Delta IV Heavy -- First Operational Mission -- DSP 23

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	Delta IV Heavy United Launch Alliance January 4, 2007
RS-68 Main Engine Delta IV uses the new Boeing Rocketdyne-built RS-68, the first new American-made liquid hydrogen/liquid oxygen engine, which produces 2,891 kN (650,000 lb) of thrust. This engine is mounted on a CBC first-stage structure, which has been designed for ease of manufacture.
Thirty percent more efficient than conventional liquid oxygen/kerosene engines, the RS-68 is environmentally friendly, producing only steam as a combustion by-product
The second flight-rated Delta 4-Heavy vehicle was erected to vertical position at Space Launch Complex 37 at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, FL on January 4, 2007. The United Launch Alliance Delta 4-Heavy rocket will launch the 23rd and final Defense Support Program missile-warning satellite. The largest of the Delta 4 family, the Heavy version features three Common Booster Cores mounted together to form a triple-body rocket. The vehicle will deliver DSP 23 directly into geostationary orbit.
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The Delta IV Heavy is nearly vertical.	Fully vertical, pad crews begin safing the vehicle and securing the structural supports and tie-downs.	With the sun peaking out from behind the Liquid Hydrogen storage tank, preparations are underway for the tower rollback.

First motion of the tower.	As spotters look for obstructions and interference, the first operational Delta IV Heavy sees the light of day as a complete system.	With its first operational launch a little over 10 hours away, the Delta IV Heavy awaits the completion of the tower rollback and the beginning of fueling.

Poised for her mission, the first operational Delta IV Heavy awaits.	Fueled, steaming and ready, Delta IV Heavy waits in the final minutes of the countdown.	Thundering off the pad, the vehicle begins its mission.