The other NRO Launch of 2000, a radar imaging satellite that lifted off on a Titan IV rocket in August of that year, used a mission patch that is quite a bit more sinister than a friendly teddy bear.

The mission patch listed even earlier dates, ... While NROL-35 will not carry a TWINS payload, ... The 541 configuration consists of a five-metre payload fairing, ...

The NRO began deploying its proliferated architecture with the launch of NROL-146 in May 2024, followed by NROL-186 in June, NROL-113 in September and NROL-167 in October. More launches are ...

This new mission also has a snappy code name—Silent Barker—and an eye-catching mission patch, which isn't unusual for launches with NRO spy satellites. The NRO and the Space Force are partners ...

The payload was encased by a 5-meter diameter (16.7-foot diameter) aluminum, tri-sector payload fairing. ULA constructed the Delta IV Heavy launch vehicle in Decatur, Ala. This was the first ...

ULA Atlas V launches from Space Coast on mission for NRO ... pounds of thrust on liftoff burned for about 90 seconds and fell away from the first stage that continued until the payload fairing ...