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LIVE: Delta IV - NROL 27 - March 11, 2011
by
awalters
on 28 Oct, 2010 05:29
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Live updates for the Delta IV (NROL 27), currently in the HIF (Horizontal Integration Facility)
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#1
by
robertross
on 16 Nov, 2010 21:49
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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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#2
by
WHAP
on 16 Nov, 2010 21:55
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Shouldn't this be posted in the L-32 thread?
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#3
by
robertross
on 16 Nov, 2010 21:58
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Shouldn't this be posted in the L-32 thread?
Oops, sorry (and thanks). Saw the NROL designation on the 'upcoming launch' thread, and didn't see it on the L-32.
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#4
by
JosephB
on 06 Dec, 2010 22:10
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Layperson question if I may, does L-27 have 68A's? (I'm guessing not).
I know L-49 is the first flight of them but is there a manifest out there that lists the engines each flight will have? Thanks.
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#5
by
Robotbeat
on 06 Dec, 2010 22:15
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Layperson question if I may, does L-27 have 68A's? (I'm guessing not).
I know L-49 is the first flight of them but is there a manifest out there that lists the engines each flight will have? Thanks.
Interesting... When is NROL-49 planned, now? Jan 11th, 2011? That's only about 5 weeks away! They're already acceptance-tested, right? (Am I missing a thread discussing this?)
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#6
by
JosephB
on 06 Dec, 2010 22:17
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It's been on the pad a while, check out VAFB website.
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#7
by
Robotbeat
on 06 Dec, 2010 22:18
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It's been on the pad a while, check out VAFB website.
Where on the webpage is this information?
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#8
by
JosephB
on 06 Dec, 2010 22:24
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#9
by
Jim
on 06 Dec, 2010 23:29
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L-49 does not use RS-68A's.
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#10
by
JosephB
on 07 Dec, 2010 00:48
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L-49 does not use RS-68A's.
I could have swore I read that they were supposed to debut during the first heavy west coast launch. Was this ever true way back when?
Time to read more & post less, yikes.
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#11
by
Rocket Guy
on 07 Dec, 2010 02:35
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No, there was a report after a recent test that indicated early 2012 for their debut as I recall. A particular flight was mentioned but I don't remember.
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#12
by
William Graham
on 20 Jan, 2011 20:40
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There's a launch patch for L-27 on ebay. It is fairly bland in terms of obvious "clues", however it does contain the latin phrase "nos suo caelum" which translates as "we join the sky" (join as in connect). That suggests to me that it may be a communications satellite (SDS).
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#13
by
C5C6
on 28 Jan, 2011 20:27
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NROL 27 is scheduled for launch from CCAFS on March 11th isn't it??? any updates on launch preparations???
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#14
by
Targeteer
on 20 Feb, 2011 15:17
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Discussion of the NROL-27 patches...
http://sattrackcam.blogspot.com/2011/02/nrol-27-patches.html"Some independant analysts believe NROL-27 will be a geostationary SDS satellite. The patches, especially the second one, tend to support that suspicion.
The Latin "Nos Suo Caelum" in the second patch means "We Connect the Heavens". This is exactly what SDS satellites do: they provide an uplink and downlink platform between other (reconnaissance) satellites and their operating centers. The red Dragon in the second patch, might indicate this new SDS will notably serve a role for SIGINT satellites (as historically, dragons in patches signify SIGINT satellites)."
I recognize Leo the lion but not the bird. The red sections of the otherwise yellow gryphon raise a few questions...
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#15
by
Targeteer
on 20 Feb, 2011 15:34
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No, there was a report after a recent test that indicated early 2012 for their debut as I recall. A particular flight was mentioned but I don't remember.
Does anyone know if the first RS-68A flight will be on a Delta IV Heavy or Medium?
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#16
by
slothead
on 20 Feb, 2011 15:49
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I'm going to be in Florida on March 11, and the KSC visitor center shows the NROL 27 on the calendar, but it doesn't give the time. While the USAF may not want the public to be aware of the exact launch time, is there a customary launch time (window, etc) that I could plan on so that I can schedule my day to be able to see the launch? Any suggestions/information would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Tom
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#17
by
Jim
on 20 Feb, 2011 17:21
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While the USAF may not want the public to be aware of the exact launch time, is there a customary launch time (window, etc)
late afternoon/early evening
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#18
by
William Graham
on 20 Feb, 2011 19:54
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According to NASA FDF, the launch is scheduled for 22:00 UTC.
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#19
by
Rocket Guy
on 20 Feb, 2011 23:09
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Closer to 2300 than 2200.
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#20
by
Antares
on 21 Feb, 2011 04:10
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If the government shuts down, do the rockets still launch?
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#21
by
dsmillman
on 21 Feb, 2011 11:08
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If the government shuts down, do the rockets still launch?
I think you should be more concerned with what happens to the STS-133 crew and the ISS if the Tea Party types force a government shutdown on March 4.
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#22
by
psloss
on 21 Feb, 2011 11:17
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If the government shuts down, do the rockets still launch?
I think you should be more concerned with what happens to the STS-133 crew and the ISS if the Tea Party types force a government shutdown on March 4.
As noted in the FY11 appropriations thread, there's a precedent for that -- STS-74. Probably not an issue for ongoing spacecraft/on-orbit operations, as those would be considered essential.
Not sure about other operations or things longer term if it gets to that. (Still a big if.)
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#23
by
jsmjr
on 27 Feb, 2011 01:55
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Here's a shot of the launcher inside the service structure taken from the Causeway just before the STS-133 launch.
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#24
by
slothead
on 04 Mar, 2011 14:09
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jsmjr,
Exif data says you used an ~85mm to take that image. Where did you take it from?
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#25
by
Antares
on 04 Mar, 2011 14:51
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Most likely
here where the tour buses stop.
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#26
by
robertross
on 07 Mar, 2011 00:30
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ALmost forgot I had this. Took it when I was on the 'Then & Now Tour' at KSC.
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#27
by
Satori
on 08 Mar, 2011 11:24
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#28
by
kevin-rf
on 08 Mar, 2011 12:27
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Nice!
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#29
by
Galactic Penguin SST
on 08 Mar, 2011 12:51
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The launch is apparently scheduled for 5:57 p.m. EST / 2257 GMT on March 11:
Link
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#30
by
William Graham
on 09 Mar, 2011 07:26
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LHA has been published.
http://www.patrick.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-061109-038.docDue East - the payload is almost certainly an SDS satellite, the NRO have no other medium-class payloads in GSO. The last launch of a geostationary SDS satellite occurred in 2001, so they are probably due replacement. I would not be surprised to see another GSO launch within the next few years to replace the other satellite.
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#31
by
Skyrocket
on 09 Mar, 2011 08:47
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I would not be surprised to see another GSO launch within the next few years to replace the other satellite.
NROL-38 is a good candidate (East coast launch on an Atlas-V(401))
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#32
by
William Graham
on 09 Mar, 2011 10:39
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I would not be surprised to see another GSO launch within the next few years to replace the other satellite.
NROL-38 is a good candidate (East coast launch on an Atlas-V(401))
I've been looking at the SDS launch records, and replacements seem to be launched about 10-11 years after the originals (assuming the satellites were replaced in the order that they were launched, which I cannot confirm at this time). If this pattern holds, NROL-27 will replace USA-155 (NROL-10) - the first time an SDS-3 satellite has been replaced. USA-162 (the other GSO) is due replacement next year, and USA-137 (the first Molniya) is overdue replacement by about two years.
L-33 is another candidate for an SDS launch. At the moment there are no others, but there are still quite a few launches that we have no data on.
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#33
by
jacqmans
on 09 Mar, 2011 15:18
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#11-03-03
March 9, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Delta IV NROL-27 scheduled to launch March 11
CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla. The 45th Space Wing is set to launch a Delta IV Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle carrying a National Reconnaissance Office payload on March 11, 2011, from Space Launch Complex 37 here. The launch window for this mission opens at 5:57 p.m. EST.
All media representatives interested in covering the launch from the Kennedy Space Center News Center must report at 4:30 p.m. Friday, March 11, to the parking lot at the KSC Media Services Press Accreditation Building on State Road 3 across from Air Liquide, for Air Force badging and escort. Media representatives must provide proper credentials and two forms of identification, at least one with a photo. Media representatives who are previously unaccredited for launches on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station must complete and submit the media registration form posted at
www.patrick.af.mil/media/index.asp.
Drivers must have a valid current driver's license, motor vehicle registration and proof of insurance. Media representatives must follow all safety and security procedures on the installation escort instructions for official mission coverage on the Eastern Range.
(more)
2-2-2
Notes:
1. Cessation of launch commentary/official information: The flow of official information about this mission will cease at the point of payload fairing separation. No further comment
about the status of the mission will be made after this milestone.
2. Remote camera set-up: Media representatives interested in setting up remote cameras must report to the parking lot of Space Florida/SpaceX, near the CCAFS front gate, on March 3, at 2 p.m. for badging and escort to the SLC-41 area. Air Force and ULA Communications representatives plan to meet and escort media to the Kennedy Space Center Press Site. Escort and access is contingent upon operational constraints. Any foreign nationals must be badged by NASA for coverage of the STS-133 mission for access to the Press Site.
3. Live satellite feed information for broadcast:
Atlas OTV-2: Satellite Coordinates: March 11
ALL TIMES EASTERN STANDARD TIME
BROADCAST START 5:32 P.M.
END TRANSMISSION 7:00 P.M.
SATELLITE AMC 6
TRANSPONDER 5C
BAND C-BAND ANALOG
ORBITAL POSITION 72 DEGREES W
CARRIER SES AMERICOM
BANDWIDTH 36 MHz
UPLINK FREQ 6025 MHz (Horizontal)
DOWNLINK FREQ 3800 MHz (Vertical)
4. Webcast: The launch can be viewed via Webcast at:
http://www.ulalaunch.com
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#34
by
Chris Bergin
on 09 Mar, 2011 21:30
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ULA:
The team continues to march toward the lift-off of ULA's Delta IV with NROL-27 from Cape Canaveral on Friday, March 11. Again, the advertised opening of launch window is 5:57 p.m. EST. The weather forecast remains the same with a 90 percent chance of acceptable weather during the launch window on Friday with a similar forecast for Saturday and Sunday. Tomorrow, the launch team will conduct the Launch Readiness Review. Also, the 45th SW PA and ULA Communications will escort photographers at 2 p.m. to set cameras at SLC-37.
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#35
by
Targeteer
on 10 Mar, 2011 00:30
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No, there was a report after a recent test that indicated early 2012 for their debut as I recall. A particular flight was mentioned but I don't remember.
Does anyone know if the first RS-68A flight will be on a Delta IV Heavy or Medium?
A press release gave the answer...
Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne successfully completed a series of Hardware Acceptance Reviews on the first RS-68A production rocket engine, validating the world's most powerful hydrogen-fueled engine is ready to power a heavy-lift vehicle into space in support of national security. Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne is a United Technologies Corp. (NYSE :UTX) company.
"RS-68A engine 30003 has demonstrated all the requirements for flight over a wide range of operating conditions," said Dan Adamski, RS-68 program manager, Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne. "We look forward to working with our customers to ensure the RS-68A engines powering the Delta IV Heavy launch vehicle are successful in delivering their important payload into orbit."
Engine 30003, the first of three RS-68A production engines to undergo a Hardware Acceptance Review, has been shipped to Decatur, Ala., for integration onto a United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy launch vehicle. RS-68A production engines 30004 and 30005 will undergo Hardware Acceptance Reviews in March and April 2011, respectively, after completion of their hot-fire testing at Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. These engines will then be installed onto the launch vehicle.
The three engines are scheduled to boost the Delta IV Heavy next year carrying a government payload into orbit...
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#36
by
jacqmans
on 10 Mar, 2011 19:29
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#11-03-03
March 9, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Delta IV NROL-27 scheduled to launch March 11
CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla. The 45th Space Wing is set to launch a Delta IV Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle carrying a National Reconnaissance Office payload on March 11, 2011, from Space Launch Complex 37 here. The launch window for this mission opens at 5:57 p.m. EST.
All media representatives interested in covering the launch from the Kennedy Space Center News Center must report at 4:30 p.m. Friday, March 11, to the parking lot at the KSC Media Services Press Accreditation Building on State Road 3 across from Air Liquide, for Air Force badging and escort. Media representatives must provide proper credentials and two forms of identification, at least one with a photo. Media representatives who are previously unaccredited for launches on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station must complete and submit the media registration form posted at
www.patrick.af.mil/media/index.asp.
Drivers must have a valid current driver's license, motor vehicle registration and proof of insurance. Media representatives must follow all safety and security procedures on the installation escort instructions for official mission coverage on the Eastern Range.
Notes:
1. Cessation of launch commentary/official information: The flow of official information about this mission will cease at the point of payload fairing separation. No further comment
about the status of the mission will be made after this milestone.
2. Remote camera set-up: Media representatives interested in setting up remote cameras must report to the parking lot of Space Florida/SpaceX, near the CCAFS front gate, on Thursday, March 10, at 2 p.m. for badging and escort to the SLC-41 area. Air Force and ULA Communications representatives plan to meet and escort media to the Kennedy Space Center Press Site. Escort and access is contingent upon operational constraints. Any foreign nationals must be badged by NASA for coverage of the STS-133 mission for access to the Press Site.
3. Live satellite feed information for broadcast:
Atlas OTV-2: Satellite Coordinates: March 11
ALL TIMES EASTERN STANDARD TIME
BROADCAST START 5:32 P.M.
END TRANSMISSION 7:00 P.M.
SATELLITE AMC 6
TRANSPONDER 5C
BAND C-BAND ANALOG
ORBITAL POSITION 72 DEGREES W
CARRIER SES AMERICOM
BANDWIDTH 36 MHz
UPLINK FREQ 6025 MHz (Horizontal)
DOWNLINK FREQ 3800 MHz (Vertical)
4. Webcast: The launch can be viewed via Webcast at:
http://www.ulalaunch.com
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#37
by
Chris Bergin
on 10 Mar, 2011 22:47
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ULA:
The launch team and our NRO customer have reviewed the readiness of the NROL-27 launch vehicle, spacecraft, and mission assets and have agreed to proceed with processing towards tomorrow's launch.
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#38
by
sdsds
on 10 Mar, 2011 23:05
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The launch team and our NRO customer have reviewed the readiness of the NROL-27 launch vehicle, spacecraft, and mission assets and have agreed to proceed with processing towards tomorrow's launch.
This sounds like the output of some milestone meeting. If this were Atlas, it would have been called the Launch Readiness Review, and would have taken place, "approximately 2 days before launch." [AVUG Rev. 11, Sec. 4.1.4.4]
What does Delta call it, and when does it nominally take place? Was this one held a day later than nominal?
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#39
by
Jim
on 10 Mar, 2011 23:34
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LRR
L-1
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#40
by
cd-slam
on 11 Mar, 2011 01:41
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Ask a stupid question...
ULA:
The team continues to march toward the lift-off of ULA's Delta IV with NROL-27 from Cape Canaveral on Friday, March 11. Again, the advertised opening of launch window is 5:57 p.m. EST. The weather forecast remains the same with a 90 percent chance of acceptable weather during the launch window on Friday with a similar forecast for Saturday and Sunday. Tomorrow, the launch team will conduct the Launch Readiness Review. Also, the 45th SW PA and ULA Communications will escort photographers at 2 p.m. to set cameras at SLC-37.
Edit: The only stupid question is the one you didn't ask.
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#41
by
Jim
on 11 Mar, 2011 01:55
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LRR's are typical held the day before launch. With Atlas, since they split roll to pad and launch into two days, LRR is held at L-2.
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#42
by
Jim
on 11 Mar, 2011 01:57
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The shuttle is the one that screwed up convention. The KSC review before the FRR was called the LRR.
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#43
by
telomerase99
on 11 Mar, 2011 12:44
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Hello, I am visiting Florida from Phoenix Arizona and would like to visit the Delta 4 launch. Does anyone know where is the best observation point that an industry outsider would be able to watch the launch? Is the vantage point sufficiently spectacular to warrant a drive up from Fort Lauderdale?
Thank you all and have a wonderful Friday!
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#44
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 12:55
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Moved for live coverage
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#45
by
telomerase99
on 11 Mar, 2011 13:05
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Thanks Chris, do you think if weather is clear the launch will happen right at the start of the window? Or does a countdown start right at the start of the window? I am driving up from Ft Lauderdale and leaving at 315 so I will just barely make it...
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#46
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 13:12
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Was just about to PM you about the merge
Here's the last thing I had from ULA - looks good. We have ULA and EELV people here, so I would imagine if there's a technical issue over the interim period, it'll get turned around fast into this thread. I'll make sure it does too if it comes from ULA PAO.
Weather Forecast
Overall Probability of Weather Constraint Violation: 10% (
So that's really good)
Primary Concern: Lift Ground winds
24 Hour Delay Overall Probability of Weather Constraint Violation: 10%
Primary Concern: Cumulus Cloud Rule
48 Hour Delay Overall Probability of Weather Constraint Violation: 10%
Primary Concern: Cumulus Cloud Rule
Synoptic Discussion:
Strong surface cold front will move the FL Peninsula during the day today.
The front is expected to move through the Cape area by early to mid
afternoon. Ahead of the front a line of showers and thunderstorms will pass
through the area Thursday morning. A few of these storms have the
potential to become strong with high winds, frequent lightning, and heavy
rain. On launch day the front will be located well to the east of FL with
high pressure building in from the west-northwest. Post frontal winds will
be breezy but are expected to decrease throughout the day and be below all
vehicle capability limits during MST move and through the launch window.
There remains a very slight chance of ground winds approaching the liftoff
constraint of 20 knots; otherwise no other weather concerns are anticipated.
Benign conditions are expected throughout the weekend in the event of a
24-48 hour delay.
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#47
by
telomerase99
on 11 Mar, 2011 13:25
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Could anyone please recommend the best veiwing location for a civilian with no press or military connections for this launch?
Thanks all!
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#48
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 13:41
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ULA:
The MST rolled early this morning and the launch of the ULA Delta IV with a National Reconnaissance Office payload is scheduled for liftoff tonight at 5:57 p.m. EST from Space Launch Complex-37, Cape Canaveral AFS, Florida. The weather forecast has improved, calling for a 95 percent chance of acceptable weather.
Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla., (March 11, 2011) - A United Launch Alliance Delta IV sits poised on its launch pad with a National Reconnaissance Office payload at Space Launch Complex-37. Todays launch is scheduled to blast off at 5:57 p.m. EST. This is the third launch of the year for ULA. NROL-27 will be the seventh flight of the Delta IV Medium+ (4,2) configuration and the 16th flight of the Delta IV family of launch vehicles. Photo by Pat Corkery, United Launch Alliance.
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#49
by
Antares
on 11 Mar, 2011 13:53
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#50
by
edkyle99
on 11 Mar, 2011 14:56
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Are there "tiles" above and below the CBC LOX and LH2 tanks? I'm not sure I've noticed this on previous Mediums, but looking back I see it has been a common feature for at least the past few years.
- Ed Kyle
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#51
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 19:45
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New photo - wanted one for William's article and one turns up, nice!
Plus, 2.5 hours from launch. Fueling continues for about 30 more minutes.
William's article to be published shortly.
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#52
by
Ronsmytheiii
on 11 Mar, 2011 20:18
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#53
by
Ronsmytheiii
on 11 Mar, 2011 20:20
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#54
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 20:37
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#55
by
William Graham
on 11 Mar, 2011 20:44
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Another excellent launch preview by William Graham:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/03/live-delta-iv-nrol-27/
Slapped my forehead when I realized why I couldn't find any payload pictures for the two shuttle missions listed.......they be classified 
There are pictures of old SDS satellites available. For some reason in 1997 or 1998 the NRO released a few pictures of satellites which were still classified. The images released included, IIRC, an artist's impression of an SDS in orbit, and photographs of a Lacrosse under construction.
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#56
by
Ronsmytheiii
on 11 Mar, 2011 20:53
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By the way, going to assume that coverage will end at payload fairing separation
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#57
by
Ronsmytheiii
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:11
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#58
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:14
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Uh oh...
ULA:
We're less than an hour from launch and the team is contending with high winds aloft. Team is evaluating options for throughout the window if winds remain red.
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#59
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:31
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#60
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:32
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#61
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:33
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Upper level winds are still no-go.
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#62
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:34
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#63
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:35
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Winds are "lessening"
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#64
by
Ronsmytheiii
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:35
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With fueling of the Delta 4 rocket completed, this phase of the count is fairly quiet. Engineers are monitoring systems while the clocks tick down the final hour.
Everything continues to proceed on schedule at Cape Canaveral for liftoff at 5:57 p.m. EST.
http://www.facebook.com/AirForceSpaceCommand
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#65
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:36
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Weather balloons are on their way up to gather some data.
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#66
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:38
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T-5 minutes and holding. 15 minute BIH.
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#67
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:38
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#68
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:39
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Payload processing and MST rollback.
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#69
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:41
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"Vigilance from above" - I do like that.
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#70
by
Jason1701
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:42
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Anyone else think Mr. Spencer sounds like Mike Griffin?
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#71
by
Ronsmytheiii
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:45
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#72
by
Ronsmytheiii
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:45
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#73
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:47
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#74
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:47
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Polling to come out of the hold.
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#75
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:48
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Polling - All GO pending resolution of red balloons.
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#76
by
Antares
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:49
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How long is the window?
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#77
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:49
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If we launch on time it will be a really pretty launch...
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#78
by
mike robel
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:49
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Hopefully there are 99 red balloons.
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#79
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:49
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T-5 minute master script running.
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#80
by
Mapperuo
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:50
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Hopefully there are 99 red balloons.
Hold extending..
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#81
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:50
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Extending the hold.
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#82
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:53
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Hopefully there are 99 red balloons.
They're on balloon L-7 now - 92 to go...
Hold extended for another 5 minutes. Not planning for a new T-0 yet.
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#83
by
Ronsmytheiii
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:54
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#84
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:56
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Does this rocket have a name? I thought they (NRO) were bringing back that tradition.
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#85
by
William Graham
on 11 Mar, 2011 21:57
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Does this rocket have a name? I thought they (NRO) were bringing back that tradition.
The launch has been named "Gryphon", however the naming of the rockets themselves seems to be a 30SW thing.
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#86
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:00
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Earliest new T-0 would be around 6:30 PM local time.
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#87
by
Jim
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:10
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East coast Titans were male and west coast female. It seems the 30th SW wants to extend that tired tradition.
NRO certain missions have had names. Such as stars and constellations.
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#88
by
butters
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:14
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They uplinked a new load relief file into the launch vehicle, but PAO says that winds aloft are still red and they can't develop a flight profile. Don't know how to reconcile these two data points. Jim?
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#89
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:14
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#90
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:18
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Target is now 6:38pm - so what happened to the window?
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#91
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:18
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Targeting 6:38 PM T-0. Upper level winds still red though.
Target is now 6:38pm - so what happened to the window?
The 6:30 time was a "no earlier than" time, so the launch window could actually be longer.
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#92
by
Mapperuo
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:19
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Target is now 6:38pm - so what happened to the window?
I'm sure PAO said it was a couple hours.
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#93
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:21
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Range is go for the new T-0.
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#94
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:21
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Hmm, they e-mailed "Shooting for the end of the window." on the 6:30pm T-0. Not to worry, this is better news
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#95
by
PahTo
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:22
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Sounds like they are GO now for upper level winds. Not sure if it had to do with new flight profile...
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#96
by
David AF
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:23
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Sounds like they are GO now for upper level winds. Not sure if it had to do with new flight profile...
No, that was the range.
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#97
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:23
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#98
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:25
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ULA:
Winds remain red at this time. Team will continue to process data when obtained from next two balloons.
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#99
by
Orbiter
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:25
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Upper Level winds are GREEN! GO for launch
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#100
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:25
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L-8 is green!
Well done to that balloon, and we thank you
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#101
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:25
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#102
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:27
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#103
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:30
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Working a FSW issue, but concur they are still go.
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#104
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:30
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Flight software problem - but sounds like it will be okay for launch.
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#105
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:30
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Polling to come out of the hold.
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#106
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:31
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Polling - all GO to come out of the T-5 minute hold, pending resolution of software.
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#107
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:31
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Master script running.
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#108
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:31
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S/C on internal power.
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#109
by
Halidon
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:32
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Go, pending one software issue
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#110
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:32
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Expecting to close the FSW issue. Believe it is SIM only.
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#111
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:33
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T-5 minutes and counting. Vehicle going to internal power.
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#112
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:34
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Into the count. T-4 minutes.
Transferring vehicle internal - first stage.
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#113
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:34
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Ordnance armed.
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#114
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:34
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#115
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:35
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T-3 minutes. Into pre-press on the CBC.
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#116
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:35
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CBC tanks securing.
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#117
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:35
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#118
by
William Graham
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:35
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T-150 seconds
CBC LOX at flight pressure & level
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#119
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:35
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T-120 seconds.
This is going to be a pretty sunset launch.
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#120
by
William Graham
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:36
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T-2 minutes. Go Gryphon!
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#121
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:36
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T-120 seconds.
HTPA script running, hydraulics up to 4000 psi.
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#122
by
William Graham
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:36
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T-90 seconds
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#123
by
William Graham
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:37
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Range is go
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#124
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:37
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T-60 seconds.
Range go for launch.
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#125
by
William Graham
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:37
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One minute
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#126
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:37
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T-60 seconds. Go Delta IV, Go Gryphon!
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#127
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:37
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#128
by
William Graham
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:37
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S2 LH2 secure at flight level, ground power off
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#129
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:37
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Green board!
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#130
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:37
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Launch enable.
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#131
by
William Graham
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:37
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Green board
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#132
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:37
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Flight lock-in.
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#133
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:38
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LAUNCH!
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#134
by
William Graham
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:38
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Liftoff
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#135
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:38
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#136
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:38
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#137
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:39
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#138
by
William Graham
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:39
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Forgot how quickly these things climb
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#139
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:39
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Very pretty.
Trans sonic.
MaxQ
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#140
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:39
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#141
by
Halidon
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:39
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Damn conncection hitched at T-5, missed the lift
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#142
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:39
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#143
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:39
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SRM Jettison.
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#144
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:39
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#145
by
William Graham
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:39
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SRM sep
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#146
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:40
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#147
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:40
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Vehicle weighs only half of what it did at liftoff.
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#148
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:41
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Good first stage engine control.
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#149
by
William Graham
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:41
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Approaching Mach 10
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#150
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:41
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Max PLF skin temperature.
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#151
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:42
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#152
by
William Graham
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:42
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Partial thrust
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#153
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:42
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MECO!
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#154
by
William Graham
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:42
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MECO, staging
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#155
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:42
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Main engine going down to 57% thrust.
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#156
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:42
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#157
by
William Graham
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:42
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Nozzle extending
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#158
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:42
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Staging!
1-2 Sep.
Second stage ignition.
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#159
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:42
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1-2 sep, NEDS deploy and second stage start!
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#160
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:42
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Fairing Sep!
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#161
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:43
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#162
by
William Graham
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:43
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End of coverage
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#163
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:43
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I like how the upper stage wags its tail a bit as it's corrected by the thrusters.
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#164
by
Halidon
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:43
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Beauty of a flight for the first stage
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#165
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:44
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Webcast now ending.
Congrats to the ULA team on a great job so far and a beautiful launch.
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#166
by
robertross
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:45
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Awesome.
Way to go ULA!
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#167
by
Jim
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:47
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#168
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:49
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That was cool, as always.
Thanks to Ron and Nick for the coverage. Well done ULA and NRO so far
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#169
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:50
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Oh very nice Jim, very nice!
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#170
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:51
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#171
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:53
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#172
by
Orbiter
on 11 Mar, 2011 22:55
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That was probably the most visually stunning ELV launch I've ever seen from the West Coast, saw it all the way to Stage separation. Kudos to another job well done Delta.
Orbiter
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#173
by
robertross
on 11 Mar, 2011 23:00
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That was probably the most visually stunning ELV launch I've ever seen from the West Coast, saw it all the way to Stage separation. Kudos to another job well done Delta.
Orbiter
Hmmm...It would be even better if it WERE from the West Coast...
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#174
by
William Graham
on 11 Mar, 2011 23:00
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A rebump of William's informative article for this launch:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/03/live-delta-iv-nrol-27/
Great article - I really like the detective work that goes into figuring out what the payloads are.
The information is there if you know where to look. The NRO have fewer secrets than they would have most people believe. Most of the effort that goes into keeping the mission details classified is in vain.
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#175
by
northanger
on 11 Mar, 2011 23:02
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A rebump of William's informative article for this launch:
http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2011/03/live-delta-iv-nrol-27/
After the launch of USA-67, two more molniya-orbit satellites were launched; Space Shuttle Discovery launched USA-87 in December 1992 during the STS-53 mission, and USA-125 was launched by a Titan IV(405)B in July 1996. The second generation satellites are believed to have been based on either the HS-381 or HS-389 bus.
Wayne Hale talked about
STS-53 today.
Great launch, and great article too.
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#176
by
SimonShuttle
on 11 Mar, 2011 23:04
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Hey Jim, nice photo, but you better tell your neighbours they've all left their car lights on
(Love the red truck thing! Want one of those beasts!)
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#177
by
Orbiter
on 11 Mar, 2011 23:19
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That was probably the most visually stunning ELV launch I've ever seen from the West Coast, saw it all the way to Stage separation. Kudos to another job well done Delta.
Orbiter
Hmmm...It would be even better if it WERE from the West Coast...
West coast of Florida* woops.
Orbiter
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#178
by
LostInSpace
on 11 Mar, 2011 23:21
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#179
by
Nick L.
on 11 Mar, 2011 23:28
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Incredible video!
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#180
by
Chris Bergin
on 11 Mar, 2011 23:34
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Very cool!
*RUMBLE*
United Launch Alliance Successfully launches Fourth NRO Mission in Six Months
Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla., (March 11, 2011) A United Launch Alliance Delta IV rocket carrying a payload for the National Reconnaissance Office lifted off from Space Launch Complex-37 here at 6:38 p.m. EST today. Designated NROL-27, the mission is in support of national defense. This marks the fourth NRO launch accomplished by ULA since Sept. 20, 2010 and occurred just six days after the Atlas V launch of the OTV-2 mission
Previously, ULA launched NROL-41 on an Atlas V from Vandenberg AFB, Calif. on Sept. 20, 2010. Then it launched NROL-32 on a Delta IV Heavy from here Nov. 21, 2010 and on Jan. 20, ULA launched NROL-49 on a Delta IV Heavy from VAFB.
Congratulations to the NRO and to all the mission partners involved in this critical national security launch, said Jim Sponnick, ULA vice president, Mission Operations. ULA is very proud to have supported the NRO with this fourth successful launch in such a short period of time. Our launch team understands the importance these missions play in protecting our freedoms and supporting our brave men and women deployed around the world.
The Delta IV Medium+ (4,2) configuration launch vehicle used a single common booster core with a Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne RS-68 main engine; two Alliant Techsystems GEM 60 solid rocket motors; a PWR RL10B-2 upper stage engine; and a four-meter diameter upper stage and composite payload fairing. The NROL-27 launch marked the seventh flight of the Delta IV medium+ (4,2) configuration and the 16th flight of the Delta IV family of launch vehicles.
ULA's next launch is the Atlas V NROL-34 mission currently scheduled for April 12, 2011 from Space Launch Complex-3 at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.
ULA program management, engineering, test and mission support functions are headquartered in Denver, Colo. Manufacturing, assembly and integration operations are located at Decatur, Ala., Harlingen, Tex. and San Diego, Calif. Launch operations are located at Cape Canaveral AFS, Fla., and Vandenberg AFB, Calif.
For more information on the ULA joint venture, visit the ULA Web site at
www.ulalaunch.com, or call the ULA Launch Hotline at 1-877-ULA-4321 (852-4321).
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#181
by
LostInSpace
on 11 Mar, 2011 23:40
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Incredible video!
Incredible launch. Video is proof I'll never work for MaxQent!!! Maybe next time they're here I can get a lesson.
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#182
by
NG
on 11 Mar, 2011 23:41
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Hey guys, just found the site looking for info on this launch today, glad I found it!
Wish I had my dig camera ready, my phone cam isn't so hot. But I was rushed since I just got home. Beautiful launch with the sun shining brightly from the western horizon which cast nicely on the trail. Pic taken from Orlando.
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#183
by
EE Scott
on 11 Mar, 2011 23:49
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Nice pic NG! Thanks for sharing that.
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#184
by
Spooks
on 11 Mar, 2011 23:54
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I knew I should have stayed at work late!!
Then again, I knew I could find all the screen shots and video RIGHT here!!
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#185
by
Walter S
on 12 Mar, 2011 00:03
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Stunning launch! I viewed from KARS park, great way to finish an awesome week.
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#186
by
PahTo
on 12 Mar, 2011 00:16
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Nice shots Walter S! 6293 really shows why dusk launches are my fav.
Congrats to ULA and all teams on today's start of mission.
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#187
by
edkyle99
on 12 Mar, 2011 00:16
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Any guesses as to whether this is a GOES-like profile, with three upper stage burns and a 3.5-4 hour long mission? This upper stage had the same white insulation coating seen on the GOES Delta 4 upper stages.
Some sharp work happening on the EELV programs in recent months. Good to see these teams finally given a chance to up the tempo. NRO is running its own space program right now...
- Ed Kyle
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#188
by
Spooks
on 12 Mar, 2011 00:48
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Stunning images Walter!!
Thank you for sharing!
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#189
by
Nick L.
on 12 Mar, 2011 00:57
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Great photos Walter!
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#190
by
Aobrien
on 12 Mar, 2011 01:12
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Was at my track meet and had forgotten about the launch. Looked over and saw the perfect streak in the sky and didn't even think twice said that's the Delta rocket. Everyone asked what that was and I just went simple military payload. But it was a very nice view I could see from over here in Tampa. Right at sunset, wish I seen it actually launching, missed it by a good 10 sec.
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#191
by
Blackstar
on 12 Mar, 2011 01:24
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"After the launch of USA-67, two more molniya-orbit satellites were launched; Space Shuttle Discovery launched USA-87 in December 1992 during the STS-53 mission, and USA-125 was launched by a Titan IV(405)B in July 1996. The second generation satellites are believed to have been based on either the HS-381 or HS-389 bus."
It was derived from the HS-389 (i.e. the Intelsat VI series), not the 381 (i.e. Leasat). I demonstrated this pretty conclusively in an article about five years ago (based upon timelines, size, etc.), and Ted Molczan has essentially confirmed it.
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#192
by
bigcon
on 12 Mar, 2011 04:19
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Not sure if this is the right forum (or if there's any interest in this).
Happened to be in Orlando today and went out for a drive towards Cape Canaveral to see if we could see the space shuttle Endeavour (was moved there recently in preparation for the last shuttle flight next month).
Luckily enough we just happened to be there at the right time...
http://www.flickr.com/photos/7309257@N04/sets/72157626247317376/
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#193
by
yg1968
on 12 Mar, 2011 04:31
-
Not sure if this is the right forum (or if there's any interest in this).
Happened to be in Orlando today and went out for a drive towards Cape Canaveral to see if we could see the space shuttle Endeavour (was moved there recently in preparation for the last shuttle flight next month).
Luckily enough we just happened to be there at the right time...
http://www.flickr.com/photos/7309257@N04/sets/72157626247317376/
Thanks for those images. Nice work!
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#194
by
edkyle99
on 12 Mar, 2011 16:25
-
Any guesses as to whether this is a GOES-like profile, with three upper stage burns and a 3.5-4 hour long mission? This upper stage had the same white insulation coating seen on the GOES Delta 4 upper stages.
The GOES satellites, of course, were lifted to high-perigee GTO with an apogee burn, using the extra capability of Delta 4 to provide extra delta-v. GOES weighed 3.2 tonnes at liftoff.
- Ed Kyle
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#195
by
Nick L.
on 13 Mar, 2011 02:26
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#196
by
Targeteer
on 09 Apr, 2011 15:03
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