Delta Family | |
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Delta II through Delta IV | |
Role | Expendable launch system |
Manufacturer |
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First flight | May 13, 1960 |
Introduction | 13 May 1960 (Echo 1) |
Retired | 9 April 2024 (NROL-70) |
Status | Out of service |
The Delta rocket family was a versatile range of American rocket-powered expendable launch systems that provided space launch capability in the United States from 1960 to 2024. Japan also launched license-built derivatives (N-I, N-II, and H-I) from 1975 to 1992. More than 300 Delta rockets were launched with a 95% success rate. The series was phased out in favor of the Vulcan Centaur, with the Delta IV Heavy rocket's last launch occurring on April 9, 2024.[1]