A US rocket used to launch many scientific and communications satellites since 1960. Its design is based on the Thor ballistic missile. Several increasingly powerful versions have been produced as satellites became larger and heavier. Solid-fuel boosters were attached to the first stage of the rocket in order to increase lifting power.

The Delta is America’s (and one of the world’s) longest-lived, most reliable, and lowest-cost space launch vehicle. NASA’s twin rovers were launched to Mars in June and July 2003 atop a Delta 2 rocket. By 2008 nearly 1 000 boosters had flown over a 50-year career. The current versions, the Delta IV family, are manufactured and launched by United Launch Alliance. The Delta IV Heavy is currently the world’s highest-capacity rocket in operation; it stands 72 m tall, 5 m wide, and has a payload capacity of 28 790 kg to low Earth orbit and 14 220 kg to geostationary transfer orbit.

On 18 November 2017 a Delta II rocket roars to life as lift-off begins at Vandenberg Air Force Base’s Space Launch Complex 2.

Credit: NASA

http://www.ulalaunch.com The site includes information on the Delta rocket and news of forthcoming launches and more.