Vandenberg to launch Delta IV Heavy rocket for the last time. Here’s when and how to watch

Kaytlyn Leslie
·2 min read
9

UPDATE >> Delta IV Heavy rocket launches for final time from Vandenberg Space Force Base

Update, 3:25 p.m.: The Delta IV Heavy rocket launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base.

Update, 3:20 p.m.: The mission director gave the final go for launch after all parties had check in with “go” approvals. “You have permission to launch,” the director said. Liftoff is officially set for 3:25:30 p.m.

Update, 2:56 p.m.: The launch was scheduled for 2:53 p.m. but has been delayed to 3:25 p.m.

Launch officials had to clear a helium bubble in the fueling process, among other small issues, but do not believe any are concern that will threaten the launch, according to radio chatter and analysis on the “Everyday Astronaut” livestream.

You can watch the launch at the link below:

Original story:

The United Launch Alliance’s Delta IV Heavy rocket is expected to shoot across Central Coast skies for the last time this weekend.

The rocket will take off from Vandenberg Space Force Base near Lompoc on Saturday, according to a news release.

The launch window opens at 1:50 p.m.

This will be the final Delta IV Heavy launch at the Central Coast base as ULA transitions to its new rocket, the Vulcan Centaur, according to Julie Arnold, ULA strategic communications senior manager.

Delta IV Heavy is one of the world’s most powerful rockets, according to the release, and has the world’s second highest payload weight capacity rocket in operation.

Arnold told The Tribune that there are still two more Delta IV Heavy launches scheduled from the East Coast — but there will be no more launches of that kind from Vandenberg.

The rocket will carry a national security payload that will “deliver critical intelligence information from space that U.S. warfighters and decision makers need,” according to the release.

This mission will be the 10th Delta IV Heavy launch from Vandenberg.

How to watch Vandenberg rocket launch

The ULA launch will likely be viewable from around the Central Coast, depending on whether Vandenberg’s infamous fog makes an appearance.

There are several viewing areas around the Lompoc area for those interested in watching the spectacle live.

Cars often line up along Ocean Avenue, also known as Highway 246, with hundreds of spectators sitting on top of their vehicles or on the side of the road waiting for the rocket to come shooting up over the hills.

Other popular viewing sites include spots along Firefighter, Harris Grade and Santa Lucia roads.

You can watch a live webcast of the launch will be available at www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1giJrmgMAQ&ab_channel=UnitedLaunchAlliance or www.youtube.com/watch?v=QeWKKfHLsGE&ab_channel=EverydayAstronaut.