Boeing

The first-flight Boeing Delta IV rocket is one step closer to launch. The rocket's first stage has arrived at Space Launch Complex 37, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. (CCAFS).

"There is a sense of excitement that continues to build," said Dave Herst, director of Delta IV launch sites. "With the arrival of the Boeing Delta IV first stage, we're now only months away from when all of our hard work pays off."

Riding aboard the M/V Delta Mariner, the Delta IV made the weeklong trip from Decatur, Ala., where it was built. After its arrival, the first stage -- also referred to as the common booster core (CBC) -- was transported from the vessel to the Boeing Horizontal Integration Facility at SLC 37.

The Delta team will begin processing the rocket for flight. In addition, the team will also conduct a hot-fire test on the launch pad prior to first launch with the rocket to ensure launch success.

At 156 feet long, the Boeing Delta IV first stage stretches the length of three school buses while its diameter is as large as a Boeing wide-body jet.

There are currently four assigned Delta IV launches for 2002 -- five for 2003. The customers are a mix of commercial and government users. The first launch is currently scheduled for spring 2002.

Boeing Delta Web Site