Atlas IIA | NROL-5

Mission timeline

1. 1998-01-29T18:37:00.000Z
   Liftoff
   Atlas IIA lifts off from Cape Canaveral SFS, FL, USA.
2. Max-Q
   Atlas IIA passes through max aerodynamic pressure (Max Q).
3. Main engine cutoff (MECO)
   Main engine cutoff — the first stage shuts down as planned.
4. Stage separation
   Stage separation — the first stage separates cleanly.
5. Second-stage ignition
   Second-stage engine ignites for the next phase of flight.
6. Orbit insertion
   Orbit insertion confirmed — the vehicle is now in Elliptical.
7. Mission success
   Mission success — all objectives completed.