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STS052-46-022 - STS-052 - Crewmember seated in the commander's seat in the fwd flight deck.

STS052-46-022 - STS-052 - Crewmember seated in the commander's seat in...

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Mission Commander James Wetherbee in the commander's seat in the fwd flight deck. The wrist and end effector of the remote manipulator system (RMS) can ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  At the Astrotech Space Operations processing facilities, workers check the placement of NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft on a work stand. There employees of the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, builders of the spacecraft, will perform an initial state-of-health check.  Then processing for launch can begin, 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 May 11 on a six-year mission aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket.  Liftoff is targeted for 2:26 a.m. EDT on Tuesday, May 11.

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the Astrotech Space Operations processing facilities, workers check the placement of NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft on a work stand. There employees of the Johns Hopkins University... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  Shipped in an air-conditioned transportation van from NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md., NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft, the first Mercury orbiter, arrives at the Astrotech Space Operations processing facilities near KSC.    MESSENGER - short for MErcury Surface, Space ENvironment, GEochemistry and Ranging - will be offloaded and taken into a high bay clean room.  After the spacecraft is removed from its shipping container, employees of the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, builders of the spacecraft, will perform an initial state-of-health check.  Then processing for launch can begin, including checkout of the power systems, communications systems and control systems.  The thermal blankets will also be attached for flight.  MESSENGER will be launched May 11 on a six-year mission aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket.  Liftoff is targeted for 2:26 a.m. EDT on Tuesday, May 11.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Shipped in an air-conditioned transporta...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Shipped in an air-conditioned transportation van from NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md., NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft, the first Mercury orbiter, arrives at the A... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Astrotech Space Operations processing facilities, workers verify the correct placement of 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-04pd0599

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

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  The MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft arrives at the nonhazardous payload processing facility at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., after leaving the hazardous processing facility, where it has been since arrival March 10.  The remainder of its final assembly and testing will be completed in the new facility. 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-04pd0860

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space En...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft arrives at the nonhazardous payload processing facility at Astrotech Space Operations in Tit... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA.  - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker adjusts an insulating blanket around the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft.  Two solar arrays will be installed June 24-25, followed by a deployment test.  The spacecraft will fly past Earth once, Venus twice and Mercury three times before starting a year-long orbital study of Mercury in March 2011.   Launch is scheduled for July 30, 2004 from Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1324

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker adjusts an insulating blanket around the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacec... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A worker (left) at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., questions another worker about the oxygen connection in his protective suit before spacecraft propellant loading of the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft.  Liftoff of MESSENGER aboard a Boeing Delta II Heavy rocket, bound for Mercury, 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-04pd1433

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A worker (left) at Astrotech Space Operat...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A worker (left) at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., questions another worker about the oxygen connection in his protective suit before spacecraft propellant loading o... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A worker at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., helps suit up another worker for spacecraft propellant loading of the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft.  Liftoff of MESSENGER aboard a Boeing Delta II Heavy rocket, bound for Mercury, 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-04pd1432

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A worker at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., helps suit up another worker for spacecraft propellant loading of the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geoc... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  A worker at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., suits up for spacecraft propellant loading of the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft.  Liftoff of MESSENGER aboard a Boeing Delta II Heavy rocket, bound for Mercury, 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-04pd1429

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A worker at Astrotech Space Operations i...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A worker at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., suits up for spacecraft propellant loading of the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Rangin... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  In the mobile service tower at Launch Complex 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers oversee removal of the canister from around the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft.  Scheduled to launch Aug. 2, MESSENGER will return to Earth for a gravity boost in July 2005, then fly past Venus twice, in October 2006 and June 2007. It is expected to enter Mercury orbit in March 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md.  Processing is being done at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla. KSC-04pd1533

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the mobile service tower at Launch Co...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the mobile service tower at Launch Complex 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers oversee removal of the canister from around the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Envi... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  In the mobile service tower at Launch Complex 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers attach supports to an overhead panel above the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft.  The panel will suspend an environmental curtain around the spacecraft while in the tower before encapsulation.  Scheduled to launch Aug. 2, MESSENGER will return to Earth for a gravity boost in July 2005, then fly past Venus twice, in October 2006 and June 2007. It is expected to enter Mercury orbit in March 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md.  Processing is being done at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla. KSC-04pd1536

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the mobile service tower at Launch Co...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the mobile service tower at Launch Complex 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers attach supports to an overhead panel above the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Envir... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  In the mobile service tower at Launch Complex 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers suspend an environmental curtain around the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft, which is still wrapped from its journey to the pad.  Scheduled to launch Aug. 2, MESSENGER will return to Earth for a gravity boost in July 2005, then fly past Venus twice, in October 2006 and June 2007. It is expected to enter Mercury orbit in March 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md.  Processing is being done at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla. KSC-04pd1538

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the mobile service tower at Launch Co...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the mobile service tower at Launch Complex 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers suspend an environmental curtain around the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environm... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - MESSENGER, a NASA Discovery mission.  The MESSENGER (MErcury Surface, Space ENvironment, GEochemistry, and Ranging) mission is a scientific investigation of the planet Mercury.  MESSENGER will be launched in the summer of 2004 and will enter Mercury orbit in March of 2011, after one Earth flyby, two flybys of Venus, and three of Mercury along the way.  The flyby and orbital phases of the mission will provide global mapping and detailed characterization of the planet's surface, interior, atmosphere and magnetosphere. KSC-04pd1531

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - MESSENGER, a NASA Discovery mission. The...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - MESSENGER, a NASA Discovery mission. The MESSENGER (MErcury Surface, Space ENvironment, GEochemistry, and Ranging) mission is a scientific investigation of the planet Mercury. MES... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Boeing Delta II rocket with the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft aboard is ready for launch on a seven-year journey to the planet Mercury.  This is the second launch attempt in two days after the first attempt Aug. 2 was postponed due to lightning potential from residual clouds that were associated with Tropical Storm Alex.   The launch of MESSENGER is rescheduled for this date at 2:15:56 a.m. EDT at the opening of a 12-second launch window.  MESSENGER will fly by Earth, Venus and Mercury several times to burn off energy before making its final approach to the inner planet on March 18, 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1623

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Boeing Delta II rocket with the Mercu...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Boeing Delta II rocket with the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft aboard is ready for launch on a seven-year journey to the pla... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers ensure the smooth rotation of NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO.  After rotation, the SDO will be moved to a work stand.  SDO is the first space weather research network mission in NASA's Living With a Star Program.  The spacecraft's long-term measurements will give solar scientists in-depth information about changes in the sun's magnetic field and insight into how they affect Earth.  In preparation for its anticipated November launch, engineers will perform a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure SDO can withstand the stresses and vibrations of the launch itself, as well as what it will encounter in the space environment after launch.   Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-2009-4024

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fl...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers ensure the smooth rotation of NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO. After rotation, the SDO will be moved to a work stand.... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO, is revealed after removal of the protective cover used for shipping.  SDO is the first space weather research network mission in NASA's Living With a Star Program.  The spacecraft's long-term measurements will give solar scientists in-depth information about changes in the sun's magnetic field and insight into how they affect Earth.  In preparation for its anticipated November launch, engineers will perform a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure SDO can withstand the stresses and vibrations of the launch itself, as well as what it will encounter in the space environment after launch.    Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2009-4041

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fl...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO, is revealed after removal of the protective cover used for shipping. SDO is the first space ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the United Launch Alliance, or ULA, Atlas V rocket carrying NASA’s twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, rolled out of the ULA Vertical Integration Facility at Space Launch Complex 41 at 1:59 p.m. EDT and is approaching the launch pad. The Atlas V rocket had been rolled back to the facility on August 26 to ensure the launch vehicle and RBSP spacecraft were secured and protected from inclement weather caused by Tropical Storm Isaac.    RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe. The launch is rescheduled for 4:05 a.m. EDT on Aug. 30. For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2012-4695

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida,...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the United Launch Alliance, or ULA, Atlas V rocket carrying NASA’s twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, rolled out of the ULA Vertica... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the United Launch Alliance, or ULA, Atlas V rocket carrying NASA’s twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, rolled out of the ULA Vertical Integration Facility at Space Launch Complex 41 at 1:59 p.m. EDT heading to the launch pad. The Atlas V rocket had been rolled back to the facility on August 26 to ensure the launch vehicle and RBSP spacecraft were secured and protected from inclement weather caused by Tropical Storm Isaac.     RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe. The launch is rescheduled for 4:05 a.m. EDT on Aug. 30, pending approval from the range.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2012-4688

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida,...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the United Launch Alliance, or ULA, Atlas V rocket carrying NASA’s twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, rolled out of the ULA Vertica... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Illuminated with a blue hue from bright xenon lights, the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA’s Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, spacecraft lifts off Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida at 4:05 a.m. EDT.        RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Tony Gray and Robert Murray KSC-2012-4741

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Illuminated with a blue hue from bright xenon l...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Illuminated with a blue hue from bright xenon lights, the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA’s Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, spacecraft lifts off Space Launch Com... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Richard Fitzgerald, Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, project manager at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory? in Laurel, M.D., participates in a postlaunch news conference at NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Press Site in Florida. The RBSP spacecraft launched atop a United Launch Alliance, or ULA, Atlas V rocket at 4:05 a.m. EDT from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.       RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2012-4773

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Richard Fitzgerald, Radiation Belt Storm Probes...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Richard Fitzgerald, Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, project manager at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory? in Laurel, M.D., participates in a postlaunch news conference at NAS... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, roars off Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida at 4:05 a.m. EDT.    RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2012-4716

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carry...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, roars off Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida at 4:05 a.... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, lifts off Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida at 4:05 a.m. EDT.    RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Rusty Backer KSC-2012-4750

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carry...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, lifts off Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida at 4:05 a.... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, lifted off Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida at 4:05 a.m. EDT.    RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Rusty Backer KSC-2012-4754

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carry...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, lifted off Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida at 4:05 a... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  Doors are open on the air-conditioned transportation van that carried NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft from NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md., to the Astrotech Space Operations processing facilities near KSC.  After offloading, MESSENGER - short for MErcury Surface, Space ENvironment, GEochemistry and Ranging - will be taken into a high bay clean room and employees of the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, builders of the spacecraft, will perform an initial state-of-health check.  Then processing for launch can begin, including checkout of the power systems, communications systems and control systems.  The thermal blankets will also be attached for flight.  MESSENGER will be launched May 11 on a six-year mission aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket.  Liftoff is targeted for 2:26 a.m. EDT on Tuesday, May 11.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Doors are open on the air-conditioned tr...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Doors are open on the air-conditioned transportation van that carried NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft from NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md., to the Astrotech Space ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  In the high bay clean room at the Astrotech Space Operations processing facilities near KSC, workers remove the protective cover from NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft.  Employees of the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, builders of the spacecraft, will perform an initial state-of-health check.  Then processing for launch can begin, 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 May 11 on a six-year mission aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket.  Liftoff is targeted for 2:26 a.m. EDT on Tuesday, May 11.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the high bay clean room at the Astrot...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the high bay clean room at the Astrotech Space Operations processing facilities near KSC, workers remove the protective cover from NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft. Employees of the... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- - Astrotech Space Operations facilities near KSC, workers check the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft  as it rotates on the turnover fixture.  Workers will perform the propulsion system phasing test - firing gas through the thrusters in order to verify that the right thrusters fire when expected - as part of prelaunch testing at the site.  Launch is scheduled for May 11 from Pad 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The spacecraft will fly past Venus three times and Mercury twice before starting a year-long orbital study of Mercury in July 2009. KSC-04pd0675

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- - Astrotech Space Operations facilities ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- - Astrotech Space Operations facilities near KSC, workers check the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft as it rotates on the turnov... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astrotech Space Operations facilities near KSC, workers complete rotation of the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft on the turnover fixture.  Workers will perform the propulsion system phasing test - firing gas through the thrusters in order to verify that the right thrusters fire when expected - as part of prelaunch testing at the site.  Launch is scheduled for May 11 from Pad 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The spacecraft will fly past Venus three times and Mercury twice before starting a year-long orbital study of Mercury in July 2009. KSC-04pd0678

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astrotech Space Operations facilities ne...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astrotech Space Operations facilities near KSC, workers complete rotation of the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft on the turnover... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  - Workers at Astrotech Space Operations facilities in Titusville, Fla., secure the cover on 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, to an adjacent nonhazardous payload processing facility. The remainder of its final assembly and testing will be completed there. 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-04pd0858

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

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., suit up for spacecraft propellant loading of the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft.  Liftoff of MESSENGER aboard a Boeing Delta II Heavy rocket, bound for Mercury, 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-04pd1431

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., suit up for spacecraft propellant loading of the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  The final Solid Rocket Boosters (SRBs) arrive at Pad 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, for mating with the Boeing Delta II Heavy rocket that will launch the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft.  Scheduled to lift off Aug. 2, bound for Mercury, the spacecraft is expected to reach orbit around Mercury in March 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1442

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The final Solid Rocket Boosters (SRBs) a...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The final Solid Rocket Boosters (SRBs) arrive at Pad 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, for mating with the Boeing Delta II Heavy rocket that will launch the MESSENGER (Mercur... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  The final Solid Rocket Boosters (SRBs) arrive at Pad 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, for mating with the Boeing Delta II Heavy rocket that will launch the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft.   Scheduled to lift off Aug. 2, bound for Mercury, the spacecraft is expected to reach orbit around Mercury in March 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1440

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The final Solid Rocket Boosters (SRBs) a...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The final Solid Rocket Boosters (SRBs) arrive at Pad 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, for mating with the Boeing Delta II Heavy rocket that will launch the MESSENGER (Mercur... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After bagging the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft, Boeing workers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., place the first part of a transportation canister around the Delta II upper stage booster.  MESSENGER will be transferred 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-04pd1486

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After bagging the MESSENGER (Mercury Surf...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After bagging the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft, Boeing workers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., place the fi... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., an overhead crane moves the upper canister (at left) toward 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-04pd1491

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., an overhead crane moves the upper canister (at left) toward the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ra... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  In the mobile service tower at Launch Complex 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the unwrapped MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft waits under an environmental curtain for encapsulation.  Visible in this view is the sunshade that will protect MESSENGER’s instruments during exposure to the sun as it orbits Mercury.  Scheduled to launch Aug. 2, MESSENGER will return to Earth for a gravity boost in July 2005, then fly past Venus twice, in October 2006 and June 2007. It is expected to enter Mercury orbit in March 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md.  Processing is being done at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla. KSC-04pd1540

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the mobile service tower at Launch Co...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the mobile service tower at Launch Complex 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the unwrapped MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecr... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An X-band radar antenna is prepared to observe the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) launch.  This antenna and a C-band radar antenna are on loan to KSC from the USNS Pathfinder, a U.S. Navy instrumentation ship.  They have been installed at  site north of Haulover Canal where the National Center for Atmospheric Research previously had a radar for thunderstorm research.  NASA is evaluating the pair of radars for their ability to observe possible debris coming from the Space Shuttle during launch, part of NASA’s initiative to return the Space Shuttle to flight. KSC-04pd1608

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An X-band radar antenna is prepared to ob...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An X-band radar antenna is prepared to observe the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) launch. This antenna and a C-band radar antenna are on l... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the Boeing Delta II rocket with the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft aboard waits for rollback of the mobile service tower and a second launch attempt in two days.  The first attempt Aug. 2 was postponed due to lightning potential from residual clouds that were associated with Tropical Storm Alex.   The launch of MESSENGER on a seven-year journey to the planet Mercury is rescheduled for this date at 2:15:56 a.m. EDT at the opening of a 12-second launch window.  MESSENGER will fly by Earth, Venus and Mercury several times to burn off energy before making its final approach to the inner planet on March 18, 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1619

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Fo...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the Boeing Delta II rocket with the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft aboard ... More

BISE (Bodies in the Space Environment) experiment

BISE (Bodies in the Space Environment) experiment

ISS019-E-005710 (9 April 2009) --- Astronaut Michael Barratt, Expedition 19/20 flight engineer, uses Neurospat hardware to perform the Bodies in the Space Environment (BISE) experiment in the Destiny laboratory... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The shipping container with NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO,  arrives at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla.   SDO is the first space weather research network mission in NASA's Living With a Star Program.  The spacecraft's long-term measurements will give solar scientists in-depth information about changes in the sun's magnetic field and insight into how they affect Earth.  In preparation for its anticipated November launch, engineers will perform a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure SDO can withstand the stresses and vibrations of the launch itself, as well as what it will encounter in the space environment after launch.  Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-4013

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The shipping container with NASA's Solar Dynami...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The shipping container with NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO, arrives at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla. SDO is the first space weather research network mission... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a hoist is attached to NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO, in order to lift and rotate it.  SDO is the first space weather research network mission in NASA's Living With a Star Program.  The spacecraft's long-term measurements will give solar scientists in-depth information about changes in the sun's magnetic field and insight into how they affect Earth.  In preparation for its anticipated November launch, engineers will perform a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure SDO can withstand the stresses and vibrations of the launch itself, as well as what it will encounter in the space environment after launch.   Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-2009-4020

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fl...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a hoist is attached to NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO, in order to lift and rotate it. SDO is the first space weather resear... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a hoist begins rotating NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO.  After rotation, the SDO will be moved to a work stand. SDO will be rotated and moved to a work stand. SDO is the first space weather research network mission in NASA's Living With a Star Program.  The spacecraft's long-term measurements will give solar scientists in-depth information about changes in the sun's magnetic field and insight into how they affect Earth.  In preparation for its anticipated November launch, engineers will perform a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure SDO can withstand the stresses and vibrations of the launch itself, as well as what it will encounter in the space environment after launch.   Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-2009-4022

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fl...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a hoist begins rotating NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO. After rotation, the SDO will be moved to a work stand. SDO will be r... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Payload Processing Facility in Titusville, Fla., technicians check the clearance as the Solar Dynamics Observatory is lifted from the stand.  The spacecraft is being moved onto a Ransome table that will allow it to be rotated in various directions for access to different areas of the spacecraft.  SDO is the first space weather research network mission in NASA's Living With a Star Program.  The spacecraft's long-term measurements will give solar scientists in-depth information about changes in the sun's magnetic field and insight into how they affect Earth.  In preparation for its anticipated November launch, engineers will perform a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure SDO can withstand the stresses and vibrations of the launch itself, as well as what it will encounter in the space environment after launch.  Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-4264

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Payload Processing Facility in...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Payload Processing Facility in Titusville, Fla., technicians check the clearance as the Solar Dynamics Observatory is lifted from the stand. The spacecraft is being move... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Payload Processing Facility in Titusville, Fla.,  technicians check the Solar Dynamics Observatory after it was lifted from its work stand.  The spacecraft is being moved onto a Ransome table that will allow it to be rotated in various directions for access to different areas of the spacecraft.  SDO is the first space weather research network mission in NASA's Living With a Star Program.  The spacecraft's long-term measurements will give solar scientists in-depth information about changes in the sun's magnetic field and insight into how they affect Earth.  In preparation for its anticipated November launch, engineers will perform a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure SDO can withstand the stresses and vibrations of the launch itself, as well as what it will encounter in the space environment after launch.  Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-4266

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Payload Processing Facility in...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Payload Processing Facility in Titusville, Fla., technicians check the Solar Dynamics Observatory after it was lifted from its work stand. The spacecraft is being moved... More

Spacecraft:  The Kennedy Space Center has processed and launched many scientific missions to study Earth, the moon, other planets, and the space environment, which has greatly expanded our knowledge and understanding of the solar system. These automated machines have orbited and landed on Venus and Mars, explored the Sun’s environment, observed comets and asteroids, and made close-range surveys while flying past Mercury, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune.  The Launch Services Program, established in 1998, continues this mission today.     Poster designed by Kennedy Space Center Graphics Department/Greg Lee. Credit: NASA KSC-2012-1867

Spacecraft: The Kennedy Space Center has processed and launched many ...

Spacecraft: The Kennedy Space Center has processed and launched many scientific missions to study Earth, the moon, other planets, and the space environment, which has greatly expanded our knowledge and underst... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket, carrying NASA’s twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, is rolled back from Space Launch Complex 41 to the Vertical Integration Facility where they will be secured and protected from inclement weather due to Tropical Storm Isaac.    RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe. The launch is rescheduled for 4:05 a.m. EDT on Aug. 30, pending approval from the range.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky KSC-2012-4638

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida,...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket, carrying NASA’s twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, is rolled back from Space Launch Comp... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An unfavorable weather forecast as a result of Tropical Storm Isaac approaching Florida kept NASA's twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, on Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Managers decided to roll the Atlas V rocket off the launch pad and back to the Vertical Integration Facility to ensure the launch vehicle and RBSP spacecraft are secured and protected from inclement weather.    RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe. The launch is rescheduled for 4:05 a.m. EDT on Aug. 30, pending approval from the range.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky KSC-2012-4645

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An unfavorable weather forecast as a result of ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An unfavorable weather forecast as a result of Tropical Storm Isaac approaching Florida kept NASA's twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, on Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An unfavorable weather forecast as a result of Tropical Storm Isaac approaching Florida kept NASA's twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, on Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Managers decided to roll the Atlas V rocket off the launch pad and back to the Vertical Integration Facility to ensure the launch vehicle and RBSP spacecraft are secured and protected from inclement weather.    RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe. The launch is rescheduled for 4:05 a.m. EDT on Aug. 30, pending approval from the range.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky KSC-2012-4625

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An unfavorable weather forecast as a result of ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An unfavorable weather forecast as a result of Tropical Storm Isaac approaching Florida kept NASA's twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, on Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket, carrying NASA’s twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, is rolled back from Space Launch Complex 41 to the Vertical Integration Facility where they will be secured and protected from inclement weather due to Tropical Storm Isaac.    RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe. The launch is rescheduled for 4:05 a.m. EDT on Aug. 30, pending approval from the range.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky KSC-2012-4634

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida,...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket, carrying NASA’s twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, is rolled back from Space Launch Comp... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the United Launch Alliance, or ULA, Atlas V rocket carrying NASA’s twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, rolled out of the ULA Vertical Integration Facility at Space Launch Complex 41 at 1:59 p.m. EDT and was fully secured in position on the pad at 2:57 p.m. The Atlas V rocket had been rolled back to the facility on August 26 to ensure the launch vehicle and RBSP spacecraft were secured and protected from inclement weather caused by Tropical Storm Isaac.    RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe. The launch is rescheduled for 4:05 a.m. EDT on Aug. 30. For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2012-4707

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida,...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the United Launch Alliance, or ULA, Atlas V rocket carrying NASA’s twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, rolled out of the ULA Vertica... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - With its engines burning bright against the late night sky, the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, travels upward after lifting off Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida at 4:05 a.m. EDT.    RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Rusty Backer KSC-2012-4757

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - With its engines burning bright against the lat...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - With its engines burning bright against the late night sky, the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, travels upward after lifting of... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A postlaunch news conference is held at NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Press Site in Florida following the launch of the Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, mission atop a United Launch Alliance, or ULA, Atlas V rocket at 4:05 a.m. EDT from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. From left, are Richard Fitzgerald, RBSP project manager at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory? in Laurel, M.D., Michael Luther, deputy associate administrator of NASA's Science Mission Directorate? at NASA Headquarters?, and Nicky Fox, RBSP deputy project scientist at Johns Hopkins.        RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2012-4772

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A postlaunch news conference is held at NASA Ke...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A postlaunch news conference is held at NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Press Site in Florida following the launch of the Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, mission atop a United Launch Al... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Dr. Carlos Calle, senior research scientist on the Electrodynamic Dust Shield for Dust Mitigation project, demonstrates a dust particle experiment in the Electrostatics and Surface Physics Laboratory in the SwampWorks at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The technology works by creating an electric field that propagates out like the ripples on a pond. This could prevent dust accumulation on spacesuits, thermal radiators, solar panels, optical instruments and view ports for future lunar and Mars exploration activities.      Electrodynamic dust shield, or EDS, technology is based on concepts originally developed by NASA as early as 1967 and later by the University of Tokyo. In 2003, NASA, in collaboration with the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, started development of the EDS for dust particle removal from solar panels to be used on future missions to the moon, an asteroid or Mars. A flight experiment to expose the dust shields to the space environment currently is under development. For more information, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/content/scientists-developing-ways-to-mitigate-dust-problem-for-explorers/ Photo credit: NASA/Dan Casper KSC-2013-3905

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Dr. Carlos Calle, senior research scientist on...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Dr. Carlos Calle, senior research scientist on the Electrodynamic Dust Shield for Dust Mitigation project, demonstrates a dust particle experiment in the Electrostatics and Surface Physi... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Dr. Carlos Calle, senior research scientist on the Electrodynamic Dust Shield for Dust Mitigation project, demonstrates a dust particle experiment in the Electrostatics and Surface Physics Laboratory in the SwampWorks at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The technology works by creating an electric field that propagates out like the ripples on a pond. This could prevent dust accumulation on spacesuits, thermal radiators, solar panels, optical instruments and view ports for future lunar and Mars exploration activities.      Electrodynamic dust shield, or EDS, technology is based on concepts originally developed by NASA as early as 1967 and later by the University of Tokyo. In 2003, NASA, in collaboration with the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, started development of the EDS for dust particle removal from solar panels to be used on future missions to the moon, an asteroid or Mars. A flight experiment to expose the dust shields to the space environment currently is under development. For more information, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/content/scientists-developing-ways-to-mitigate-dust-problem-for-explorers/ Photo credit: NASA/Dan Casper KSC-2013-3903

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Dr. Carlos Calle, senior research scientist on...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Dr. Carlos Calle, senior research scientist on the Electrodynamic Dust Shield for Dust Mitigation project, demonstrates a dust particle experiment in the Electrostatics and Surface Physi... More

Space Shuttle Columbia, STS-1 - INSIGNIAS

Space Shuttle Columbia, STS-1 - INSIGNIAS

S86-27614 (Feb 1986) --- The Space Shuttle Columbia is at the center of the Spacelab Life Sciences 1 patch. The various elements of the logo serve to deliver the message of the dedication of this mission to ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  In the high bay clean room at the Astrotech Space Operations processing facilities near KSC, workers attach an overhead crane to NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft.  The spacecraft will be moved to a work stand where employees of the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, builders of the spacecraft, will perform an initial state-of-health check.  Then processing for launch can begin, 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 May 11 on a six-year mission aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket.  Liftoff is targeted for 2:26 a.m. EDT on Tuesday, May 11.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the high bay clean room at the Astrot...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the high bay clean room at the Astrotech Space Operations processing facilities near KSC, workers attach an overhead crane to NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft. The spacecraft will b... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  In the high bay clean room at the Astrotech Space Operations processing facilities near KSC, workers prepare to attach an overhead crane to NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft.  The spacecraft will be moved to a work stand where employees of the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, builders of the spacecraft, will perform an initial state-of-health check.  Then processing for launch can begin, 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 May 11 on a six-year mission aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket.  Liftoff is targeted for 2:26 a.m. EDT on Tuesday, May 11.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the high bay clean room at the Astrot...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the high bay clean room at the Astrotech Space Operations processing facilities near KSC, workers prepare to attach an overhead crane to NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft. The spacec... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Astrotech Space Operations processing facilities, workers prepare for contact of NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft with 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-04pd0597

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Astrotech Space Operations processing facilities, workers prepare for contact of NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft with a test stand. Once in place, employees of the Johns Hopkins... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astrotech Space Operations facilities near KSC, workers again rotate the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft on the turnover fixture.  Workers will perform the propulsion system phasing test - firing gas through the thrusters in order to verify that the right thrusters fire when expected - as part of prelaunch testing at the site.  Launch is scheduled for May 11 from Pad 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The spacecraft will fly past Venus three times and Mercury twice before starting a year-long orbital study of Mercury in July 2009. KSC-04pd0677

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astrotech Space Operations facilities ne...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Astrotech Space Operations facilities near KSC, workers again rotate the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft on the turnover fixture... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  - Workers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., 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-04pd0863

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

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   At Astrotech Space Operations facilities in Titusville, Fla., the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft is ready for encapsulation before being moved 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-04pd0854

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations facilitie...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations facilities in Titusville, Fla., the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft is ready for encapsulation be... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA.  - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers place insulating blankets around the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft.  Two solar arrays will be installed June 24-25, followed by a deployment test.  The spacecraft will fly past Earth once, Venus twice and Mercury three times before starting a year-long orbital study of Mercury in March 2011.   Launch is scheduled for July 30, 2004 from Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1323

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers place insulating blankets around the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft.... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  Technicians at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., work on the back side of the MESSENGER spacecraft, mating it with the Payload Assist Module, the Boeing Delta II third stage, below.  The white panel seen here is the heat-resistant, ceramic cloth sunshade that will enable MESSENGER to operate at room temperature.  MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) 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. It is expected to enter Mercury orbit in March 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1465

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Technicians at Astrotech Space Operation...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Technicians at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., work on the back side of the MESSENGER spacecraft, mating it with the Payload Assist Module, the Boeing Delta II thir... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Boeing workers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., secure the first part of a transportation canister around the Delta II upper stage booster on the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft.  MESSENGER will be transferred 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-04pd1488

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Boeing workers at Astrotech Space Operati...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Boeing workers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., secure the first part of a transportation canister around the Delta II upper stage booster on the MESSENGER (Mercur... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Boeing workers secure the first half of the fairing installed around the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft.  The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the upper stage booster and forms an aerodynamically smooth joint, protecting the spacecraft during launch.  MESSENGER  is scheduled to launch Aug. 2 aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket and is expected to enter Mercury orbit in March 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1572

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Boeing workers secure the first half of the fairing installed around the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geoch... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, part of the fairing for the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft is moved into place for installation.  The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the upper stage booster and forms an aerodynamically smooth joint, protecting the spacecraft during launch.  MESSENGER  is scheduled to launch Aug. 2 aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket and is expected to enter Mercury orbit in March 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1568

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, part of the fairing for the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft is moved into... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Boeing workers complete the installation of the fairing around the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft.  The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the upper stage booster and forms an aerodynamically smooth joint, protecting the spacecraft during launch.  MESSENGER  is scheduled to launch Aug. 2 aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket and is expected to enter Mercury orbit in March 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1575

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Boeing workers complete the installation of the fairing around the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistr... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An X-band (left) and a C-band radar antenna are prepared to observe the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) launch.  The antennas are on loan to KSC from the USNS Pathfinder, a U.S. Navy instrumentation ship.  They have been installed at  site north of Haulover Canal where the National Center for Atmospheric Research previously had a radar for thunderstorm research.  NASA is evaluating the pair of radars for their ability to observe possible debris coming from the Space Shuttle during launch, part of NASA’s initiative to return the Space Shuttle to flight. KSC-04pd1610

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An X-band (left) and a C-band radar anten...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An X-band (left) and a C-band radar antenna are prepared to observe the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) launch. The antennas are on loan to... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla.,  an overhead cable lifts NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO, to place it on the work stand in the foreground.  SDO is the first space weather research network mission in NASA's Living With a Star Program.  The spacecraft's long-term measurements will give solar scientists in-depth information about changes in the sun's magnetic field and insight into how they affect Earth.  In preparation for its anticipated November launch, engineers will perform a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure SDO can withstand the stresses and vibrations of the launch itself, as well as what it will encounter in the space environment after launch.   Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-2009-4028

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fl...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., an overhead cable lifts NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO, to place it on the work stand in the foreground. SDO is the first s... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., technicians begin removing the protective cover around NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO. SDO is the first space weather research network mission in NASA's Living With a Star Program.  The spacecraft's long-term measurements will give solar scientists in-depth information about changes in the sun's magnetic field and insight into how they affect Earth.  In preparation for its anticipated November launch, engineers will perform a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure SDO can withstand the stresses and vibrations of the launch itself, as well as what it will encounter in the space environment after launch.    Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2009-4033

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fl...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., technicians begin removing the protective cover around NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO. SDO is the first space weather researc... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Engineers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla.,  support the high-gain antenna lowered to allow access to the battery compartment for installation of the flight battery.  SDO is the first space weather research network mission in NASA's Living With a Star Program.  The spacecraft's long-term measurements will give solar scientists in-depth information about changes in the sun's magnetic field and insight into how they affect Earth.  In preparation for its anticipated November launch, engineers will perform a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure SDO can withstand the stresses and vibrations of the launch itself, as well as what it will encounter in the space environment after launch.     Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-4066

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Engineers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titu...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Engineers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., support the high-gain antenna lowered to allow access to the battery compartment for installation of the flight battery. SDO... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Payload Processing Facility in Titusville, Fla.,  the Solar Dynamics Observatory is  moved across the floor toward the Ransome table in the background.  The table will be used to rotate the spacecraft in various directions for access to different areas of the spacecraft. SDO is the first space weather research network mission in NASA's Living With a Star Program.  The spacecraft's long-term measurements will give solar scientists in-depth information about changes in the sun's magnetic field and insight into how they affect Earth.  In preparation for its anticipated November launch, engineers will perform a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure SDO can withstand the stresses and vibrations of the launch itself, as well as what it will encounter in the space environment after launch.  Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-4267

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Payload Processing Facility in...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Payload Processing Facility in Titusville, Fla., the Solar Dynamics Observatory is moved across the floor toward the Ransome table in the background. The table will be... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Space Operations facility in Titusville, Fla., the Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO, is moved, or gimbaled, during performance testing.  All of the spacecraft science instruments are being tested in their last major evaluation before launch.  SDO is the first space weather research network mission in NASA's Living With a Star Program.  The spacecraft's long-term measurements will give solar scientists in-depth information about changes in the sun's magnetic field and insight into how they affect Earth.  In preparation for launch, engineers will perform a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure SDO can withstand the stresses and vibrations of the launch itself, as well as what it will encounter in the space environment after launch.  Liftoff on an Atlas V rocket is scheduled for Dec. 4.  Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-4590

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Space Operations facility in T...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Space Operations facility in Titusville, Fla., the Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO, is moved, or gimbaled, during performance testing. All of the spacecraft science i... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Space Operations facility in Titusville, Fla., an engineer monitors the movement, or gimbaling, of the high-gain antenna on the Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO.  All of the spacecraft science instruments are being tested in their last major evaluation before launch.  SDO is the first space weather research network mission in NASA's Living With a Star Program.  The spacecraft's long-term measurements will give solar scientists in-depth information about changes in the sun's magnetic field and insight into how they affect Earth.  In preparation for launch, engineers will perform a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure SDO can withstand the stresses and vibrations of the launch itself, as well as what it will encounter in the space environment after launch.  Liftoff on an Atlas V rocket is scheduled for Dec. 4.  Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-4589

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Space Operations facility in T...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Space Operations facility in Titusville, Fla., an engineer monitors the movement, or gimbaling, of the high-gain antenna on the Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO. All o... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An unfavorable weather forecast as a result of Tropical Storm Isaac approaching Florida kept NASA's twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, on Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Managers decided to roll the Atlas V rocket off the launch pad and back to the Vertical Integration Facility to ensure the launch vehicle and RBSP spacecraft are secured and protected from inclement weather.    RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe. The launch is rescheduled for 4:05 a.m. EDT on Aug. 30, pending approval from the range.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky KSC-2012-4648

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An unfavorable weather forecast as a result of ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An unfavorable weather forecast as a result of Tropical Storm Isaac approaching Florida kept NASA's twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, on Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket, carrying NASA’s twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, is rolled back from Space Launch Complex 41 to the Vertical Integration Facility. The rocket and spacecraft will be secured and protected from inclement weather due to Tropical Storm Isaac.     RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe. The launch is rescheduled for 4:05 a.m. EDT on Aug. 30, pending approval from the range.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky KSC-2012-4653

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida,...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket, carrying NASA’s twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, is rolled back from Space Launch Comp... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The engines ignite under the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket at 4:05 a.m. EDT lifting NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, off Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.    RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Tony Gray and Robert Murray KSC-2012-4727

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The engines ignite under the United Launch Alli...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The engines ignite under the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket at 4:05 a.m. EDT lifting NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, off Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Illuminated with a blue hue from bright xenon lights, the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA’s Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, spacecraft lifts off Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida at 4:05 a.m. EDT.        RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Tony Gray and Robert Murray KSC-2012-4744

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Illuminated with a blue hue from bright xenon l...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Illuminated with a blue hue from bright xenon lights, the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA’s Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, spacecraft lifts off Space Launch Com... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, lifted off Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida at 4:05 a.m. EDT.    RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Rusty Backer KSC-2012-4755

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carry...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, lifted off Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida at 4:05 a... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Michael Luther, deputy associate administrator of NASA's Science Mission Directorate? at NASA Headquarters, participates in a Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, postlaunch news conference at NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Press Site in Florida. The RBSP spacecraft launched atop a United Launch Alliance, or ULA, Atlas V rocket at 4:05 a.m. EDT from Space Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.    RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2012-4774

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Michael Luther, deputy associate administrator ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Michael Luther, deputy associate administrator of NASA's Science Mission Directorate? at NASA Headquarters, participates in a Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, postlaunch news confere... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Illuminated with a blue hue from bright xenon lights, the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA’s Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, spacecraft begins to lift off Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida at 4:05 a.m. EDT.          RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Tony Gray and Robert Murray KSC-2012-4743

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Illuminated with a blue hue from bright xenon l...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Illuminated with a blue hue from bright xenon lights, the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA’s Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, spacecraft begins to lift off Space L... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Spotlights dance along the clouds over Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station as NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, lift off the pad at 4:05 a.m. EDT aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket.     RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky and Gary Thompson KSC-2012-4721

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Spotlights dance along the clouds over Space La...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Spotlights dance along the clouds over Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station as NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, lift off the pad at 4:05 a.m. EDT aboard... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - With its engines burning bright against the late night sky, the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, travels upward after lifting off Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida at 4:05 a.m. EDT.    RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Kenny Allen KSC-2012-4768

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - With its engines burning bright against the lat...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - With its engines burning bright against the late night sky, the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, travels upward after lifting of... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, lifts off Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida at 4:05 a.m. EDT.    RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as "space weather" -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe.  For more information on RBSP, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp.  Photo credit: NASA/Tony Gray and Robert Murray KSC-2012-4737

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carry...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probes, or RBSP, lifts off Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida at 4:05 a.... More

Centaur 6A Rocket in the Space Power Chambers Shop Area

Centaur 6A Rocket in the Space Power Chambers Shop Area

A researcher prepares a Centaur 6A second-stage rocket for a series of tests in the Space Power Chambers’ vacuum tank at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Lewis Research Center. Lewis was... More

Space Shuttle Projects, Marshall Space Flight Center

Space Shuttle Projects, Marshall Space Flight Center

This is a view of the Russian Mir Space Station photographed by a crewmember of the second Shuttle/Mir docking mission, STS-74. The image shows: top - Progress supply vehicle, Kvant-1 module, and the Core modul... More

Space Shuttle Projects, Marshall Space Flight Center

Space Shuttle Projects, Marshall Space Flight Center

This is a view of the Russian Mir Space Station photographed by a crewmember of the fifth Shuttle/Mir docking mission, STS-81. The image shows: upper center - Progress supply vehicle, Kvant-1 module, and Core m... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Astrotech Space Operations processing facilities, workers prepare to move NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft onto a test stand using an overhead crane. There, 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-04pd0594

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Astrotech Space Operations processing facilities, workers prepare to move NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft onto a test stand using an overhead crane. There, employees of the John... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations facilities near KSC, workers adjust wires on the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft during rotation on the turnover fixture.  Workers will perform the propulsion system phasing test - firing gas through the thrusters in order to verify that the right thrusters fire when expected - as part of prelaunch testing at the site.  Launch is scheduled for May 11 from Pad 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The spacecraft will fly past Venus three times and Mercury twice before starting a year-long orbital study of Mercury in July 2009. KSC-04pd0676

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations facilities...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations facilities near KSC, workers adjust wires on the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft during rotation o... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  Workers at Astrotech Space Operations facilities in Titusville, Fla., finish encapsulating 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, to an adjacent nonhazardous payload processing facility. The remainder of its final assembly and testing will be completed there. 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-04pd0856

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

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA.  - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker checks wiring on the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft.  Two solar arrays will be installed June 24-25, followed by a deployment testLaunch is scheduled for July 30, 2004 from Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.  The spacecraft will fly past Earth once, Venus twice and Mercury three times before starting a year-long orbital study of Mercury in March 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1326

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker checks wiring on the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft. Two solar arr... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  An overhead crane lifts the MESSENGER spacecraft from its work stand under the watchful eyes and hands of technicians.  The spacecraft is being moved to mate it with the Payload Assist Module, the Boeing Delta II third stage, in the foreground.  MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) 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. It is expected to enter Mercury orbit in March 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md.  Processing is being done at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla. KSC-04pd1461

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An overhead crane lifts the MESSENGER sp...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An overhead crane lifts the MESSENGER spacecraft from its work stand under the watchful eyes and hands of technicians. The spacecraft is being moved to mate it with the Payload As... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the MESSENGER spacecraft is lowered toward the Payload Assist Module, the Boeing Delta II third stage, for mating. MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) 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. It is expected to enter Mercury orbit in March 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md.  Processing is being done at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla. KSC-04pd1463

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the MESSENGER spacecraft is lowered toward the Payload Assist Module, the Boeing Delta II third stage, for mating. MESSENGER (Mer... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Boeing workers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., prepare to lift the upper canister (at left) and move it over to 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-04pd1490

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Boeing workers at Astrotech Space Operati...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Boeing workers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., prepare to lift the upper canister (at left) and move it over to the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment,... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Boeing workers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., watch the movement of the upper canister as it 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-04pd1493

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Boeing workers at Astrotech Space Operati...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Boeing workers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., watch the movement of the upper canister as it is lowered around the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment,... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, a Boeing worker observes the second half of the fairing as it moves into place around the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft.  The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the upper stage booster and forms an aerodynamically smooth joint, protecting the spacecraft during launch.  MESSENGER  is scheduled to launch Aug. 2 aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket and is expected to enter Mercury orbit in March 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1574

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, a Boeing worker observes the second half of the fairing as it moves into place around the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space E... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A C-band radar antenna stands ready to observe the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) launch.  This antenna and an X-band radar antenna are on loan to KSC from the USNS Pathfinder, a U.S. Navy instrumentation ship.  They have been installed at  site north of Haulover Canal where the National Center for Atmospheric Research previously had a radar for thunderstorm research.  NASA is evaluating the pair of radars for their ability to observe possible debris coming from the Space Shuttle during launch, part of NASA’s initiative to return the Space Shuttle to flight. KSC-04pd1605

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A C-band radar antenna stands ready to ob...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A C-band radar antenna stands ready to observe the MESSENGER (Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging) launch. This antenna and an X-band radar antenna are on ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the Mobile Service Tower rolls back revealing the MESSENGER (MErcury Surface, Space ENvironment, GEochemistry and Ranging) spacecraft aboard a Delta II rocket,  model 7925-H with heavy lift capability. MESSENGER is ready for liftoff on Aug. 2 at 2:16 a.m. EDT and is expected to enter Mercury orbit in March 2011. MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1603

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the Mobile Service Tower rolls back revealing the MESSENGER (MErcury Surface, Space ENvironment, GEochemistry and Ranging) sp... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Boeing Delta II rocket with the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft aboard is ready for launch on a seven-year journey to the planet Mercury.  This is the second launch attempt in two days after the first attempt Aug. 2 was postponed due to lightning potential from residual clouds that were associated with Tropical Storm Alex.   The launch of MESSENGER is rescheduled for this date at 2:15:56 a.m. EDT at the opening of a 12-second launch window.  MESSENGER will fly by Earth, Venus and Mercury several times to burn off energy before making its final approach to the inner planet on March 18, 2011.  MESSENGER was built for NASA by the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Md. KSC-04pd1624

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Boeing Delta II rocket with the Mercu...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Boeing Delta II rocket with the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft aboard is ready for launch on a seven-year journey to the pla... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the shipping container cover removed from NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (right), or SDO, is moved away.  SDO is the first space weather research network mission in NASA's Living With a Star Program.  The spacecraft's long-term measurements will give solar scientists in-depth information about changes in the sun's magnetic field and insight into how they affect Earth.  In preparation for its anticipated November launch, engineers will perform a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure SDO can withstand the stresses and vibrations of the launch itself, as well as what it will encounter in the space environment after launch.  Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-4017

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fl...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the shipping container cover removed from NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (right), or SDO, is moved away. SDO is the first space weat... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla.,  NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO, remains on the transporter after the shipping cover was removed.  SDO is the first space weather research network mission in NASA's Living With a Star Program.  The spacecraft's long-term measurements will give solar scientists in-depth information about changes in the sun's magnetic field and insight into how they affect Earth.  In preparation for its anticipated November launch, engineers will perform a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure SDO can withstand the stresses and vibrations of the launch itself, as well as what it will encounter in the space environment after launch.  Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-4018

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fl...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO, remains on the transporter after the shipping cover was removed. SDO is the first space wea... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Space Operations facility in Titusville, Fla., the Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO, is undergoing performance testing.  The  high-gain antenna seen at center left will be moved, or gimbaled.  All of the spacecraft science instruments are being tested in their last major evaluation before launch.  SDO is the first space weather research network mission in NASA's Living With a Star Program.  The spacecraft's long-term measurements will give solar scientists in-depth information about changes in the sun's magnetic field and insight into how they affect Earth.  In preparation for launch, engineers will perform a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure SDO can withstand the stresses and vibrations of the launch itself, as well as what it will encounter in the space environment after launch.  Liftoff on an Atlas V rocket is scheduled for Dec. 4.  Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-4587

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Space Operations facility in T...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Space Operations facility in Titusville, Fla., the Solar Dynamics Observatory, or SDO, is undergoing performance testing. The high-gain antenna seen at center left will... More

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