NASASpaceFlight.com Forum
Commercial and US Government Launch Vehicles => ULA - Delta, Atlas, Vulcan => Topic started by: Jim on 08/04/2010 03:04 pm
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Here is the logo.
The vehicle went vertical today.
http://countdown.ksc.nasa.gov/elv/
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Cool logo.
Still tracking October 19?
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Cool logo.
Speak for yourself, Chris. I find it disturbing in a Dali-esque way. :P
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Cool logo.
Still tracking October 19?
That is awesome, have no idea what it is but know I should be afraid of it, GREAT!! Where can i sign up for graphic designer at the DOD
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Is this likely to be another night launch of the Heavy?
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Two things of interest about that patch. Firstly the general layout of the patch and the appearance of the numbers are very similar to L-21. Secondly, the eye. I'm not an expert at biology, but I'd say it looks vaguely owl-like. Owl eyes have been a symbol used on several Lacrosse and Onyx launches.
There has not been a launch of a US RADINT satellite (with the possible exception of the failed L-21 spacecraft) in the last five years, and the oldest of the four operational satellites has been in orbit for over 19 years. The second newest satellite is less than two weeks away from the tenth anniversary of its launch, and its design life is believed to be less than that. It has been noted that ULA were given additional funding to ensure this launches on time, perhaps this is to ensure that it reaches orbit before the existing spacecraft start failing.
I suspect that this will be the first in a new series of RADINT satellites, which will use technology which was supposed to have been demonstrated by L-21 had it not failed immediately after launch. Obviously since it is launching on a DIVH, it will be a larger spacecraft than L-21. In the absence of an official designation for such missions, I will refer to them as "Improved Onyx". Another possibility is that it is one final Onyx satellite, as I had been expecting next-generation RADINT satellites to be smaller and lighter.
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Your opinion differs from most of the experts
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That looks kinda like an eagle eye to me...
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Here is the logo.
The vehicle went vertical today.
http://countdown.ksc.nasa.gov/elv/
Will it stay at the pad for almost a quarter of a year (!!!) or is this only some kind of thest and it will roll back after it?
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They stay at the pad.
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Cool logo.
Still tracking October 19?
Reminds me of the pyramid/eye on the one dollar bill that conspiracy "theorists" like to go nuts over
Here is the logo.
The vehicle went vertical today.
http://countdown.ksc.nasa.gov/elv/
Will it stay at the pad for almost a quarter of a year (!!!) or is this only some kind of thest and it will roll back after it?
Delta IV is stacked on the pad within a mobile service structure that is then moved away (think of it like a smaller VAB on rails)
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Well, splitting hairs maybe, the only thing stacked/integrated at the pad is the payload. The common booster cores and the second stage are joined in the integration building, still horizontal. The whole thing is tilted up at the pad.
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Reminds me of the pyramid/eye on the one dollar bill that conspiracy "theorists" like to go nuts over
Interestingly, that pyramid has appeared on an NRO patch before. If I recall correctly, that was a RADINT satellite.
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I bet it's an optical spy sat of some kind. Total guess is that it's used for constant, real-time surveillance of an entire region.
Just a guess, really. I have absolutely zero insider knowledge and very, very little insight.
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I bet it's an optical spy sat of some kind. Total guess is that it's used for constant, real-time surveillance of an entire region.
Not for an east coast launch
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Unless they are looking for frequent overflights of a low inclination region... But that is an unlikely stretch. Jim's more likely correct and it is something else.
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I bet it's an optical spy sat of some kind. Total guess is that it's used for constant, real-time surveillance of an entire region.
Not for an east coast launch
I was thinking it would be in GSO, allowing constant, medium-resolution (5-10m resolution) coverage of a whole area. I guess mil-sat would be closer to what I was thinking, not spy sat. It's still just a guess, and admittedly a wild one.
More likely: ELINT or a radar imaging satellite. Could be a communications satellite, but that probably wouldn't need the throw-weight of a DIVH.
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Assuming this is a sneak peak at the Delta here on the KSC webcams.. ??
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The camera indicates it's from the Delta Operations Center (DOC).
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When is the standard pre-launch tanking test planned for? Sometime this month or the next?
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Late September.
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Your opinion differs from most of the experts
So Jim, what do the "experts" say?
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Your opinion differs from most of the experts
So Jim, what do the "experts" say?
Most predict a geostationary ELINT satellite ("Advanced Orion" or successor)
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Which makes more sense from CCAFS. I wonder what the longitude will be?
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I wonder what the longitude will be?
For ELINT, I'd want it over South Asia/Arabian Sea. Al-Quaeda and the Taliban and Somali pirates all use satcom and other civilian communications networks quite heavily, so having an intercept asset in the area would be an intelligence goldmine.
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Your opinion differs from most of the experts
So Jim, what do the "experts" say?
Most predict a geostationary ELINT satellite ("Advanced Orion" or successor)
I thought Orion wasn't going to be ready till 2014 at the earliest, man those commercial firms are fast ;)
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Launch patch has appeared on ebay:
http://www.webcitation.org/5sYuAUPxH
It is almost identical to the launch patch for Titan B-28, which put up the fourth Lacrosse satellite. That seems to support my theory.
I think that many of the experts in the field are basing their hypotheses on the fact that LEO reconnaissance satellites are rarely launched from Canaveral, however there have been two previous cases of radar satellites launching from Canaveral due to Vandenberg not being available (Lacrosse 1 after the cancellation of Shuttle launches from Vandenberg and Lacrosse 5 due to range congestion). Since there has only been one previous NRO launch on the Delta IV Heavy, it is too early to develop a hypothesis based purely on precedent.
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Launch patch has appeared on ebay:
http://www.webcitation.org/5sYtD6cLk
It is almost identical to the launch patch for Titan B-28, which put up the fourth Lacrosse satellite. That seems to support my theory.
Err, no: The Titan B-28 patch was quite different:
http://spaceflightnow.com/titan/b28/index.html
IIRC, the previous Lacrosse patches showed an Owl's eye motive, which is not present here.
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Launch patch has appeared on ebay:
http://www.webcitation.org/5sYtD6cLk
It is almost identical to the launch patch for Titan B-28, which put up the fourth Lacrosse satellite. That seems to support my theory.
Err, no: The Titan B-28 patch was quite different:
http://spaceflightnow.com/titan/b28/index.html
That's the mission patch. This is the launch patch:
http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1033/1
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Is it public or surmised anywhere how the NRO budget has done under this administration? Have any programs been canceled?
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Looks like the payload is close to being installed as the top door is open
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Looks like the payload is close to being installed as the top door is open
Not quite right there! The payloads are hoisted through a hoistway at the back of the MST, not the front. The front panels are just a weather protection for the fairing. The attached photo shows GOES-O being readied for hoisting at SLC-37B.
My guess is that they're getting geared up for the standard WDR that precedes PL installation.
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Payload is installed from the rear. Tower may be being rolled back
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The Delta V Heavy have been revealed for today's WDR:
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Delta IV Heavy is a very nice looking rocket.
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Over the next 15 months will be a busy time for the Delta IV Heavy, with 3 scheduled. Then none until 2015. We are in for serious eye candy over the next year :D
*Anyone wanna wager if NRO L-15 will slip into 2012 or later?
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It should be lifting the first flight Orion in 2013. Welcome to the true 0.5 LV !
I will believe it when Jim says it is so ;)
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It should be lifting the first flight Orion in 2013. Welcome to the true 0.5 LV !
I will believe it when Jim says it is so ;)
http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=19139.msg639550#msg639550
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Delta IV Heavy is a very nice looking rocket.
I can't stop thinking that it would look even better (from mass to orbit perspective) if outriggers would be filled with RP-1, not LH...
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Here is the logo.
The vehicle went vertical today.
http://countdown.ksc.nasa.gov/elv/
Jim,
I am working the mission. Can you get me a patch?
Thanks,
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Jim,
I am working the mission. Can you get me a patch?
Thanks,
You can get it easier than me. ULA/5th SLS have patch reps
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Gas venting from the Delta IV
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Looks like the payload is close to being installed as the top door is open
Not quite right there! The payloads are hoisted through a hoistway at the back of the MST, not the front. The front panels are just a weather protection for the fairing. The attached photo shows GOES-O being readied for hoisting at SLC-37B.
My guess is that they're getting geared up for the standard WDR that precedes PL installation.
What is WDR?
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Looks like the payload is close to being installed as the top door is open
Not quite right there! The payloads are hoisted through a hoistway at the back of the MST, not the front. The front panels are just a weather protection for the fairing. The attached photo shows GOES-O being readied for hoisting at SLC-37B.
My guess is that they're getting geared up for the standard WDR that precedes PL installation.
What is WDR?
Wet Dress-Rehearsal, or "tanking test".
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According to http://msdb.gsfc.nasa.gov/launches.php the Delta-IVH launch of NROL-32 is now scheduled for November 4.
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According to http://msdb.gsfc.nasa.gov/launches.php the Delta-IVH launch of NROL-32 is now scheduled for November 4.
Problem discovered during the WDR?
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So, STS-133, NROL-32, and COTS-1 potentially all in a week?
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So, STS-133, NROL-32, and COTS-1 potentially all in a week?
So now is the time to book your tickets for the Trifecta ;)
Keeping in mind that if there was, say, a 70% chance that any one of these will go off on time, there is only about a 34% chance that all three will happen as currently planned, and only about a 49% chance that at least two will happen.
- Ed Kyle
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And even that 70% is probably generous.
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Better odds than predicting a Trifecta in horse racing ;)
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Better odds than predicting a Trifecta in horse racing ;)
And of all the rockets about to go up - I'd place more money on the shuttle going up per its current schedule than any other rocket - to which I find fascinating given it is the rocket we are about to cancel. We've worked all the kinks out and have hit most of the launch dates right on the money lately - yet in three more flights its over. Still shaking my head on this one but I'll get over it soon as reality is setting in quickly.
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Launching any other rocket takes a fraction of the people needed to launch a Shuttle.
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THis website says the D4H launch no sooner than Nov. 4th.
What are the odds it goes up on the 4th?
I'm flying down to Florida on Oct 31st for the Shuttle launch, and the plan was to come back on Nov 5th, but that'd be awesome to see a D4H launch too.
If it launched on Nov 4th, I could do it, if it was on the 5th, I'd miss it.
What say you guys?
Also, where do you even go to view a D4H launch? What area? Is there public viewing?
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THis website says the D4H launch no sooner than Nov. 4th.
What are the odds it goes up on the 4th?
I'm flying down to Florida on Oct 31st for the Shuttle launch, and the plan was to come back on Nov 5th, but that'd be awesome to see a D4H launch too.
If it launched on Nov 4th, I could do it, if it was on the 5th, I'd miss it.
What say you guys?
Also, where do you even go to view a D4H launch? What area? Is there public viewing?
Just call in sick to work and say the florida lawn dog's ate your return ticket ;)
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THis website says the D4H launch no sooner than Nov. 4th.
What are the odds it goes up on the 4th?
I'm flying down to Florida on Oct 31st for the Shuttle launch, and the plan was to come back on Nov 5th, but that'd be awesome to see a D4H launch too.
If it launched on Nov 4th, I could do it, if it was on the 5th, I'd miss it.
What say you guys?
Also, where do you even go to view a D4H launch? What area? Is there public viewing?
Just call in sick to work and say the florida lawn dog's ate your return ticket ;)
Heheheheh
Actually, it's not my work since I wouldn't be going back to work until the following monday, Nov. 8th. It's getting another day down there from my wife, who's already not exactly excited about how long I'm planning to be there already. but I was trying to maximize my chances of seeing STS-133, so wanted some extra days incase of a weather scrub or two.
I don't have my plane ticket yet, so theorectically, I could stay until Saturday...if my wife doesn't kill me.
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The launch is the night of the 5th, earliest.
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The launch is the night of the 5th, earliest.
Chances of it actually flying on the 5th at this point?
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What say you guys?
Also, where do you even go to view a D4H launch? What area? Is there public viewing?
Port Canaveral for a night launch.
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What say you guys?
Also, where do you even go to view a D4H launch? What area? Is there public viewing?
Port Canaveral for a night launch.
What are the odds of it actually going up on Nov 5th? (not counting a weather scrub?)
How cool would a Delta 4 heavy launch be to see? Is it worth fighting with the wife to add 1 day to my trip down there, so I fly back on Nov 6th instead of 5th? I know she won't like it, but I might be able to do it if there's a good chance it -will- launch on Nov 5th and no later (barring a weather issue) and that it will be really worth seeing.
The Delta 4 HEavy is the largers US rocket after the Shuttle, so seems like it'd be pretty cool...but...?
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Nah, just book the return ticket for the 15th, not the 5th and look clueless when confronted ... saying I could have sworn it was for the 5th.
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I would stay for it if it meant an extra day. But I wouldn't book anything yet because it could slip more.
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I've seen launches of a Delta 2 and of a Shuttle in person. Could anyone whose seen either of these and a Delta IV Heavy tell me how they compare? Although the Heavy is not as powerful as the Shuttle, I would think its lack of solids might make for a slower and therefore more impressive climb.
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http://msdb.gsfc.nasa.gov/launches.php now says 06 november, UTC. (which could certainly still be the night of the 5th, EST.)
i'm positively thrilled at the idea of getting to see a night launch that week, not the least of which because it probably won't conflict at all -- sleep deprivation notwithstanding -- with my post-STS-133 plans of otherwise spending that whole week at the theme parks. ;D
...not that i don't know the meaning of "TBD", or anything, but any back-of-the-napkin guesses as to likely time of night? late evening, midnight, pre-dawn?
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So is it still scheduled for the evening of the 5th, but it might take off after midnight EST, technically being Nov 6th? But it's not been moved to the evening of Nov 6th?
You are making it more complicated than it needs to be.
This is a simple timezone problem. EST is 5 hours behind GMT, EDT is 4 hours behind GMT.
If the launch is after 19:00 EST, then the launch is happening in the early AM GMT. E.g. 5 Nov 2010 19:30 EST is 6 Nov 2010 00:30 GMT.
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Just to be clear, the currently planned launch has a four hour window and is as follows:
Nov 5, 8:01pm to midnight EDT (20:01 - 00:00 EDT)
which is the same as:
Nov 6, 00:01 to 04:00 UTC (or GMT if you prefer).
Note: Change from EDT to EST occurs on Nov 7 this year, so after this launch (all being well!)
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This mornings webcam view:
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Another WDR in progress?
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Yes, and almost two weeks behind schedule for the redo. November 16 now for launch according to MSDB website.
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Suck!
I had the ok from the wife to stay an extra day on my trip to see STS-133 to see this launch. would have been cool, but that's the way it goes. No chance of it going up on Nov 5th now?
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On the bright side, there is now a greatly reduced likelihood of a scheduling conflict with SpaceX's COTS-1 launch.
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On the bright side, there is now a greatly reduced likelihood of a scheduling conflict with SpaceX's COTS-1 launch.
Depends on which launch you feel is more important... Go Delta IV!
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Would really like to see heavy fly again. Gonna have to wait even more......
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On the bright side, there is now a greatly reduced likelihood of a scheduling conflict with SpaceX's COTS-1 launch.
If the Demo goes when it is currently scheduled.
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Nobody is sharing any info on what might be troubling the DIVH? I assume it's not a payload issue because of the repeated and belated WDR. Better safe than sorry, I suppose, especially since this is probably an outrageously expensive payload.
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couple shots of NROL 32 in progress
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A video tour of the pad:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AR_l4pQYy3c
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LHA has been published, it is due East. Looks like a GSO launch after all.
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Was there any doubt?
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LHA--Launch hazard announcement? Can you provide the document or a link?
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Area
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Just go to http://www.patrick.af.mil/
Center of the page
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LHA--Launch hazard announcement? Can you provide the document or a link?
Oh, forgot to attach it
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Was there any doubt?
Seriously. For NRO payloads, Cape Canaveral is GSO and West Coast is polar orbit.
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High inclination "Heavy" payloads have flow from the cape in the past. Lacrosse comes to mind.
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FYI: there is live activity at the launch facility.
Streaming video available to those who can get it.
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Oh, it changed. Close up view.
(not much activity that can be seen though)
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Web stream live view:
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anyone know when the Mobile service tower will be removed?
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in the morning per previous missions
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Delay. ULA:
Delta IV Heavy NRO Mission Rescheduled for Nov. 19
Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla. (Nov. 17, 2010) - The launch of the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy with a National Reconnaissance Office payload is rescheduled for Nov. 19, at 6:06 p.m. EST. During closeout processing of the launch system in preparation for flight, engineers detected that the installation of some ground support equipment pyrotechnic ordnance lines did not meet requirements. These ordnance lines fire the “hold down bolts” at liftoff releasing the Delta IV Heavy for flight. Mission managers have delayed the launch 24 hours, which allows time for new ordnance lines to be installed that meet all flight requirements.
The Delta IV Heavy rocket and NRO payload are safe and secure. The current weather forecast calls for a 90 percent chance of acceptable weather for Nov. 19.
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ULA note they have resolved the issue and are go for launch tomorrow.
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I'm guessing this one has the 65 ft. 5m metalic trisector fairing?
Mentioned here: http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Products_DeltaIV.shtml
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Early morning:
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Moved for live coverage.
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"Big Rockets are cool!" :)
Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla., (Nov. 19, 2010) - A United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy sits poised on its launch pad with a National Reconnaissance Office payload at Space Launch Complex-37. Today’s launch is scheduled to blast off at 6:06 p.m. EST. The Delta IV Heavy with its nearly 2 millions pounds of thrust is America’s most powerful liquid fueled rocket. Photo by Pat Corkery, United Launch Alliance.
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What's cooler than a photo of a big LV?
Two pictures of a big LV, that's what! ;D
Photo by Pat Corkery, United Launch Alliance.
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what's cooler than a big launch vehicle?
Owning one and having it in your front yard!
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Undoubtedly, it's BIG. Is it the biggest?
--- CHAS
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what's cooler than a big launch vehicle?
Owning one and having it in your front yard!
Now that would present my neighborhood association 'enforcers' something real to ponder. ???
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Undoubtedly, it's BIG. Is it the biggest?
IIUC currently it's the biggest ELV in active service in terms of payload.
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High inclination "Heavy" payloads have flow from the cape in the past. Lacrosse comes to mind.
The highest inclination orbit the Lacrosse flew out of the Cape was 57 degrees. Not even that different from ISS, at 51.6. Nothing close to polar orbit. What's the inclination of this launch? (it's GSO, so never mind)
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Depends on the orbit.
Ariane 5 is bigger WRT payload to GTO.
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High inclination "Heavy" payloads have flow from the cape in the past. Lacrosse comes to mind.
The highest inclination orbit the Lacrosse flew out of the Cape was 57 degrees. Not even that different from ISS, at 51.6. Nothing close to polar orbit. What's the inclination of this launch? (it's GSO, so never mind)
STS-36 flew at an inclination of 62 degrees
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Depends on the orbit.
Ariane 5 is bigger WRT payload to GTO.
Is it? That's not what wikipedia says (FWIW), and BOTE reasoning suggests that since DIVH has slightly more performance to LEO and an upper stage with a higher specific impulse, it should have more performance to GTO.
But in any case, DIVH is by some margin the most voluminous ELV because it is all hydrolox (and no common bulkheads as well). It doesn't get much fluffier than this.
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Depends on the orbit.
Ariane 5 is bigger WRT payload to GTO.
Is it? That's not what wikipedia says (FWIW), and BOTE reasoning suggests that since DIVH has slightly more performance to LEO and an upper stage with a higher specific impulse, it should have more performance to GTO.
But in any case, DIVH is by some margin the most voluminous ELV because it is all hydrolox (and no common bulkheads as well). It doesn't get much fluffier than this.
And is that without the RS-68A as well?
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Is it? That's not what wikipedia says (FWIW), and BOTE reasoning suggests that since DIVH has slightly more performance to LEO and an upper stage with a higher specific impulse, it should have more performance to GTO.
I don't know which of the two has the greater payload, but bear in mind that Ariane launches from a nearly equatorial launch site.
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Volume - for sure.
I thought I read Ariane had a bigger GTO payload but this might also have to do with the different launch sites. LEO Payload is significantly bigger for DIV, afaik, but those are usually higher inclination orbits.
To have a higher payload it's not enough for the upper stage to have a higher specific impulse or even size. If the lower stage provides more delta-v.
I believe Ariane 5's LEO payload is structurally limited and measured with a different US. The ATV Arianes use a smaller upper stage and structural stiffening.
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High inclination "Heavy" payloads have flow from the cape in the past. Lacrosse comes to mind.
The highest inclination orbit the Lacrosse flew out of the Cape was 57 degrees. Not even that different from ISS, at 51.6. Nothing close to polar orbit. What's the inclination of this launch? (it's GSO, so never mind)
Why don't we put it in perspective.
You're Quote
Seriously. For NRO payloads, Cape Canaveral is GSO and West Coast is polar orbit.
My point non GSO, heavy NRO payloads like Lacrosse do currently fly from the cape. Atlas IIIB, NROL-23 also comes to mind. I remember watching the fuel dump while walking the dog. 51.6 is not a low inclination.
Now, grab some popcorn and get ready to watch the light show.
Go Heavy!!!
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1. My point non GSO, heavy NRO payloads like Lacrosse do currently fly from the cape.
2.Atlas IIIB, NROL-23 also comes to mind. I remember watching the fuel dump while walking the dog. 51.6 is not a low inclination.
1. only one did
2. not a big payload
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1. only one did
Two; the first and last. Both were originally supposed to fly from Vandenberg.
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Want to keep this on updates only from this point onwards.
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1. only one did
Two; the first and last. Both were originally supposed to fly from Vandenberg.
One Titan. All shuttle payloads were LEO payloads regardless of the final orbit.
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Launch Risk Status
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Problem being worked - detanking strap-on LOX, stop fill on fuel - source.
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Did I miss a link for a webcast... or will there be one?
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Did I miss a link for a webcast... or will there be one?
http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/pages/Multimedia_Webcast.shtml
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Might be appropriate to note that this vehicle had two wet dress rehearsals, which could have been due to a tanking problem on the first WDR that is recurring today. This is of course speculative, because I've previously asked a couple times about the reason for the two WDRs, and nobody here seemed to be at liberty to reply.
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Got a bit sporty in here just then, deleted back. No point asking if there's a scrub if it's not been posted.
We've got the above note. SFN's got them offloading. Both of us aren't saying scrub yet.
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Fuel detank started about 30 minutes ago. Note (our sources) they have one troubleshooting step left, but probable scrub.
So it's not over yet.
Good question from Butters, especially as the WDR was noted as an EELV positive with regards to STS-133's tank issues.
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Scanner talked of a alarm from fire sensor in the MST
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False alarm, other sensors indicated everything was okay, IR camera said flare stack was working fine.
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Still plenty of time to recycle back into tanking I assume?
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The November 5 & 6 launch windows were 4 hours, couldn't find up-to-date info for today's window.
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The November 5 & 6 launch windows were 4 hours, couldn't find up-to-date info for today's window.
It's secret. Checked back on the ULA e-mails about this launch and it was noted "The launch window for the mission will not be released".
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SFN say the window is 'a few hours' which would enable the problem to be fixed and launch attempted again.
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Let's keep speculation to other sites, yeah?
ULA officially note:
During today’s cryogenic fueling, anomalous temperature readings were observed on the port and starboard strap-on common core boosters. At this time, fuel loading has ceased and the launch countdown is on hold. Mission managers are currently studying the situation to see if this can be satisfactorily resolved to continue with today’s launch attempt.
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Appreciate the updates guys (and gals, if any).
Really want to see this one launch live.
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fwiw.. current view from
http://www.livestream.com/newchannel/popoutplayer?channel=spaceflightnowmobile
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We have a new launchtime: 8:30 p.m. EST.
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Full detank and scrub.
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SCRUB
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Thanks guys.
ULA officially confirm it too. No word on turnaround.
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Delta IV Heavy NRO Mission Scrubbed
Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla. (Nov. 19, 2010) - The launch attempt of the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy with a National Reconnaissance Office payload was scrubbed today. During the launch countdown, anomalous temperature data signatures were detected on the port and starboard strap-on common core boosters during cryogenic fueling. When detected, mission managers halted the countdown and stopped further tanking of the rocket. After evaluation, the decision was made to scrub today’s launch attempt. Mission managers are currently studying the situation to determine a corrective action plan.
The Delta IV Heavy and payload are safe and secure at this time. When a decision is made confirming the date of the next launch attempt it will be announced.
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I've coverted the launch preview article - by William Graham - into the placeholder for the scrub, ahead of conversion back into the launch day article when the new date is announced.
Excellent read:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2010/11/live-delta-iv-heavy-launch-with-nrol-3/
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Dang, I go to check out the launch status for todays rockets and another dissapointment. Man, it seems like I've been waiting to see a rocket launch forever. Spacex gets delayed over and over, shuttle gets delayed over and over, and now Delta IV heavy. I'm really looking forward to seeing Delta IV heavy cause I've never seen one of these launch. Looks really cool though strapping three of the first stage boosters together like that.
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48 hour scrub.
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ULA won't announce a new launch date until tomorrow.
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Delta IV Heavy NROL-32 Almost went!
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Nice photos Alan!
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I will upload a few full res tomorrow!
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I will upload a few full res tomorrow!
Wait, these are NOT full-res? :o I want I want I want I want I want I want :D
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Here is a full res JPG
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WOW! Full res is amazing Alan. Thank you!
Could we twist your arm for some more?
Beautiful shots.
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Here is a full res JPG
Incredible. Thanks for sharing!
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Wow, you weren't kidding when you said high res--thanks for sharing.
The term "Leviathan" comes to mind when I see the Delta IV Heavy--what a nice looking rocket! Hope to see, hear and feel one someday (perhaps lofting humans??)!
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I know with Shuttle launches, there is a phone number you can call to listen to launch control audio. Is there such a number with ULA launches?
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Sunday is looking like the next attempt
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As Jim notes, and now e-mailed by ULA - next attempt is Nov. 21, 5:58 p.m. EST. Statement to follow, they add.
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Launch scheduled for 5:58 EST Sunday.
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ULA's statement:
Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla. (Nov. 20, 2010) - The launch of the United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy with a National Reconnaissance Office payload is rescheduled for Nov. 21, at 5:58 p.m. EST. Following the scrubbed Nov. 19 launch attempt, the launch team examined the port and starboard common core strap-on boosters in the areas where they received anomalous temperature data signatures during Friday’s launch countdown. After inspections by engineers, it was determined that the temperature data signatures were caused by issues with two temperature sensors. New temperature sensors have been installed and tested, which has resolved the issue.
The Delta IV Heavy rocket and NRO payload are safe and secure. The current weather forecast calls for a 90 percent chance of acceptable weather for Nov. 21.
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just saw this on one of the KSC webcams
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LH2 tanking has been underway for a while, and LOX tanking has begun, with GOX venting now visible on the video feed. I believe this is already further in the tanking procedure than they got during Friday's scrub, so looking good. It's rainy and gloomy right now, but they say 80% GO on weather.
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Snaps courtesy of:
http://www.livestream.com/newchannel/popoutplayer?channel=spaceflightnowmobile
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really wet at the moment
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weather's moving at a good clip.
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winds well below the limit
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current weathersat image
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Weather is currently GREEN.
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The weather .. Animated GIF
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looks like it is now sunny... and clear skies
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Are we at L-1 hour?
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Would I be right in saying that weather constraints are less severe for uncrewed ELVs? So long as the wind is below the safety limits for the initial ascent phase, it shouldn't even matter if there is 100% overcast and rain.
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Would I be right in saying that weather constraints are less severe for uncrewed ELVs? So long as the wind is below the safety limits for the initial ascent phase, it shouldn't even matter if there is 100% overcast and rain.
No, they have flight through precipitation and cumulus cloud rules. I'm not sure exactly why, but that's probably not an appropriate discussion for this thread.
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Are we at L-1 hour?
Yes!
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Webcast starting in 25 minutes. - viewed here
mms://a49.l2973058048.c29730.g.lm.akamaistream.net/D/49/29730/v0001/reflector:58048
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It seems that this Delta 4 may be carrying the same type satellite that was launched by earlier Titan 4 launch vehicles.
Is the Delta 4 Heavy capable of carrying heavier payloads than the Titan 4?
Thank you.
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now that the sun is going down you can see the flare stack burning just in front of the Delta IVH
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It seems that this Delta 4 may be carrying the same type satellite that was launched by earlier Titan 4 launch vehicles.
Is the Delta 4 Heavy capable of carrying heavier payloads than the Titan 4?
Thank you.
Payload capacity is roughly the same I believe.
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So long as the wind is below the safety limits for the initial ascent phase, it shouldn't even matter if there is 100% overcast and rain.
Running into a few million rain drops at supersonic speeds or carrying a lightning strike to the ground through your vehicle are both bad ideas whether there are crew on board or not.
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It seems that this Delta 4 may be carrying the same type satellite that was launched by earlier Titan 4 launch vehicles.
Is the Delta 4 Heavy capable of carrying heavier payloads than the Titan 4?
Thank you.
Payload capacity is roughly the same I believe.
May go higher when they start using RS-68A engines...
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Running into a few million rain drops at supersonic speeds
I thought most launch vehicles are okay with light rain - why is this one difference?
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Detla II avoids all rain. Can't handle the extra weight of the ice.
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Running into a few million rain drops at supersonic speeds
I thought most launch vehicles are okay with light rain - why is this one difference?
It was a general statement. Plus, as you know, you might not know if there's hail in those clouds or not.
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ULA webcast about to start (I have to step away for a bit)..
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Webcast starting:
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It was a general statement. Plus, as you know, you might not know if there's hail in those clouds or not.
If you have a meteorologist watching the radar, you should know. Sounds like this vehicle then can support some light rain.
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Audio has begun
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not working any issues right now
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coverage will stop after payload fairing jettison tonight
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Confirm weather is green.
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weather briefing within criteria, some cloud activity but looking good
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This is great...reminder this is only the fourth flight ever of this vehicle!
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t minus 6 minutes
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Load relief checksum B248.
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t- 5 minutes and holding
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T-5 minutes and holding.
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MST rollback:
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reviewing processing now
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Launch is dedicated to the memory of Jim Arnold.
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NRO LV dedication
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lh2 is topping out
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Beautiful image on the webcast at the moment. Nice lighting contrast.
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Is there any reason to expect the hydrogen fireball will be any different on this launch than on past launches?
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Is there any reason to expect the hydrogen fireball will be any different on this launch than on past launches?
I don't think so - it might look kind of different because of wind though.
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Polling to come out of the hold.
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Director is polling the team l minus 10 minutes
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Polling is go.
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team is ready, go to launch
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MD gives permission to launch.
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l-7 minutesMD gives LD go to launch
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Swing arms ready.
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T/L minus 5 minutes and counting, terminal count
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T-5 minutes and counting! Vehicle going to internal power.
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LV to internal power
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Ordnance arming.
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CBC prop tank securing started
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CBC prepress started
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T-3 mins
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CBC press purge on
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CBC LOX and LH2 secured.
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Tanks pressurizing--now we find out if we fly tonight!
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CBC LH2 secured, LOX was already secure
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CBC propellants are at flight pressure and level
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T-120 seconds. HTPA script running, hydraulic pressure at 4000 psi.
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T-90 seconds
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DCSS LOX secured at flight level, LH2 securing
LD go for launch
T-60 seconds
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T-60 seconds! Let's go!
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Keep the images coming guys please.
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LH2 secure
T-30, still green
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Liftoff
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LAUNCH!
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Tower cleared
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LIFTOFF!
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Already lost into the clouds
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Lots of water noises...
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One mile up only a tenth of a mile downrange.
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Core CBC throttle-down
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Core CBC down to 58%.
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Max-Q
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Mach 1
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damn that was loud!!
See the light pulses (from the engines)?? Strange
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Thrust good, engine control good
T+120 seconds
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T+2 minutes.
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Rolling to bring boosters level
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T+3 mins
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Vehicle weighs only half of what it did at liftoff.
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40 seconds to strap on sep.
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What a great sound! Gotta' see one of these live...
Losing 4,730 lbs per second per fuel burn.
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T+3:30, Coming up on CBC throttledown and sep
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CBCs throttling down
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CBC sep
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Down to partial thrust mode.
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First stage throttleup
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Strap on sep. Core CBC going back to 100% thrust.
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About a minute to MECO
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T+5 mins
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damn that was loud!!
See the light pulses (from the engines)?? Strange
Yeah, saw at least two flashes. Not sure if it was a reaction with the clouds.
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Throttling down
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MECO
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Down to partial thrust in the core.
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Staging 1/2
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MECO and 1-2 sep.
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Nozzle deploying
RL10 ignition
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NEDS deploy and second stage start.
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Good chamber pressure
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Fairing separation
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Fairing sep.
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End of coverage due to plf separation
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Heh, we got to see the payload, which isn't the actual payload again :D
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Showing replays, end of webcast.
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wish there were more replay angles
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"At the request of our customer, this concludes our live coverage."
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Awesome launch. Wish there weren't as many clouds though.
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Congrats to all involved--hopefully the payload completes the mission now, and for (years?) to come...
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And now we wait. I doubt that we'll hear anything official on the outcome until around 05:00 tomorrow.
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Interesting flashes on the replay. I wonder if those are real or artifacts of the video camera trying adjust exposure values?
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Great launch, man ULA is starting to make that look easy.
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I think it would have "looked easier" had it launched when originally planned?
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I wonder if those are real or artifacts of the video camera trying to compensate for exposure values?
Sparks from the ablative nozzles.
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I think it would have "looked easier" had it launched when originally planned?
Certainly can't blame them for faulty temp sensors.
Great job ULA
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Sparks from the ablative nozzles.
Interesting. Thanks!
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-n__2QzO3is
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Great work guys.
A reminder of William's excellent overview:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2010/11/live-delta-iv-heavy-launch-with-nrol-3/
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I think it would have "looked easier" had it launched when originally planned?
And without the mysterious WDR do-over...
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ULA Successful Delta IV Heavy Mission Caps Off 2010 Launch Schedule
Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla., (Nov. 21, 2010) – A United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket carrying a payload for the National Reconnaissance Office lifted off from Space Launch Complex-37 here at 5:58 p.m. EST today. Designated NROL-32, the mission is in support of national defense.
This was the fourth Delta IV Heavy launch and the 351st launch overall in Delta program history. A Delta IV Heavy demonstration flight occurred in December 2004, the first Air Force operational Heavy mission was launched in November 2007, and the first NRO Delta IV Heavy launch occurred in January 2009. This launch completes ULA’s launch schedule for 2010 in which the company launched eight missions including four Atlas V launches, one Delta II launch, and three Delta IV launches including today’s Delta IV Heavy.
“This second Delta IV Heavy launch for the NRO is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication by the combined NRO, Air Force, supplier, and ULA team,” said Jim Sponnick, ULA vice president, Mission Operations. “ULA is pleased to support the NRO as it protects our nation’s security and supports our warriors defending our nation around the world. This launch also tops off another exceptional year for ULA. We are proud to have launched 45 missions in 48 months since our inception Dec. 1st, 2006.”
The ULA Delta IV Heavy vehicle featured a center common booster core with two strap-on common booster cores. Each common booster core was powered by the RS-68 cryogenic engine. An RL10B-2 cryogenic engine powered the second stage. Both engines are built by Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne. The payload was encased by a 5-meter diameter (16.7-foot diameter) aluminum, tri-sector payload fairing. ULA constructed the Delta IV Heavy launch vehicle in Decatur, Ala.
ULA's next launch is another Delta IV Heavy launch for the NRO currently scheduled for Jan. 11, 2011 from Space Launch Complex-6 at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.
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I think it would have "looked easier" had it launched when originally planned?
And without the mysterious WDR do-over...
Maybe they'll discuss the details since the launch has happened...
Back to the RS-68A, any news on whether the January Vandenberg launch will use them or will the Cape launch end of next year be the first?
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Awesome launch! Got to see it from my backyard while the sky was still lit after sunset near the west coast of Florida. There were clouds, but I saw it for a good two minutes or so while when it was visible inbetween 2 clouds. Didn't think it would be as bright as it was! 8)
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ULA Successful Delta IV Heavy Mission Caps Off 2010 Launch Schedule
Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla., (Nov. 21, 2010) – A United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket carrying a payload for the National Reconnaissance Office lifted off from Space Launch Complex-37 here at 5:58 p.m. EST today. Designated NROL-32, the mission is in support of national defense.
This was the fourth Delta IV Heavy launch and the 351st launch overall in Delta program history. A Delta IV Heavy demonstration flight occurred in December 2004, the first Air Force operational Heavy mission was launched in November 2007, and the first NRO Delta IV Heavy launch occurred in January 2009. This launch completes ULA’s launch schedule for 2010 in which the company launched eight missions including four Atlas V launches, one Delta II launch, and three Delta IV launches including today’s Delta IV Heavy.
“This second Delta IV Heavy launch for the NRO is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication by the combined NRO, Air Force, supplier, and ULA team,” said Jim Sponnick, ULA vice president, Mission Operations. “ULA is pleased to support the NRO as it protects our nation’s security and supports our warriors defending our nation around the world. This launch also tops off another exceptional year for ULA. We are proud to have launched 45 missions in 48 months since our inception Dec. 1st, 2006.”
The ULA Delta IV Heavy vehicle featured a center common booster core with two strap-on common booster cores. Each common booster core was powered by the RS-68 cryogenic engine. An RL10B-2 cryogenic engine powered the second stage. Both engines are built by Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne. The payload was encased by a 5-meter diameter (16.7-foot diameter) aluminum, tri-sector payload fairing. ULA constructed the Delta IV Heavy launch vehicle in Decatur, Ala.
ULA's next launch is another Delta IV Heavy launch for the NRO currently scheduled for Jan. 11, 2011 from Space Launch Complex-6 at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.
A little premature to term it a "successful" launch. Second stage could still malfunction.
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The sound of the launch was awsome!
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At about T+346 Agid refers to the nozzle extension deploying into position, but he uses some term for it, maybe an acronym like NES? Anyone know for sure?
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NEDS. Nozzle Extension Deployment System.
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Nice!
Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla., (Nov. 21, 2010) - A United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy launches with a National Reconnaissance Office payload at Space Launch Complex-37 at 5:58 p.m. EST. The Delta IV Heavy with its nearly 2 millions pounds of thrust is America’s most powerful liquid fueled rocket. This was the fourth launch of a Delta IV heavy in program history. Photo by Pat Corkery, United Launch Alliance.
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current live shot of the now empty pad
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I watched from my usual place on the SR 528 Causeway about 20 miles south of the pad. Observation across the River was good, but sadly limited by the clouds, making for a short observation. Still, got some good photos of the launch (3 attached). The clouds and winds were favorable for a throaty roar as the vehicle lifted off, I would say about like a Saturn IB (for those that remember - or think they do, remembering sounds is sort of hard.).
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Hey! It isn't charred!
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Exactly what I was thinking M_Puckett!
Has something changed about the way the heavy is hadled at launch?
P
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Hope somebody can post the full broadcast. I missed it.
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You can really see the flow separation of the over-expanded nozzles at liftoff. RS-68 has much lower chamber pressure than SSME, so it doesn't make those tight mach diamonds. It's a pillar of flame shaped like a series of hourglasses.
I've been wondering why they dump hydrogen into the nozzle so much earlier than the oxygen during engine start (which is why Delta IV always looks like it's lighting itself on fire when the free hydrogen hits the ROFI sparklers). I suppose it must have something to do with the injector and the fact that the hydrogen enters the combustion chamber as a cryogenic liquid rather than as a hot gas as with SSME.
Anyway, very impressive looking launch vehicle. Not a big fan of the RS-68, but obviously SSME would only worsen the economics of Delta IV.
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"At the request of our customer, this concludes our live coverage."
Great line ;)
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It chills the rest of the fuel flow path past the valve that had been holding it back. Also, the RS-68 start sequence is simple simple simple, unlike the SSME that was guess and check. Big reason why there have been nearly 20 SSME tests that burned up at least part of an engine versus zero for RS-68.
Given where engine prices have gone, I mentioned that a dual SSME CBC is worth an academic study at least (cost, structural mods, performance gain), especially if SLS raises the flight rate.
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damn that was loud!!
See the light pulses (from the engines)?? Strange
We saw those pulses very clearly from across the water. And there was a corresponding 'popping' sound with those light pulses as well.
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I viewed the launch from KARS Park which is about 8 miles away unwound say. It sounded great, just wish the clouds would have cleared.
(http://scriptunasimages.smugmug.com/Galleries/Nasa-Space-Shuttle-Program/Delta-IV-Heavy-Launch/Delta-IV-heavy-launch-liftoff/1099865368_Rj9mS-M.jpg)
Here are the rest of the photos.
http://scriptunasimages.smugmug.com/Galleries/Nasa-Space-Shuttle-Program/Delta-IV-Heavy-Launch/Delta-IV-heavy-launch-liftoff/
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I viewed the launch from KARS Park which is about 8 miles away unwound say.
That should read... which is about 8 miles away from the pad I would say. That is what I get posting from my iPhone. Hah
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Very good image AND exposure, Walter. Love the well illuminated Delta 4.
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I viewed the launch from KARS Park which is about 8 miles away unwound say. It sounded great, just wish the clouds would have cleared.
Here are the rest of the photos.
http://scriptunasimages.smugmug.com/Galleries/Nasa-Space-Shuttle-Program/Delta-IV-Heavy-Launch/Delta-IV-heavy-launch-liftoff/
Those are gorgeous photos.
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I think the view from KARS Park was better than the official press viewing location next to the LC-39 viewing gantry. But, that when you need access to the ULA and NRO reps, you go wherever they take you. So anyway, here are a couple videos I shot from the KSC press area tonight...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDqHL56BDPY
And a camera more zoomed-out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58IQ5V9Nqgg
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Very nice photo set Walter. I had a slightly different perspective from Port Canaveral along 401.
Erich
(http://gallery.mac.com/erichlinder/100309/Delta-4-Heavy-NROL-32_3c/web.jpg)
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High inclination "Heavy" payloads have flow from the cape in the past. Lacrosse comes to mind.
The highest inclination orbit the Lacrosse flew out of the Cape was 57 degrees. Not even that different from ISS, at 51.6. Nothing close to polar orbit. What's the inclination of this launch? (it's GSO, so never mind)
STS-36 flew at an inclination of 62 degrees
Quite right, thanks!
Does anyone know the general direction this payload was headed? 28 degrees? Or higher? (no speculation needed, public info only, of course)
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Very nice photo set Walter. I had a slightly different perspective from Port Canaveral along 401.
Erich
(http://gallery.mac.com/erichlinder/100309/Delta-4-Heavy-NROL-32_3c/web.jpg)
Thanks guys!
Great shot Erich, I almost viewed from that same location!
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High inclination "Heavy" payloads have flow from the cape in the past. Lacrosse comes to mind.
The highest inclination orbit the Lacrosse flew out of the Cape was 57 degrees. Not even that different from ISS, at 51.6. Nothing close to polar orbit. What's the inclination of this launch? (it's GSO, so never mind)
STS-36 flew at an inclination of 62 degrees
Quite right, thanks!
Does anyone know the general direction this payload was headed? 28 degrees? Or higher? (no speculation needed, public info only, of course)
This one went to geostationary orbit, so it started out at liftoff with 28.5 degrees but then eventually altered inclination during the ascent and final orbital insert to reach GEO, 0 degrees. I'm not sure (it's late and I'm tired) if there was an intermediate Geostationary Transfer Orbit, but that's the norm. The upper stage can fire multiple times to get to GTO and then GEO and can also go direct to GEO with multiple firings (some consider that also stopping in GTO but for a shorter duration before heading to GEO). Specifics about specific postlaunch profile are speculative. The NRO representative I talked to tonight (briefly, of course) wouldn't give any details like that (again, of course).
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The charring was only on the first one. They fixed it long ago.
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High inclination "Heavy" payloads have flow from the cape in the past. Lacrosse comes to mind.
The highest inclination orbit the Lacrosse flew out of the Cape was 57 degrees. Not even that different from ISS, at 51.6. Nothing close to polar orbit. What's the inclination of this launch? (it's GSO, so never mind)
STS-36 flew at an inclination of 62 degrees
Quite right, thanks!
Does anyone know the general direction this payload was headed? 28 degrees? Or higher? (no speculation needed, public info only, of course)
This one went to geostationary orbit, so it started out at liftoff with 28.5 degrees but then eventually altered inclination during the ascent and final orbital insert to reach GEO, 0 degrees. I'm not sure (it's late and I'm tired) if there was an intermediate Geostationary Transfer Orbit, but that's the norm. The upper stage can fire multiple times to get to GTO and then GEO and can also go direct to GEO with multiple firings (some consider that also stopping in GTO but for a shorter duration before heading to GEO). Specifics about specific postlaunch profile are speculative. The NRO representative I talked to tonight (briefly, of course) wouldn't give any details like that (again, of course).
Yeah, thought it was GEO (or probably first GTO, like you said). Just thought I'd ask to be sure.
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Here are a few more pictures of the launch. Not finished processing but here they are anyway. Taken from the water's edge next to the shuttle LC-39 viewing gantry at KSC. Mike Killian shot these for spaceflightnews.net (that's my informal credit lol).
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Yeah, thought it was GEO (or probably first GTO, like you said). Just thought I'd ask to be sure.
If the NRO was really cool, they'd dogleg one of these into polar orbit and screw us all up in our speculation. Okay, it's late and I'm still working with launch video, photo and the story to go with it.
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Finally, a couple more photos from the launch. These are credited to John O'Connor at http://www.nasatech.net
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The charring was only on the first one. They fixed it long ago.
Very true. ULA reworked the launches so the orange insulation won't char black at launch. The white intertank insulation still peels away, but that's normal and not a problem. Insulation is only needed during fueling and the wait on the pad. When the insulation peels off, is enters the exhaust stream and causes the puffs/flares you see in the exhaust during ascent.
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Really good follow on with the videos and photos guys!
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Was it an optical illusion, or did the simulation inset window, showing the second stage engine, show the main engine bell briefly vector downwards sharply about 10 seconds after ignition?
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Was it an optical illusion, or did the simulation inset window, showing the second stage engine, show the main engine bell briefly vector downwards sharply about 10 seconds after ignition?
I don't think would be so unusual. First stage guidance is often an open-loop gravity turn, and then the upper stage guidance is always closed-loop, usually with a flatter trajectory. So when closed-loop guidance kicks in after the upper stage recovers from the ignition transient, the first guidance correction is likely to be pitch down.
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Given where engine prices have gone, I mentioned that a dual SSME CBC is worth an academic study at least (cost, structural mods, performance gain), especially if SLS raises the flight rate.
If you can reengine for SSME you can reengine for RD-180.
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Given where engine prices have gone, I mentioned that a dual SSME CBC is worth an academic study at least (cost, structural mods, performance gain), especially if SLS raises the flight rate.
If you can reengine for SSME you can reengine for RD-180.
Which would change the entire design of the vehicle, going from LH2 to RP1. Furthermore you'd end up with something that looks an awful lot like Atlas V. ::)
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Given where engine prices have gone, I mentioned that a dual SSME CBC is worth an academic study at least (cost, structural mods, performance gain), especially if SLS raises the flight rate.
If you can reengine for SSME you can reengine for RD-180.
No, different tank sizes.
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Great launch - I missed it, but thanks for the links to video(s).
I assume the rendered image was driven by live telemetry - so my question is: Was the amount of thruster firing around 2nd stage ignition typical?
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Here is a pic from my remote camera, I guess about 200 feet away.
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Here is a pic from my remote camera, I guess about 200 feet away.
WICKED :)
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Given where engine prices have gone, I mentioned that a dual SSME CBC is worth an academic study at least (cost, structural mods, performance gain), especially if SLS raises the flight rate.
If you can reengine for SSME you can reengine for RD-180.
No, different tank sizes.
Also significantly different propellant masses - rho-g-h of LH2 is a lot more benign than rho-g-h of RP1.
BTW, sweet, sweet collection of pics and videos here, fellows. Great coverage.
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maybe someone could photoshop Orion and LAS onto a few of these images...some of us are hoping we actually see that...and after the excitement surrounding these Heavy launches, I'll bet more than a few folks are thinking about the potential here.
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maybe someone could photoshop Orion and LAS onto a few of these images...some of us are hoping we actually see that...and after the excitement surrounding these Heavy launches, I'll bet more than a few folks are thinking about the potential here.
Lockheed Martin among that number. http://www.spacelaunchreport.com/explore01.html
- Ed Kyle
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maybe someone could photoshop Orion and LAS onto a few of these images...some of us are hoping we actually see that...and after the excitement surrounding these Heavy launches, I'll bet more than a few folks are thinking about the potential here.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/simcosmos/4013284353/
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maybe someone could photoshop Orion and LAS onto a few of these images...some of us are hoping we actually see that...and after the excitement surrounding these Heavy launches, I'll bet more than a few folks are thinking about the potential here.
Lockheed Martin among that number. http://www.spacelaunchreport.com/explore01.html
"The rationale for using Delta IV Heavy is, essentially, that it exists." -- Ed
A very-stuffed nutshell.
(Though I'd want to hear the cost estimate to fly Atlas 5H1 or 5H2!)
-Alex
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Well, here are my models.
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Here is a pic from my remote camera, I guess about 200 feet away.
Two hundred feet away from that? And it's still in one piece?!? :o
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So how far downrange do the outboard tanks come down? Do they have enough velocity to start burning up or do they splash down intact at several hundred mph, disintegrate and sink?
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Here is a pic from my remote camera, I guess about 200 feet away.
Two hundred feet away from that? And it's still in one piece?!? :o
Mine was fine, but one of the AP cameras was thrown against a fence. The tripod, but the camera was OK, Lucky since it was a Canon 1D.
It also blew out about 50 feet of the fence.
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How do you trigger the camera? Remotely, or by sound?
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maybe someone could photoshop Orion and LAS onto a few of these images...
That's a pretty cool suggestion. The exercise would be illuminating.
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maybe someone could photoshop Orion and LAS onto a few of these images...
That's a pretty cool suggestion. The exercise would be illuminating.
Something like this? A quick try with awalters' photo.
best regards
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IMHO, that is exactly how the US should be focusing on bridging the GAP! Quick, call and tell your elected representatives to stop jeopardizing MSF with paper/pork rockets...
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Probably take a bit more time than that there PhotoShop exercise, but somebody ought to call Jim and get him started....
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Right on! Well done, and yes, that's what I think many of us have in mind...
Something like this? A quick try with awalters' photo.
best regards
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No, different tank sizes.
Common Core Booster.
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No, different tank sizes.
Common Core Booster.
The point was in reference to using an RD-180 on a CBC and the CBC tank volumes are wrong for RP-1/LOX.
A dual SSME CBC would out perform an RD-180 CCB.
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How do you trigger the camera? Remotely, or by sound?
I've gathered that radio triggers aren't allowed. I suppose awalters can confirm.
Ben Cooper at some point described his usual setup being sound triggers combined with delay timers. It takes some understanding of the launch process to know when a trigger will go off, and to know how long to wait to get the rocket positioned where you want it.
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BBC News Online gives a fairly good overview of the launch here (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-11809457).
A few interesting points (although it's possible that they're just Internet rumours conflated to fact). The NROL-32 is believed to be a COMINT platform. The spacecraft itself is the heaviest uncrewed launch from the US, beating the 7t of Terrestar-1. The 'Net rumours are the the vehicle may be intended to intercept communications on civil phone networks and will carry the largest antenna ever flown in orbit.
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The spacecraft itself is the heaviest uncrewed launch from the US, beating the 7t of Terrestar-1.
I think that needs a qualifier...
I would bet that it is the heaviest payload to GSO (inclined GSO?). I suspect Skylab was heavier, and many Polar DOD payloads are heavier... Still, I doubt you would want to drop that thing on ones toes.
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The spacecraft itself is the heaviest uncrewed launch from the US, beating the 7t of Terrestar-1.
I think that needs a qualifier...
I would bet that it is the heaviest payload to GSO (inclined GSO?). I suspect Skylab was heavier, and many Polar DOD payloads are heavier... Still, I doubt you would want to drop that thing on ones toes.
Another qualifier, Terrestar-1 was injected into GTO
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The spacecraft itself is the heaviest uncrewed launch from the US, beating the 7t of Terrestar-1.
I think that needs a qualifier...
I would bet that it is the heaviest payload to GSO (inclined GSO?). I suspect Skylab was heavier, and many Polar DOD payloads are heavier... Still, I doubt you would want to drop that thing on ones toes.
Another qualifier, Terrestar-1 was injected into GTO
Since we (only speaking for those without clearance and a need to know) can't know how much the payload actually weighed, perhaps it is best to say that it "could have been" the heaviest payload ever injected into geosynchronous orbit (assuming that's where she went). The "could have been" based, of course, on the fact that nothing else currently out-lifts Delta 4 Heavy to that address.
- Ed Kyle
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Another question,
Assuming the larger the antennae the better, how realistic is it for a BEO Orion to have a DoD mission to GSO to manually assemble an even larger NRO craft that can be serviced?
This of course assumes a NASA Orion exists.
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Another question,
Assuming the larger the antennae the better, how realistic is it for a BEO Orion to have a DoD mission to GSO to manually assemble an even larger NRO craft that can be serviced?
This of course assumes a NASA Orion exists.
Very unrealistic. The NRO doesn't want to deal with HSF
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ULA has a nice music video of L-32 worth checking out:
http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/Video/FlashVideo.shtml
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ULA has a nice music video of L-32 worth checking out:
http://www.ulalaunch.com/site/Video/FlashVideo.shtml
That was great, thanks for the link.
Good music selection too.