[Launch Alert] Delta IV Heavy / NROL-82 Launch Status

[Launch Alert]

Monday's Delta IV Heavy / NROL-82 launch is still on schedule for 1:46 p.m. PDT from south Vandenberg AFB. After liftoff, the rocket will probably rise vertically for several seconds and then gradually pitch over and head towards the south-southwest. As of this afternoon, the forecast calls for a 40% probability of acceptable weather at launch time. The primary concerns are surface winds, cumulus clouds, thick clouds, and precipitation.

Despite the Delta IV Heavy's size and power, the early portion of the launch will probably not be easily visible more than 25 miles from the launch pad or flight path. If the weather is clear, the visibility footprint could include Santa Maria, Vandenberg AFB, Lompoc, Buellton, Gaviota, and Refugio State Beach.

For launch and countdown status, consult the following sources:

Twitter (the hashtags for this launch are: #DeltaIVHeavy #NROL82)

www.ulalaunch.com

www.youtube.com/unitedlaunchalliance

https://spaceflightnow.com