The legacy of the Delta program stretches back six decades, but on April 9th, 2024, a chapter in spaceflight came to a close. United Launch Alliance (ULA) launched the final Delta IV Heavy rocket from Space Launch Complex-37B in Florida, carrying the NROL-70 mission for the National Reconnaissance Office. This historic launch marked the end of the Delta era and paved the way for ULA’s next-generation Vulcan rocket.
The Delta program’s roots trace back to 1960, making it one of the longest-running launch vehicle families in history. Over the years, Delta rockets have played a pivotal role in space exploration, launching everything from NASA’s Parker Solar Probe to critical national security payloads. The Delta IV Heavy was the world’s third-highest capacity launch vehicle at the time of its retirement.
While the Delta era concludes, ULA sets its sights on the future with the Vulcan rocket. This next-generation launch vehicle promises even higher performance than the Delta IV Heavy, utilizing a single-core design for heavy-class missions.
The Delta IV Heavy may be retired, but its legacy will continue to inspire future generations as we reach for the stars. With the Vulcan rocket on the horizon, ULA is poised to write a new chapter in the history of spaceflight. ULA’s Atlas V will remain in service for upcoming launches until it’s phased out in favor of the Vulcan rocket as well.
Carter Palmer has long held a keen interest in military matters and aviation. As a FI's space systems analyst he is responsible for updating the reports and analyses within the Space Systems Forecast – Launch Vehicles & Manned Platforms and Space Systems Forecast – Satellites & Spacecraft products.
