Roughly 7 seconds before T-0 of the ULA #DeltaIVHeavy carrying the #NROL44 mission for the @NatReconOfc was scrubbed when the terminal countdown sequencer rack (TCSR) identified an unexpected condition prior to the engine start sequence.

The TCSR, which controls the final 10 seconds of the countdown, performed as intended and safely initiated a hold at T-minus seven seconds.

The ULA team is currently reviewing all data and will determine the path forward.

United Launch Alliance CEO Tory Bruno said, “We experienced an automated abort because a sensor reported a fault. Automated Safety System operated as intended. Bird and payload are safe and unharmed. Engine ROFI ignitors were not fired. Turbo pumps were not spun up. Mission safety first…”

This launch has been scrubbed three times, leading to more than a month’s worth of delays, due to separate ground systems issues: a regulator that delivers high-pressure helium on board the rocket; the launch pad’s swing arm retraction system, which pulls back fuel lines and other connections from the rocket just before liftoff; and a hydraulic leak in the Mobile Service Tower.

We will keep you updated once the ULA team reviews the data and provides a new launch date.