NRO launches first payload of 2017

A National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) payload was successfully launched aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket from Space Launch Complex 3, Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, at 9:50am PST on March 1, the agency announced March 3.

“I congratulate everyone who made this morning’s launch a success. Without the dedicated commitment from our government and industry teams, working together as one, it would not have been possible. All their hard work has contributed to providing superior vigilance from above for the nation,” said Colonel Matthew Skeen, USAF, director of NRO Office of Space Launch.

NROL-79 is the first of five 2017 NRO launches. The next launch is on schedule for April, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida.

Source: NRO