Delta IV Heavy | NROL-49 (KH-11) (USA-224)

United Launch Alliance flew Delta IV Heavy | NROL-49 (KH-11) (USA-224) on a Delta IV Heavy out of Vandenberg SFB, CA, USA, placing its payload in LEO.

Launch time
Status
SUCCESS
Operator
United Launch Alliance
Mission type
Government/Top Secret
Rocket
Delta IV Heavy
Launch site
Vandenberg SFB, CA, USA
Launch pad
Space Launch Complex 6
Payload
—
Target orbit
LEO
Delta IV Heavy | NROL-49 (KH-11) (USA-224) cover image

Mission timeline

  1. 2011-01-20T21:10:30.000Z
    Liftoff
    Delta IV Heavy roars off the pad at Vandenberg SFB, CA, USA.
  2. Max-Q
    The vehicle reaches Max Q, the highest aerodynamic load of the flight.
  3. Main engine cutoff (MECO)
    MECO — first-stage propulsion ends after a nominal burn.
  4. Stage separation
    Clean stage separation confirmed.
  5. Second-stage ignition
    The upper-stage engine lights up after separation.
  6. Orbit insertion
    Orbit insertion confirmed — now circling in LEO.
  7. Mission success
    All mission objectives achieved.

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