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STS111-362-027 - STS-111 - Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Image 036 was a Crew Pick used for their postflight presentation. Subject Terms: AURORAS Date Taken: 6/18/2002 Categories: Earth Observations Interi More

STS110-381-032 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

STS111-362-019 - STS-111 - Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2. Subject Terms: AURORAS Date Taken: 6/18/2002 Categories: Earth Observations Inte More

STS110-381-013 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

STS111-362-020 - STS-111 - Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2.

The original finding aid described this as: Subject Terms: AURORAS Date Taken: 6/18/2002 Categories: Earth Observations Interior_Exterior: Exterior Ground_Orbit: On-orbit Original: Film - 35MM CN Preserv More

STS111-362-015 - STS-111 - Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Image 036 was a Crew Pick used for their postflight presentation. Subject Terms: AURORAS Date Taken: 6/18/2002 Categories: Earth Observations Interi More

STS111-362-014 - STS-111 - Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2.

The original finding aid described this as: Subject Terms: AURORAS Date Taken: 6/18/2002 Categories: Earth Observations Interior_Exterior: Exterior Ground_Orbit: On-orbit Original: Film - 35MM CN Preserv More

STS110-381-029 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

STS111-362-030 - STS-111 - Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Image 036 was a Crew Pick used for their postflight presentation. Subject Terms: AURORAS Date Taken: 6/18/2002 Categories: Earth Observations Interi More

STS111-362-007 - STS-111 - Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2. Subject Terms: AURORAS Date Taken: 6/18/2002 Categories: Earth Observations Inte More

STS111-362-012 - STS-111 - Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Image 036 was a Crew Pick used for their postflight presentation. Subject Terms: AURORAS Date Taken: 6/18/2002 Categories: Earth Observations Interi More

STS111-362-013 - STS-111 - Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2. Subject Terms: AURORAS Date Taken: 6/18/2002 Categories: Earth Observations Inte More

STS110-381-020 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

STS111-362-022 - STS-111 - Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2. Subject Terms: AURORAS Date Taken: 6/18/2002 Categories: Earth Observations Inte More

STS110-381-023 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

STS110-381-017 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

STS110-381-007 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

STS111-362-008 - STS-111 - Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2.

The original finding aid described this as: Subject Terms: AURORAS Date Taken: 6/18/2002 Categories: Earth Observations Interior_Exterior: Exterior Ground_Orbit: On-orbit Original: Film - 35MM CN Preserv More

STS111-362-010 - STS-111 - Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2. Subject Terms: AURORAS Date Taken: 6/18/2002 Categories: Earth Observations Inte More

STS110-381-011 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

STS111-362-028 - STS-111 - Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2. Subject Terms: AURORAS Date Taken: 6/18/2002 Categories: Earth Observations Inte More

STS110-381-001 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

STS110-381-016 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

STS110-381-005 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

STS110-381-003 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

STS110-381-004 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

STS110-381-012 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

STS111-362-025 - STS-111 - Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2. Subject Terms: AURORAS Date Taken: 6/18/2002 Categories: Earth Observations Inte More

STS110-381-006 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

STS110-381-033 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

STS110-381-014 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

STS110-381-024 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

STS110-381-009 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

STS111-362-024 - STS-111 - Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Image 036 was a Crew Pick used for their postflight presentation. Subject Terms: AURORAS Date Taken: 6/18/2002 Categories: Earth Observations Interi More

STS110-381-028 - STS-110 - Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during STS-110.

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Earth observation view of the Aurora Australis taken during the STS-110 mission. Subject Terms: AURORAS EARTH LIMB EARTH OBSERVATIONS (FROM SPACE) STS- More

Images of the Aurora Australis as seen during mission STS-111 UF-2.

STS111-362-036 (5-19 June 2002) --- This view featuring the Aurora Australis or “southern lights” was photographed by the STS-111 crew members aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour. When this photograph was taken More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker installs bolt cutters on one of the THEMIS probes. The cutters will separate each probe from the payload carrier. The probes will undergo weeks of testing and launch preparations. This includes a functional performance test to verify the state of health of each of the five probes and pressurization and leak checks of the reaction control systems. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd2801

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker installs bolt cutters on one of the THEMIS probes. The cutters will separate each probe from the payload carrier. The More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the five probes of the THEMIS spacecraft remain under cover. The probes will undergo weeks of testing and launch preparations. This includes a functional performance test to verify the state of health of each of the five probes, installation of bolt cutters that will separate each probe from the payload carrier, and pressurization and leak checks of the reaction control systems. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd2799

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the five probes of the THEMIS spacecraft remain under cover. The probes will undergo weeks of testing and launch preparations. More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a light test on the solar arrays are complete on this probe of the THEMIS spacecraft. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd2811

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a light test on the solar arrays are complete on this probe of the THEMIS spacecraft. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, t More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a solar array on one of the THEMIS probes undergoes a light test. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd2808

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a solar array on one of the THEMIS probes undergoes a light test. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers maneuver one of the THEMIS probes before installing bolt cutters that will separate each probe from the payload carrier. The probes will undergo weeks of testing and launch preparations. This includes a functional performance test to verify the state of health of each of the five probes and pressurization and leak checks of the reaction control systems. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd2803

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers maneuver one of the THEMIS probes before installing bolt cutters that will separate each probe from the payload carrier. More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a solar array on one of the THEMIS probes undergoes a light test. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd2810

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a solar array on one of the THEMIS probes undergoes a light test. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a technician works on the solar array of a THEMIS probe in preparation for a light test. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd2806

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a technician works on the solar array of a THEMIS probe in preparation for a light test. THEMIS consists of five identical prob More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers prepare one of the THEMIS probes for installation of bolt cutters that will separate each probe from the payload carrier. The probes will undergo weeks of testing and launch preparations. This includes a functional performance test to verify the state of health of each of the five probes and pressurization and leak checks of the reaction control systems. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd2800

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers prepare one of the THEMIS probes for installation of bolt cutters that will separate each probe from the payload carrier More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers maneuver one of the THEMIS probes before installing bolt cutters that will separate each probe from the payload carrier. The probes will undergo weeks of testing and launch preparations. This includes a functional performance test to verify the state of health of each of the five probes and pressurization and leak checks of the reaction control systems. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd2802

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers maneuver one of the THEMIS probes before installing bolt cutters that will separate each probe from the payload carrier. More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., technicians work on the solar array of a THEMIS probe in preparation for a light test. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd2807

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., technicians work on the solar array of a THEMIS probe in preparation for a light test. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers install bolt cutters on one of the THEMIS probes. The cutters will separate each probe from the payload carrier. The probes will undergo weeks of testing and launch preparations. This includes a functional performance test to verify the state of health of each of the five probes and pressurization and leak checks of the reaction control systems. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd2805

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers install bolt cutters on one of the THEMIS probes. The cutters will separate each probe from the payload carrier. The p More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a technician arranges a light for a test on a solar array on one of the THEMIS probes. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd2809

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a technician arranges a light for a test on a solar array on one of the THEMIS probes. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers install bolt cutters on one of the THEMIS probes. The cutters will separate each probe from the payload carrier. The probes will undergo weeks of testing and launch preparations. This includes a functional performance test to verify the state of health of each of the five probes and pressurization and leak checks of the reaction control systems. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd2804

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers install bolt cutters on one of the THEMIS probes. The cutters will separate each probe from the payload carrier. The pr More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., technicians are preparing one of five THEMIS probes to be secured inside a shipping container (behind it). The probes are being moved to the hazardous processing facility where they will be placed on a stand in preparation for fueling operations. Once fueling is complete, each probe will be weighed and individually mated to the payload carrier before pyrotechnics are installed. The fully integrated THEMIS payload is then ready for spin-balance testing and weighing. The final milestone is mating THEMIS to its upper stage booster. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS will be transported to Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on February 1 for mating to the Delta II rocket. Launch is scheduled for Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2812

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., technicians are preparing one of five THEMIS probes to be secured inside a shipping container (behind it). The probes are being More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., one of the five THEMIS probes is ready to be covered for its move to the hazardous processing facility. There it will be placed on a stand in preparation for fueling operations. Once fueling is complete, each probe will be weighed and individually mated to the payload carrier before pyrotechnics are installed. The fully integrated THEMIS payload is then ready for spin-balance testing and weighing. The final milestone is mating THEMIS to its upper stage booster. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS will be transported to Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on February 1 for mating to the Delta II rocket. Launch is scheduled for Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2813

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., one of the five THEMIS probes is ready to be covered for its move to the hazardous processing facility. There it will be placed o More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., one of the five THEMIS probes is moved out of the facility and will be transported to the hazardous processing facility. There the probes will be placed on a stand in preparation for fueling operations. Once fueling is complete, each probe will be weighed and individually mated to the payload carrier before pyrotechnics are installed. The fully integrated THEMIS payload is then ready for spin-balance testing and weighing. The final milestone is mating THEMIS to its upper stage booster. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS will be transported to Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on February 1 for mating to the Delta II rocket. Launch is scheduled for Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2816

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., one of the five THEMIS probes is moved out of the facility and will be transported to the hazardous processing facility. There t More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- One of the five THEMIS probes arrives at the hazardous processing facility after leaving Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla. At the facility, the probes will be placed on a stand in preparation for fueling operations. Once fueling is complete, each probe will be weighed and individually mated to the payload carrier before pyrotechnics are installed. The fully integrated THEMIS payload is then ready for spin-balance testing and weighing. The final milestone is mating THEMIS to its upper stage booster. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS will be transported to Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on February 1 for mating to the Delta II rocket. Launch is scheduled for Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2818

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- One of the five THEMIS probes arrives at the hazardous processing facility after leaving Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla. At the facility, the probes will be placed More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., technicians help lower a shipping container over one of the five THEMIS probes for its move to the hazardous processing facility. There it will be placed on a stand in preparation for fueling operations. Once fueling is complete, each probe will be weighed and individually mated to the payload carrier before pyrotechnics are installed. The fully integrated THEMIS payload is then ready for spin-balance testing and weighing. The final milestone is mating THEMIS to its upper stage booster. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS will be transported to Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on February 1 for mating to the Delta II rocket. Launch is scheduled for Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2814

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., technicians help lower a shipping container over one of the five THEMIS probes for its move to the hazardous processing facility. More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- One of the five THEMIS probes is being transported from Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., to the hazardous processing facility. There the probes will be placed on a stand in preparation for fueling operations. Once fueling is complete, each probe will be weighed and individually mated to the payload carrier before pyrotechnics are installed. The fully integrated THEMIS payload is then ready for spin-balance testing and weighing. The final milestone is mating THEMIS to its upper stage booster. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS will be transported to Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on February 1 for mating to the Delta II rocket. Launch is scheduled for Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2817

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- One of the five THEMIS probes is being transported from Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., to the hazardous processing facility. There the probes will be placed on a s More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., technicians release the overhead crane from the shipping container placed around one of the five THEMIS probes for its move to the hazardous processing facility. There the probes will be placed on a stand in preparation for fueling operations. Once fueling is complete, each probe will be weighed and individually mated to the payload carrier before pyrotechnics are installed. The fully integrated THEMIS payload is then ready for spin-balance testing and weighing. The final milestone is mating THEMIS to its upper stage booster. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. These lights are the visible manifestations of invisible energy releases, called geomagnetic substorms, in near-Earth space. THEMIS will not only seek to answer where and when substorms start, but will also provide clues as to how and why these space storms create havoc on satellites, terrestrial power grids, and communication systems. THEMIS will be transported to Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on February 1 for mating to the Delta II rocket. Launch is scheduled for Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2815

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., technicians release the overhead crane from the shipping container placed around one of the five THEMIS probes for its move to th More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker attaches a high pressure line on the THEMIS spacecraft in preparation for fueling, which is scheduled for Jan. 3-5. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2848

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker attaches a high pressure line on the THEMIS spacecraft in preparation for fueling, which is scheduled for Jan. 3-5. T More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker attaches a high pressure line on the THEMIS spacecraft in preparation for fueling, which is scheduled for Jan. 3-5. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2847

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker attaches a high pressure line on the THEMIS spacecraft in preparation for fueling, which is scheduled for Jan. 3-5. T More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker examines connections on the THEMIS spacecraft, which is expected to be fueled Jan. 3-5. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2850

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker examines connections on the THEMIS spacecraft, which is expected to be fueled Jan. 3-5. THEMIS consists of five identi More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker prepares one of the THEMIS probes for electrical system checkout. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2846

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker prepares one of the THEMIS probes for electrical system checkout. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the large More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker attaches a high pressure line on the THEMIS spacecraft in preparation for fueling, which is scheduled for Jan. 3-5. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2849

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker attaches a high pressure line on the THEMIS spacecraft in preparation for fueling, which is scheduled for Jan. 3-5. T More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, workers check the lines attached to the lower end of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket before it is lifted into the mobile service tower. The rocket is the launch vehicle for the THEMIS spacecraft, consisting of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. After the first stage is in the mobile service tower on the pad, nine solid rocket boosters will be placed around the base of the first stage and attached in sets of three. THEMIS is scheduled to launch aboard the Delta II at 6:07 p.m. EST on Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0028

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, workers check the lines attached to the lower end of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket before it is lif More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket moves into place in front of at the mobile service tower on Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The rocket will be raised to a vertical position and lifted into the tower. The rocket is the launch vehicle for the THEMIS spacecraft, consisting of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. After the first stage is in the mobile service tower on the pad, nine solid rocket boosters will be placed around the base of the first stage and attached in sets of three. THEMIS is scheduled to launch aboard the Delta II at 6:07 p.m. EST on Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0024

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket moves into place in front of at the mobile service tower on Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Flo More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket leaves for Launch Pad 17-B on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The rocket is the launch vehicle for the THEMIS spacecraft, consisting of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. After the first stage is in the mobile service tower on the pad, nine solid rocket boosters will be placed around the base of the first stage and attached in sets of three. THEMIS is scheduled to launch aboard the Delta II at 6:07 p.m. EST on Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0021

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket leaves for Launch Pad 17-B on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The rocket is the launch vehicle for the TH More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket is raised off its transporter to a vertical position. The rocket will then be lifted into the mobile service tower. The rocket is the launch vehicle for the THEMIS spacecraft, consisting of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. After the first stage is in the mobile service tower on the pad, nine solid rocket boosters will be placed around the base of the first stage and attached in sets of three. THEMIS is scheduled to launch aboard the Delta II at 6:07 p.m. EST on Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0026

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket is raised off its transporter to a vertical position More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket is raised off its transporter to a vertical position. The rocket will then be lifted into the mobile service tower. The rocket is the launch vehicle for the THEMIS spacecraft, consisting of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. After the first stage is in the tower on the pad, nine solid rocket boosters will be placed around the base of the first stage and attached in sets of three. THEMIS is scheduled to launch aboard the Delta II at 6:07 p.m. EST on Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0027

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket is raised off its transporter to a vertical position More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket is lifted up into the mobile service tower. The rocket is the launch vehicle for the THEMIS spacecraft, consisting of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. After the first stage is in the tower on the pad, nine solid rocket boosters will be placed around the base of the first stage and attached in sets of three. THEMIS is scheduled to launch aboard the Delta II at 6:07 p.m. EST on Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0029

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket is lifted up into the mobile service tower. The rocket is the launch More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket is on its way to Launch Pad 17-B on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The rocket is the launch vehicle for the THEMIS spacecraft, consisting of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. After the first stage is in the mobile service tower on the pad, nine solid rocket boosters will be placed around the base of the first stage and attached in sets of three. THEMIS is scheduled to launch aboard the Delta II at 6:07 p.m. EST on Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0022

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket is on its way to Launch Pad 17-B on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The rocket is the launch vehicle for More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket arrives at the mobile service tower on Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The rocket is the launch vehicle for the THEMIS spacecraft, consisting of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. After the first stage is in the mobile service tower on the pad, nine solid rocket boosters will be placed around the base of the first stage and attached in sets of three. THEMIS is scheduled to launch aboard the Delta II at 6:07 p.m. EST on Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0023

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket arrives at the mobile service tower on Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The rocket is th More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket is moved inside the mobile service tower where nine solid rocket boosters will be attached in sets of three. The rocket is the launch vehicle for the THEMIS spacecraft, consisting of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch aboard the Delta II at 6:07 p.m. EST on Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0030

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket is moved inside the mobile service tower where nine solid rocket boos More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, a crane (foreground) raises the first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket off its transporter to a vertical position. The rocket will then be lifted into the mobile service tower. The rocket is the launch vehicle for the THEMIS spacecraft, consisting of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. After the first stage is in the mobile service tower on the pad, nine solid rocket boosters will be placed around the base of the first stage and attached in sets of three. THEMIS is scheduled to launch aboard the Delta II at 6:07 p.m. EST on Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0025

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, a crane (foreground) raises the first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket off its transporter to a More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Hazardous Processing Facility at Astrotech Space Operations, technicians prepare THEMIS probes for solar array illumination telemetry tests. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch aboard the Delta II at 6:07 p.m. EST on Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0031

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Hazardous Processing Facility at Astrotech Space Operations, technicians prepare THEMIS probes for solar array illumination telemetry tests. THEMIS consists of five identic More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Hazardous Processing Facility at Astrotech Space Operations, technicians prepare THEMIS probes for solar array illumination telemetry tests. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch aboard the Delta II at 6:07 p.m. EST on Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0032

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Hazardous Processing Facility at Astrotech Space Operations, technicians prepare THEMIS probes for solar array illumination telemetry tests. THEMIS consists of five identic More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Hazardous Processing Facility at Astrotech Space Operations, a technician observes one of the THEMIS probes as it undergoes solar array illumination telemetry testing. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch aboard the Delta II at 6:07 p.m. EST on Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0035

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Hazardous Processing Facility at Astrotech Space Operations, a technician observes one of the THEMIS probes as it undergoes solar array illumination telemetry testing. THEMI More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Hazardous Processing Facility at Astrotech Space Operations, a technician observes one of the THEMIS probes as it undergoes solar array illumination telemetry testing. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch aboard the Delta II at 6:07 p.m. EST on Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0033

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Hazardous Processing Facility at Astrotech Space Operations, a technician observes one of the THEMIS probes as it undergoes solar array illumination telemetry testing. THEM More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Hazardous Processing Facility at Astrotech Space Operations, one of the THEMIS probes undergoes solar array illumination telemetry testing. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch aboard the Delta II at 6:07 p.m. EST on Feb. 15. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0034

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Hazardous Processing Facility at Astrotech Space Operations, one of the THEMIS probes undergoes solar array illumination telemetry testing. THEMIS consists of five identical More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians guide one of the THEMIS probes into position on the probe carrier. When all five probes are in place, the carrier will undergo spin-balance testing. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0056

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians guide one of the THEMIS probes into position on the probe carrier. When all five probes are in place, the carrier will undergo spin-bal More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians conduct white light inspection of the THEMIS probes. They will also undergo black light inspection. White light inspection assures the telemetry is operating. Black light inspection uses UVA fluorescence to detect possible particulate microcontamination, minute cracks or fluid leaks. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0046

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians conduct white light inspection of the THEMIS probes. They will also undergo black light inspection. White light inspection assures the More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians weigh one of the THEMIS probes. Next the probe will be installed on a probe carrier, along with is four mates, and then undergo spin-balance testing. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0052

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians weigh one of the THEMIS probes. Next the probe will be installed on a probe carrier, along with is four mates, and then undergo spin-ba More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians conduct white light inspection of the THEMIS probes. They will also undergo black light inspection. White light inspection assures the telemetry is operating. Black light inspection uses UVA fluorescence to detect possible particulate microcontamination, minute cracks or fluid leaks. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0047

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians conduct white light inspection of the THEMIS probes. They will also undergo black light inspection. White light inspection assures the More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians adjust connections of the overhead crane on one of the THEMIS probes. The probe and its other four mates will be lifted and installed on the probe carrier in the background. The probes will then undergo spin-balance testing. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0051

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians adjust connections of the overhead crane on one of the THEMIS probes. The probe and its other four mates will be lifted and installed o More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, a worker prepares the THEMIS spacecraft for black/white light inspection. White light inspection assures the telemetry is operating. Black light inspection uses UVA fluorescence to detect possible particulate microcontamination, minute cracks or fluid leaks. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0045

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, a worker prepares the THEMIS spacecraft for black/white light inspection. White light inspection assures the telemetry is operating. Black light in More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, one of the five THEMIS probes is lifted from a scale. It will be moved to a probe carrier for installation, along with its four mates, and then undergo spin-balance testing. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0053

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, one of the five THEMIS probes is lifted from a scale. It will be moved to a probe carrier for installation, along with its four mates, and then und More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians conduct black light inspection of the THEMIS probes. Black light inspection uses UVA fluorescence to detect possible particulate microcontamination, minute cracks or fluid leaks. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0049

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians conduct black light inspection of the THEMIS probes. Black light inspection uses UVA fluorescence to detect possible particulate microc More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, a technician helps guide one of the THEMIS probes toward the probe carrier for installation. When all five probes are in place, the carrier will undergo spin-balance testing. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0054

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, a technician helps guide one of the THEMIS probes toward the probe carrier for installation. When all five probes are in place, the carrier will un More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians conduct black light inspection of the THEMIS probes. Black light inspection uses UVA fluorescence to detect possible particulate microcontamination, minute cracks or fluid leaks. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0050

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians conduct black light inspection of the THEMIS probes. Black light inspection uses UVA fluorescence to detect possible particulate microc More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, a worker prepares the THEMIS spacecraft for black/white light inspection. White light inspection assures the telemetry is operating. Black light inspection uses UVA fluorescence to detect possible particulate microcontamination, minute cracks or fluid leaks. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0044

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, a worker prepares the THEMIS spacecraft for black/white light inspection. White light inspection assures the telemetry is operating. Black light in More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians conduct black light inspection of the THEMIS probes. Black light inspection uses UVA fluorescence to detect possible particulate microcontamination, minute cracks or fluid leaks. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0048

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians conduct black light inspection of the THEMIS probes. Black light inspection uses UVA fluorescence to detect possible particulate microc More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians guide one of the THEMIS probes into position on the probe carrier. When all five probes are in place, the carrier will undergo spin-balance testing. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0055

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians guide one of the THEMIS probes into position on the probe carrier. When all five probes are in place, the carrier will undergo spin-bala More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Hazardous Processing Facility at Astrotech Space Operations, a worker checks data on the integrated THEMIS spacecraft sitting on the spin table. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0070

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Hazardous Processing Facility at Astrotech Space Operations, a worker checks data on the integrated THEMIS spacecraft sitting on the spin table. THEMIS consists of five id More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, the integrated THEMIS spacecraft is on ready for spin-balance testing. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0074

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, the integrated THEMIS spacecraft is on ready for spin-balance testing. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific s More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- One of nine solid rocket boosters is lifted into the mobile service tower on Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The boosters are being installed around the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for launch of the THEMIS integrated spacecraft. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-07pd0078

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- One of nine solid rocket boosters is lifted into the mobile service tower on Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The boosters are being installed around the Uni More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Hazardous Processing Facility at Astrotech Space Operations, workers attach an overhead crane to the integrated THEMIS spacecraft. The carrier is being moved to a spin table for spin-balance testing. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0067

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Hazardous Processing Facility at Astrotech Space Operations, workers attach an overhead crane to the integrated THEMIS spacecraft. The carrier is being moved to a spin t More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Solid rocket boosters are clustered around the base of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket. A total of nine will assist in the launch of the THEMIS integrated spacecraft. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-07pd0083

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Solid rocket boosters are clustered around the base of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket. A total of nine will assist in the launch of the THEMIS integrated spacecraft. More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Another solid rocket booster is raised to a vertical position for lifting into the mobile service tower on Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The boosters are being installed around the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for launch of the THEMIS integrated spacecraft. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-07pd0079

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Another solid rocket booster is raised to a vertical position for lifting into the mobile service tower on Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The boosters are More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, workers look over the integrated THEMIS spacecraft before spin-balance testing. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0073

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, workers look over the integrated THEMIS spacecraft before spin-balance testing. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of sci More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, the integrated THEMIS spacecraft is ready for spin-balance testing. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0072

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, the integrated THEMIS spacecraft is ready for spin-balance testing. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific sate More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, workers prepare the integrated THEMIS spacecraft for spin-balance testing. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0071

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, workers prepare the integrated THEMIS spacecraft for spin-balance testing. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scient More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A solid rocket booster is lifted into the mobile service tower on Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, joining another already there. The boosters are being installed around the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for launch of the THEMIS integrated spacecraft. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-07pd0080

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A solid rocket booster is lifted into the mobile service tower on Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, joining another already there. The boosters are being inst More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Hazardous Processing Facility at Astrotech Space Operations, workers get ready to move the integrated THEMIS spacecraft to the spin table in the foreground. There it will undergo spin-balance testing. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0068

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Hazardous Processing Facility at Astrotech Space Operations, workers get ready to move the integrated THEMIS spacecraft to the spin table in the foreground. There it will More