Delta IV Launch Successful Published Aug. 24, 2006 By 080606 VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Vandenberg AFB conducted the first West Coast launch of Boeing's Delta IV evolved expendable launch vehicle at 8:33 p.m. tonight. The rocket took off from Space Launch Complex-6 carrying a payload for the National Reconnaissance Office. The spacelift commander for this mission was Col. Jack Weinstein, 30th Space Wing commander. Lt. Col. David Goldstein, 4th Space Launch Squadron commander, was the Air Force Launch Director. "The teamwork between Vandenberg, the NRO, Boeing, SMC and numerous other agencies was flawless for our first-ever EELV launch from the West Coast." Colonel Weinstein said. "This launch was not only a success but continues to show that we have the best space force in the world." The 30th Space Wing is the Air Force Space Command organization responsible for all Department of Defense space and missile launch activities on the West Coast of the United States. The 4th SLS oversees Vandenberg's evolved expendable launch vehicle programs including The Boeing Company's Delta IV. The squadron is responsible for risk assessment and mission assurance. "I'm very proud of the Airmen and contractors who worked together to make this mission a success," Colonel Goldstein said. "It was an integrated team of professionals and I'm happy to have been a part of it." The launch used the medium+ configuration of the Delta IV booster's five design options, which enable it to place payloads in orbit ranging from nearly 9,000 pounds to more than 27,000 pounds. Information about the Delta IV rocket is available on-line at www.boeing.com/defense-space/space/delta/delta4/delta4.htm.-30- MEDIA ADVISORY: Video footage will be available approximately three hours after launch at the Vandenberg Visitor Control Center. Still photography will be distributed via e-mail. Questions concerning the Delta IV launch vehicle should be directed to Boeing Public Affairs at (714) 290-3975. Questions concerning the payload should be directed to National Reconnaissance Office Public Affairs at (703) 725-7240.