'Infamous "Most Metal" Rocket Set to Make Final Fiery Launch'

United Launch Alliance's Delta IV Heavy, known for its dramatic fireball at launch, is set to retire after its final flight carrying a classified payload for the National Reconnaissance Office. This marks the end of an era that began over 60 years ago, with ULA bidding farewell to the Delta series. The rocket's replacement, the Vulcan Centaur, offers greater flexibility and represents ULA's first new rocket design since the company's inception in 2006.