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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A Hyster forklift moves NASA's Juno spacecraft into Astrotech's payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla. to begin final testing and preparations for launch. The solar-powered spacecraft will orbit Jupiter's poles 33 times to find out more about the gas giant's origins, structure, atmosphere and magnetosphere and investigate the existence of a solid planetary core. Juno is scheduled to launch aboard an Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral, Fla. Aug. 5. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/juno. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller It will splash down into the Atlantic Ocean where the ship and its crew will recover it and tow it back through Port Canaveral for refurbishing for another launch. The STS-124 mission is the second of three flights launching components to complete the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. The shuttle crew will install Kibo's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system, or RMS. Photo credit: USA/Jeff Suter KSC-2011-2818

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A Hyster forklift moves NASA's Juno spacecraft...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A Hyster forklift moves NASA's Juno spacecraft into Astrotech's payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla. to begin final testing and preparations for launch. The solar-power... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, astronaut Charles Hobaugh, right, conducts a fit check of the robotic workstation, or RWS, in the International Space Station's Cupola module. He is assisted by Boeing technician Terry Camarata, left. The RWS is provided by the Canadian Space Agency. The module was delivered by the European Space Agency in 2004 to Kennedy from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy. Cupola will provide unprecedented views of activities outside the station and spectacular views of the Earth. Crew members working inside the module will have a 360-degree panoramic view. Cupola has the capability for command and control workstations to be installed to assist in space station remote manipulator system and extra vehicular activities. Cupola is the final element of the space station core and is scheduled for launch on space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission, targeted for Dec. 10, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-08pd2196

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NAS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, astronaut Charles Hobaugh, right, conducts a fit check of the robotic workstation, or RWS, in the International Sp... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, astronauts Terry Virts, left, and Charles Hobaugh familiarize themselves with the operation of the robotic workstation, or RWS, in the International Space Station's Cupola module. The RWS is provided by the Canadian Space Agency. The module was delivered by the European Space Agency in 2004 to Kennedy from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy. Cupola will provide unprecedented views of activities outside the station and spectacular views of the Earth. Crew members working inside the module will have a 360-degree panoramic view. Cupola has the capability for command and control workstations to be installed to assist in space station remote manipulator system and extra vehicular activities. Cupola is the final element of the space station core and is scheduled for launch on space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission, targeted for Dec. 10, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-08pd2198

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NAS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, astronauts Terry Virts, left, and Charles Hobaugh familiarize themselves with the operation of the robotic worksta... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Technicians in the Astrotech payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla. install thermal insulation on NASA's Juno magnetometer boom. The boom structure is attached to Juno's solar array #1 that will help power the NASA spacecraft on its mission to Jupiter. The solar-powered spacecraft will orbit Jupiter's poles 33 times to find out more about the gas giant's origins, structure, atmosphere and magnetosphere and investigate the existence of a solid planetary core. Juno is scheduled to launch aboard an Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral, Fla. Aug. 5. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/juno. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller It will splash down into the Atlantic Ocean where the ship and its crew will recover it and tow it back through Port Canaveral for refurbishing for another launch. The STS-124 mission is the second of three flights launching components to complete the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. The shuttle crew will install Kibo's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system, or RMS. Photo credit: USA/Jeff Suter KSC-2011-2821

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Technicians in the Astrotech payload processin...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Technicians in the Astrotech payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla. install thermal insulation on NASA's Juno magnetometer boom. The boom structure is attached to Juno's solar a... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Lockheed-Martin technicians at Astrotech's payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla. remove the protective wrapping from NASA's Juno spacecraft to begin final testing and preparations for launch. The solar-powered spacecraft will orbit Jupiter's poles 33 times to find out more about the gas giant's origins, structure, atmosphere and magnetosphere and investigate the existence of a solid planetary core. Juno is scheduled to launch aboard an Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral, Fla. Aug. 5. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/juno. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller It will splash down into the Atlantic Ocean where the ship and its crew will recover it and tow it back through Port Canaveral for refurbishing for another launch. The STS-124 mission is the second of three flights launching components to complete the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. The shuttle crew will install Kibo's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system, or RMS. Photo credit: USA/Jeff Suter KSC-2011-2829

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Lockheed-Martin technicians at Astrotech's pay...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Lockheed-Martin technicians at Astrotech's payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla. remove the protective wrapping from NASA's Juno spacecraft to begin final testing and preparati... More

The Titan IVB core vehicle and its twin Solid Rocket Motor Upgrades (SRMUs) which will be used to propel the Cassini spacecraft to its final destination, Saturn, approaches the pad at Launch Complex 40, Cape Canaveral Air Station. At the pad, the Centaur upper stage will be added and, eventually, the prime payload, the Cassini spacecraft. Cassini will explore the Saturnian system, including the planet’s rings and moon, Titan. Launch of the Cassini mission to Saturn is scheduled for Oct. 6 KSC-97PC871

The Titan IVB core vehicle and its twin Solid Rocket Motor Upgrades (...

The Titan IVB core vehicle and its twin Solid Rocket Motor Upgrades (SRMUs) which will be used to propel the Cassini spacecraft to its final destination, Saturn, approaches the pad at Launch Complex 40, Cape ... More

The Titan IVB core vehicle and its twin Solid Rocket Motor Upgrades (SRMUs) which will be used to propel the Cassini spacecraft to its final destination, Saturn, arrive at the pad at Launch Complex 40, Cape Canaveral Air Station. At the pad, the Centaur upper stage will be added and, eventually, the prime payload, the Cassini spacecraft. Cassini will explore the Saturnian system, including the planet’s rings and moon, Titan. Launch of the Cassini mission to Saturn is scheduled for Oct. 6 KSC-97PC872

The Titan IVB core vehicle and its twin Solid Rocket Motor Upgrades (...

The Titan IVB core vehicle and its twin Solid Rocket Motor Upgrades (SRMUs) which will be used to propel the Cassini spacecraft to its final destination, Saturn, arrive at the pad at Launch Complex 40, Cape C... More

A Titan IVB core vehicle and its twin Solid Rocket Motor Upgrades (SRMUs) depart from the Solid Rocket Motor Assembly and Readiness Facility (SMARF), Cape Canaveral Air Station (CCAS), en route to Launch Complex 40. At the pad, the Centaur upper stage will be added and, eventually, the prime payload, the Cassini spacecraft. Cassini will explore the Saturnian system, including the planet’s rings and moon, Titan. Launch of the Cassini mission to Saturn is scheduled for Oct. 6 from Pad 40, CCAS KSC-97PC870

A Titan IVB core vehicle and its twin Solid Rocket Motor Upgrades (SR...

A Titan IVB core vehicle and its twin Solid Rocket Motor Upgrades (SRMUs) depart from the Solid Rocket Motor Assembly and Readiness Facility (SMARF), Cape Canaveral Air Station (CCAS), en route to Launch Co... More

The Titan IVB core vehicle and its twin Solid Rocket Motor Upgrades (SRMUs) which will be used to propel the Cassini spacecraft to its final destination, Saturn, arrive at the pad at Launch Complex 40, Cape Canaveral Air Station. At the pad, the Centaur upper stage will be added and, eventually, the prime payload, the Cassini spacecraft. Cassini will explore the Saturnian system, including the planet’s rings and moon, Titan. Launch of the Cassini mission to Saturn is scheduled for Oct. 6 KSC-97PC869

The Titan IVB core vehicle and its twin Solid Rocket Motor Upgrades (...

The Titan IVB core vehicle and its twin Solid Rocket Motor Upgrades (SRMUs) which will be used to propel the Cassini spacecraft to its final destination, Saturn, arrive at the pad at Launch Complex 40, Cape C... More

At Launch Complex 40 on Cape Canaveral Air Station, the Mobile Service Tower has been retracted away from the Titan IVB/Centaur carrying the Cassini spacecraft and its attached Huygens probe. This is the second launch attempt for the Saturn-bound mission; a first try Oct. 13 was scrubbed primarily due to concerns about upper level wind conditions. Liftoff Oct. 15 is set to occur during a launch window opening at 4:43 a.m. EDT and extending until 7:03 a.m. Clearly visible in this view are the 66-foot-tall, 17-foot-wide payload fairing atop the vehicle, in which Cassini and the attached Centaur stage are encased, the two-stage liquid propellant core vehicle, and the twin 112-foot long solid rocket motor upgrades (SRMUs) straddling the core vehicle. It is the SRMUs which ignite first to begin the launch sequence KSC-97PC1542

At Launch Complex 40 on Cape Canaveral Air Station, the Mobile Service...

At Launch Complex 40 on Cape Canaveral Air Station, the Mobile Service Tower has been retracted away from the Titan IVB/Centaur carrying the Cassini spacecraft and its attached Huygens probe. This is the second... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Media gather in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to see the aft skirt for the Ares I-X flight test, targeted for launch in July 2009. The I-X flight will provide NASA an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with Ares I, part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-1999

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Media gather in the Assembly and Refurbishment ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Media gather in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to see the aft skirt for the Ares I-X flight test, targeted for launch in July 2009. The... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The inside of the Italian-built Node 2 looks pristine after opening of the hatch. A future element of the International Space Station, Node 2 arrived at KSC June 1. The second of three Station connecting modules, Node 2 attaches to the end of the U.S. Lab and provides attach locations for the Japanese laboratory, European laboratory, the Centrifuge Accommodation Module and, later, Multipurpose Logistics Modules. It will provide the primary docking location for the Shuttle when a pressurized mating adapter is attached to Node 2. Installation of the module will complete the U.S. Core of the ISS. Node 2 is the designated payload for mission STS-120. No orbiter or launch date has been determined yet.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The inside of the Italian-built Node 2 l...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The inside of the Italian-built Node 2 looks pristine after opening of the hatch. A future element of the International Space Station, Node 2 arrived at KSC June 1. The second o... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-120 Mission Specialists Piers Sellers and Michael Foreman are in the Space Station Processing Facility for hardware familiarization. The mission will deliver the second of three Station connecting modules, Node 2, which attaches to the end of U.S. Lab. It will provide attach locations for the Japanese laboratory, European laboratory, the Centrifuge Accommodation Module and later Multi-Purpose Logistics Modules. The addition of Node 2 will complete the U.S. core of the International Space Station.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-120 Mission Specialists Piers Selle...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-120 Mission Specialists Piers Sellers and Michael Foreman are in the Space Station Processing Facility for hardware familiarization. The mission will deliver the second of th... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Boeing Delta IV first stage, called a Common Booster Core, is offloaded from the Delta Mariner at Port Canaveral. It is one of two shipped from Decatur, Ala., and is being transported to the Horizontal Integration Facility at Launch Complex 37, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The rocket will be used for the December launching of the GOES-N weather satellite for NASA and NOAA. The GOES-N is the first in a series of three advanced weather satellites including GOES-O and GOES-P. This satellite will provide continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. It will provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric “triggers” of severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms and hurricanes. When these conditions develop, GOES-N will be able to monitor storm development and track their movements. KSC-04pd1666

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Boeing Delta IV first stage, called a C...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Boeing Delta IV first stage, called a Common Booster Core, is offloaded from the Delta Mariner at Port Canaveral. It is one of two shipped from Decatur, Ala., and is being transp... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the Space Station Processing Facility, a trailer delivers the Cupola, an element scheduled to be installed on the International Space Station in early 2009. It was shipped from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy, for the European Space Agency. A dome-shaped module with seven windows, the Cupola will give astronauts a panoramic view for observing many operations on the outside of the orbiting complex. The view out of the Cupola windows will enhance an arm operator's situational awareness, supplementing television camera views and graphics. It will provide external observation capabilities during spacewalks, docking operations and hardware surveys and for Earth and celestial studies. The Cupola is the final element of the Space Station core. KSC-04pd2099

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the Space Station Processing Facility,...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the Space Station Processing Facility, a trailer delivers the Cupola, an element scheduled to be installed on the International Space Station in early 2009. It was shipped from A... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Cupola, an element scheduled to be installed on the International Space Station in early 2009, arrives at KSC on the flatbed of a trailer. It was shipped from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy, for the European Space Agency. A dome-shaped module with seven windows, the Cupola will give astronauts a panoramic view for observing many operations on the outside of the orbiting complex. The view out of the Cupola windows will enhance an arm operator's situational awareness, supplementing television camera views and graphics. It will provide external observation capabilities during spacewalks, docking operations and hardware surveys and for Earth and celestial studies. The Cupola is the final element of the Space Station core. KSC-04pd2098

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Cupola, an element scheduled to be in...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Cupola, an element scheduled to be installed on the International Space Station in early 2009, arrives at KSC on the flatbed of a trailer. It was shipped from Alenia Spazio in ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the Space Station Processing Facility, the Cupola is uncrated. It was shipped from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy, for the European Space Agency. The Cupola is an element scheduled to be installed on the International Space Station in early 2009. A dome-shaped module with seven windows, the Cupola will give astronauts a panoramic view for observing many operations on the outside of the orbiting complex. The view out of the Cupola windows will enhance an arm operator's situational awareness, supplementing television camera views and graphics. It will provide external observation capabilities during spacewalks, docking operations and hardware surveys and for Earth and celestial studies. The Cupola is the final element of the Space Station core. KSC-04pd2100

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the Space Station Processing Facil...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the Space Station Processing Facility, the Cupola is uncrated. It was shipped from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy, for the European Space Agency. The Cupola is an element sch... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Cupola, an element scheduled to be installed on the International Space Station in early 2009, sits uncrated inside the Space Station Processing Facility after its delivery from Turin, Italy. A dome-shaped module with seven windows, the Cupola will give astronauts a panoramic view for observing many operations on the outside of the orbiting complex. The view out of the Cupola windows will enhance an arm operator's situational awareness, supplementing television camera views and graphics. It will provide external observation capabilities during spacewalks, docking operations and hardware surveys and for Earth and celestial studies. The Cupola is the final element of the Space Station core. KSC-04pd2101

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Cupola, an element scheduled to be in...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Cupola, an element scheduled to be installed on the International Space Station in early 2009, sits uncrated inside the Space Station Processing Facility after its delivery from... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the Space Station Processing Facility, technicians begin checking the Cupola after its delivery and uncrating. It was shipped from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy, for the European Space Agency. A dome-shaped module with seven windows, the Cupola will give astronauts a panoramic view for observing many operations on the outside of the orbiting complex. The view out of the Cupola windows will enhance an arm operator's situational awareness, supplementing television camera views and graphics. It will provide external observation capabilities during spacewalks, docking operations and hardware surveys, and for Earth and celestial studies. The Cupola is the final element of the Space Station core. KSC-04pd2103

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the Space Station Processing Facil...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the Space Station Processing Facility, technicians begin checking the Cupola after its delivery and uncrating. It was shipped from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy, for the Eur... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the Space Station Processing Facility, a technician begins checking the Cupola after its delivery and uncrating. It was shipped from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy, for the European Space Agency. A dome-shaped module with seven windows, the Cupola will give astronauts a panoramic view for observing many operations on the outside of the orbiting complex. The view out of the Cupola windows will enhance an arm operator's situational awareness, supplementing television camera views and graphics. It will provide external observation capabilities during spacewalks, docking operations and hardware surveys and for Earth and celestial studies. The Cupola is the final element of the Space Station core. KSC-04pd2102

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the Space Station Processing Facil...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the Space Station Processing Facility, a technician begins checking the Cupola after its delivery and uncrating. It was shipped from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy, for the E... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Soichi Noguchi (left), with the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), points to data on the console during a Multi-Element Integrated Test (MEIT) of the U.S. Node 2 and the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM) in the Space Station Processing Facility. The JEM, developed by NASDA, is Japan's primary contribution to the Station. It will enhance the unique research capabilities of the orbiting complex by providing an additional environment for astronauts to conduct science experiments. Noguchi is assigned to mission STS-114 as a mission specialist. Node 2 provides attach locations for the Japanese laboratory, as well as European laboratory, the Centrifuge Accommodation Module and, eventually, Multipurpose Logistics Modules. Installation of the module will complete the U.S. Core of the ISS.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Soichi Noguchi (left), with th...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Soichi Noguchi (left), with the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), points to data on the console during a Multi-Element Integrated Test (MEIT) of the U.S... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Space Station Processing Facility, astronaut Soichi Noguchi (right), with the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), stands inside the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM) that is undergoing a Multi-Element Integrated Test (MEIT) with the U.S. Node 2. The JEM, developed by NASDA, is Japan's primary contribution to the Station. It will enhance the unique research capabilities of the orbiting complex by providing an additional environment for astronauts to conduct science experiments. Noguchi is assigned to mission STS-114 as a mission specialist. Node 2 provides attach locations for the Japanese laboratory, as well as European laboratory, the Centrifuge Accommodation Module and, eventually, Multipurpose Logistics Modules. Installation of the module will complete the U.S. Core of the ISS.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Space Station Processing Facility...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Space Station Processing Facility, astronaut Soichi Noguchi (right), with the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), stands inside the Japanese Experiment Modul... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Soichi Noguchi (left), with the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), points to data on the console during a Multi-Element Integrated Test (MEIT) of the U.S. Node 2 and the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM) in the Space Station Processing Facility. The JEM, developed by NASDA, is Japan's primary contribution to the Station. It will enhance the unique research capabilities of the orbiting complex by providing an additional environment for astronauts to conduct science experiments. Noguchi is assigned to mission STS-114 as a mission specialist. Node 2 provides attach locations for the Japanese laboratory, as well as European laboratory, the Centrifuge Accommodation Module and, eventually, Multipurpose Logistics Modules. Installation of the module will complete the U.S. Core of the ISS.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Soichi Noguchi (left), with th...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Soichi Noguchi (left), with the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), points to data on the console during a Multi-Element Integrated Test (MEIT) of the U.S... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Soichi Noguchi, with the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), works at a console during a Multi-Element Integrated Test (MEIT) of the U.S. Node 2 and the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM). Noguchi is assigned to mission STS-114 as a mission specialist. Node 2 attaches to the end of the U.S. Lab on the ISS and provides attach locations for the Japanese laboratory, European laboratory, the Centrifuge Accommodation Module and, eventually, Multipurpose Logistics Modules. It will provide the primary docking location for the Shuttle when a pressurized mating adapter is attached to Node 2. Installation of the module will complete the U.S. Core of the ISS. The JEM, developed by NASDA, is Japan's primary contribution to the Station. It will enhance the unique research capabilities of the orbiting complex by providing an additional environment for astronauts to conduct science experiments.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Soichi Noguchi, with the Nati...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Soichi Noguchi, with the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), works at a console during a Multi-Element Integrated Test (MEIT) of the U.S. Node 2 and the ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Soichi Noguchi (left), with the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), works at a console during a Multi-Element Integrated Test (MEIT) of the U.S. Node 2 and the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM) in the Space Station Processing Facility. The JEM, developed by NASDA, is Japan's primary contribution to the Station. It will enhance the unique research capabilities of the orbiting complex by providing an additional environment for astronauts to conduct science experiments. Noguchi is assigned to mission STS-114 as a mission specialist. Node 2 provides attach locations for the Japanese laboratory, as well as European laboratory, the Centrifuge Accommodation Module and, eventually, Multipurpose Logistics Modules. Installation of the module will complete the U.S. Core of the ISS.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Soichi Noguchi (left), with th...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Soichi Noguchi (left), with the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), works at a console during a Multi-Element Integrated Test (MEIT) of the U.S. Node 2 an... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Soichi Noguchi, with the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), works at a console during a Multi-Element Integrated Test (MEIT) of the U.S. Node 2 and the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM). Noguchi is assigned to mission STS-114 as a mission specialist. Node 2 attaches to the end of the U.S. Lab on the ISS and provides attach locations for the Japanese laboratory, European laboratory, the Centrifuge Accommodation Module and, eventually, Multipurpose Logistics Modules. It will provide the primary docking location for the Shuttle when a pressurized mating adapter is attached to Node 2. Installation of the module will complete the U.S. Core of the ISS. The JEM, developed by NASDA, is Japan's primary contribution to the Station. It will enhance the unique research capabilities of the orbiting complex by providing an additional environment for astronauts to conduct science experiments.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Soichi Noguchi, with the Nati...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Astronaut Soichi Noguchi, with the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), works at a console during a Multi-Element Integrated Test (MEIT) of the U.S. Node 2 and the ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, astronaut Charles Hobaugh, right, conducts a fit check of the robotic workstation, or RWS, in the International Space Station's Cupola module. He is assisted by vehicle integration test engineer Louise Kleba of Flight Crew Operations, kneeling, Boeing technician Terry Camarata, standing at left, and engineer David Jackson, from Johnson Space Center. The RWS is provided by the Canadian Space Agency. The module was delivered by the European Space Agency in 2004 to Kennedy from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy. Cupola will provide unprecedented views of activities outside the station and spectacular views of the Earth. Crew members working inside the module will have a 360-degree panoramic view. Cupola has the capability for command and control workstations to be installed to assist in space station remote manipulator system and extra vehicular activities. Cupola is the final element of the space station core and is scheduled for launch on space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission, targeted for Dec. 10, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-08pd2197

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NAS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, astronaut Charles Hobaugh, right, conducts a fit check of the robotic workstation, or RWS, in the International Sp... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, astronaut Charles Hobaugh, right, conducts a fit check of the robotic workstation, or RWS, in the International Space Station's Cupola module. He is assisted by Boeing technician Terry Camarata, left, and engineer David Jackson, from Johnson Space Center. The RWS is provided by the Canadian Space Agency. The module was delivered by the European Space Agency in 2004 to Kennedy from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy. Cupola will provide unprecedented views of activities outside the station and spectacular views of the Earth. Crew members working inside the module will have a 360-degree panoramic view. Cupola has the capability for command and control workstations to be installed to assist in space station remote manipulator system and extra vehicular activities. Cupola is the final element of the space station core and is scheduled for launch on space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission, targeted for Dec. 10, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-08pd2195

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NAS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, astronaut Charles Hobaugh, right, conducts a fit check of the robotic workstation, or RWS, in the International Sp... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, astronaut Terry Virts conducts a fit check of the robotic workstation, or RWS, in the International Space Station's Cupola module. The RWS is provided by the Canadian Space Agency. The module was delivered by the European Space Agency in 2004 to Kennedy from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy. Cupola will provide unprecedented views of activities outside the station and spectacular views of the Earth. Crew members working inside the module will have a 360-degree panoramic view. Cupola has the capability for command and control workstations to be installed to assist in space station remote manipulator system and extra vehicular activities. Cupola is the final element of the space station core and is scheduled for launch on space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission, targeted for Dec. 10, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-08pd2200

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NAS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, astronaut Terry Virts conducts a fit check of the robotic workstation, or RWS, in the International Space Station'... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, astronaut Terry Virts, third from left, discusses the intricacies of the International Space Station's Cupola module with vehicle integration test engineer Louise Kleba of Flight Crew Operations and astronaut Charles Hobaugh, right. The module was delivered by the European Space Agency in 2004 to Kennedy from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy. Cupola will provide unprecedented views of activities outside the station and spectacular views of the Earth. Crew members working inside the module will have a 360-degree panoramic view. Cupola has the capability for command and control workstations to be installed to assist in space station remote manipulator system and extra vehicular activities. Cupola is the final element of the space station core and is scheduled for launch on space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission, targeted for Dec. 10, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-08pd2202

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NAS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, astronaut Terry Virts, third from left, discusses the intricacies of the International Space Station's Cupola modu... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, astronauts Terry Virts, left, and Charles Hobaugh familiarize themselves with the placement and operation of the robotic workstation, or RWS, in the International Space Station's Cupola module. The RWS is provided by the Canadian Space Agency. The module was delivered by the European Space Agency in 2004 to Kennedy from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy. Cupola will provide unprecedented views of activities outside the station and spectacular views of the Earth. Crew members working inside the module will have a 360-degree panoramic view. Cupola has the capability for command and control workstations to be installed to assist in space station remote manipulator system and extra vehicular activities. Cupola is the final element of the space station core and is scheduled for launch on space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission, targeted for Dec. 10, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-08pd2199

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NAS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, astronauts Terry Virts, left, and Charles Hobaugh familiarize themselves with the placement and operation of the r... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, astronauts Terry Virts, left, and Charles Hobaugh, pointing, familiarize themselves with the International Space Station's Cupola module. Vehicle integration test engineer Louise Kleba of Flight Crew Operations looks on, at right. The module was delivered by the European Space Agency in 2004 to Kennedy from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy. Cupola will provide unprecedented views of activities outside the station and spectacular views of the Earth. Crew members working inside the module will have a 360-degree panoramic view. Cupola has the capability for command and control workstations to be installed to assist in space station remote manipulator system and extra vehicular activities. Cupola is the final element of the space station core and is scheduled for launch on space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission, targeted for Dec. 10, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-08pd2201

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NAS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, astronauts Terry Virts, left, and Charles Hobaugh, pointing, familiarize themselves with the International Space S... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, astronaut Charles Hobaugh, hands folded, conducts a fit check of the robotic workstation, or RWS, in the International Space Station's Cupola module. From left, he is assisted by Boeing technician Terry Camarata, vehicle integration test engineer Louise Kleba of Flight Crew Operations, and engineer David Jackson, from Johnson Space Center. The RWS is provided by the Canadian Space Agency. The module was delivered by the European Space Agency in 2004 to Kennedy from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy. Cupola will provide unprecedented views of activities outside the station and spectacular views of the Earth. Crew members working inside the module will have a 360-degree panoramic view. Cupola has the capability for command and control workstations to be installed to assist in space station remote manipulator system and extra vehicular activities. Cupola is the final element of the space station core and is scheduled for launch on space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission, targeted for Dec. 10, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-08pd2194

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NAS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, astronaut Charles Hobaugh, hands folded, conducts a fit check of the robotic workstation, or RWS, in the Internati... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Suspended by a crane in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Cupola module is lowered toward the workstand. The module was delivered to Kennedy by the European Space Agency in 2004 from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy. Cupola will provide a 360-degree panoramic view of activities outside the station and spectacular views of the Earth. Cupola has the capability for command and control workstations to be installed to assist in space station remote manipulator system and extra vehicular activities. The final element of the space station core, Cupola is scheduled for launch on space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission, targeted for Dec. 10, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-08pd3759

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Suspended by a crane in the Space Station Proc...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Suspended by a crane in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Cupola module is lowered toward the workstand. The module was delivered to Ke... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Suspended by a crane in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Cupola module moves closer to the workstand at right. The module was delivered to Kennedy by the European Space Agency in 2004 from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy. Cupola will provide a 360-degree panoramic view of activities outside the station and spectacular views of the Earth. Cupola has the capability for command and control workstations to be installed to assist in space station remote manipulator system and extra vehicular activities. The final element of the space station core, Cupola is scheduled for launch on space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission, targeted for Dec. 10, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-08pd3758

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Suspended by a crane in the Space Station Proc...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Suspended by a crane in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Cupola module moves closer to the workstand at right. The module was deliver... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Workers in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida oversee placement of the Cupola module onto a workstand. The module was delivered to Kennedy by the European Space Agency in 2004 from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy. Cupola will provide a 360-degree panoramic view of activities outside the station and spectacular views of the Earth. Cupola has the capability for command and control workstations to be installed to assist in space station remote manipulator system and extra vehicular activities. The final element of the space station core, Cupola is scheduled for launch on space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission, targeted for Dec. 10, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-08pd3760

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Workers in the Space Station Processing Facili...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Workers in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida oversee placement of the Cupola module onto a workstand. The module was delivered to Kennedy by... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Suspended by a crane in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Cupola module is being moved to a workstand. The module was delivered to Kennedy by the European Space Agency in 2004 from Alenia Spazio in Turin, Italy. Cupola will provide a 360-degree panoramic view of activities outside the station and spectacular views of the Earth. Cupola has the capability for command and control workstations to be installed to assist in space station remote manipulator system and extra vehicular activities. The final element of the space station core, Cupola is scheduled for launch on space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission, targeted for Dec. 10, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-08pd3757

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Suspended by a crane in the Space Station Proc...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Suspended by a crane in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Cupola module is being moved to a workstand. The module was delivered to Kenn... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers begin adhering the Constellation patch on one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3802

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers begin adhering the Constellation patch on one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segment... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers adhere a decal of the U.S. flag on one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3805

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 a...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers adhere a decal of the U.S. flag on one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments. The... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers remove the final cover from the U.S. flag decal affixed to one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3806

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 a...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers remove the final cover from the U.S. flag decal affixed to one of the Ares I-X upper stage... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers begin adhering the Constellation patch on one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3801

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers begin adhering the Constellation patch on one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segment... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments bears the decal of the U.S. flag. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3807

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments bears the decal of the U.S. flag. The upper stag... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers begin adhering a decal of the U.S. flag on one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3804

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers begin adhering a decal of the U.S. flag on one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segmen... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments bears the Constellation patch. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3803

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 a...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments bears the Constellation patch. The upper stage ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments bears the decal with the logo of the Constellation Program. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd3818

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments bears the decal with the logo of the Constellatio... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a worker removes the last piece of cover from the final Ares I-X logo on one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments. The decal identifies the Ares I-X as a development test flight, which is targeted to launch in 2009. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd3817

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a worker removes the last piece of cover from the final Ares I-X logo on one of the Ares I-X upper s... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a worker begins adhering the final Ares I-X logo on one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments. The decal identifies the Ares I-X as a development test flight, which is targeted to launch in 2009. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd3815

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a worker begins adhering the final Ares I-X logo on one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segme... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a worker begins adhering the final Ares I-X logo on one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments. The decal identifies the Ares I-X as a development test flight, which is targeted to launch in 2009. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd3816

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 a...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a worker begins adhering the final Ares I-X logo on one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segm... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments bears the decal of the NASA insignia. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd3819

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments bears the decal of the NASA insignia. The upper s... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead view shows the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd3814

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead view shows the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments. The upper stage simulator will... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The upper stage simulator segments are positioned across the floor of the Vehicle Assembly Building's high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Four of the segments are already stacked. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. The upper stage simulator comprises 11 segments, each approximately 18 feet in diameter. The simulator segments will simulate the mass and the outer mold line and will be more than 100 feet of the total vehicle height of 327 feet. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3931

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The upper stage simulator segments are positi...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The upper stage simulator segments are positioned across the floor of the Vehicle Assembly Building's high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Four of the segments are alr... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The upper stage simulator segments are positioned across the floor of the Vehicle Assembly Building's high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Four of the segments are already stacked. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. The upper stage simulator comprises 11 segments, each approximately 18 feet in diameter. The simulator segments will simulate the mass and the outer mold line and will be more than 100 feet of the total vehicle height of 327 feet. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3933

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The upper stage simulator segments are positi...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The upper stage simulator segments are positioned across the floor of the Vehicle Assembly Building's high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Four of the segments are alr... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The upper stage simulator segments are positioned across the floor of the Vehicle Assembly Building's high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Four of the segments are already stacked. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. The upper stage simulator comprises 11 segments, each approximately 18 feet in diameter. The simulator segments will simulate the mass and the outer mold line and will be more than 100 feet of the total vehicle height of 327 feet. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3932

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The upper stage simulator segments are positi...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The upper stage simulator segments are positioned across the floor of the Vehicle Assembly Building's high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Four of the segments are alr... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The upper stage simulator segments are positioned across the floor of the Vehicle Assembly Building's high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Four of the segments are already stacked. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. The upper stage simulator comprises 11 segments, each approximately 18 feet in diameter. The simulator segments will simulate the mass and the outer mold line and will be more than 100 feet of the total vehicle height of 327 feet. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3930

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The upper stage simulator segments are positi...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The upper stage simulator segments are positioned across the floor of the Vehicle Assembly Building's high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Four of the segments are alr... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers pack the parachutes that will be used in the Ares I-X development flight in July 2009. The first stage of the new Ares I rocket and Orion spacecraft will use parachutes to return to Earth. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3961

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NAS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers pack the parachutes that will be used in the Ares I-X development flight in July 2009. The fir... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the parachutes are packed for the Ares I-X development flight in July 2009. The first stage of the new Ares I rocket and Orion spacecraft will use parachutes to return to Earth. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3965

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NAS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the parachutes are packed for the Ares I-X development flight in July 2009. The first stage of the new... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers pack the parachutes that will be used in the Ares I-X development flight in July 2009. The first stage of the new Ares I rocket and Orion spacecraft will use parachutes to return to Earth. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3962

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NAS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers pack the parachutes that will be used in the Ares I-X development flight in July 2009. The fir... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the parachutes are packed for the Ares I-X development flight in July 2009. The first stage of the new Ares I rocket and Orion spacecraft will use parachutes to return to Earth. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3966

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NA...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the parachutes are packed for the Ares I-X development flight in July 2009. The first stage of the new... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers pack the parachutes that will be used in the Ares I-X development flight in July 2009. The first stage of the new Ares I rocket and Orion spacecraft will use parachutes to return to Earth. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3959

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NAS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers pack the parachutes that will be used in the Ares I-X development flight in July 2009. The firs... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers pack the parachutes that will be used in the Ares I-X development flight in July 2009. The first stage of the new Ares I rocket and Orion spacecraft will use parachutes to return to Earth. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3958

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NAS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers pack the parachutes that will be used in the Ares I-X development flight in July 2009. The firs... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the parachutes are packed for the Ares I-X development flight in July 2009. The first stage of the new Ares I rocket and Orion spacecraft will use parachutes to return to Earth. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3964

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NA...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the parachutes are packed for the Ares I-X development flight in July 2009. The first stage of the new... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers pack the parachutes that will be used in the Ares I-X development flight in July 2009. The first stage of the new Ares I rocket and Orion spacecraft will use parachutes to return to Earth. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3963

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NAS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers pack the parachutes that will be used in the Ares I-X development flight in July 2009. The fir... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers straighten the straps of the parachutes they are packing that will be used in the Ares I-X development flight in July 2009. The first stage of the new Ares I rocket and Orion spacecraft will use parachutes to return to Earth. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3960

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NAS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Parachute Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers straighten the straps of the parachutes they are packing that will be used in the Ares I-X deve... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a ballast assembly is lowered into the Ares I-X segment 7 (at center). Ballast assemblies are being installed in the upper stage 1 and 7 segments and will mimic the mass of the fuel. Their total weight is approximately 160,000 pounds. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-1215

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a ballast assembly is lowered into the Ares I-X segment 7 (at center). Ballast assemblies are bei... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, work is under way to install ballast in the Ares I-X segments stored there. These ballast assemblies will be installed in the upper stage 1 and 7 segments and will mimic the mass of the fuel. Their total weight is approximately 160,000 pounds. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-1209

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Buildin...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, work is under way to install ballast in the Ares I-X segments stored there. These ballast ass... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers get ready to attach cables to the ballast for installation in the Ares I-X segments. These ballast assemblies will be installed in the upper stage 1 and 7 segments and will mimic the mass of the fuel. Their total weight is approximately 160,000 pounds. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-1210

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Buildi...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers get ready to attach cables to the ballast for installation in the Ares I-X segments. T... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a ballast assembly is lowered into the Ares I-X segment 7. Ballast assemblies are being installed in the upper stage 1 and 7 segments and will mimic the mass of the fuel. Their total weight is approximately 160,000 pounds. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-1214

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a ballast assembly is lowered into the Ares I-X segment 7. Ballast assemblies are being installed... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a ballast assembly is moved above the Ares I-X segment 7. Ballast assemblies will be installed in the upper stage 1 and 7 segments and will mimic the mass of the fuel. Their total weight is approximately 160,000 pounds. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-1212

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a ballast assembly is moved above the Ares I-X segment 7. Ballast assemblies will be installed in... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a ballast assembly is lowered into the Ares I-X segment 7. Ballast assemblies are being installed in the upper stage 1 and 7 segments and will mimic the mass of the fuel. Their total weight is approximately 160,000 pounds. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-1213

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a ballast assembly is lowered into the Ares I-X segment 7. Ballast assemblies are being installed... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a ballast assembly is lifted toward the Ares I-X segments for installation. These ballast assemblies will be installed in the upper stage 1 and 7 segments and will mimic the mass of the fuel. Their total weight is approximately 160,000 pounds. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-1211

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Buildin...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a ballast assembly is lifted toward the Ares I-X segments for installation. These ballast assem... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., workers prepare forward fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X for cork application. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-1298

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., workers pr...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., workers prepare forward fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X for cork application. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of th... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., the forward fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X is being prepared for cork application. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-1297

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., the forward...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., the forward fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X is being prepared for cork application. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., workers prepare forward fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X for cork application. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-1296

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., workers pr...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., workers prepare forward fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X for cork application. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of t... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane lifts segments 6 and 7 of the Ares I-X rocket. The segments are being moved onto a stand on the floor. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1324

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Buildin...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane lifts segments 6 and 7 of the Ares I-X rocket. The segments are being moved ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X segments 6 and 7 (background) are lowered onto a stand. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1327

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Buildi...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X segments 6 and 7 (background) are lowered onto a stand. Ares I-X is the test vehi... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X segments 6 and 7 are moved toward a stand. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1325

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Buildin...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X segments 6 and 7 are moved toward a stand. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ar... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X segments 6 and 7 are lowered onto a stand. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1326

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Buildin...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X segments 6 and 7 are lowered onto a stand. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ar... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane is attached to segments 6 and 7 of the Ares I-X rocket. The segments are being moved onto a stand on the floor. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1323

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Buildi...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane is attached to segments 6 and 7 of the Ares I-X rocket. The segments are be... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The covered fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X arrives in the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-1356

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The covered fifth segment simulator of the A...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The covered fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X arrives in the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Ares ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., a crane lowers a protective cover onto the bagged fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X. The segment will be transferred to the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida for stacking operations. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-1354

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., a crane l...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., a crane lowers a protective cover onto the bagged fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X. The segment will be transferred to the Vehicle Assembly B... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers remove the shipping cover from the fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-1357

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended d...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers remove the shipping cover from the fifth segment simulator ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers begin removing the protective material wrapping the fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-1358

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Ke...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers begin removing the protective material wrapping the fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X. Ares I-... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The covered fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X is transported from Astrotech in Titusville, Fla. It is being moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida for stacking operations. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-1355

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The covered fifth segment simulator of the ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The covered fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X is transported from Astrotech in Titusville, Fla. It is being moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Cente... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X is on a work stand. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. KSC-2009-1359

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Ken...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X is on a work stand. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., the bagged fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X is placed on a transporter. The segment will be transferred to the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida for stacking operations. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-1353

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., the bagged...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., the bagged fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X is placed on a transporter. The segment will be transferred to the Vehicle Assembly Building's ex... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At center, ballast is lowered into segment 7 of the Ares I-X rocket in Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4. Other segments are stacked around the bay. These ballast assemblies are being installed in the upper stage segments 1 and 7 and will mimic the mass of the fuel. Their total weight is approximately 160,000 pounds.Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-1395

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At center, ballast is lowered into segment 7 o...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At center, ballast is lowered into segment 7 of the Ares I-X rocket in Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4. Other segments are stacked around the bay. These ballast assemblies are be... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4, cables from an overhead crane move ballast that will be installed in segment 7 for the Ares I-X rocket. These ballast assemblies are being installed in the upper stage segments 1 and 7 and will mimic the mass of the fuel. Their total weight is approximately 160,000 pounds. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-1392

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4, cable...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4, cables from an overhead crane move ballast that will be installed in segment 7 for the Ares I-X rocket. These ballast assemblies are being insta... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4, cables lift ballast that will be installed in segment 7 for the Ares I-X rocket. These ballast assemblies are being installed in the upper stage segments 1 and 7 and will mimic the mass of the fuel. Their total weight is approximately 160,000 pounds. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-1391

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4, cable...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4, cables lift ballast that will be installed in segment 7 for the Ares I-X rocket. These ballast assemblies are being installed in the upper stage... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4, cables from an overhead crane lower ballast into segment 7 for the Ares I-X rocket. These ballast assemblies are being installed in the upper stage segments 1 and 7 and will mimic the mass of the fuel. Their total weight is approximately 160,000 pounds. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-1394

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4, cabl...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4, cables from an overhead crane lower ballast into segment 7 for the Ares I-X rocket. These ballast assemblies are being installed in the upper s... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4, cables lift ballast that will be installed in segment 7 for the Ares I-X rocket. These ballast assemblies are being installed in the upper stage segments 1 and 7 and will mimic the mass of the fuel. Their total weight is approximately 160,000 pounds. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-1390

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4, cable...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4, cables lift ballast that will be installed in segment 7 for the Ares I-X rocket. These ballast assemblies are being installed in the upper stage... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4, cables from an overhead crane lower ballast into segment 7 for the Ares I-X rocket. These ballast assemblies are being installed in the upper stage segments 1 and 7 and will mimic the mass of the fuel. Their total weight is approximately 160,000 pounds. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-1393

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4, cabl...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4, cables from an overhead crane lower ballast into segment 7 for the Ares I-X rocket. These ballast assemblies are being installed in the upper s... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4, workers attached cables to ballast that will be installed in segment 7 for the Ares I-X rocket. These ballast assemblies are being installed in the upper stage segments 1 and 7 and will mimic the mass of the fuel. Their total weight is approximately 160,000 pounds. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-1389

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4, worke...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4, workers attached cables to ballast that will be installed in segment 7 for the Ares I-X rocket. These ballast assemblies are being installed in ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On the floor of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers start removing the plastic wrap from the Ares I-X roll control system module. The system is designed to perform a 90-degree roll after the rocket clears the launch tower, preventing a roll during flight and maintaining the orientation of the rocket until separation of the upper and first stages. Part of the upper stage simulator, the system module is composed to two modules and four thrusters. The system module will return to earth and splash down; it will not be recovered. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-1444

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On the floor of the Vehicle Assembly Building ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On the floor of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers start removing the plastic wrap from the Ares I-X roll control system module. The system ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X roll control system module arrives in the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The system is designed to perform a 90-degree roll after the rocket clears the launch tower, preventing a roll during flight and maintaining the orientation of the rocket until separation of the upper and first stages. Part of the upper stage simulator, the system module is composed to two modules and four thrusters. The system module will return to earth and splash down; it will not be recovered. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-1441

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X roll control system module arrive...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X roll control system module arrives in the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The system is designed to perform a 90-degree roll after the r... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X roll control system module has been placed on the floor of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida after its arrival. The system is designed to perform a 90-degree roll after the rocket clears the launch tower, preventing a roll during flight and maintaining the orientation of the rocket until separation of the upper and first stages. Part of the upper stage simulator, the system module is composed to two modules and four thrusters. The system module will return to earth and splash down; it will not be recovered. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-1442

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X roll control system module has b...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X roll control system module has been placed on the floor of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida after its arrival. The system is designe... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X launch abort system that will form the tip of the Ares rocket arrives in the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The launch abort system will provide safe evacuation if a launch vehicle failure occurs. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-1446

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X launch abort system that will form...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X launch abort system that will form the tip of the Ares rocket arrives in the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The launch abort system wil... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X roll control system module is revealed after removal of the plastic wrap. The module is in the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The system is designed to perform a 90-degree roll after the rocket clears the launch tower, preventing a roll during flight and maintaining the orientation of the rocket until separation of the upper and first stages. Part of the upper stage simulator, the system module is composed to two modules and four thrusters. The system module will return to earth and splash down; it will not be recovered. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-1445

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X roll control system module is rev...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X roll control system module is revealed after removal of the plastic wrap. The module is in the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The syst... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers look at the Ares I-X roll control system module before removing the plastic wrap. The system is designed to perform a 90-degree roll after the rocket clears the launch tower, preventing a roll during flight and maintaining the orientation of the rocket until separation of the upper and first stages. Part of the upper stage simulator, the system module is composed to two modules and four thrusters. The system module will return to earth and splash down; it will not be recovered. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-1443

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Ken...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers look at the Ares I-X roll control system module before removing the plastic wrap. The system is design... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X fifth segment simulator aft section is lifted by a crane from the transporter. The aft section will be moved to a stand. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-1670

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended dur...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X fifth segment simulator aft section is lifted by a crane ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X fifth segment simulator aft section is lowered onto a stand in the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-1671

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X fifth segment simulator aft sectio...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X fifth segment simulator aft section is lowered onto a stand in the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florid... More

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