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KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. - Workers in the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility check out one of the landers for the Mars Exploration Rovers (MER).  In the background is the Cruise Stage Assembly.  Processing of the rovers, cruise stage, lander and heat shield elements is ongoing.  Set to launch in 2003, the MER Mission will consist of two identical rovers designed to cover roughly 110 yards each Martian day. Each rover will carry five scientific instruments that will allow it to search for evidence of liquid water that may have been present in the planet's past.  The rovers will be identical to each other, but will land at different regions of Mars.  The first rover has a launch window opening May 30, and the second rover a window opening June 25, 2003. KSC-03pd0759

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. - Workers in the Payload Hazardous Servicin...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. - Workers in the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility check out one of the landers for the Mars Exploration Rovers (MER). In the background is the Cruise Stage Assembly. Processing ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -  In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, the Mars Exploration Rover-2 (MER-2) is tested for mobility and maneuverability.  Set to launch in Spring 2003, the MER Mission will consist of two identical rovers designed to cover roughly 110 yards each Martian day. Each rover will carry five scientific instruments that will allow it to search for evidence of liquid water that may have been present in the planet's past.  The rovers will be identical to each other, but will land at different regions of Mars.  The first rover has a launch window opening May 30, and the second rover a window opening June 25. KSC-03pd0787

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. - In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facil...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. - In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, the Mars Exploration Rover-2 (MER-2) is tested for mobility and maneuverability. Set to launch in Spring 2003, the MER Mission will co... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers check the alignment of the Mars Exploration Rover-2 (MER-2) as it sits on the base petal of its lander assembly. Set to launch in Spring 2003, the MER Mission will consist of two identical rovers designed to cover roughly 110 yards each Martian day over various terrain. Each rover will carry five scientific instruments that will allow it to search for evidence of liquid water that may have been present in the planet's past. The rovers will be identical to each other, but will land at different regions of Mars. The first rover has a launch window opening May 30, and the second rover, a window opening June 25. KSC-03pd0885

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facil...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers check the alignment of the Mars Exploration Rover-2 (MER-2) as it sits on the base petal of its lander assembly. Set to launch ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, the Mars Exploration Rover 2 (MER-2) has been installed on the base petal of the lander and the solar arrays have been stowed for flight.  The cruise stage is in the background. There are two rovers, identical to each other, and each will land at different regions of Mars.  They are designed to cover roughly 110 yards each Martian day over various terrain.  Each rover will carry five scientific instruments that will allow it to search for evidence of liquid water that may have been present in the planet's past.  The first rover has a launch window opening May 30, and the second rover a window opening June 25. KSC-03pd0938

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facil...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, the Mars Exploration Rover 2 (MER-2) has been installed on the base petal of the lander and the solar arrays have been stowed for fligh... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, technicians make final preparations to the Mars Exploration Rover 2 (MER-2) before closing the lander petals and attached airbags around the spacecraft prior to launch. The MER Mission consists of two identical rovers set to launch in Spring 2003. Landing at different regions of Mars, they are designed to cover roughly 110 yards each Martian day over various terrain. Each rover will carry five scientific instruments that will allow it to search for evidence of liquid water that may have been present in the planet's past. KSC-03pd1035

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facil...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, technicians make final preparations to the Mars Exploration Rover 2 (MER-2) before closing the lander petals and attached airbags aroun... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, the lander petals and attached airbags of the Mars Exploration Rover 2 (MER-2) are closed around the spacecraft during testing prior to launch.  The MER Mission consists of two identical rovers set to launch in Spring 2003. Landing at different regions of Mars, they are designed to cover roughly 110 yards each Martian day over various terrain. Each rover will carry five scientific instruments that will allow it to search for evidence of liquid water that may have been present in the planet's past. KSC-03pd1060

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facil...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, the lander petals and attached airbags of the Mars Exploration Rover 2 (MER-2) are closed around the spacecraft during testing prior to... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Pad 17-A, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the first stage of the Delta II rocket achieves vertical position at the launch tower.  The Delta will launch the Mars Exploration Rover (MER-A) vehicle. The MER Mission consists of two identical rovers designed to cover roughly 110 yards each Martian day over various terrain. Each rover will carry five scientific instruments that will allow it to search for evidence of liquid water that may have been present in the planet's past.  Identical to each other, the rovers will land at different regions of Mars.  Launch date for this first of NASA's two Mars Exploration Rover missions is scheduled no earlier than June 6. KSC-03pd1216

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Pad 17-A, Cape Canaveral Air Force Sta...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Pad 17-A, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the first stage of the Delta II rocket achieves vertical position at the launch tower. The Delta will launch the Mars Exploration Rov... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the foreground workers on Pad 17-A, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, watch as the first stage of the Delta II rocket below is lifted to vertical.  The Delta will launch the Mars Exploration Rover (MER-A) vehicle.  The MER Mission consists of two identical rovers designed to cover roughly 110 yards each Martian day over various terrain. Each rover will carry five scientific instruments that will allow it to search for evidence of liquid water that may have been present in the planet's past.  Identical to each other, the rovers will land at different regions of Mars.  Launch date for this first of NASA's two Mars Exploration Rover missions is scheduled no earlier than June 6. KSC-03pd1212

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the foreground workers on Pad 17-A, Ca...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the foreground workers on Pad 17-A, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, watch as the first stage of the Delta II rocket below is lifted to vertical. The Delta will launch the Mars... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Mars Exploration Rover 2 (MER-A) is ready for final closure of the petals on the lander.  The lander and rover will be enclosed within an aeroshell for launch.  The MER Mission consists of two identical rovers designed to cover roughly 110 yards each Martian day over various terrain. Each rover will carry five scientific instruments that will allow it to search for evidence of liquid water that may have been present in the planet's past.  Identical to each other, the rovers will land at different regions of Mars.  Launch date for this first of NASA's two Mars Exploration Rover missions is scheduled no earlier than June 6. KSC-03pd1222

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Mars Exploration Rover 2 (MER-A) is r...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Mars Exploration Rover 2 (MER-A) is ready for final closure of the petals on the lander. The lander and rover will be enclosed within an aeroshell for launch. The MER Mission ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers in the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility guide the Mars Exploration Rover 1 (MER-1) as it is lowered onto the lander base petal for installation.  The MER Mission consists of two identical rovers, landing at different regions of Mars, designed to cover roughly 110 yards each Martian day over various terrain. Each rover will carry five scientific instruments that will allow it to search for evidence of liquid water that may have been present in the planet's past.  The first rover has a launch window opening June 5, and the second rover a window opening June 25. The rovers will be launched from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. KSC-03pd1250

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers in the Payload Hazardous Servicin...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers in the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility guide the Mars Exploration Rover 1 (MER-1) as it is lowered onto the lander base petal for installation. The MER Mission consist... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The second stage of the Delta II rocket is prepared for lifting up the launch tower on Pad 17-A, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.  It will be mated to the first stage in preparation for the launch of the Mars Exploration Rover 2 (MER-A).  The MER Mission consists of two identical rovers designed to cover roughly 110 yards each Martian day over various terrain. Each rover will carry five scientific instruments that will allow it to search for evidence of liquid water that may have been present in the planet's past.  Identical to each other, the rovers will land at different regions of Mars.  Launch date for this first of NASA's two Mars Exploration Rover missions is scheduled June 5. KSC-03pd1321

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The second stage of the Delta II rocket i...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The second stage of the Delta II rocket is prepared for lifting up the launch tower on Pad 17-A, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. It will be mated to the first stage in preparatio... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  Workers in the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility prepare an overhead crane to lift the aeroshell enclosing Mars Exploration Rover 2 and lander.  The descent and landing vehicle will be moved to a rotation table for a spin stabilization test.  There are two identical rovers that will land at different regions of Mars and are designed to cover roughly 110 yards each Martian day over various terrain. Each rover will carry five scientific instruments that will allow it to search for evidence of liquid water that may have been present in the planet's past.  The first rover, MER-A, is scheduled to launch June 5 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.  The second is scheduled for launch June 25. KSC-03pd1363

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers in the Payload Hazardous Servici...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers in the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility prepare an overhead crane to lift the aeroshell enclosing Mars Exploration Rover 2 and lander. The descent and landing vehicle ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An overhead crane moves the Mars Exploration Rover 2 (MER-2) entry vehicle across the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility toward a spin table for a dry-spin test.  The MER Mission consists of two identical rovers designed to cover roughly 110 yards each Martian day over various terrain. Each rover will carry five scientific instruments that will allow it to search for evidence of liquid water that may have been present in the planet's past.  Identical to each other, the rovers will land at different regions of Mars.  Launch for MER-2 (MER-A) is scheduled for June 5.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An overhead crane moves the Mars Explorat...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An overhead crane moves the Mars Exploration Rover 2 (MER-2) entry vehicle across the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility toward a spin table for a dry-spin test. The MER Mission ... More

Layers Upon Layers, 2001 NASA Mars Odyssey images

Layers Upon Layers, 2001 NASA Mars Odyssey images

Layers Upon Layers NASA/JPL/Arizona State University Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Proposed Missions - Terrestrial Planet Finder

Proposed Missions - Terrestrial Planet Finder

NASA Terrestrial Planet Finder will use multiple telescopes working together to take family portraits of stars and their orbiting planets and determine which planets may have the right chemistry to sustain life. NASA/JPL

Outcrop In Juventae Chasma, NASA Mars Images

Outcrop In Juventae Chasma, NASA Mars Images

Outcrop In Juventae Chasma NASA/JPL/Malin Space Science Systems Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Dark Sand Dunes, NASA Mars Images

Dark Sand Dunes, NASA Mars Images

Dark Sand Dunes NASA/JPL/Malin Space Science Systems Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Wind-polished rocks - Mars exploration rover images

Wind-polished rocks - Mars exploration rover images

Wind-polished rocks NASA/JPL/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Spirit Switches on Its X-ray Vision

Spirit Switches on Its X-ray Vision

Spirit Switches on Its X-ray Vision NASA/JPL Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

A Hole in One - Mars exploration rover images

A Hole in One - Mars exploration rover images

A Hole in One NASA/JPL/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Stone Mountain in Context - Mars exploration rover images

Stone Mountain in Context - Mars exploration rover images

Stone Mountain in Context NASA/JPL/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Sailing to White Boat - Mars exploration rover images

Sailing to White Boat - Mars exploration rover images

Sailing to White Boat JPL/NASA/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Windows to Meridiani Water-Soaked Past

Windows to Meridiani Water-Soaked Past

Windows to Meridiani Water-Soaked Past NASA/JPL Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Spirit Destination panorama - Mars exploration rover images

Spirit Destination panorama - Mars exploration rover images

Spirit Destination panorama NASA/JPL/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Serpent Scuff - Mars exploration rover images

Serpent Scuff - Mars exploration rover images

Serpent Scuff NASA/JPL/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Astrotech Space Operations processing facilities, workers secure NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft on a test stand. Once in place, employees of the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, builders of the spacecraft, will begin final processing for launch, including checkout of the power systems, communications systems and control systems. The thermal blankets will also be attached for flight. MESSENGER - short for MErcury Surface, Space ENvironment, GEochemistry and Ranging - will be launched aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket no earlier than July 30 on a six-year mission to study the planet Mercury. KSC-04pd0600

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Astrotech Space Operations proces...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Astrotech Space Operations processing facilities, workers secure NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft on a test stand. Once in place, employees of the Johns Hopkins University Applie... More

Mazatzal Rock on Crater Rim. NASA public domain image colelction.

Mazatzal Rock on Crater Rim. NASA public domain image colelction.

Mazatzal Rock on Crater Rim NASA/JPL Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Twin Dimples Intrigue Scientists - Mars exploration rover images

Twin Dimples Intrigue Scientists - Mars exploration rover images

Twin Dimples Intrigue Scientists NASA/JPL Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

A Closer Look at Mazatzal. NASA public domain image colelction.

A Closer Look at Mazatzal. NASA public domain image colelction.

A Closer Look at Mazatzal NASA/JPL/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Eagle-eye View of Eagle. NASA public domain image colelction.

Eagle-eye View of Eagle. NASA public domain image colelction.

Eagle-eye View of Eagle NASA/JPL Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Bounce Rock Snapshot - Mars exploration rover images

Bounce Rock Snapshot - Mars exploration rover images

Bounce Rock Snapshot NASA/JPL/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Mazatzal Before the Grind - Mars exploration rover images

Mazatzal Before the Grind - Mars exploration rover images

Mazatzal Before the Grind NASA/JPL/USGS/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Before the Dust Settled - Mars exploration rover images

Before the Dust Settled - Mars exploration rover images

Before the Dust Settled NASA/JPL/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Bounce Exposed - Mars exploration rover images

Bounce Exposed - Mars exploration rover images

Bounce Exposed NASA/JPL/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   Workers at Astrotech Space Operations facilities in Titusville, Fla., encapsulate the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft for a move from its current location in the hazardous processing facility, where it has been since arrival March 10.  It is being moved to an adjacent nonhazardous payload processing facility where the remainder of its final assembly and testing will be completed. The spacecraft will return to the hazardous processing facility when ready for fueling, spin balance testing and mating to the upper stage.  MESSENGER is scheduled to launch no earlier than July 30 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.  MESSENGER is a scientific investigation of the planet Mercury, the least explored terrestrial planet. Understanding Mercury and how it was formed is essential to understanding the other terrestrial planets and their evolution. The MESSENGER mission will orbit Mercury after making two flybys of the planet, using data collected during the flybys as an initial guide to perform a more focused scientific investigation of this mysterious world.  The spacecraft will enter Mercury orbit in March 2011 and carry out comprehensive measurements for one full Earth year. KSC-04pd0855

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers at Astrotech Space Operations f...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers at Astrotech Space Operations facilities in Titusville, Fla., encapsulate the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft for a mov... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  Workers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., prepare to remove the cover from the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft inside the nonhazardous payload processing facility.  Final assembly and testing will be completed at this site.  The spacecraft will return to the hazardous processing facility when ready for fueling, spin balance testing and mating to the upper stage. MESSENGER is scheduled to launch no earlier than July 30 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. MESSENGER is a scientific investigation of the planet Mercury, the least explored terrestrial planet. Understanding Mercury and how it was formed is essential to understanding the other terrestrial planets and their evolution. The MESSENGER mission will orbit Mercury after making two flybys of the planet, using data collected during the flybys as an initial guide to perform a more focused scientific investigation of this mysterious world.  The spacecraft will enter Mercury orbit in March 2011 and carry out comprehensive measurements for one full Earth year. KSC-04pd0862

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers at Astrotech Space Operations in...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., prepare to remove the cover from the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft ... More

Dirty Rotten Rocks - Mars exploration rover images

Dirty Rotten Rocks - Mars exploration rover images

Dirty Rotten Rocks NASA/JPL/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Rings and Moons - NASA Saturn images

Rings and Moons - NASA Saturn images

Rings and Moons NASA/JPL/Space Science Institute Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA.  - Technicians at Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., maneuver a solar panel into place for installation on NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft.  It is one of two large solar panels, supplemented with a nickel-hydrogen battery, that will provide MESSENGER’s power.  MESSENGER is scheduled to launch Aug. 2 aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket from Pad 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. It will return to Earth for a gravity boost in July 2005, then fly past Venus twice, in October 2006 and June 2007. The spacecraft uses the tug of Venus’ gravity to resize and rotate its trajectory closer to Mercury’s orbit.  Three Mercury flybys, each followed about two months later by a course-correction maneuver, put MESSENGER in position to enter Mercury orbit in March 2011. During the flybys, MESSENGER will map nearly the entire planet in color, image most of the areas unseen by Mariner 10, and measure the composition of the surface, atmosphere and magnetosphere. It will be the first new data from Mercury in more than 30 years - and invaluable for planning MESSENGER’s year-long orbital mission.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1341

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Technicians at Astrotech in Titusville, ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Technicians at Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., maneuver a solar panel into place for installation on NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft. It is one of two large solar panels, supplemented ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA.  - Technicians at Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., hold steady the second solar panel being installed on NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft.  At left is the first panel already installed.  The two large solar panels, supplemented with a nickel-hydrogen battery, will provide MESSENGER’s power.  MESSENGER is scheduled to launch Aug. 2 aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket from Pad 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. It will return to Earth for a gravity boost in July 2005, then fly past Venus twice, in October 2006 and June 2007. The spacecraft uses the tug of Venus’ gravity to resize and rotate its trajectory closer to Mercury’s orbit.  Three Mercury flybys, each followed about two months later by a course-correction maneuver, put MESSENGER in position to enter Mercury orbit in March 2011. During the flybys, MESSENGER will map nearly the entire planet in color, image most of the areas unseen by Mariner 10, and measure the composition of the surface, atmosphere and magnetosphere. It will be the first new data from Mercury in more than 30 years - and invaluable for planning MESSENGER’s year-long orbital mission.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1349

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Technicians at Astrotech in Titusville, ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Technicians at Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., hold steady the second solar panel being installed on NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft. At left is the first panel already installed. The... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., place a protective cover around the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla.  Bagging the Mercury-bound MESSENGER precedes its placement in a transportation canister for the journey to Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.  Liftoff of MESSENGER aboard a Boeing Delta II Heavy rocket is scheduled for Aug. 2.  The spacecraft is expected to reach orbit around the planet in March 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1485

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers at Astrotech Space Operations in ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., place a protective cover around the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft at... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., Boeing workers make final adjustments to the mating of the upper canister around the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft with the lower protective panels around the Delta II  upper stage booster for the transportation of MESSENGER to Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.  Liftoff of MESSENGER aboard a Boeing Delta II Heavy rocket is scheduled for Aug. 2.  The spacecraft is expected to reach orbit around the planet in March 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1495

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusvil...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., Boeing workers make final adjustments to the mating of the upper canister around the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the upper canister is lowered around the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft.  The canister will be attached to the lower protective panels around the Delta II  upper stage booster for the transportation of MESSENGER to Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.  Liftoff of MESSENGER aboard a Boeing Delta II Heavy rocket is scheduled for Aug. 2.  The spacecraft is expected to reach orbit around the planet in March 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1494

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusvil...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the upper canister is lowered around the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft. The... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  The MESSENGER spacecraft, aboard a transporter, arrives on Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.  It will be mated to the Boeing Delta II Heavy rocket for liftoff on Aug. 2.  The spacecraft is expected to reach orbit around the planet in March 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1513

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The MESSENGER spacecraft, aboard a trans...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The MESSENGER spacecraft, aboard a transporter, arrives on Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. It will be mated to the Boeing Delta II Heavy rocket for liftoff on... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  This view looks upward inside the mobile service tower on Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station as the MESSENGER spacecraft is lowered toward the Boeing Delta II Heavy rocket for mating. Liftoff is scheduled for Aug. 2.  The spacecraft is expected to reach orbit around the planet in March 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1522

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - This view looks upward inside the mobile...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - This view looks upward inside the mobile service tower on Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station as the MESSENGER spacecraft is lowered toward the Boeing Delta II Heav... More

Two Holes in Wooly Patch. NASA public domain image colelction.

Two Holes in Wooly Patch. NASA public domain image colelction.

Two Holes in Wooly Patch NASA/JPL/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Making Tracks on Mars left-eye. NASA public domain image colelction.

Making Tracks on Mars left-eye. NASA public domain image colelction.

Making Tracks on Mars left-eye NASA/JPL Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Golden Rings - NASA Saturn images

Golden Rings - NASA Saturn images

Golden Rings NASA/JPL Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Pointing at Puffin - Mars exploration rover images

Pointing at Puffin - Mars exploration rover images

Pointing at Puffin NASA/JPL Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Second Largest Moon, NASA Cassini Huygens images of Rhea

Second Largest Moon, NASA Cassini Huygens images of Rhea

Second Largest Moon NASA/JPL/Space Science Institute Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Craters in Fretted Terrain, NASA Mars Images

Craters in Fretted Terrain, NASA Mars Images

Craters in Fretted Terrain NASA/JPL/Malin Space Science Systems Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Revealing Titan Surface - NASA Titan images

Revealing Titan Surface - NASA Titan images

Revealing Titan Surface NASA/JPL/Space Science Institute Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Cloudy Pole, 2001 NASA Mars Odyssey images

Cloudy Pole, 2001 NASA Mars Odyssey images

Cloudy Pole NASA/JPL/Arizona State University Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Dune Variety, NASA Mars Images. NASA public domain image colelction.

Dune Variety, NASA Mars Images. NASA public domain image colelction.

Dune Variety NASA/JPL/Malin Space Science Systems Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Streamlined Island, NASA Mars Images

Streamlined Island, NASA Mars Images

Streamlined Island NASA/JPL/Malin Space Science Systems Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Intricate C Ring Details - NASA Saturn images

Intricate C Ring Details - NASA Saturn images

Intricate C Ring Details NASA/JPL/Space Science Institute Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Burns Cliff Color Panorama - Mars exploration rover images

Burns Cliff Color Panorama - Mars exploration rover images

IDL TIFF file NASA/JPL/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Second Titan Targeted Flyby #3. NASA public domain image colelction.

Second Titan Targeted Flyby #3. NASA public domain image colelction.

Second Titan Targeted Flyby #3 NASA/JPL/Space Science Institute Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Iron Meteorite on Mars - Mars exploration rover images

Iron Meteorite on Mars - Mars exploration rover images

Iron Meteorite on Mars NASA/JPL/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Spirit View on Sol 399. NASA public domain image colelction.

Spirit View on Sol 399. NASA public domain image colelction.

Spirit View on Sol 399 NASA/JPL Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Dust Devils Seen by Spirit. NASA public domain image colelction.

Dust Devils Seen by Spirit. NASA public domain image colelction.

Dust Devils Seen by Spirit NASA/JPL Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Next Stop: Methuselah - Mars exploration rover images

Next Stop: Methuselah - Mars exploration rover images

Next Stop: Methuselah NASA/JPL/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Radio Occultation: Unraveling Saturn Rings

Radio Occultation: Unraveling Saturn Rings

Radio Occultation: Unraveling Saturn Rings NASA/JPL Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Waves and Small Particles in Ring A

Waves and Small Particles in Ring A

Waves and Small Particles in Ring A NASA/JPL Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Spirit View of Larry Outcrop. NASA public domain image colelction.

Spirit View of Larry Outcrop. NASA public domain image colelction.

Spirit View of Larry Outcrop NASA/JPL/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Nili Patera Dunes, NASA Mars Images

Nili Patera Dunes, NASA Mars Images

Nili Patera Dunes NASA/JPL/Malin Space Science Systems Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Atmospheric Illusion - NASA Saturn images

Atmospheric Illusion - NASA Saturn images

Atmospheric Illusion NASA/JPL/Space Science Institute Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Filaments and Vortices - NASA Saturn images

Filaments and Vortices - NASA Saturn images

Filaments and Vortices NASA/JPL/Space Science Institute Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

South Polar Layers, NASA Mars Images

South Polar Layers, NASA Mars Images

South Polar Layers NASA/JPL/Malin Space Science Systems Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Clumps in the A Ring. NASA public domain image colelction.

Clumps in the A Ring. NASA public domain image colelction.

Clumps in the A Ring NASA/JPL/University of Colorado Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Rippled Valley Floor, NASA Mars Images

Rippled Valley Floor, NASA Mars Images

Rippled Valley Floor NASA/JPL/Malin Space Science Systems Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Spirit Ascent Movie, Rover-Eye View

Spirit Ascent Movie, Rover-Eye View

Spirit Ascent Movie, Rover-Eye View NASA/JPL Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, technicians work on the Solar Wind Around Pluto (SWAP) instrument that is part of the New Horizons spacecraft. New Horizons will make the first reconnaissance of Pluto and Charon - a "double planet" and the last planet in our solar system to be visited by spacecraft. The mission will then visit one or more objects in the Kuiper Belt region beyond Neptune. SWAP is a solar wind and plasma spectrometer that measures atmospheric “escape rate” and will observe Pluto’s interaction with the solar wind.  New Horizons is scheduled to launch in January 2006, swing past Jupiter for a gravity boost and scientific studies in February or March 2007, and reach Pluto and its moon, Charon, in July 2015. KSC-05pd2302

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Payloa...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, technicians work on the Solar Wind Around Pluto (SWAP) instrument that is part of the New Horizons spacecraf... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   At NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, a technician from the Applied Physics Laboratory works on the New Horizons spacecraft before installing one of the panels.  A series of interconnecting panels will enclose the spacecraft beneath the antenna to maintain safe operating temperatures in space.  New Horizons will make the first reconnaissance of Pluto and its moon, Charon - a "double planet" and the last planet in our solar system to be visited by spacecraft. As it approaches Pluto, the spacecraft will look for ultraviolet emission from Pluto's atmosphere and make the best global maps of Pluto and Charon in green, blue, red and a special wavelength that is sensitive to methane frost on the surface. It will also take spectral maps in the near infrared, telling the science team about Pluto's and Charon's surface compositions and locations and temperatures of these materials. When the spacecraft is closest to Pluto or its moon, it will take close-up pictures in both visible and near-infrared wavelengths. The mission will then visit one or more objects in the Kuiper Belt region beyond Neptune. New Horizons is scheduled to launch in January 2006, swing past Jupiter for a gravity boost and scientific studies in February or March 2007, and reach Pluto and Charon in July 2015. KSC-05pd2312

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Payload ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, a technician from the Applied Physics Laboratory works on the New Horizons spacecraft before installing one of... More

Opportunity Olympia Panorama - Mars exploration rover images

Opportunity Olympia Panorama - Mars exploration rover images

Opportunity Olympia Panorama NASA/JPL-Caltech/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Rim of Erebus - Mars exploration rover images

Rim of Erebus - Mars exploration rover images

Rim of Erebus NASA/JPL-Caltech/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Florida quarter is prepared for installation on the New Horizons spacecraft in Kennedy Space Center's Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility.  The new quarter, engraved with the "Gateway to Discovery" design, will accompany New Horizons on its 3-billion-mile journey to the planet Pluto and its moon, Charon. Although appropriate for the mission to carry the coin from the state that symbolizes space exploration, it will also serve a practical purpose: scientists are using the quarter as a spin-balance weight. New Horizons comprises seven scientific instruments that will characterize the global geology and geomorphology of Pluto and its moon Charon, map their surface compositions and temperatures, and examine Pluto's complex atmosphere. After that, flybys of Kuiper Belt objects from even farther in the solar system may be undertaken in an extended mission. New Horizons is the first mission in NASA's New Frontiers program of medium-class planetary missions. The spacecraft, designed for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md., will launch aboard a Lockheed Martin Atlas V rocket and fly by Pluto and Charon as early as summer 2015. Photo Credit: Applied Physics Laboratory/George W. Rogers III KSC-05pd2648

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Florida quarter is prepared for install...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Florida quarter is prepared for installation on the New Horizons spacecraft in Kennedy Space Center's Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility. The new quarter, engraved with the "Ga... More

Sweeping View of the Columbia. NASA public domain image colelction.

Sweeping View of the Columbia. NASA public domain image colelction.

Sweeping View of the Columbia NASA/JPL-Caltech/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif.  —  In the Orbital Sciences Building 836 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers are maneuvering a second satellite suspended by an overhead crane.  Three micro-satellites are being mounted on a payload support structure.  The three satellites make up the Space Technology 5 spacecraft, called ST5, and will be launched by a Pegasus XL rocket. The satellites contain miniaturized redundant components and technologies.  Each will validate New Millennium Program selected technologies, such as the Cold Gas Micro-Thruster and X-Band Transponder Communication System.  After deployment from the Pegasus, the micro-satellites will be positioned in a “string of pearls” constellation that demonstrates the ability to position them to perform simultaneous multi-point measurements of the magnetic field using highly sensitive magnetometers.  The data will help scientists understand and map the intensity and direction of the Earth’s magnetic field, its relation to space weather events, and affects on our planet.  With such missions, NASA hopes to improve scientists’ ability to accurately forecast space weather and minimize its harmful effects on space- and ground-based systems.  Launch of ST5 is scheduled for Feb. 28 from Vandenberg Air Force Base. KSC-06pd0164

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — In the Orbital Sciences Building...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — In the Orbital Sciences Building 836 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers are maneuvering a second satellite suspended by an overhead crane. Three micro-sat... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif.  —  In the Orbital Sciences Building 836 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, three micro-satellites are mounted on the payload support structure. The three satellites make up the Space Technology 5 spacecraft, called ST5, and will be launched by a Pegasus XL rocket. The satellites contain miniaturized redundant components and technologies.  Each will validate New Millennium Program selected technologies, such as the Cold Gas Micro-Thruster and X-Band Transponder Communication System.  After deployment from the Pegasus, the micro-satellites will be positioned in a “string of pearls” constellation that demonstrates the ability to position them to perform simultaneous multi-point measurements of the magnetic field using highly sensitive magnetometers.  The data will help scientists understand and map the intensity and direction of the Earth’s magnetic field, its relation to space weather events, and affects on our planet.  With such missions, NASA hopes to improve scientists’ ability to accurately forecast space weather and minimize its harmful effects on space- and ground-based systems.  Launch of ST5 is scheduled for Feb. 28 from Vandenberg Air Force Base. KSC-06pd0168

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — In the Orbital Sciences Building...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — In the Orbital Sciences Building 836 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, three micro-satellites are mounted on the payload support structure. The three satellites m... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif.  —  In the Orbital Sciences Building 836 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, technicians complete mating of the three micro-satellites on the payload support structure. The three satellites make up the Space Technology 5 spacecraft, called ST5, and will be launched by a Pegasus XL rocket. The satellites contain miniaturized redundant components and technologies.  Each will validate New Millennium Program selected technologies, such as the Cold Gas Micro-Thruster and X-Band Transponder Communication System.  After deployment from the Pegasus, the micro-satellites will be positioned in a “string of pearls” constellation that demonstrates the ability to position them to perform simultaneous multi-point measurements of the magnetic field using highly sensitive magnetometers.  The data will help scientists understand and map the intensity and direction of the Earth’s magnetic field, its relation to space weather events, and affects on our planet.  With such missions, NASA hopes to improve scientists’ ability to accurately forecast space weather and minimize its harmful effects on space- and ground-based systems.  Launch of ST5 is scheduled for Feb. 28 from Vandenberg Air Force Base. KSC-06pd0169

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — In the Orbital Sciences Building...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — In the Orbital Sciences Building 836 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, technicians complete mating of the three micro-satellites on the payload support structure.... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif.  —  At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers are moving the Space Technology 5 (ST5) spacecraft into Orbital Sciences’ Building 1555.  There it will be mated with the Pegasus XL launch vehicle.  ST5 will be launched by a Pegasus XL rocket. The satellites contain miniaturized redundant components and technologies.  Each will validate New Millennium Program selected technologies, such as the Cold Gas Micro-Thruster and X-Band Transponder Communication System.  After deployment from the Pegasus, the micro-satellites will be positioned in a “string of pearls” constellation that demonstrates the ability to position them to perform simultaneous multi-point measurements of the magnetic field using highly sensitive magnetometers.  The data will help scientists understand and map the intensity and direction of the Earth’s magnetic field, its relation to space weather events, and affects on our planet.  With such missions, NASA hopes to improve scientists’ ability to accurately forecast space weather and minimize its harmful effects on space- and ground-based systems.  Launch of ST5 is scheduled for Feb. 28 from Vandenberg Air Force Base. KSC-06pd0181

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — At Vandenberg Air Force Base in ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers are moving the Space Technology 5 (ST5) spacecraft into Orbital Sciences’ Building 1555. There it will be mated with th... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. - Inside Orbital Sciences’ Building 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, this photo shows two of the Space Technology 5 (ST5) spacecraft's microsatellites mounted on the payload structure that is mated to the Orbital Sciences' Pegasus XL launch vehicle.  The ST5 contains three microsatellites with miniaturized redundant components and technologies.  Each will validate New Millennium Program selected technologies, such as the Cold Gas Micro-Thruster and X-Band Transponder Communication System.  After deployment from the Pegasus, the micro-satellites will be positioned in a “string of pearls” constellation that demonstrates the ability to position them to perform simultaneous multi-point measurements of the magnetic field using highly sensitive magnetometers.  The data will help scientists understand and map the intensity and direction of the Earth’s magnetic field, its relation to space weather events, and affects on our planet.  With such missions, NASA hopes to improve scientists’ ability to accurately forecast space weather and minimize its harmful effects on space- and ground-based systems.  Launch of ST5 is scheduled from the belly of an L-1011 carrier aircraft no earlier than March 14 from Vandenberg Air Force Base. KSC-06pd0432

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. - Inside Orbital Sciences’ Building ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. - Inside Orbital Sciences’ Building 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, this photo shows two of the Space Technology 5 (ST5) spacecraft's microsatellites mounted o... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. - Inside Orbital Sciences’ Building 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, this closeup shows the Space Technology 5 (ST5) spacecraft's microsatellites mounted on the payload structure.  The spacecraft will be enclosed for launch.  The ST5 contains three microsatellites with miniaturized redundant components and technologies.  Each will validate New Millennium Program selected technologies, such as the Cold Gas Micro-Thruster and X-Band Transponder Communication System.  After deployment from the Pegasus, the micro-satellites will be positioned in a “string of pearls” constellation that demonstrates the ability to position them to perform simultaneous multi-point measurements of the magnetic field using highly sensitive magnetometers.  The data will help scientists understand and map the intensity and direction of the Earth’s magnetic field, its relation to space weather events, and affects on our planet.  With such missions, NASA hopes to improve scientists’ ability to accurately forecast space weather and minimize its harmful effects on space- and ground-based systems.  Launch of ST5 is scheduled from the belly of an L-1011 carrier aircraft no earlier than March 14 from Vandenberg Air Force Base. KSC-06pd0434

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. - Inside Orbital Sciences’ Building ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. - Inside Orbital Sciences’ Building 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, this closeup shows the Space Technology 5 (ST5) spacecraft's microsatellites mounted on the... More

Cobbles in Troughs Between Meridiani Ripples

Cobbles in Troughs Between Meridiani Ripples

Cobbles in Troughs Between Meridiani Ripples NASA/JPL-Caltech/Cornell Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

A Tale of Two Moons. NASA public domain image colelction.

A Tale of Two Moons. NASA public domain image colelction.

A Tale of Two Moons NASA/JPL/Space Science Institute Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Shade from Epimetheus - NASA Cassini Huygens images

Shade from Epimetheus - NASA Cassini Huygens images

Shade from Epimetheus NASA/JPL/Space Science Institute Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Saturn Rings, A Twisted Tale, NASA image

Saturn Rings, A Twisted Tale, NASA image

A Twisted Tale NASA/JPL/Space Science Institute Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Chasma Boreale Scarp - NASA Mars images

Chasma Boreale Scarp - NASA Mars images

Chasma Boreale Scarp NASA/JPL/Univ. of Arizona Public domain photograph of a solar system, planet, space exploration, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. --  Inside the mobile service tower on Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers remove the protective cover surrounding the THEMIS spacecraft.  THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission is to investigate what causes auroras in the Earth's atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of color. Discovering what causes auroras to change will provide scientists with important details on how the planet's magnetosphere works and the important Sun-Earth connection.  THEMIS is scheduled to launch aboard a Delta II rocket on Feb. 15 during a window extending from 6:08 to 6:27 p.m.  Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller KSC-07pd0250

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Inside the mobile service tower on Laun...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Inside the mobile service tower on Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers remove the protective cover surrounding the THEMIS spacecraft. THEMIS consists of ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. --   A worker inside the mobile service tower on Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station examines the Delta II upper stage booster mated to the THEMIS spacecraft above.  THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission is to investigate what causes auroras in the Earth's atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of color. Discovering what causes auroras to change will provide scientists with important details on how the planet's magnetosphere works and the important Sun-Earth connection.  THEMIS is scheduled to launch aboard a Delta II rocket on Feb. 15 during a window extending from 6:08 to 6:27 p.m.  Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller KSC-07pd0259

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A worker inside the mobile service tow...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A worker inside the mobile service tower on Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station examines the Delta II upper stage booster mated to the THEMIS spacecraft above. T... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF.  -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a technician on the work stand  prepares the second stage of the Orbital Sciences Pegasus XL rocket to be mated to the first stage, at left, for the launch of NASA's Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere, or AIM, spacecraft. AIM is the seventh Small Explorers mission under NASA's Explorer Program. The program provides frequent flight opportunities for world-class scientific investigations from space within heliophysics and astrophysics. The AIM spacecraft will fly three instruments designed to study polar mesospheric clouds located at the edge of space, 50 miles above the Earth's surface in the coldest part of the planet's atmosphere. The mission's primary goal is to explain why these clouds form and what has caused them to become brighter and more numerous and appear at lower latitudes in recent years. AIM's results will provide the basis for the study of long-term variability in the mesospheric climate and its relationship to global climate change.  AIM is scheduled to be mated to the Pegasus XL during the second week of April, after which final inspections will be conducted.  Launch is scheduled for April 25. KSC-07pd0652

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a technician on the work stand prepares the second stage of the Orbital Sciences Pegasus XL rocket to be mated to the first sta... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF.  --  At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers move the stand holding NASA's Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere, or AIM, spacecraft under a clean room tent.  AIM is the seventh Small Explorers mission under NASA's Explorer Program. The program provides frequent flight opportunities for world-class scientific investigations from space within heliophysics and astrophysics. The AIM spacecraft will fly three instruments designed to study polar mesospheric clouds located at the edge of space, 50 miles above the Earth's surface in the coldest part of the planet's atmosphere. The mission's primary goal is to explain why these clouds form and what has caused them to become brighter and more numerous and appear at lower latitudes in recent years. AIM's results will provide the basis for the study of long-term variability in the mesospheric climate and its relationship to global climate change.  AIM is scheduled to be mated to the Pegasus XL during the second week of April, after which final inspections will be conducted.  Launch is scheduled for April 25. KSC-07pd0676

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers move the stand holding NASA's Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere, or AIM, spacecraft under a clean room tent. AIM is th... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a technician checks the final step in mating of the first and second stages of the Orbital Sciences Pegasus XL rocket.  The rocket is the launch vehicle for NASA's Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere, or AIM, spacecraft. AIM is the seventh Small Explorers mission under NASA's Explorer Program. The program provides frequent flight opportunities for world-class scientific investigations from space within heliophysics and astrophysics. The AIM spacecraft will fly three instruments designed to study polar mesospheric clouds located at the edge of space, 50 miles above the Earth's surface in the coldest part of the planet's atmosphere. The mission's primary goal is to explain why these clouds form and what has caused them to become brighter and more numerous and appear at lower latitudes in recent years. AIM's results will provide the basis for the study of long-term variability in the mesospheric climate and its relationship to global climate change.  AIM is scheduled to be mated to the Pegasus XL during the second week of April, after which final inspections will be conducted.  Launch is scheduled for April 25. KSC-07pd0655

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in C...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a technician checks the final step in mating of the first and second stages of the Orbital Sciences Pegasus XL rocket. The rocke... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. --  At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a worker monitors the Orbital Sciences Pegasus XL rocket after a second flight simulation. The rocket is the launch vehicle for NASA's Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere, or AIM, spacecraft.  AIM is the seventh Small Explorers mission under NASA's Explorer Program. The program provides frequent flight opportunities for world-class scientific investigations from space within heliophysics and astrophysics. The AIM spacecraft will fly three instruments designed to study polar mesospheric clouds located at the edge of space, 50 miles above the Earth's surface in the coldest part of the planet's atmosphere. The mission's primary goal is to explain why these clouds form and what has caused them to become brighter and more numerous and appear at lower latitudes in recent years. AIM's results will provide the basis for the study of long-term variability in the mesospheric climate and its relationship to global climate change.  AIM is scheduled to be mated to the Pegasus XL during the second week of April, after which final inspections will be conducted.  Launch is scheduled for April 25. KSC-07pd0660

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a worker monitors the Orbital Sciences Pegasus XL rocket after a second flight simulation. The rocket is the launch vehicle for ... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF.  --  Inside a clean room at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, NASA's Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere, or AIM, spacecraft is weighed.  AIM is the seventh Small Explorers mission under NASA's Explorer Program. The program provides frequent flight opportunities for world-class scientific investigations from space within heliophysics and astrophysics. The AIM spacecraft will fly three instruments designed to study polar mesospheric clouds located at the edge of space, 50 miles above the Earth's surface in the coldest part of the planet's atmosphere. The mission's primary goal is to explain why these clouds form and what has caused them to become brighter and more numerous and appear at lower latitudes in recent years. AIM's results will provide the basis for the study of long-term variability in the mesospheric climate and its relationship to global climate change.  AIM is scheduled to be mated to the Pegasus XL during the second week of April, after which final inspections will be conducted.  Launch is scheduled for April 25. KSC-07pd0670

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- Inside a clean room at Vandenbe...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- Inside a clean room at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, NASA's Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere, or AIM, spacecraft is weighed. AIM is the seventh Small Explorer... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF.  --   Inside the clean-room "tent" of Building 1555 at North Vandenberg Air Force Base, two of the solar array panels on the AIM spacecraft are deployed for testing. Inside are the instruments that will study polar mesospheric clouds located at the edge of space. The AIM spacecraft will fly three instruments designed to study those clouds located at the edge of space, 50 miles above the Earth's surface in the coldest part of the planet's atmosphere. The mission's primary goal is to explain why these clouds form and what has caused them to become brighter and more numerous and appear at lower latitudes in recent years. AIM's results will provide the basis for the study of long-term variability in the mesospheric climate and its relationship to global climate change. AIM is scheduled to be mated to the Pegasus XL during the second week of April, after which final inspections will be conducted.  Launch is scheduled for April 25. KSC-07pd0701

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- Inside the clean-room "tent" o...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- Inside the clean-room "tent" of Building 1555 at North Vandenberg Air Force Base, two of the solar array panels on the AIM spacecraft are deployed for testing. Inside are... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF.  --  In Building 1555 at North Vandenberg Air Force Base, workers lift the AIM spacecraft from its stand in order to move it into an area where a partial deployment of the solar arrays on the spacecraft will take place. The AIM spacecraft will fly three instruments designed to study polar mesospheric clouds located at the edge of space, 50 miles above the Earth's surface in the coldest part of the planet's atmosphere. The mission's primary goal is to explain why these clouds form and what has caused them to become brighter and more numerous and appear at lower latitudes in recent years. AIM's results will provide the basis for the study of long-term variability in the mesospheric climate and its relationship to global climate change. AIM is scheduled to be mated to the Pegasus XL during the second week of April, after which final inspections will be conducted.  Launch is scheduled for April 25. KSC-07pd0688

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- In Building 1555 at North Vande...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- In Building 1555 at North Vandenberg Air Force Base, workers lift the AIM spacecraft from its stand in order to move it into an area where a partial deployment of the sola... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF.  --  In a clean-room environment at North Vandenberg Air Force Base, technicians look at an area of the AIM spacecraft.  AIM will fly three instruments designed to study polar mesospheric clouds located at the edge of space, 50 miles above the Earth's surface in the coldest part of the planet's atmosphere. The mission's primary goal is to explain why these clouds form and what has caused them to become brighter and more numerous and appear at lower latitudes in recent years. AIM's results will provide the basis for the study of long-term variability in the mesospheric climate and its relationship to global climate change. AIM is scheduled to be mated to the Pegasus XL during the second week of April, after which final inspections will be conducted.  Launch is scheduled for April 25. KSC-07pd0712

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- In a clean-room environment at ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- In a clean-room environment at North Vandenberg Air Force Base, technicians look at an area of the AIM spacecraft. AIM will fly three instruments designed to study polar ... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF.  --  In a clean-room environment at North Vandenberg Air Force Base, a technician monitors the AIM spacecraft after illumination testing on the spacecraft's solar array panels. The AIM spacecraft will fly three instruments designed to study those clouds located at the edge of space, 50 miles above the Earth's surface in the coldest part of the planet's atmosphere. The mission's primary goal is to explain why these clouds form and what has caused them to become brighter and more numerous and appear at lower latitudes in recent years. AIM's results will provide the basis for the study of long-term variability in the mesospheric climate and its relationship to global climate change. AIM is scheduled to be mated to the Pegasus XL during the second week of April, after which final inspections will be conducted.  Launch is scheduled for April 25. KSC-07pd0706

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- In a clean-room environment at ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- In a clean-room environment at North Vandenberg Air Force Base, a technician monitors the AIM spacecraft after illumination testing on the spacecraft's solar array panels.... More

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