NROL-32 (Mentor (USA-223))
Launch Overview
Liftoff Time
November 21, 2010 - 22:58 GMT (22:58 UTC)
Who is ULA?
United Launch Alliance (ULA) is a joint venture of Lockheed Martin Space Systems and Boeing Defense, Space & Security. ULA was formed in December 2006 by combining the teams at these companies which provide spacecraft launch services to the government of the United States. ULA launches from both coasts of the US. They launch their Atlas V vehicle from LC-41 in Cape Canaveral and LC-3E at Vandeberg. Their Delta IV launches from LC-37 at Cape Canaveral and LC-6 at Vandenberg.
What Is Delta IV Heavy?
The Delta IV Heavy (Delta 9250H) is an expendable heavy-lift launch vehicle, the largest type of the Delta IV family, and is the world's second highest-capacity rocket in operation. It is manufactured by United Launch Alliance and was first launched in 2004.
Engines
RS-68A
With 3136kN (705K lbs) thrust at sea-level the RS-68A is the worlds most powerful hydrogen-fuels rocket engine. Used by ULA Delta IV Rockets has provided reliable access to space For the U.S. Air Force, the National Reconnaissance Office(NRO) and NASA.
RL10B-2
Three RL-10 versions are in production for the Centaur upper stage of the Atlas V and the Delta Cryogenic Second Stage(DCSS) for the Delta IV
