Mon, Sep 01, 2003
Next Launch Scheduled For October
The third flight of the
Boeing Delta IV today successfully deployed the U.S. Air Force's
Defense Satellite Communications System (DSCS) spacecraft, DSCS III
B6.
The Delta IV Medium launch vehicle carrying DSCS III B6 lifted
off at 7:13 p.m. EDT from Space Launch Complex 37B, Cape Canaveral
Air Force Station(FL). Approximately 42 minutes after liftoff, the
Delta IV delivered the communications satellite to a geosynchronous
transfer orbit.
Last One!
Today's mission was the final installment for the Air Force's
DSCS program. The Air Force Space Command operates 10 Phase III
DSCS satellites that provide defense officials and battlefield
commanders secure voice and high rate data communications. The DSCS
III system also transmits space operations and early warning data
to various systems and users.
"This was a great mission and our second successful launch this
week. Our team did a great job in preparing the vehicle and
executing the mission. I am very proud of the entire Delta family,"
said Dan Collins, vice president and program manager, Boeing Delta
Programs.
The Delta IV Medium configuration launch vehicle features the
Boeing-built Common Booster Core first stage, RS-68 main engine,
and four-meter composite payload fairing, all of which have flown
successfully in three consecutive missions so far.
GPS Sat Next
The next scheduled Delta launch is another mission for the Air
Force. A Delta II will deploy the Global Positioning System
satellite, GPS IIR-10. The launch is planned for October from Cape
Canaveral.
More News
Also: B-29 Superfortress Reunion, FAA Wants Controllers, Spirit Airlines Pulls Back, Gogo Galileo Van's Aircraft posted a short video recapping the goings-on around their reorganiz>[...]
Light Gun A handheld directional light signaling device which emits a brilliant narrow beam of white, green, or red light as selected by the tower controller. The color and type of>[...]
"The journey to this achievement started nearly a decade ago when a freshly commissioned Gentry, driven by a fascination with new technologies and a desire to contribute significan>[...]
"Our driven and innovative team of military and civilian Airmen delivers combat power daily, ensuring our nation is ready today and tomorrow." Source: General Duke Richardson, AFMC>[...]
Aircraft Conflict Predicted conflict, within EDST of two aircraft, or between aircraft and airspace. A Red alert is used for conflicts when the predicted minimum separation is 5 na>[...]