An Atlas V rocket launched from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Friday night in a picture perfect launch, a far cry from the problems that forced a scrub Thursday.
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The rocket, carrying a Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) Geo-3 satellite, lifted off from Launch Complex 41 right at 7:42 p.m.. SBIRS will provide surveillance capabilities for national security missions.
Thursday’s launch was thwarted due to technical and range issues. Engineers began troubleshooting efforts after a sensor issue was detected. Once a sensor test was completed, an aircraft entered the restricted area at the bottom of the launch window.
ULA then postponed the mission and set a new launch time.
Friday's launch is the first this year on the Space Coast.