45th Space Wing launches NRO satellite Published Nov. 22, 2010 CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla. (AFNS) -- The 45th Space Wing successfully launched a United Launch Alliance-built Delta IV-Heavy Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle from Space Launch Complex 37 Nov. 21, carrying a classified National Reconnaissance Office satellite. "The tremendous ULA, NRO and Air Force partnership once again delivered success," said Lt. Col. William Heuck, the 5th Space Launch Squadron commander. The largest of the Delta IV family, the Heavy version features three common booster cores mounted together. "The Delta IV rocket continues to evolve and mature with this fourth Delta IV-Heavy launch from the Cape," said Maj. Jeremy Geib, the Delta IV Launch Operations Flight commander. "The team cut heavy-launch processing time over 50 percent." "This mission helps to ensure that vital NRO resources will continue to bolster our national defense," said Brig. Gen. Ed Wilson, the 45th Space Wing commander. "The spectacular evening launch showcases how the 45th assures access to the high frontier and supports global operations." (Courtesy of the 45th SW Public Affairs Office)