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 vehicle clears its umbilical tower as it lifts off from Launch Complex 37B.	Almost clear of the lightning towers, the last terrestrial obstacle, the first operational Delta IV Heavy lumbers skyward.