Launch of WGS-9 moves to NET March 17
WGS-9, like previous Wideband Global SATCOM satellites, will utilize a Delta IV Medium+ (5,4) rocket to get into orbit. Archive Photo Credit: Jason Rhian / SpaceFlight Insider
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — United Launch Alliance announced on Saturday, March 11, that the Delta IV Medium+ (5,4) rocket carrying the ninth Wideband Global SATCOM satellite would lift off no earlier than March 17. The reason provided was Eastern Range availability.
According to the Colorado-based firm, the launch vehicle team is finalizing closure actions for the booster issue in support of final launch preparations.
Today’s announcement follows an earlier statement that the rocket would launch no earlier than March 14 due to an issue with the Delta IV’s first stage Common Booster Core. This was discovered during standard pre-launch inspections.
The mission is set to begin from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station’s Space Launch Complex 37 and will mark the first Delta IV flight of 2017.
Jason Rhian
Jason Rhian spent several years honing his skills with internships at NASA, the National Space Society and other organizations. He has provided content for outlets such as: Aviation Week & Space Technology, Space.com, The Mars Society and Universe Today.
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