813 Delta Iv Rocket Image: PICRYL - Public Domain Media Search Engine Public Domain Search}

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a full-size mock-up of the Orion spacecraft and launch abort system were transported to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. In the background are full-size replicas of the external fuel tank and solid rocket boosters that mark the entranceway to the new Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit. Crane operators and technicians practice de-stacking operations on mock-ups of Orion and the launch abort system in the Vehicle Assembly Building in order to keep processing procedures and skills current. Orion is the exploration spacecraft designed to carry crews to space beyond low Earth orbit. It will provide emergency abort capability, sustain the crew during the space travel and provide safe re-entry from deep space return velocities. Orion’s first unpiloted test flight is scheduled to launch in 2014 atop a Delta IV rocket. A second uncrewed flight test is scheduled for 2017 on NASA’s Space Launch System rocket. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2013-2903

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a full-size mock-up of the Orion spacecraft and launch abort system were transported to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. In the backgro More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, technicians demate the GOES-N satellite from its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch of the satellite was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues and postponed to a later date. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft has been atop the rocket without launching, the weather satellite is being returned to the Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility for some precautionary retesting and state-of-health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0323

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, technicians demate the GOES-N satellite from its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch of the satellite was postponed i More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, technicians disconnect fittings on the GOES-N satellite before it is demated from its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch of the satellite was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues and postponed to a later date. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft has been atop the rocket without launching, the weather satellite is being returned to the Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility for some precautionary retesting and state-of-health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0325

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, technicians disconnect fittings on the GOES-N satellite before it is demated from its Boeing Delta IV rocket. La More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N satellite is prepared for demating from its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch of the satellite was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues and postponed to a later date. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft has been atop the rocket without launching, the weather satellite is being returned to the Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility for some precautionary retesting and state-of-health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0326

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N satellite is prepared for demating from its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch of the satellite was postp More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N satellite is demated and lifted from its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch of the satellite was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues and postponed to a later date. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft has been atop the rocket without launching, the weather satellite is being returned to the Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility for some precautionary retesting and state-of-health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0328

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N satellite is demated and lifted from its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch of the satellite was postpon More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N satellite is lowered from atop its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch of the satellite was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues and postponed to a later date. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft has been atop the rocket without launching, the weather satellite is being returned to the Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility for some precautionary retesting and state-of-health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0330

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N satellite is lowered from atop its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch of the satellite was postponed in More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, a transporter is positioned under the GOES-N satellite, just demated from its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch of the satellite was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues and postponed to a later date. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft has been atop the rocket without launching, the weather satellite is being returned to the Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility for some precautionary retesting and state-of-health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0334

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, a transporter is positioned under the GOES-N satellite, just demated from its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch o More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, technicians demate the GOES-N satellite (upper left) from its Boeing Delta IV rocket (right). Launch of the satellite was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues and postponed to a later date. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft has been atop the rocket without launching, the weather satellite is being returned to the Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility for some precautionary retesting and state-of-health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0327

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, technicians demate the GOES-N satellite (upper left) from its Boeing Delta IV rocket (right). Launch of the sat More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, technicians monitor the GOES-N satellite as it is moved from atop its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch of the satellite was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues and postponed to a later date. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft has been atop the rocket without launching, the weather satellite is being returned to the Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility for some precautionary retesting and state-of-health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0329

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, technicians monitor the GOES-N satellite as it is moved from atop its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch of the sat More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, a transporter is positioned under the GOES-N satellite, just demated from its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch of the satellite was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues and postponed to a later date. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft has been atop the rocket without launching, the weather satellite is being returned to the Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility for some precautionary retesting and state-of-health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0333

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, a transporter is positioned under the GOES-N satellite, just demated from its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch of More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, technicians prepare a transporter to move the GOES-N satellite, just demated from its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch of the satellite was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues and postponed to a later date. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft has been atop the rocket without launching, the weather satellite is being returned to the Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility for some precautionary retesting and state-of-health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0332

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, technicians prepare a transporter to move the GOES-N satellite, just demated from its Boeing Delta IV rocket. L More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, a technician demates the GOES-N satellite from its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch of the satellite was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues and postponed to a later date. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft has been atop the rocket without launching, the weather satellite is being returned to the Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility for some precautionary retesting and state-of-health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0324

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, a technician demates the GOES-N satellite from its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch of the satellite was postponed More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N satellite is lowered from atop its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch of the satellite was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues and postponed to a later date. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft has been atop the rocket without launching, the weather satellite is being returned to the Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility for some precautionary retesting and state-of-health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0331

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N satellite is lowered from atop its Boeing Delta IV rocket. Launch of the satellite was postponed in More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The GOES-N satellite, secured inside a payload fairing, arrives at the Astrotech payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla. Liftoff of the satellite from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida was scrubbed in August 2005 due to technical issues and postponed to a later date. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft had been atop its Delta IV rocket without launching, the weather satellite is being returned to Astrotech for some precautionary retesting and state of health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd0347

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The GOES-N satellite, secured inside a payload fairing, arrives at the Astrotech payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla. Liftoff of the satellite from Launch Complex 37 at More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., workers monitor the GOES-N satellite, secured inside a payload fairing, as it moves close to the work stands in a clean-room high bay area. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft had been atop its Boeing Delta IV rocket without launching, the weather satellite has been returned to Astrotech for some precautionary retesting and state of health checks. Liftoff of the satellite from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida was scrubbed in August 2005 due to technical issues and postponed to a later date. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd0362

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., workers monitor the GOES-N satellite, secured inside a payload fairing, as it moves close to the w More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., the GOES-N satellite, secured inside a payload fairing, waits inside the clean room high bay for transfer to another room and waiting work stands. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft had been atop its Boeing Delta IV rocket without launching, the weather satellite has been returned to Astrotech for some precautionary retesting and state of health checks. Liftoff of the satellite from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida was scrubbed in August 2005 due to technical issues and postponed to a later date. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd0359

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., the GOES-N satellite, secured inside a payload fairing, waits inside the clean room high bay for More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The GOES-N satellite, secured inside a payload fairing, enters the clean room high bay at the Astrotech payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla. Liftoff of the satellite from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida was scrubbed in August 2005 due to technical issues and postponed to a later date. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft had been atop its Delta IV rocket without launching, the weather satellite is being returned to Astrotech for some precautionary retesting and state of health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd0349

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The GOES-N satellite, secured inside a payload fairing, enters the clean room high bay at the Astrotech payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla. Liftoff of the satellite fro More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., the GOES-N satellite, secured inside a payload fairing, is moved to another high bay area and waiting work stands. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft had been atop its Boeing Delta IV rocket without launching, the weather satellite has been returned to Astrotech for some precautionary retesting and state of health checks. Liftoff of the satellite from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida was scrubbed in August 2005 due to technical issues and postponed to a later date. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd0360

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., the GOES-N satellite, secured inside a payload fairing, is moved to another high bay area and wait More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The GOES-N satellite, secured inside a payload fairing, is rolled into the clean room high bay at the Astrotech payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla. Liftoff of the satellite from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida was scrubbed in August 2005 due to technical issues and postponed to a later date. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft had been atop its Delta IV rocket without launching, the weather satellite is being returned to Astrotech for some precautionary retesting and state of health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd0350

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The GOES-N satellite, secured inside a payload fairing, is rolled into the clean room high bay at the Astrotech payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla. Liftoff of the satel More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., the GOES-N spacecraft, secured inside a payload fairing, is surrounded by a work stand. Workers will use the stand to begin detaching the fairing from around the spacecraft. The fairing protects the spacecraft during launch and flight through the atmosphere. Once out of the atmosphere, the fairing is jettisoned. Removing the fairing will allow workers access to the spacecraft. GOES-N was demated from its Boeing Delta IV launch vehicle when the launch was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft had been atop the Delta IV rocket without launching, the weather satellite was returned to Astrotech for some precautionary retesting and state of health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0363

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., the GOES-N spacecraft, secured inside a payload fairing, is surrounded by a work stand. Workers will More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., workers secure one of the fairing halves removed from around the GOES-N spacecraft onto a horizontal stand. Workers are using the stand to detach the fairing from around the spacecraft. Workers will use the stand to begin detaching the fairing from around the spacecraft. The fairing protects the spacecraft during launch and flight through the atmosphere. Once out of the atmosphere, the fairing is jettisoned. Removing the fairing will allow workers access to the spacecraft. GOES-N was demated from its Boeing Delta IV launch vehicle when the launch was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft had been atop the Delta IV rocket without launching, the weather satellite was returned to Astrotech for some precautionary retesting and state of health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0371

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., workers secure one of the fairing halves removed from around the GOES-N spacecraft onto a horizontal More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., multi-level work stands surround the encapsulated GOES-N spacecraft. Workers are using the stand to detach the fairing from around the spacecraft. Workers will use the stand to begin detaching the fairing from around the spacecraft. The fairing protects the spacecraft during launch and flight through the atmosphere. Once out of the atmosphere, the fairing is jettisoned. Removing the fairing will allow workers access to the spacecraft. GOES-N was demated from its Boeing Delta IV launch vehicle when the launch was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft had been atop the Delta IV rocket without launching, the weather satellite was returned to Astrotech for some precautionary retesting and state of health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0365

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., multi-level work stands surround the encapsulated GOES-N spacecraft. Workers are using the stand to More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., one of the fairing halves removed from around the GOES-N spacecraft is being lowered onto a horizontal stand. Removing the fairing will allow workers access to the spacecraft. Workers are using the stand to detach the fairing from around the spacecraft. Workers will use the stand to begin detaching the fairing from around the spacecraft. The fairing protects the spacecraft during launch and flight through the atmosphere. Once out of the atmosphere, the fairing is jettisoned. Removing the fairing will allow workers access to the spacecraft. GOES-N was demated from its Boeing Delta IV launch vehicle when the launch was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft had been atop the Delta IV rocket without launching, the weather satellite was returned to Astrotech for some precautionary retesting and state of health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0370

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., one of the fairing halves removed from around the GOES-N spacecraft is being lowered onto a horizonta More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., the GOES-N spacecraft sits on the workstand after removal of the first half of the fairing, suspended at right. The second half remains behind it. Workers are using the stand to detach the fairing from around the spacecraft. Workers will use the stand to begin detaching the fairing from around the spacecraft. The fairing protects the spacecraft during launch and flight through the atmosphere. Once out of the atmosphere, the fairing is jettisoned. Removing the fairing will allow workers access to the spacecraft. GOES-N was demated from its Boeing Delta IV launch vehicle when the launch was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft had been atop the Delta IV rocket without launching, the weather satellite was returned to Astrotech for some precautionary retesting and state of health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0369

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., the GOES-N spacecraft sits on the workstand after removal of the first half of the fairing, suspended More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., workers begin detaching the fairing from around the GOES-N spacecraft. Workers will use the stand to begin detaching the fairing from around the spacecraft. The fairing protects the spacecraft during launch and flight through the atmosphere. Once out of the atmosphere, the fairing is jettisoned. Removing the fairing will allow workers access to the spacecraft. GOES-N was demated from its Boeing Delta IV launch vehicle when the launch was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft had been atop the Delta IV rocket without launching, the weather satellite was returned to Astrotech for some precautionary retesting and state of health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0364

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., workers begin detaching the fairing from around the GOES-N spacecraft. Workers will use the stand to More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., the first half of the fairing (right) is moved away from the GOES-N spacecraft after being detached. The spacecraft and second half of the fairing are seen behind it. Workers are using the stand to detach the fairing from around the spacecraft. Workers will use the stand to begin detaching the fairing from around the spacecraft. The fairing protects the spacecraft during launch and flight through the atmosphere. Once out of the atmosphere, the fairing is jettisoned. Removing the fairing will allow workers access to the spacecraft. GOES-N was demated from its Boeing Delta IV launch vehicle when the launch was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft had been atop the Delta IV rocket without launching, the weather satellite was returned to Astrotech for some precautionary retesting and state of health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0368

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., the first half of the fairing (right) is moved away from the GOES-N spacecraft after being detached. More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., workers watch closely as the fairing encapsulating the GOES-N spacecraft is opened. Workers are using the stand to detach the fairing from around the spacecraft. Workers will use the stand to begin detaching the fairing from around the spacecraft. The fairing protects the spacecraft during launch and flight through the atmosphere. Once out of the atmosphere, the fairing is jettisoned. Removing the fairing will allow workers access to the spacecraft. GOES-N was demated from its Boeing Delta IV launch vehicle when the launch was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft had been atop the Delta IV rocket without launching, the weather satellite was returned to Astrotech for some precautionary retesting and state of health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0366

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., workers watch closely as the fairing encapsulating the GOES-N spacecraft is opened. Workers are usin More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., the first half of the fairing (left) is removed from around the GOES-N spacecraft. Workers are using the stand to detach the fairing from around the spacecraft. Workers will use the stand to begin detaching the fairing from around the spacecraft. The fairing protects the spacecraft during launch and flight through the atmosphere. Once out of the atmosphere, the fairing is jettisoned. Removing the fairing will allow workers access to the spacecraft. GOES-N was demated from its Boeing Delta IV launch vehicle when the launch was postponed in August 2005 due to technical issues. Due to the extended length of time the spacecraft had been atop the Delta IV rocket without launching, the weather satellite was returned to Astrotech for some precautionary retesting and state of health checks. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0367

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., the first half of the fairing (left) is removed from around the GOES-N spacecraft. Workers are using More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside a high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the GOES-N spacecraft, workers secure the lines to an overhead crane. The spacecraft will be lifted and moved for mating with its payload adapter. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. It will be launched May 18 on a Boeing Delta IV rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd0690

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside a high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the GOES-N spacecraft, workers secure the lines to an overhead crane. The spacecraft will be lifted and moved More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside a high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the GOES-N spacecraft is attached to an overhead crane. The spacecraft will be lifted and moved for mating with its payload adapter. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. It will be launched May 18 on a Boeing Delta IV rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd0689

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside a high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the GOES-N spacecraft is attached to an overhead crane. The spacecraft will be lifted and moved for mating wi More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside a high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the GOES-N spacecraft is moved across the bay. It will be mated to the payload adapter in the background. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. It will be launched May 18 on a Boeing Delta IV rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd0691

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside a high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the GOES-N spacecraft is moved across the bay. It will be mated to the payload adapter in the background. GOE More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside a high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker checks the mating of the GOES-N spacecraft with its payload adapter. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. It will be launched May 18 on a Boeing Delta IV rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd0694

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside a high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker checks the mating of the GOES-N spacecraft with its payload adapter. GOES-N is the latest in a series More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - With workers keeping a close watch, the GOES-N spacecraft is lowered toward its payload adapter in the high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. It will be launched May 18 on a Boeing Delta IV rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd0692

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - With workers keeping a close watch, the GOES-N spacecraft is lowered toward its payload adapter in the high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla. GOES-N is the lat More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside a high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker watches closely as the GOES-N spacecraft is lowered onto the payload adapter. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. It will be launched May 18 on a Boeing Delta IV rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd0693

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside a high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker watches closely as the GOES-N spacecraft is lowered onto the payload adapter. GOES-N is the latest in More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the GOES-N satellite is ready for encapsulation in the fairing. The fairing protects the spacecraft during launch and flight through the atmosphere. Once out of the atmosphere, the fairing is jettisoned. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N will be launched May 18 on a Boeing Delta IV rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0705

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the GOES-N satellite is ready for encapsulation in the fairing. The fairing protects the spacecraft during launch and flight thr More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the first half of the fairing for the GOES-N spacecraft is raised nearly upright. The fairing will be used to encapsulate, or enclose, the GOES-N satellite for launch. The fairing protects the spacecraft during launch and flight through the atmosphere. Once out of the atmosphere, the fairing is jettisoned. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N will be launched May 18 on a Boeing Delta IV rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0707

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the first half of the fairing for the GOES-N spacecraft is raised nearly upright. The fairing will be used to encapsulate, or en More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the first half of the fairing is moved into place around the GOES-N spacecraft. When both halves are in place, they will encapsulate, or enclose, the GOES-N satellite for launch. The fairing protects the spacecraft during launch and flight through the atmosphere. Once out of the atmosphere, the fairing is jettisoned. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N will be launched May 18 on a Boeing Delta IV rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0709

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the first half of the fairing is moved into place around the GOES-N spacecraft. When both halves are in place, More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers attach a crane to one of the fairing halves in order to raise it to vertical. The fairing, which is installed around the spacecraft, will be used to encapsulate the GOES-N satellite for launch. The fairing protects the spacecraft during launch and flight through the atmosphere. Once out of the atmosphere, the fairing is jettisoned. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N will be launched May 18 on a Boeing Delta IV rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0706

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers attach a crane to one of the fairing halves in order to raise it to vertical. The fairing, which is installed around the More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers help guide the first half of the fairing toward the GOES-N spacecraft. The fairing will be used to encapsulate, or enclose, the GOES-N satellite for launch. The fairing protects the spacecraft during launch and flight through the atmosphere. Once out of the atmosphere, the fairing is jettisoned. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N will be launched May 18 on a Boeing Delta IV rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0708

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers help guide the first half of the fairing toward the GOES-N spacecraft. The fairing will be used to encap More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers check the bottom of the fairing halves as they close around the GOES-N satellite. The fairing protects the spacecraft during launch and flight through the atmosphere. Once out of the atmosphere, the fairing is jettisoned. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N will be launched May 18 on a Boeing Delta IV rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0713

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers check the bottom of the fairing halves as they close around the GOES-N satellite. The fairing protects More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers help guide the second half of the fairing toward the GOES-N spacecraft. When both halves are in place, they will encapsulate, or enclose, the GOES-N satellite for launch. The fairing protects the spacecraft during launch and flight through the atmosphere. Once out of the atmosphere, the fairing is jettisoned. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N will be launched May 18 on a Boeing Delta IV rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0711

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., workers help guide the second half of the fairing toward the GOES-N spacecraft. When both halves are in place, t More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the second half of the fairing is raised upright. It will be moved to the GOES-N spacecraft and join the first half. When both halves are in place, they will encapsulate, or enclose, the GOES-N satellite for launch. The fairing protects the spacecraft during launch and flight through the atmosphere. Once out of the atmosphere, the fairing is jettisoned. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N will be launched May 18 on a Boeing Delta IV rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0710

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the second half of the fairing is raised upright. It will be moved to the GOES-N spacecraft and join the first h More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - From a vantage point high on a work platform in the high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker checks the progress of the movement of the fairing halves as they enclose the GOES-N satellite. The fairing protects the spacecraft during launch and flight through the atmosphere. Once out of the atmosphere, the fairing is jettisoned. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N will be launched May 18 on a Boeing Delta IV rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0712

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - From a vantage point high on a work platform in the high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker checks the progress of the movement of the fairing halves More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the encapsulated GOES-N satellite is surrounded by work platforms. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N will be launched May 18 on a Boeing Delta IV rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0714

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the high bay at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the encapsulated GOES-N satellite is surrounded by work platforms. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostati More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On its transporter, the spacecraft GOES-N leaves Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., on its way to Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. At the pad, the spacecraft will be lifted up into the mobile service tower and mated with a Boeing Delta IV rocket for launch. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N is scheduled for launch May 18. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-06pd0753

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On its transporter, the spacecraft GOES-N leaves Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., on its way to Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. At the pad, More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The encapsulated spacecraft GOES-N is ready to be lifted into the mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. It will be mated with a Boeing Delta IV rocket for launch. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N is scheduled for launch May 18. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0757

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The encapsulated spacecraft GOES-N is ready to be lifted into the mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. It will be mated with More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The encapsulated spacecraft GOES-N arrives aboard a transporter on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The spacecraft will be lifted up into the mobile service tower and mated with a Boeing Delta IV rocket for launch. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N is scheduled for launch May 18. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd0756

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The encapsulated spacecraft GOES-N arrives aboard a transporter on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The spacecraft will be lifted up into the mo More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On its transporter, the spacecraft GOES-N travels through the Launch Complex 39 Area at NASA's Kennedy Space Center on its way to Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. At the pad, the spacecraft will be lifted up into the mobile service tower and mated with a Boeing Delta IV rocket for launch. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N is scheduled for launch May 18. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-06pd0754

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On its transporter, the spacecraft GOES-N travels through the Launch Complex 39 Area at NASA's Kennedy Space Center on its way to Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force St More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, workers check the attach points on the GOES-N spacecraft and Boeing Delta IV rocket. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA, providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N is scheduled to be launched May 18 in an hour-long window between 6:14 and 7:14 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Charisse Nahser KSC-06pd0766

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, workers check the attach points on the GOES-N spacecraft and Boeing Delta IV rocke More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N spacecraft is lifted into the mobile service tower. There it will be mated with the second stage of the Boeing Delta IV rocket. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA, providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N is scheduled to be launched May 18 in an hour-long window between 6:14 and 7:14 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Charisse Nahser KSC-06pd0761

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N spacecraft is lifted into the mobile service tower. There it will be mated with the second stage More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N spacecraft arrives at the upper level of the mobile service tower and is moved toward the second stage of the Boeing Delta IV rocket (lower right). GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA, providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N is scheduled to be launched May 18 in an hour-long window between 6:14 and 7:14 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Charisse Nahser KSC-06pd0763

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N spacecraft arrives at the upper level of the mobile service tower and is moved toward the second s More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N spacecraft is lowered toward the second stage of the Boeing Delta IV rocket for mating. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA, providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N is scheduled to be launched May 18 in an hour-long window between 6:14 and 7:14 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Charisse Nahser KSC-06pd0764

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N spacecraft is lowered toward the second stage of the Boeing Delta IV rocket for mating. GOES-N is More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N spacecraft is lifted off its transporter into the mobile service tower. There it will be mated with the second stage of the Boeing Delta IV rocket. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA, providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N is scheduled to be launched May 18 in an hour-long window between 6:14 and 7:14 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Charisse Nahser KSC-06pd0760

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N spacecraft is lifted off its transporter into the mobile service tower. There it will be mated wi More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N spacecraft disappears into the upper levels of the mobile service tower. There it will be mated with the second stage of the Boeing Delta IV rocket. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA, providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N is scheduled to be launched May 18 in an hour-long window between 6:14 and 7:14 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Charisse Nahser KSC-06pd0762

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N spacecraft disappears into the upper levels of the mobile service tower. There it will be mated w More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N spacecraft is ready to be lifted into the mobile service tower. There it will be mated with the second stage of the Boeing Delta IV rocket. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA, providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N is scheduled to be launched May 18 in an hour-long window between 6:14 and 7:14 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Charisse Nahser KSC-06pd0759

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the GOES-N spacecraft is ready to be lifted into the mobile service tower. There it will be mated with the s More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, workers guide the GOES-N spacecraft toward the second stage of the Boeing Delta IV rocket for mating. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA, providing continuous monitoring necessary for intensive data analysis. GOES-N is scheduled to be launched May 18 in an hour-long window between 6:14 and 7:14 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Charisse Nahser KSC-06pd0765

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, workers guide the GOES-N spacecraft toward the second stage of the Boeing Delta I More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Flames and smoke billow out from under the Boeing Delta IV rocket at liftoff, carrying the GOES-N satellite. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was on time at 6:11 p.m. EDT. GOES-N is the latest in the Earth-monitoring series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites developed by NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. By maintaining a stationary orbit, hovering over one position on the Earth's surface, GOES will be able to provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms and hurricanes. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Terry KSC-06pd0946

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Flames and smoke billow out from under the Boeing Delta IV rocket at liftoff, carrying the GOES-N satellite. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station wa More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Boeing Delta IV rocket roars off the launch pad to lift the GOES-N satellite on top into space. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was on time at 6:11 p.m. EDT. GOES-N is the latest in the Earth-monitoring series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites developed by NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. By maintaining a stationary orbit, hovering over one position on the Earth's surface, GOES will be able to provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms and hurricanes. Photo by Carleton Bailie for Boeing KSC-06pd0944

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Boeing Delta IV rocket roars off the launch pad to lift the GOES-N satellite on top into space. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was on time a More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station has been removed from around the Boeing Delta IV rocket that will launch the GOES-N satellite into orbit. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA. A geostationary orbit is one in which a satellite remains in the same position with respect to the rotating Earth. Thus, the satellite hovers continuously over one position on the Earth's surface, appearing stationary. As a result, GOES provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms, and hurricanes. GOES-N is scheduled for launch May 24 in an hour-long window between 6:11 and 7:11 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd0932

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station has been removed from around the Boeing Delta IV rocket that will launch the GOES-N satellite into More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Flames spew from under the Boeing Delta IV rocket at liftoff, carrying the GOES-N satellite. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was on time at 6:11 p.m. EDT. GOES-N is the latest in the Earth-monitoring series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites developed by NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. By maintaining a stationary orbit, hovering over one position on the Earth's surface, GOES will be able to provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms and hurricanes. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Terry KSC-06pd0945

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Flames spew from under the Boeing Delta IV rocket at liftoff, carrying the GOES-N satellite. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was on time at 6:1 More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Amid fire and smoke, the Boeing Delta IV rocket roars into life after ignition to lift the GOES-N satellite on top into space. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was on time at 6:11 p.m. EDT. GOES-N is the latest in the Earth-monitoring series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites developed by NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. By maintaining a stationary orbit, hovering over one position on the Earth's surface, GOES will be able to provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms and hurricanes. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd0936

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Amid fire and smoke, the Boeing Delta IV rocket roars into life after ignition to lift the GOES-N satellite on top into space. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station rolls back to reveal the Boeing Delta IV rocket that will launch the GOES-N satellite into orbit. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA. A geostationary orbit is one in which a satellite remains in the same position with respect to the rotating Earth. Thus, the satellite hovers continuously over one position on the Earth's surface, appearing stationary. As a result, GOES provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms, and hurricanes. GOES-N is scheduled for launch May 24 in an hour-long window between 6:11 and 7:11 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd0930

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station rolls back to reveal the Boeing Delta IV rocket that will launch the GOES-N satellite into orbit. G More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station has been rolled back to reveal the Boeing Delta IV rocket that will launch the GOES-N satellite into orbit. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA. A geostationary orbit is one in which a satellite remains in the same position with respect to the rotating Earth. Thus, the satellite hovers continuously over one position on the Earth's surface, appearing stationary. As a result, GOES provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms, and hurricanes. GOES-N is scheduled for launch May 24 in an hour-long window between 6:11 and 7:11 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd0931

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station has been rolled back to reveal the Boeing Delta IV rocket that will launch the GOES-N satellite int More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station has been removed from around a Boeing Delta IV rocket as preparations continue to launch the GOES-N satellite. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA. A geostationary orbit is one in which a satellite remains in the same position with respect to the rotating Earth. Thus, the satellite hovers continuously over one position on the Earth's surface, appearing stationary. As a result, GOES provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms, and hurricanes. GOES-N is scheduled for launch May 24 in an hour-long window between 6:11 and 7:11 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd0933

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station has been removed from around a Boeing Delta IV rocket as preparations continue to launch the GOES-N More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - As the sun rises, a Boeing Delta IV rocket stands ready to launch the GOES-N satellite at Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA. A geostationary orbit is one in which a satellite remains in the same position with respect to the rotating Earth. Thus, the satellite hovers continuously over one position on the Earth's surface, appearing stationary. As a result, GOES provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms, and hurricanes. GOES-N is scheduled for launch May 24 in an hour-long window between 6:11 and 7:11 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd0929

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - As the sun rises, a Boeing Delta IV rocket stands ready to launch the GOES-N satellite at Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. GOES-N is the latest in a series of More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Boeing Delta IV rocket roars off the launch pad to lift the GOES-N satellite on top into space. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was on time at 6:11 p.m. EDT. GOES-N is the latest in the Earth-monitoring series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites developed by NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. By maintaining a stationary orbit, hovering over one position on the Earth's surface, GOES will be able to provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms and hurricanes. Photo by Carleton Bailie for Boeing KSC-06pd0943

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Boeing Delta IV rocket roars off the launch pad to lift the GOES-N satellite on top into space. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was on time a More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Flames and smoke billow out from under the Boeing Delta IV rocket at liftoff, carrying the GOES-N satellite. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was on time at 6:11 p.m. EDT. GOES-N is the latest in the Earth-monitoring series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites developed by NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. By maintaining a stationary orbit, hovering over one position on the Earth's surface, GOES will be able to provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms and hurricanes. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Terry KSC-06pp0947

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Flames and smoke billow out from under the Boeing Delta IV rocket at liftoff, carrying the GOES-N satellite. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station wa More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station has been removed from around a Boeing Delta IV rocket as preparations continue to launch the GOES-N satellite. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA. A geostationary orbit is one in which a satellite remains in the same position with respect to the rotating Earth. Thus, the satellite hovers continuously over one position on the Earth's surface, appearing stationary. As a result, GOES provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms, and hurricanes. GOES-N is scheduled for launch May 24 in an hour-long window between 6:11 and 7:11 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd0934

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station has been removed from around a Boeing Delta IV rocket as preparations continue to launch the GOES-N More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The GOES-N satellite roars through the thin cloud cover over the Space Coast atop a Boeing Delta IV rocket. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was on time at 6:11 p.m. EDT. GOES-N is the latest in the Earth-monitoring series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites developed by NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. By maintaining a stationary orbit, hovering over one position on the Earth's surface, GOES will be able to provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms and hurricanes. Photo credit: NASA/Debbie Kiger KSC-06pd0935

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The GOES-N satellite roars through the thin cloud cover over the Space Coast atop a Boeing Delta IV rocket. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Spewing fire and smoke, the Boeing Delta IV rocket roars off the launch pad to lift the GOES-N satellite on top into space. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was on time at 6:11 p.m. EDT. GOES-N is the latest in the Earth-monitoring series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites developed by NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. By maintaining a stationary orbit, hovering over one position on the Earth's surface, GOES will be able to provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms and hurricanes. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd0937

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Spewing fire and smoke, the Boeing Delta IV rocket roars off the launch pad to lift the GOES-N satellite on top into space. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Fo More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Flames and smoke billow out from under the Boeing Delta IV rocket at liftoff, carrying the GOES-N satellite. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was on time at 6:11 p.m. EDT. GOES-N is the latest in the Earth-monitoring series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites developed by NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. By maintaining a stationary orbit, hovering over one position on the Earth's surface, GOES will be able to provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms and hurricanes. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Terry KSC-06pp0948

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Flames and smoke billow out from under the Boeing Delta IV rocket at liftoff, carrying the GOES-N satellite. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station wa More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Boeing Delta IV rocket roars off the launch pad to lift the GOES-N satellite on top into space. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was on time at 6:11 p.m. EDT. GOES-N is the latest in the Earth-monitoring series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites developed by NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. By maintaining a stationary orbit, hovering over one position on the Earth's surface, GOES will be able to provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms and hurricanes. Photo by Carleton Bailie for Boeing KSC-06pd0941

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Boeing Delta IV rocket roars off the launch pad to lift the GOES-N satellite on top into space. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was on time a More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Before sunrise, a Boeing Delta IV rocket stands ready to launch the GOES-N satellite at Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites for NOAA and NASA. A geostationary orbit is one in which a satellite remains in the same position with respect to the rotating Earth. Thus, the satellite hovers continuously over one position on the Earth's surface, appearing stationary. As a result, GOES provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms, and hurricanes. GOES-N is scheduled for launch May 24 in an hour-long window between 6:11 and 7:11 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd0928

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Before sunrise, a Boeing Delta IV rocket stands ready to launch the GOES-N satellite at Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. GOES-N is the latest in a series of Ge More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The GOES-N satellite roars through the thin cloud cover over the Space Coast atop a Boeing Delta IV rocket. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was on time at 6:11 p.m. EDT. GOES-N is the latest in the Earth-monitoring series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites developed by NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. By maintaining a stationary orbit, hovering over one position on the Earth's surface, GOES will be able to provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms and hurricanes. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd0938

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The GOES-N satellite roars through the thin cloud cover over the Space Coast atop a Boeing Delta IV rocket. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - With flames close behind it, the Boeing Delta IV rocket roars through the thin cloud cover, lifting the GOES-N satellite in to space. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was on time at 6:11 p.m. EDT. GOES-N is the latest in the Earth-monitoring series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites developed by NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. By maintaining a stationary orbit, hovering over one position on the Earth's surface, GOES will be able to provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms and hurricanes. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd0939

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - With flames close behind it, the Boeing Delta IV rocket roars through the thin cloud cover, lifting the GOES-N satellite in to space. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canav More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Boeing Delta IV rocket roars off the launch pad to lift the GOES-N satellite on top into space. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was on time at 6:11 p.m. EDT. GOES-N is the latest in the Earth-monitoring series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites developed by NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. By maintaining a stationary orbit, hovering over one position on the Earth's surface, GOES will be able to provide a constant vigil for the atmospheric "triggers" for severe weather conditions such as tornadoes, flash floods, hail storms and hurricanes. Photo by Carleton Bailie for Boeing KSC-06pd0942

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Boeing Delta IV rocket roars off the launch pad to lift the GOES-N satellite on top into space. Liftoff from Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was on time a More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite moves away from the barge after being offloaded on the dock on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. It will be transported to Complex 37. The satellite is part of the series developed by the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite Program, a joint effort of NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, known as NOAA. Currently, the GOES system consists of GOES-12 operating as GOES-East in the eastern part of the constellation at 75° west longitude, and GOES-10 operating as GOES-West at 135° west longitude. These spacecraft help meteorologists observe and predict local weather events, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, fog, flash floods, and other severe weather. In addition, GOES observations have proven helpful in monitoring dust storms, volcanic eruptions and forest fires. GOES-O is targeted for launch on July 20 aboard a Boeing Delta IV rocket. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd3612

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite moves away from the barge after being offloaded on the dock on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Flori More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite arrives at Complex 37 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The satellite is part of the series developed by the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite Program, a joint effort of NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, known as NOAA. Currently, the GOES system consists of GOES-12 operating as GOES-East in the eastern part of the constellation at 75° west longitude, and GOES-10 operating as GOES-West at 135° west longitude. These spacecraft help meteorologists observe and predict local weather events, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, fog, flash floods, and other severe weather. In addition, GOES observations have proven helpful in monitoring dust storms, volcanic eruptions and forest fires. GOES-O is targeted for launch on July 20 aboard a Boeing Delta IV rocket. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd3620

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite arrives at Complex 37 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The satellite is part of the serie More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite moves into Complex 37 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The satellite is part of the series developed by the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite Program, a joint effort of NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, known as NOAA. Currently, the GOES system consists of GOES-12 operating as GOES-East in the eastern part of the constellation at 75° west longitude, and GOES-10 operating as GOES-West at 135° west longitude. These spacecraft help meteorologists observe and predict local weather events, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, fog, flash floods, and other severe weather. In addition, GOES observations have proven helpful in monitoring dust storms, volcanic eruptions and forest fires. GOES-O is targeted for launch on July 20 aboard a Boeing Delta IV rocket. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd3621

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite moves into Complex 37 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The satellite is part of the seri More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The GOES-O satellite moves through the gate on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida after arrival at the dock. It is being transported to Complex 37. The satellite is part of the series developed by the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite Program, a joint effort of NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, known as NOAA. Currently, the GOES system consists of GOES-12 operating as GOES-East in the eastern part of the constellation at 75° west longitude, and GOES-10 operating as GOES-West at 135° west longitude. These spacecraft help meteorologists observe and predict local weather events, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, fog, flash floods, and other severe weather. In addition, GOES observations have proven helpful in monitoring dust storms, volcanic eruptions and forest fires. GOES-O is targeted for launch on July 20 aboard a Boeing Delta IV rocket. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd3616

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The GOES-O satellite moves through the gate on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida after arrival at the dock. It is being transported to Complex 37. The satellite is part More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After its arrival at the dock, the Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite nears Complex 37 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The satellite is part of the series developed by the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite Program, a joint effort of NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, known as NOAA. Currently, the GOES system consists of GOES-12 operating as GOES-East in the eastern part of the constellation at 75° west longitude, and GOES-10 operating as GOES-West at 135° west longitude. These spacecraft help meteorologists observe and predict local weather events, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, fog, flash floods, and other severe weather. In addition, GOES observations have proven helpful in monitoring dust storms, volcanic eruptions and forest fires. GOES-O is targeted for launch on July 20 aboard a Boeing Delta IV rocket. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd3619

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After its arrival at the dock, the Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite nears Complex 37 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The sate More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite arrives at the dock on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. It will be transported to Complex 37. The satellite is part of the series developed by the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite Program, a joint effort of NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, known as NOAA. Currently, the GOES system consists of GOES-12 operating as GOES-East in the eastern part of the constellation at 75° west longitude, and GOES-10 operating as GOES-West at 135° west longitude. These spacecraft help meteorologists observe and predict local weather events, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, fog, flash floods, and other severe weather. In addition, GOES observations have proven helpful in monitoring dust storms, volcanic eruptions and forest fires. GOES-O is targeted for launch on July 20 aboard a Boeing Delta IV rocket. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd3610

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite arrives at the dock on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. It will be transported to Complex 3 More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite has been offloaded on the dock on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. It will be transported to Complex 37. The satellite is part of the series developed by the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite Program, a joint effort of NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, known as NOAA. Currently, the GOES system consists of GOES-12 operating as GOES-East in the eastern part of the constellation at 75° west longitude, and GOES-10 operating as GOES-West at 135° west longitude. These spacecraft help meteorologists observe and predict local weather events, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, fog, flash floods, and other severe weather. In addition, GOES observations have proven helpful in monitoring dust storms, volcanic eruptions and forest fires. GOES-O is targeted for launch on July 20 aboard a Boeing Delta IV rocket. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd3614

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite has been offloaded on the dock on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. It will be transported to More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite makes a wide turn toward Complex 37 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The satellite is part of the series developed by the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite Program, a joint effort of NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, known as NOAA. Currently, the GOES system consists of GOES-12 operating as GOES-East in the eastern part of the constellation at 75° west longitude, and GOES-10 operating as GOES-West at 135° west longitude. These spacecraft help meteorologists observe and predict local weather events, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, fog, flash floods, and other severe weather. In addition, GOES observations have proven helpful in monitoring dust storms, volcanic eruptions and forest fires. GOES-O is targeted for launch on July 20 aboard a Boeing Delta IV rocket. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd3618

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite makes a wide turn toward Complex 37 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The satellite is par More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite has been offloaded on the dock on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. It will be transported to Complex 37. The satellite is part of the series developed by the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite Program, a joint effort of NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, known as NOAA. Currently, the GOES system consists of GOES-12 operating as GOES-East in the eastern part of the constellation at 75° west longitude, and GOES-10 operating as GOES-West at 135° west longitude. These spacecraft help meteorologists observe and predict local weather events, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, fog, flash floods, and other severe weather. In addition, GOES observations have proven helpful in monitoring dust storms, volcanic eruptions and forest fires. GOES-O is targeted for launch on July 20 aboard a Boeing Delta IV rocket. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd3613

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite has been offloaded on the dock on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. It will be transported to More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite has been offloaded on the dock on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. It will be transported to Complex 37. The satellite is part of the series developed by the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite Program, a joint effort of NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, known as NOAA. Currently, the GOES system consists of GOES-12 operating as GOES-East in the eastern part of the constellation at 75° west longitude, and GOES-10 operating as GOES-West at 135° west longitude. These spacecraft help meteorologists observe and predict local weather events, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, fog, flash floods, and other severe weather. In addition, GOES observations have proven helpful in monitoring dust storms, volcanic eruptions and forest fires. GOES-O is targeted for launch on July 20 aboard a Boeing Delta IV rocket. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd3615

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite has been offloaded on the dock on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. It will be transported to More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite is offloaded on the dock on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. It will be transported to Complex 37. The satellite is part of the series developed by the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite Program, a joint effort of NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, known as NOAA. Currently, the GOES system consists of GOES-12 operating as GOES-East in the eastern part of the constellation at 75° west longitude, and GOES-10 operating as GOES-West at 135° west longitude. These spacecraft help meteorologists observe and predict local weather events, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, fog, flash floods, and other severe weather. In addition, GOES observations have proven helpful in monitoring dust storms, volcanic eruptions and forest fires. GOES-O is targeted for launch on July 20 aboard a Boeing Delta IV rocket. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd3611

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite is offloaded on the dock on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. It will be transported to Compl More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After arrival at the dock, the Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite moves through Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. It is being transported to Complex 37. The satellite is part of the series developed by the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite Program, a joint effort of NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, known as NOAA. Currently, the GOES system consists of GOES-12 operating as GOES-East in the eastern part of the constellation at 75° west longitude, and GOES-10 operating as GOES-West at 135° west longitude. These spacecraft help meteorologists observe and predict local weather events, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, fog, flash floods, and other severe weather. In addition, GOES observations have proven helpful in monitoring dust storms, volcanic eruptions and forest fires. GOES-O is targeted for launch on July 20 aboard a Boeing Delta IV rocket. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd3617

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After arrival at the dock, the Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite moves through Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. It is being transp More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A truck arrives on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station to deliver its cargo, the second stage of a Delta IV rocket, to the Horizontal Integration Facility. In the background is Launch Complex 37, from where the rocket will launch. The Delta IV will launch the GOES-O satellite late in 2008. GOES – O is one of a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites. The multimission GOES series N-P will be a vital contributor to weather, solar, and space operations and science. NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, are actively engaged in a cooperative program to expand the existing GOES system with the launch of the GOES N-P satellites. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-08pd1595

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A truck arrives on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station to deliver its cargo, the second stage of a Delta IV rocket, to the Horizontal Integration Facility. In the background is Launch Com More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The truck carrying the second stage of a Delta IV rocket arrives inside the Horizontal Integration Facility on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The Delta IV will launch the GOES-O satellite from Launch Complex 37 late in 2008. GOES – O is one of a series of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites. The multimission GOES series N-P will be a vital contributor to weather, solar, and space operations and science. NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, are actively engaged in a cooperative program to expand the existing GOES system with the launch of the GOES N-P satellites. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-08pd1597

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The truck carrying the second stage of a Delta IV rocket arrives inside the Horizontal Integration Facility on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The Delta IV will launch the GOES-O sat More

Soaring Spaceward. NASA public domain image colelction.

Description: A Delta IV rocket soars into the sky with the GOES-O satellite aboard despite the attempts of Florida's typical seasonal weather to thwart the launch. Liftoff was at 6:51 p.m. EDT from Launch Compl More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station rolls back to reveal the Boeing Delta IV rocket that will launch the GOES-O satellite into orbit. The terminal countdown to the liftoff of GOES-O will begin at 12:59 p.m. EDT for a launch window that extends from 6:14 p.m. to 7:14 p.m. June 26. The latest Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite, GOES-O was developed by NASA for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. Each of the GOES satellites continuously provides observations of 60 percent of the Earth including the continental United States, providing weather monitoring and forecast operations as well as a continuous and reliable stream of environmental information and severe weather warnings. Once in orbit, GOES-O will be designated GOES-14, and NASA will provide on-orbit checkout and then transfer operational responsibility to NOAA. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-3846

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station rolls back to reveal the Boeing Delta IV rocket that will launch the GOES-O satellite into orbit. The te More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – As the sun rises on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, preparations are under way to roll the mobile service tower from around the Boeing Delta IV rocket that will launch the GOES-O satellite into orbit. The terminal countdown to the liftoff of GOES-O will begin at 12:59 p.m. EDT for a launch window that extends from 6:14 p.m. to 7:14 p.m. June 26. The latest Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite, GOES-O was developed by NASA for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. Each of the GOES satellites continuously provides observations of 60 percent of the Earth including the continental United States, providing weather monitoring and forecast operations as well as a continuous and reliable stream of environmental information and severe weather warnings. Once in orbit, GOES-O will be designated GOES-14, and NASA will provide on-orbit checkout and then transfer operational responsibility to NOAA. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-3843

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – As the sun rises on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, preparations are under way to roll the mobile service tower from around the Boeing Delta IV rocket that will lau More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A logo applied to the fairing atop the Delta IV rocket awaiting liftoff on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station clearly identifies the payload as the GOES-O satellite. The terminal countdown to the liftoff of GOES-O will begin at 12:59 p.m. EDT for a launch window that extends from 6:14 p.m. to 7:14 p.m. June 26. The latest Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite, GOES-O was developed by NASA for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. Each of the GOES satellites continuously provides observations of 60 percent of the Earth including the continental United States, providing weather monitoring and forecast operations as well as a continuous and reliable stream of environmental information and severe weather warnings. Once in orbit, GOES-O will be designated GOES-14, and NASA will provide on-orbit checkout and then transfer operational responsibility to NOAA. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-3850

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A logo applied to the fairing atop the Delta IV rocket awaiting liftoff on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station clearly identifies the payload as the GOES-O satellite. T More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Workers on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station monitor the movement of the mobile service tower as it slowly rolls away from the Boeing Delta IV rocket that will launch the GOES-O satellite into orbit. The terminal countdown to the liftoff of GOES-O will begin at 12:59 p.m. EDT for a launch window that extends from 6:14 p.m. to 7:14 p.m. June 26. The latest Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite, GOES-O was developed by NASA for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. Each of the GOES satellites continuously provides observations of 60 percent of the Earth including the continental United States, providing weather monitoring and forecast operations as well as a continuous and reliable stream of environmental information and severe weather warnings. Once in orbit, GOES-O will be designated GOES-14, and NASA will provide on-orbit checkout and then transfer operational responsibility to NOAA. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-3847

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Workers on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station monitor the movement of the mobile service tower as it slowly rolls away from the Boeing Delta IV rocket that will launch More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station has been removed from around a Boeing Delta IV rocket as preparations continue to launch the GOES-O satellite. The terminal countdown to the liftoff of GOES-O will begin at 12:59 p.m. EDT for a launch window that extends from 6:14 p.m. to 7:14 p.m. June 26. The latest Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite, GOES-O was developed by NASA for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. Each of the GOES satellites continuously provides observations of 60 percent of the Earth including the continental United States, providing weather monitoring and forecast operations as well as a continuous and reliable stream of environmental information and severe weather warnings. Once in orbit, GOES-O will be designated GOES-14, and NASA will provide on-orbit checkout and then transfer operational responsibility to NOAA. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-3851

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station has been removed from around a Boeing Delta IV rocket as preparations continue to launch the GOES-O satel More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – As the sun rises on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, preparations are under way to roll the mobile service tower from around the Boeing Delta IV rocket that will launch the GOES-O satellite into orbit. The terminal countdown to the liftoff of GOES-O will begin at 12:59 p.m. EDT for a launch window that extends from 6:14 p.m. to 7:14 p.m. June 26. The latest Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite, GOES-O was developed by NASA for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. Each of the GOES satellites continuously provides observations of 60 percent of the Earth including the continental United States, providing weather monitoring and forecast operations as well as a continuous and reliable stream of environmental information and severe weather warnings. Once in orbit, GOES-O will be designated GOES-14, and NASA will provide on-orbit checkout and then transfer operational responsibility to NOAA. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-3844

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – As the sun rises on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, preparations are under way to roll the mobile service tower from around the Boeing Delta IV rocket that will lau More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station has been removed from around a Boeing Delta IV rocket as preparations continue to launch the GOES-O satellite. The terminal countdown to the liftoff of GOES-O will begin at 12:59 p.m. EDT for a launch window that extends from 6:14 p.m. to 7:14 p.m. June 26. The latest Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite, GOES-O was developed by NASA for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. Each of the GOES satellites continuously provides observations of 60 percent of the Earth including the continental United States, providing weather monitoring and forecast operations as well as a continuous and reliable stream of environmental information and severe weather warnings. Once in orbit, GOES-O will be designated GOES-14, and NASA will provide on-orbit checkout and then transfer operational responsibility to NOAA. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-3849

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station has been removed from around a Boeing Delta IV rocket as preparations continue to launch the GOES-O satel More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station has been rolled back to reveal the Boeing Delta IV rocket that will launch the GOES-O satellite into orbit. The terminal countdown to the liftoff of GOES-O will begin at 12:59 p.m. EDT for a launch window that extends from 6:14 p.m. to 7:14 p.m. June 26. The latest Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite, GOES-O was developed by NASA for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. Each of the GOES satellites continuously provides observations of 60 percent of the Earth including the continental United States, providing weather monitoring and forecast operations as well as a continuous and reliable stream of environmental information and severe weather warnings. Once in orbit, GOES-O will be designated GOES-14, and NASA will provide on-orbit checkout and then transfer operational responsibility to NOAA. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-3848

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The mobile service tower on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station has been rolled back to reveal the Boeing Delta IV rocket that will launch the GOES-O satellite into orbi More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Workers on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station monitor the progress of the mobile service tower as it slowly rolls back from the Boeing Delta IV rocket that will launch the GOES-O satellite into orbit. The terminal countdown to the liftoff of GOES-O will begin at 12:59 p.m. EDT for a launch window that extends from 6:14 p.m. to 7:14 p.m. June 26. The latest Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite, GOES-O was developed by NASA for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. Each of the GOES satellites continuously provides observations of 60 percent of the Earth including the continental United States, providing weather monitoring and forecast operations as well as a continuous and reliable stream of environmental information and severe weather warnings. Once in orbit, GOES-O will be designated GOES-14, and NASA will provide on-orbit checkout and then transfer operational responsibility to NOAA. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-3845

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Workers on Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station monitor the progress of the mobile service tower as it slowly rolls back from the Boeing Delta IV rocket that will launch More