Description:

• A Boeing Delta II launched four communications satellites into orbit today, completing a 52-satellite launch program for the global telecommunications company Globalstar L.P.
• The launch took place at 4:24 p.m. EST from Space Launch Complex 17B. The four in orbit spares join the 48 main satellites that comprise the Globalstar global mobile satellite network.
• The launch was the 276th for the Delta family of expendable launch vehicles and the first Delta mission in 2000.
• The Delta II is manufactured in Huntington Beach, Calif., with final assembly in Pueblo, Colo., and is powered by the RS-27A engine built by Boeing in Canoga Park, Calif. Alliant Techsystems, Magna, Utah, builds the graphite epoxy motors for boost assist. Aerojet, Sacramento, Calif., manufactures the second-stage engine, and L3 communications Space & Navigation (formerly known as AlliedSignal), Teterboro, N.J., builds the guidance and flight control system.
• Since the first flight of the Delta II series in 1987, the rockets have compiled a 97 percent launch success rate.