Delta II
Overview
Delta II rockets can be configured into two-or three-stage vehicles to accommodate a variety of mission requirements.
Payload Options
Vehicles can launch single, dual, or multiple payloads on the same mission. Payload options include:
- Delivery of 900 to 2,170 kg (1,980 to 4,790 lb) payloads into a geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO)
- Delivery of 2.7 to 6.1 metric tons (5,960 to 13,440 lb) to low Earth orbit (LEO
- Various payload attach fittings
- Various fairing sizes to enclose and protect payloads:
- Composite 3-meter (10-feet) diameter
- Aluminum 2.9-meter (9.5-feet) diameter
- Stretched composite 3-meter diameter
First-Stage Capabilities and Components
- All first-stage power options include the Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne RS-27A main engine
- For additional boost during liftoff, the first stage can be configured for three, four, or nine strap-on graphite epoxy motors (GEMs), depending upon requirements
- When three or four GEMs are used, all are ignited at liftoff
- When nine GEMs are used, six are ignited at liftoff, three are lit during flight
Second-Stage Capabilities and Components
The second stage usually delivers payloads into LEO and includes the following:
- Aerojet AJ10-118K second-stage engine
- Storable propellant with restart capability
- Navigation functions (guidance and control) for precise payload deployment, including a redundant inertial flight control assembly
Third-Stage Option
A third stage is usually required for GTO. The third stage utilizes a Thiokol Star-48B solid rocket motor