payload for the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office.
The vehicle will also reportedly carry the following secondary payloads: CINEMA (Cubesat for Ion, Neutral, Electron, Magnetic fields), University of California Berkeley;
CSSWE (Colorado Student Space Weather Experiment), University of Colorado at Boulder;
CP5, California Polytechnic University;
CXBN (Cosmic X-ray Background Nanosat) Morehead State University; ORSES (ORS Enabler Satellite), US Army Space and Missile Defense Command;
Aeneas, Department of Homeland Security/University of Southern California; Horus, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory;
Re, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory;
and three Aerocube spacecraft.


Source:
http://www.spacearchive.info/vafbsked.htm
Title: Re: NROL-36
Post by: Skyrocket on 07/26/2012 01:10 pm
Here is the list of the Cubesats on this mission:

http://www.cubesat.org/index.php/missions/upcoming-launches/122-l36-launch-alert

3U-Cubesats:
* Aeneas
* SMDC-ONE 2.1 (Able)
* SMDC-ONE 2.2 (Baker)
* Re (STARE)
* CINEMA 1
* CSSWE

2U-Cubesats:
* CXBN

1U-Cubesats:
* AeroCube 4A
* AeroCube 4B
* AeroCube 4C
* CP 5

The earlier mentioned Horus has been dropped and replaced by a SMDC-ONE satellite.

ORSES is in fact one of the two SMDC-ONE satellites, which has been slightly modified in a joint project with ORS, but i do not know, which one.
Title: Re: NROL-36
Post by: Star One on 07/27/2012 03:33 pm
Is it unusual for cubesats to be launched along with an NRO payload?
Title: Re: NROL-36
Post by: Skyrocket on 07/27/2012 03:44 pm
Is it unusual for cubesats to be launched along with an NRO payload?

As it is the first time, one could say it is unusual. But it might change.
Title: Re: NROL-36
Post by: Star One on 07/27/2012 03:59 pm
Is it unusual for cubesats to be launched along with an NRO payload?

As it is the first time, one could say it is unusual. But it might change.

Well I thought I hadn't heard of it happening before but I didn't trust my memory on the issue.
Title: Re: NROL-36
Post by: William Graham on 07/28/2012 11:09 am
Is it unusual for cubesats to be launched along with an NRO payload?

As it is the first time, one could say it is unusual. But it might change.

Well I thought I hadn't heard of it happening before but I didn't trust my memory on the issue.

There were a couple of NRO-operated CubeSats launched on the Falcon 9 that carried Dragon C1, I'm fairly sure there haven't been any any launched on NROL missions though.
Title: Re: NROL-36
Post by: Star One on 07/28/2012 05:14 pm
Thanks for the additional detail on that.


Title: Re: Atlas V NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: William Graham on 07/30/2012 05:53 pm
There are some photos on the ULA website of the spacecraft arriving at the launch pad. It is encapsulated in what appears to be the extended payload fairing, which would be consistent with NOSS or Improved Trumpet, and pretty much rules out SDS.

Trumpet is too heavy for a 401, which leaves NOSS the most likely candidate. Presumably the mission will use the two-burn profile used on NROL-30, rather than the single-burn profile used on NROL-34.

This raises two questions.

1) How many burns is the Centaur going to have to make? I count at least four: the first to reach a parking orbit, the second to reach the NOSS deployment (~1000x1200 km) orbit, then probably two more to reach the deployment orbit for the CubeSats (~500x800 km). A fifth burn might then be made to deorbit the Centaur.

2) This reopens the question of why NROL-34 used a 411; at the time it was assumed that the change was to eliminate the requirement for the second burn, but since the second burn is apparently being reintroduced here, it is reasonable to speculate that there may have been another reason.


I think this is unlikely to be anything completely different; since the inclination for the CubeSats is known to be around 63 degrees. Orbits with around that inclination are typically only used for NOSS, Trumpet and SDS. Misty used a similar orbit, but it would be far to heavy to fly on a 401, and I believe the follow-up programme was cancelled.


While it leaves some questions unanswered, NOSS is definitely the most likely candidate based on the information available. Then again, my guesses are usually wrong, so we'll have to wait and see where the LHA and NOTAMS are. Has anybody heard anything about them?
Title: Re: Atlas V NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: yinzer on 07/31/2012 01:16 am
There are some photos on the ULA website of the spacecraft arriving at the launch pad. It is encapsulated in what appears to be the extended payload fairing, which would be consistent with NOSS or Improved Trumpet, and pretty much rules out SDS.

Trumpet is too heavy for a 401, which leaves NOSS the most likely candidate. Presumably the mission will use the two-burn profile used on NROL-30, rather than the single-burn profile used on NROL-34.

This raises two questions.

1) How many burns is the Centaur going to have to make? I count at least four: the first to reach a parking orbit, the second to reach the NOSS deployment (~1000x1200 km) orbit, then probably two more to reach the deployment orbit for the CubeSats (~500x800 km). A fifth burn might then be made to deorbit the Centaur.

2) This reopens the question of why NROL-34 used a 411; at the time it was assumed that the change was to eliminate the requirement for the second burn, but since the second burn is apparently being reintroduced here, it is reasonable to speculate that there may have been another reason.

This is a good observation.

Another possibility is that after the NRO-L30 shortfall ULA/LockMart identified temporary and long-term fixes, but that the NRO wasn't willing to be the guinea pig.  So they put NRO-L34 on a 411, someone else flew a long-coast mission that worked, and NRO-L36 went back to a 401.

It might be possible to line up contract dates and such to rule this out, but I haven't tried.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: input~2 on 07/31/2012 03:20 pm
Lift-off planned at around 07UTC on August 2
source: http://decaturdaily.com/stories/ULA-launch-planned-Thursday,99597
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Star One on 07/31/2012 04:23 pm
Lift-off planned at around 07UTC on August 2
source: http://decaturdaily.com/stories/ULA-launch-planned-Thursday,99597

On Spaceflightnow they quote a narrowed down launch time.

Quote
The target launch time for Thursday's Atlas 5 rocket has been announced to the public. Liftoff from Vandenberg Air Force Base is scheduled for 12:40 a.m. local (3:40 a.m. EDT; 0740 GMT).

The exact duration of the daily launch window hasn't been disclosed. But officials previously said the liftoff would not occur after 1:30 a.m. local.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: input~2 on 08/01/2012 05:27 am
Launch time confirmed on ULA website
Quote
Launch is planned for 12:40 a.m. PDT
i.e. 0740UTC
http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Launch.shtml#/30/
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: input~2 on 08/01/2012 06:14 am
Navigational warning
Quote
NAVAREA XII    191/2012(18,21). 
EASTERN NORTH PACIFIC.
MISSILES.
1. HAZARDOUS OPERATIONS 0500Z TO 0930Z DAILY
   02 THRU 07 AUG IN AREAS BOUND BY:
   A. 34-27N 120-29W, 34-26N 120-31W,
      34-38N 120-36W, 34-39N 120-34W.
   B. 15-46N 108-34W, 13-32N 113-09W,
      16-06N 114-30W, 18-22N 109-53W.
2. CANCEL THIS MSG 071030Z AUG 12.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: spectre9 on 08/01/2012 06:25 am
Great snap of the bull on the payload fairing on 30th Space Wing's facebook.  ;D

http://www.facebook.com/30thSpaceWing
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: fringe_dweller on 08/01/2012 06:23 pm
Pre-Launch TLE for AENEAS CubeSat:

Deploy2-Aeneas
1 99992U 00000    12215.45041667 0.00000000  00000-0  00000-0 0  0005
2 99992  66.2600 135.6350 0200000 306.8500 135.6256 14.80484130000008


http://www.isi.edu/projects/serc/aeneas_amsat_tracking
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: fringe_dweller on 08/01/2012 06:24 pm
Navigational warning

No area for Centaur de-orbit.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: input~2 on 08/01/2012 06:42 pm
Navigational warning

No area for Centaur de-orbit.
Not found so far...
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: fringe_dweller on 08/01/2012 06:49 pm
In the mariners alerts is absent. Maybe in the NOTAMs...

Or maybe no plans deorbit of Centaur.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Star One on 08/01/2012 08:37 pm
Navigational warning

No area for Centaur de-orbit.
Not found so far...

If the Centaur isn't de-orbited does it have any impact on the initial speculation of what this payload is?
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Rahkashi on 08/01/2012 08:42 pm
Launch time confirmed on ULA website
Quote
Launch is planned for 12:40 a.m. PDT
i.e. 0740UTC
http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Launch.shtml#/30/

Which would be 3:40 a.m. EST?
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Star One on 08/01/2012 08:43 pm
Launch time confirmed on ULA website
Quote
Launch is planned for 12:40 a.m. PDT
i.e. 0740UTC
http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Launch.shtml#/30/

Which would be 3:40 a.m. EST?

See my post further up thread on this. :)

Latest weather forecast for launch from SN.

Quote
The latest weather forecast is predicting even foggier conditions at launch time, with only a quarter-mile visibility, a solid marine layer at ground-level extending to 600 feet, some high cirrus clouds at 25,000 feet, northwesterly winds of 5 to 10 knots and temperatures in the low 50s F.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: kevin-rf on 08/01/2012 08:49 pm
Didn't they send a Delta IV Upper Stage to escape on a previous Vandenberg launch. Might this payload be light enough to actually do that with the Centaur? Using a v401 means the payload ain't no 800 Tonne Gorilla.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 08/01/2012 08:51 pm
FOund a payload picture!

Ok, its a cubesat, but are part of the launch campaign:

https://www.facebook.com/ulalaunch

Quote
The NRO and ULA partnered to develop an Aft Bulkhead Carrier (ABC) which will be used in NROL-36. Affixed to the ABC will be an Operationally Unique Technologies Satellite, or OUTSat. The OUTSat consists of 11 Cubesats in various configurations.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Prober on 08/01/2012 11:46 pm
Lift-off planned at around 07UTC on August 2
source: http://decaturdaily.com/stories/ULA-launch-planned-Thursday,99597

going to be exciting tonight.....first the progress then this launch

Viewing the Launch Online: A live simulcast of the launch broadcast will begin at 12:20 a.m. PDT.

T-5 hrs and counting... Go Atlas! Go Centaur! Go NROL-36!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/02/2012 06:11 am
Moved for live coverage
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/02/2012 06:12 am
ULA ‏@ulalaunch
Update: The new #NROL36 launch time is 12:44:30 a.m. PDT

(That's 7:44am UTC, 8:44am UK, 9:44am Central Europe).
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: catdlr on 08/02/2012 06:15 am
Standard web Cast URL for ULA launches:

http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Webcast.shtml

"Freedom's Shield and Hope"

Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/02/2012 06:16 am
T-0 change was "due to a safety COLA - or collision avoidance" - per ULA.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/02/2012 06:22 am
Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. (Aug. 1, 2012) - A United Launch Alliance Atlas V stands ready for launch at Space Launch Complex-3 with a national security payload for the National Reconnaissance Office.

Photos by Pat Corkery, United Launch Alliance

Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: catdlr on 08/02/2012 06:27 am
Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. (Aug. 1, 2012) - A United Launch Alliance Atlas V stands ready for launch at Space Launch Complex-3 with a national security payload for the National Reconnaissance Office.

Photos by Pat Corkery, United Launch Alliance



Looks like a typical foggy evening.   I guess we will see just a few seconds of flight and go immediately to the inferred camera.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Artyom. on 08/02/2012 06:32 am
Quote
11:30 p.m. local (2:30 a.m. EDT; 0530 GMT)
Chilldown of the liquid hydrogen system is now complete, allowing the super-cold rocket fuel to begin filling the Centaur upper stage.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: input~2 on 08/02/2012 06:48 am
Quote
The fog will not stop us!
http://www.facebook.com/30thSpaceWing (http://www.facebook.com/30thSpaceWing)
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Prober on 08/02/2012 06:51 am
we have bars and tone
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/02/2012 06:58 am
Let's remember to keep the chatter down with this one under 60 mins to launch.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/02/2012 06:59 am
This Atlas V is called "Rosie". :)
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/02/2012 06:59 am
William Graham with another epic feature article:

http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2012/08/uatlas-v-launch-nrol-36-vandenberg/
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: amon on 08/02/2012 07:04 am
Sitting out in Mojave and hoping I can spot it as it climbs... I presume the windows is still from 0040 Pacific and onwards?
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/02/2012 07:06 am
T-0 is currently 00:44, as mentioned. No word on how long the window is yet.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/02/2012 07:20 am
Everything is proceeding for the launch tonight of NROL-36 aboard an Atlas V vehicle. The updated launch time is 12:44 a.m. PDT.

The team is not currently working any technical issues.

 Webcast starting.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 08/02/2012 07:20 am
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Artyom. on 08/02/2012 07:20 am
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 08/02/2012 07:21 am
webcast will end after plf sep
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: tehwkd on 08/02/2012 07:22 am
T-0 is currently 00:44, as mentioned. No word on how long the window is yet.

according to http://msdb.gsfc.nasa.gov/launches.php the window ends 1:30 or 0830 UTC
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Artyom. on 08/02/2012 07:22 am
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Rocket Guy on 08/02/2012 07:23 am
If you read up, as mentioned a few times, the initial period released was 12:00 to 1:30. The actual window is classified, shorter than that, and the T-0 was released as 12:40 (now 12:44 due to a cutout).
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 08/02/2012 07:24 am
weather is within criteria
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 08/02/2012 07:26 am
processing review
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: amon on 08/02/2012 07:26 am
What is the link for the live feed?
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 08/02/2012 07:27 am
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/02/2012 07:27 am
What is the link for the live feed?


Whoops, forgot to post that:
http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Webcast.shtml

:)
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 08/02/2012 07:28 am
T-4 minutes and holding
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 08/02/2012 07:30 am
range is currently red per PAO
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/02/2012 07:30 am
Range is Red. No reason given.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: amon on 08/02/2012 07:31 am
Thanks. I'll report if I see it out here. I estimated I am about 160 miles almost due East of VAFB, but the Mojave Spaceport area skies are clear as usual so there is a chance.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/02/2012 07:34 am
Heh. Guy in the Launch Control Center was shaking his head, then saw himself on the webcast and started laughing.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 08/02/2012 07:35 am
talking over issue
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 08/02/2012 07:38 am
polling, weather is go but range is no go, not releasing hold
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/02/2012 07:38 am
Pretty awful coverage so far.

No reasons given. Only a faint polling loop.

Weather is no go per polling.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: mikes on 08/02/2012 07:38 am
Seems to be nearly as foggy indoors as out!
Or perhaps the video feed is not quite right :)
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 08/02/2012 07:40 am
Extending hold, LV still ready, waiting new T-0 time
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 08/02/2012 07:52 am
Per PAO range still red and working issue (so no update)
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 08/02/2012 07:56 am
New T-0 08:10:29 UTC, coordinating with range
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/02/2012 08:00 am
So it's not the weather, it's "an issue" with the Range.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 08/02/2012 08:03 am
Polling status
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/02/2012 08:04 am
SCRUB!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 08/02/2012 08:04 am
SCRUB!

24 hour turnaround
Title: Re: SCRUB: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/02/2012 08:09 am
During the wait, you can all have a good read of William's excellent feature article:

http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2012/08/uatlas-v-launch-nrol-36-vandenberg/
Title: Re: SCRUB: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: jacqmans on 08/02/2012 08:28 am
Lets hope the weather in Kourou is better for tonights Ariane-5 launch :-)
Title: Re: SCRUB: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/02/2012 09:09 am
ULA Statement:

Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. (Aug. 2, 2012) – The launch of an Atlas V carrying the National Reconnaissance Office NROL-36 payload was scrubbed today due to a range instrumentation issue. There are no issues with the Atlas V vehicle or the NROL-36 space vehicle and these systems are safe and secure. The launch is rescheduled for Friday, Aug. 3 from Space Launch Complex-3 at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif., pending resolution of the range instrumentation system issue. The launch time for Aug. 3 is 12:27 a.m. PDT. The forecast for Aug. 3 shows a 90 percent chance of favorable weather conditions for the launch tomorrow.

Title: Re: SCRUB: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Jim on 08/02/2012 11:18 am
Just a point on William's article.  South Vandenberg was never named Point Arguello Naval Air Station.  It was call Naval Missile Facility, Point Arguello  (NMFPA)
Title: Re: SCRUB: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: William Graham on 08/02/2012 12:34 pm
Just a point on William's article.  South Vandenberg was never named Point Arguello Naval Air Station.  It was call Naval Missile Facility, Point Arguello  (NMFPA)
Thanks for spotting that. I think I'd assumed Naval Air Station was a standard name like "Air Force Base" seems to be for USAF facilities.
Title: Re: SCRUB: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 2, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/02/2012 02:05 pm
Thanks Jim. I've edited that in (faster to PM me though ;))
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 4, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/02/2012 05:33 pm
Now Saturday:

Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. (Aug. 2, 2012) – The launch of an Atlas V carrying the National Reconnaissance Office NROL-36 payload has been delayed to Saturday, Aug. 4 to provide additional time for resolution of a range instrumentation issue that developed during the initial launch attempt Aug. 2. There are no issues with the Atlas V vehicle or the NROL-36 space vehicle. The Aug. 4 launch will proceed pending resolution of the range instrumentation item and the launch window open time is 12:13 a.m. PDT. The forecast for Aug. 4 shows a 90 percent chance of favorable weather conditions for the launch.

Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 14, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/03/2012 01:59 am
Aug. 14 now!

Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. (Aug. 2, 2012) – The launch of an Atlas V carrying the National Reconnaissance Office NROL-36 payload has been further delayed to no earlier than Tuesday, Aug. 14 to provide additional time for resolution of a range instrumentation issue that developed during the initial launch attempt Aug. 2. There are no issues with the Atlas V vehicle or the NROL-36 space vehicle.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 14, 2012
Post by: Lurker Steve on 08/03/2012 02:03 am
Aug. 14 now!

Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. (Aug. 2, 2012) – The launch of an Atlas V carrying the National Reconnaissance Office NROL-36 payload has been further delayed to no earlier than Tuesday, Aug. 14 to provide additional time for resolution of a range instrumentation issue that developed during the initial launch attempt Aug. 2. There are no issues with the Atlas V vehicle or the NROL-36 space vehicle.

What broke on the Western range that it takes 2 weeks to replace / repair ?
Does that mean nothing else can launch from the west coast until it's fixed ?
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 14, 2012
Post by: spectre9 on 08/03/2012 02:17 am
Disappointing because ULA is awesome at launching on time and that seems like a big slip.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 14, 2012
Post by: Prober on 08/03/2012 02:32 am
Disappointing because ULA is awesome at launching on time and that seems like a big slip.

was half asleep when watching the first time around.....but they quickly moved up the launch due to Collision avoidance issues.   After that seems like the launch went down hill fast.

Knew it was all over when everyone got out of their seats and stood up.



 
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 14, 2012
Post by: Rocket Guy on 08/03/2012 04:51 am
There are no launches slated anytime soon out there to push back, and they did not move anything up yesterday for avoidance, they moved it back a few minutes.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 14, 2012
Post by: Kim Keller on 08/03/2012 08:22 pm
What broke on the Western range that it takes 2 weeks to replace / repair ?
Does that mean nothing else can launch from the west coast until it's fixed ?

Interesting that USAF won't say what the problem is.

And to answer your second question, the range is down until the fix is complete.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 14, 2012
Post by: Kim Keller on 08/03/2012 08:22 pm
Disappointing because ULA is awesome at launching on time and that seems like a big slip.

This is not a ULA problem, it's a USAF range problem.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 14, 2012
Post by: kevin-rf on 08/03/2012 08:41 pm
2 Weeks, August, maybe a critical element went on vacation ;)
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 14, 2012
Post by: input~2 on 08/09/2012 11:39 am
Launch further delayed NET August 30
(source (http://www.spaceflightnow.com/atlas/av033/status.html))
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 NET August 30, 2012
Post by: spectre9 on 08/13/2012 12:17 am
Quote
Vandenberg officials postponed the launch of an Atlas V rocket carrying a National Reconnaissance Office payload Thursday to provide additional time for resolution of a range instrumentation issue that developed during the initial launch attempt Aug 2.

The launch will take place no earlier than Aug. 30.

"The malfunction occurred in our Mission Flight Control Center, which gives our mission flight control officer the ability to terminate flight should we need to for safety reasons," said Lt. Col. Burton Catledge, 2nd Range Operations Squadron commander. "Our team is working hard to resolve the issue, test and recertify the equipment to support safe launch operations."

There are no issues with the Atlas V vehicle or the NROL-36 space vehicle.

The rocket is slated to launch from Vandenberg's Space Launch Complex-3.

From the 30th SW facebook.

ULA not to blame at all so apologies for prior insinuation that they might have been.

This isn't for 2 weeks at least so should it be moved back to the Atlas/Delta forum or is it still a live event until it launches?
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 NET August 30, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/13/2012 09:16 pm
 

Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. (Aug. 13, 2012) - The launch of an Atlas V carrying the National Reconnaissance Office NROL-36 payload is being rescheduled following a range instrumentation issue that developed during the initial launch attempt Aug. 2.  The NROL-36 mission leadership has requested a new launch date of Sept. 6 and the 30th Space Wing is now working with range and support agencies to support this request.  The team working to implement the corrective actions for the range issue with the Mission Flight Control Center (MFCC) is working to have the MFCC corrective actions implemented, tested and certified by late August.  There are no issues being worked with either the Atlas V vehicle or the NROL-36 space vehicle and they remain secured in the Mobile Service Tower at Space Launch Complex-3 at Vandenberg Air Force Base.

Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 August 14, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/13/2012 09:19 pm
Launch further delayed NET August 30

It's not. See the release. No date set yet.

Only use official sources for launch dates.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 NET August, 2012
Post by: Salo Ukr on 08/13/2012 09:28 pm
Date/Site/Launch Time: Thursday, Sept. 6, from Space Launch Complex (SLC)-3 at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.

http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Launch.shtml#/30/
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 NET August, 2012
Post by: Jason1701 on 08/14/2012 09:37 am
Any indication of the exact asset that malfunctioned?
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 NET August, 2012
Post by: Kim Keller on 08/20/2012 05:40 pm
Any indication of the exact asset that malfunctioned?

Not publicly, and I'm not sure why that's the case.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 NET August, 2012
Post by: Prober on 08/21/2012 01:28 am
Any indication of the exact asset that malfunctioned?

does anyone know if the engine issue listed in the cape flight also was checked into this flight?

"An anomalous engine condition was identified during testing of another Atlas vehicle at the Factory in Decatur, Ala., and the delay will allow additional time for engineers to complete their assessments and verify that a similar condition does not exist on the RBSP launch vehicle engine."
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 08/23/2012 01:55 am
ULA:

Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. (Aug. 22, 2012) – The launch of an Atlas V carrying the National Reconnaissance Office NROL-36 payload is being rescheduled. The NROL-36 mission leadership has established a new launch date of Sept. 13 and a request for this new launch date on the range has been submitted to the 30th Space Wing. The previously planned launch date of Sept. 6 was not available on the range and mission managers have elected to revise the launch date to Sept. 13 as preferred for overall operational considerations. The team working to implement the corrective actions for the range issue with the Mission Flight Control Center (MFCC) is currently finalizing the implementation, test and certification of the MFCC corrective actions. There are no issues being worked with either the Atlas V vehicle or the NROL-36 space vehicle and they remain secured in the Mobile Service Tower at Space Launch Complex-3 at Vandenberg Air Force Base.   


I've updated William's excellent article to reflect the slips to bring it up to date:

http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2012/08/uatlas-v-launch-nrol-36-vandenberg/
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Galactic Penguin SST on 09/07/2012 03:08 am
Per ULA's newest press release (http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Launch.shtml#/30/ (http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Launch.shtml#/30/)), the launch time for next Thursday is 2:39 pm PDT (21:39 UTC).
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: spectre9 on 09/11/2012 04:22 am
Seems like a good time for a launch.

Went from dark & foggy to bright and sunny.  8)
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: input~2 on 09/11/2012 01:52 pm
http://www.vandenberg.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123317312

Quote
Atlas V rocket scheduled for afternoon launch

 Posted 9/10/2012   Updated 9/10/2012

Release Number:  010912
 
9/10/2012 - VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- A  United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying a National  Reconnaissance Office payload is scheduled to be launched by team  Vandenberg from Space Launch Complex-3 here Thursday at 2:39 p.m.
 
 The launch, originally scheduled for Aug. 2, was postponed when a range  instrumentation issue developed during countdown. The issue has been  resolved and the range is ready to support a safe and successful launch.
 
 -30-
 
 Note to Editors: Media planning to cover the event should RSVP by  calling 2nd Lt. Kaylee Ausbun at 805-606-4884 or by e-mail at  [email protected] by noon Wednesday. A media escort will depart  the Vandenberg Main Gate Visitor's Center for the media viewing site  Thursday at 1 p.m.
 
 Remote Camera Set-up: A media escort will depart Vandenberg's South Base gate for remote camera setup Wednesday at 8:30 a.m.
 
 For questions about the booster please contact Jessica Rye with United  Launch Alliance at 321-693-6250 or at [email protected].
 
 Webcast: http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Multimedia_Webcast.shtml
 Live Broadcast:
 
 BEGIN TRANSMISSION (BARS AND TONE) - 1:45 P.M. (SEPTEMBER 12)
 BROADCAST START - 2:19 P.M. (SEPTEMBER 13)
 SATELLITE: AMC 1
 CARRIER: SES Americom
 TRANSPONDER: C15
 BAND: C-Band Analog
 ORBITAL POSITION: 103 degrees west
 BANDWIDTH: 36 MHz (Full Transponder)
 UPLINK FREQ: 6225 MHz Vertical
 DOWNLINK FREQ: 4000 MHz Horizontal
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: input~2 on 09/11/2012 02:07 pm
Navigational warning
Quote
NAVAREA XII    247/2012(18,21). (080950Z SEP 2012) 
EASTERN NORTH PACIFIC.
MISSILES.
1. HAZARDOUS OPERATIONS 2008Z TO 2309Z DAILY
   13 THRU 17 SEP IN AREAS BOUND BY:
   A. 34-27N 120-29W, 34-26N 120-31W,
      34-38N 120-36W, 34-39N 120-34W.
   B. 15-46N 108-34W, 13-32N 113-09W,
      16-06N 114-30W, 18-22N 109-53W.
2. CANCEL THIS MSG 180009Z SEP 12.
Title: Re: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 09/12/2012 05:55 pm
ULA ‏@ulalaunch
ULA's #NROL36 Launch Readiness Review is complete! On track for the #AtlasV to launch tomorrow. Launch is planned for 2:39 p.m. PDT.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 09/13/2012 02:08 pm
Moved for live coverage.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 09/13/2012 05:09 pm
William Graham's realigned launch article:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2012/09/uatlas-v-launch-nrol-36-vandenberg/
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: sdsds on 09/13/2012 06:10 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 09/13/2012 07:36 pm
ULA ‏@ulalaunch
Resuming the count after a planned hold at T-2 hours. Team has GO to begin fueling the #AtlasV with #NROL36
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Galactic Penguin SST on 09/13/2012 08:12 pm
From ULA's Facebook account:
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: ugordan on 09/13/2012 08:17 pm
Fog. Lovely as always.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: thydusk666 on 09/13/2012 08:18 pm
Sheesh.. I was hoping for clear sky..
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 08:23 pm
Liquid oxygen levels in booster have reached 40%

Centaur upperstage liquid oxygen levels at 50 percent

-https://twitter.com/ulalaunch (https://twitter.com/ulalaunch)
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Galactic Penguin SST on 09/13/2012 08:27 pm
Sheesh.. I was hoping for clear sky..

That was back in the morning, during the time the fog is thickest. By launch time most of it should have disappeared.

Meanwhile, according to the USAF 30th Space Wing (again their FB page), this flight is dedicated to Pete Rustan. Allow me to quote it in full:

Quote
TODAY'S LAUNCH of the Atlas V NROL-36 mission is dedicated to the memory of Pedro L. 'Pete' Rustan, who escaped Cuba at age 20, was an Air Force colonel, and did research for the CIA, NASA and the National Reconnaissance Office, among other government agencies.

Rustan died June 28 at his home in Woodbridge, Va. He was 65 and had prostate cancer, said his wife, Alexandra Cary Rustan.

Pete Rustan once devised a way to keep Air Force planes from being damaged by lightning. He led a project to build a spacecraft that performed important scientific experiments on the moon. He earned a Ph.D. while serving as an Air Force intelligence officer. He became a designer of spy satellites.All of those achievements came after he made a daring escape from Cuba to come to the United States.

Go ATLAS! Go NRO! ... and Godspeed Pete!!

There's also an article in July on the Miami Herald: http://www.miamiherald.com/2012/07/09/v-print/2888611/pete-rustan-acclaimed-scientist.html (http://www.miamiherald.com/2012/07/09/v-print/2888611/pete-rustan-acclaimed-scientist.html)
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 08:49 pm
Quote
Liquid hydrogen in the Centaur is at 90%. Atlas liquid oxygen at more than 99%

https://twitter.com/ulalaunch (https://twitter.com/ulalaunch)
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:01 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 09/13/2012 09:10 pm
T-30 minutes

Just 30 minutes from launch and the team is not currently working any technical issues. Cryogenic operations are nearing completion for the launch this afternoon of NROL-36 at 2:39 p.m. PDT.

The NROL-36 launch will be carried live beginning 20 minutes prior to launch and will conclude approximately five minutes following launch. A simulcast of the broadcast can be viewed here: http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Multimedia_Webcast.shtml

Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:18 pm
Webcast starting.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:18 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:19 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:20 pm
Don spencer
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:20 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:20 pm
Coverage will cease at fairing sep - standard for NRO flights.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:21 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 09/13/2012 09:21 pm
It's a big foggy!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:21 pm
foggy=VAFB
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:22 pm
weather within criteria
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:22 pm
It's a big foggy!

Indeed!  :D

"Vigilance from above" - I like that...
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Prober on 09/13/2012 09:22 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:23 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:24 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 09/13/2012 09:24 pm
It's a big foggy!

Indeed!  :D

"Vigilance from above" - I like that...

It's better when Don Spencer says it! ;D

(Sorry, I should be the last person being chatty on a live thread!)
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:25 pm
ULA always impresses me with the dedications for each flight
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:25 pm
t-4 and holding
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Prober on 09/13/2012 09:25 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:28 pm
11 cubesats also being launched on this flight, carried on the Centaur Aft Bulkhead Carrier.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:28 pm
cubesats:
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:29 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Star One on 09/13/2012 09:31 pm
The visibility is appalling there.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:31 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Prober on 09/13/2012 09:31 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:32 pm
polling underway
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:32 pm
Polling to come out of the hold.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:33 pm
Go to continue the count.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:33 pm
t-0 21:39 zulu
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 09/13/2012 09:33 pm
L-6 mins
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Prober on 09/13/2012 09:33 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:34 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:35 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: ugordan on 09/13/2012 09:35 pm
What's with some of ULA's recent webcasts from VAFB that makes the picture look so dark?
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:36 pm
L minus 3 minutes

Atlas tanks at flight pressure
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:37 pm
L minus 2 minutes

launch sequencer start
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:37 pm
T-2 minutes.

Vehicle on internal power.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:37 pm
Centaur tanks securing.

Launch enable, FTS armed.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 09/13/2012 09:37 pm
Launch Enable. FTS Armed.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 09/13/2012 09:38 pm
Range Green.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:38 pm
T-60 seconds. Range is green.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:38 pm
Go Atlas, Go Centaur.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 09/13/2012 09:39 pm
Go Atlas. Go Centaur.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:39 pm
Liftoff!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 09/13/2012 09:39 pm
LAUNCH!!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:39 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:39 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:39 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:39 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:40 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 09/13/2012 09:40 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:40 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Star One on 09/13/2012 09:40 pm
Launch & its already disappeared into the cloud!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:40 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:40 pm
Mach 1.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:40 pm
Max-Q.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:41 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:41 pm
Speed 800 mph.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Prober on 09/13/2012 09:41 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:41 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:41 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:42 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:42 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:42 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:43 pm
Exhaust plume really widening out.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:43 pm
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:43 pm
BECO, staging, and Centaur start.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Nick L. on 09/13/2012 09:44 pm
Fairing separation.

Coverage ending.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:44 pm
PLF sep= end of coverage
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Star One on 09/13/2012 09:44 pm
Usual security cut off of video.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Silmfeanor on 09/13/2012 09:45 pm
Well done Atlas-V!

We had a very nice view of the hold-down clamps at the lift-off - aswell as the water supression system afterwards starting up.

edit - not really showing replays. Shoddy webcast, below the usual quality, although the thermal tracking camera was nice. Showed the heat on the payload fairing and the 1st-2nd connection.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Star One on 09/13/2012 09:46 pm
We should hear pretty soon on this mission as regards deployment as it's not a GEO payload?
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: thydusk666 on 09/13/2012 09:47 pm
Was that filmed in infrared?
Loved it, you could see new details compared to the visible specter.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ronsmytheiii on 09/13/2012 09:50 pm
http://gickr.com/ready/31e6883e-873c-a2b4-e186-d58a823851b7#.UFJUw1GZiSo

Click to animate
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Rocket Science on 09/13/2012 09:50 pm
Looked foggy enough to have been launched from Chris’s front lawn... ;D  Seriously, congrats and well done to all the teams!  :)
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Star One on 09/13/2012 09:52 pm
Looked foggy enough to have been launched from Chris’s front lawn... ;D  Seriously, congrats and well done to all the teams!  :)

Do they get a lot sort of weather there, or just unlucky this time?
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: William Graham on 09/13/2012 09:52 pm
We should hear pretty soon on this mission as regards deployment as it's not a GEO payload?

Assuming it is NOSS on a two-burn mission, the primary payload separation will probably occur about 60-70 minutes from now. The Centaur will then have to make another burn before CubeSat deployment.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 09/13/2012 09:54 pm

Click to animate

I like that!

Looked foggy enough to have been launched from Chris’s front lawn... ;D

Cheeky Sod! ;)
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Star One on 09/13/2012 09:56 pm
We should hear pretty soon on this mission as regards deployment as it's not a GEO payload?

Assuming it is NOSS on a two-burn mission, the primary payload separation will probably occur about 60-70 minutes from now. The Centaur will then have to make another burn before CubeSat deployment.

Is it likely the Centaur will be de-orbited after the deployment of the CubeSats?
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Chris Bergin on 09/13/2012 09:59 pm
William Graham's article - updated:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2012/09/uatlas-v-launch-nrol-36-vandenberg/
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: William Graham on 09/13/2012 10:00 pm
We should hear pretty soon on this mission as regards deployment as it's not a GEO payload?

Assuming it is NOSS on a two-burn mission, the primary payload separation will probably occur about 60-70 minutes from now. The Centaur will then have to make another burn before CubeSat deployment.

Is it likely the Centaur will be de-orbited after the deployment of the CubeSats?

It will have made three or four burns by the time the CubeSats separate, and according to SeeSat there is not NOTAM for a deorbit, so it looks unlikely.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Rocket Science on 09/13/2012 10:04 pm
Looked foggy enough to have been launched from Chris’s front lawn... ;D  Seriously, congrats and well done to all the teams!  :)

Do they get a lot sort of weather there, or just unlucky this time?
Yes, it sometimes rolls in off  the Pacific and burns off. No real impact on launch as we saw or didn’t see… ;D
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Star One on 09/13/2012 10:09 pm
Looked foggy enough to have been launched from Chris’s front lawn... ;D  Seriously, congrats and well done to all the teams!  :)

Do they get a lot sort of weather there, or just unlucky this time?
Yes, it sometimes rolls in off  the Pacific and burns off. No real impact on launch as we saw or didn’t see… ;D

It looked as if you couldn't see a hand in front of your face let alone see a rocket launch. :)
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: TJL on 09/13/2012 10:15 pm
Was this AV-033?
Thank you.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: William Graham on 09/13/2012 10:18 pm
Was this AV-033?
Thank you.
Yes
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: robertross on 09/13/2012 11:42 pm
William Graham's article - updated:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2012/09/uatlas-v-launch-nrol-36-vandenberg/

Really like the cubesat focus.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Artyom. on 09/14/2012 02:50 am
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eR9Ad_m0BRY&feature=g-all-u
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Galactic Penguin SST on 09/14/2012 02:59 am
Hmm......... no-one cares about launch success!?  ;)

http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/News.shtml#/119/ (http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/News.shtml#/119/)
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Hunt101 on 09/14/2012 03:13 am
Of course it was a success, it's an Atlas V! :)

Very good article again, William.

Some photos, from Pat Corkery, ULA.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Go4TLI on 09/14/2012 03:44 am

Some photos


Nice pics.  The fog adds a cool effect.  Could you see anything once it left the tower?
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Galactic Penguin SST on 09/14/2012 06:37 am
Launch highlights video: http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/Video/videos/AV/av_nrol36_lh.wmv (http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/Video/videos/AV/av_nrol36_lh.wmv)

You really need to hike on a near-by mountain to see the rocket coming out of the marine layer...  :P
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: input~2 on 09/14/2012 08:49 am
Has the payload shown in the simulation any connection with reality? ::)
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Skyrocket on 09/14/2012 08:56 am
Has the payload shown in the simulation any connection with reality? ::)

Certainly not. For illustrations of classified missions, they always use some kind of generic payload.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Ben the Space Brit on 09/14/2012 09:34 am
Has the payload shown in the simulation any connection with reality? ::)

Certainly not. For illustrations of classified missions, they always use some kind of generic payload.

Actually, it might be interesting to have a gallery of payload images from the Atlas, Delta-II and -IV simulations - They might be reusing graphics from an older non-classified mission!
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: jcm on 09/14/2012 11:00 pm
The Cubesats were deployed between 0044 and 0105 UTC on Sep 14.

CINEMA tweets that it has telemetry
https://twitter.com/CINEMAcubesat

Is there another thread on the cubesats that I'm missing?

Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: jcm on 09/14/2012 11:05 pm
http://www.dk3wn.info/ Mike Rupprecht reports radio detection of
CSSWE, CP5,  and Aeneas
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: input~2 on 09/15/2012 08:13 pm
Objects catalogued by USSTRATCOM

38758     USA 238                       2012-048A         
38759     SMDC ONE 1.2             2012-048B   
38760     AENEAS                        2012-048C   
38761     CSSWE                         2012-048D   
38762     CXBN                            2012-048E   
38763     CP5                              2012-048F   
38764     CINEMA                        2012-048G   
38765     RE                                 2012-048H     
38766     SMDC ONE 1.1              2012-048J     
38767     AEROCUBE 4.5A            2012-048K     
38768     AEROCUBE 4.5B            2012-048L   
38769     AEROCUBE 4                 2012-048M   
38770     ATLAS CENTAUR R/B      2012-048N
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Prober on 09/16/2012 12:24 am
Objects catalogued by USSTRATCOM

38758     USA 238                       2012-048A         
38759     SMDC ONE 1.2             2012-048B   
38760     AENEAS                        2012-048C   
38761     CSSWE                         2012-048D   
38762     CXBN                            2012-048E   
38763     CP5                              2012-048F   
38764     CINEMA                        2012-048G   
38765     RE                                 2012-048H     
38766     SMDC ONE 1.1              2012-048J     
38767     AEROCUBE 4.5A            2012-048K     
38768     AEROCUBE 4.5B            2012-048L   
38769     AEROCUBE 4                 2012-048M   
38770     ATLAS CENTAUR R/B      2012-048N

we can track that small of a payload?  impressive
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: input~2 on 09/16/2012 01:59 pm
CubeSats TLEs available from AMSAT-UK
http://www.uk.amsat.org/9277 (bottom of the page)

All orbit inclinations between 64.67° and 64.69°
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: ChileVerde on 09/17/2012 12:13 pm

FWIW, the main payloads have been found and are being tracked:

http://sattrackcam.blogspot.nl/2012/09/tracking-new-noss-3-6-nrol-36-launched.html

The same post also has an image of USA 237, the/a NROL-15 payload.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Star One on 09/17/2012 04:36 pm
Even though they are dual satellites they only get one USA number then? I suppose that is done to cover the fact that it is a pair of satellites.

@ ChileVerde thanks for that link, I have not come across that website before as well.
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: input~2 on 09/17/2012 06:38 pm
Even though they are dual satellites they only get one USA number then? I suppose that is done to cover the fact that it is a pair of satellites.
Eventually the second satellite could appear under cover of a debris from the first as was the case for the last pair of NOSS-3 catalogued as shown below:
37386     USA 229     2011-014A   
37391     USA 229 DEB     2011-014B
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: Targeteer on 09/21/2012 03:00 am
An update on the main payload orbits and an interesting discussion by Ted Molczan about a unique gravitational effect in the orbit used by these satellites which leads to a significant reversal of initial eccentricity.

http://www.satobs.org/seesat/Sep-2012/0247.html
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: input~2 on 09/23/2012 02:09 pm
Even though they are dual satellites they only get one USA number then? I suppose that is done to cover the fact that it is a pair of satellites.
Eventually the second satellite could appear under cover of a debris from the first as was the case for the last pair of NOSS-3 catalogued as shown below:
37386     USA 229     2011-014A   
37391     USA 229 DEB     2011-014B

and here we are for NOSS-3 6B:
38773 USA 238 DEB   2012-048P
Title: Re: LIVE: Atlas V 401 NROL-36 September 13, 2012
Post by: edkyle99 on 09/23/2014 01:45 am
Just watched this Centaur stage pass over Chicago tonight (9/22/14).  A beauty, bright with varying colors from orange to silver to white with a couple of brilliant reflection flashes thrown in, and tumbling so that the magnitude steadily varies.   The stage is currently listed in a 487 x 711 km, 64.7° orbit, making it a nice bright Centaur for us mid-latitude types to observe.

I like to remind myself that a lot of fantastic old hardware is still up there, some of it dating back to the early days of the space age.  Watching this one made me wonder how many of these old dead objects might actually still have something still "alive" (electronically speaking), unannounced, on them, hiding in plain sight.

 - Ed Kyle