[Launch Alert] Delta IV Heavy NROL-71 Scrub Statement

[Launch Alert]

The following is a media update from the United Launch Alliance:

(Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif., Dec. 19, 2018) – The launch of a United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy carrying the NROL-71 mission for the National Reconnaissance Office was scrubbed today due to indications of elevated hydrogen concentrations within the port booster engine section.

The team is prepping for a 24-hour turn around on Thursday, Dec. 20, from Space Launch Complex-6 at Vandenberg Air Force Base. The forecast shows a 80 percent chance of favorable weather conditions for launch. The launch is planned for 5:31 p.m. PST.

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EDITOR'S COMMENTS

A 24-hour delay of the launch until Thursday evening will provide event better lighting conditions because the rocket should climb into sunlight earlier after liftoff.