On November 17, 2006 a Delta II rocket of 7925-9.5 configuration blasted off from Cape Canaveral in Florida on a US Air Force mission. The payload aboard the rocket was a replenishment Block IIR-16(M) Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite. Within 68 minutes the satellite was deployed into its transfer orbit. This was just one of many such launches required to maintain the worldwide GPS network that serves both military and civilian functions, with each satellite in the system orbiting the earth every twelve hours. The Delta II rocket has made nearly 150 successful launches since 1989, making it the most reliable system in US service. A Delta II rocket consists of Stage I tanks, solid rocket boosters, interstage, Stage II tanks, optional Stage III rocket motor, and finally the payload fairing (nose cone). The Delta II has launched all the GPS IIR satellites thus far, these being the third modernized series of satellites that feature greater accuracy and increased resistance to interference.
Dragon Space Series has launched a third model featuring a Delta II rocket. This item is made to 1/400 scale, and it replicates the exact system mentioned above that launched GPS-IIR-16. The model is sharply molded, and it’s fully finished in the correct colors and markings that appeared on the original. Amongst its markings is an interesting shark cartoon on the nose cone. The model also comes with its associated launch platform, creating an instant miniature scene that will impress viewers.
- Highly detailed
- True to 1/400
- Highly collectible
- High-quality diecast construction
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