US Spy Satellite Launched From Cape Canaveral by Delta IV Heavy Rocket

A United Launch Alliance (ULA) rocket carrying a National Reconnaissance Office satellite lifted off from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on December 10.

The satellite, named the NROL-44, was originally intended to be launched in August 2020, but was delayed due to technical issues.

It was described as a “classified national security payload” by the National Reconnaissance Office.

The NROL-44 mission is the 30th mission ULA has completed for the National Reconnaissance Office, officials said.

The ULA released this video of the liftoff. Credit: ULA via Storyful