A Delta IV rocket launched from Vandenberg AFB, Calif., on Tuesday, successfully boosting a National Reconnaissance Office satellite into orbit. Boeing officials say that the launch of the company’s Delta IV marks the first West Coast mission completed for the Air Force’s Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle program. It was also the first time the NRO has used the new Delta IV EELV. The next Delta IV launch from Vandenberg is planned for late 2006.
The six-week government shutdown did not affect the hours flown by Air Force pilots, a service spokesperson told Air & Space Forces Magazine—avoiding what could have been a major blow at a time when flying hours are already lower than they have been in decades.
