The two-stage United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket stands 191 feet tall including the protective payload fairing that contains the 21-foot-long Orbital ATK Cygnus module, which is packed with 7,626 pounds of cargo bound for the International Space Station.The rocket’s first stage booster is powered by an RD-180 engine that burns liquid oxygen and RP-1 fuel, a refined kerosene. The Centaur upper stage is powered by a single RL-10C engine fueled by liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen. In the image above, a white plume of gaseous oxygen is seen venting away from the rocket. This is normal and expected as cryogenic liquid oxygen warms up and small amounts boil off.
Today’s launch will be the 71st for the Atlas V rocket.