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VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- The probe carrier assembly on the THEMIS spacecraft undergoes a vibration test. THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, comprises five identical probes that will study the dynamic and colorful eruptions of auroras. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Oct. 19 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. KSC-06pd1626

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- The probe carrier assembly on the THEMIS spacecraft undergoes a vibration test. THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- The probe carrier assembly on the THEMIS spacecraft undergoes a vibration test (Z-axis). THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, comprises five identical probes that will study the dynamic and colorful eruptions of auroras. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Oct. 19 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. KSC-06pd1630

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- The probe carrier assembly on the THEMIS spacecraft undergoes a vibration test (Z-axis). THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- An overhead crane hoists the probe carrier assembly on the THEMIS spacecraft to the vibration table (Z-axis). THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, comprises five identical probes that will study the dynamic and colorful eruptions of auroras. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Oct. 19 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. KSC-06pd1628

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- An overhead crane hoists the probe carrier assembly on the THEMIS spacecraft to the vibration table (Z-axis). THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events and Macroscale More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- The probe carrier assembly on the THEMIS spacecraft undergoes a vibration test (Z-axis). THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, comprises five identical probes that will study the dynamic and colorful eruptions of auroras. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Oct. 19 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. KSC-06pd1629

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, CALIF. -- The probe carrier assembly on the THEMIS spacecraft undergoes a vibration test (Z-axis). THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., an overhead crane is in position to lift the crate from one of the components of the recently arrived THEMIS spacecraft. THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, comprises five identical probes that will study the dynamic and colorful eruptions of auroras. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2789

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., an overhead crane is in position to lift the crate from one of the components of the recently arrived THEMIS spacecraft. THEMIS More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- With workers standing by at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., an overhead crane lifts the crate from one of the components of the recently arrived THEMIS spacecraft. THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, comprises five identical probes that will study the dynamic and colorful eruptions of auroras. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2790

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- With workers standing by at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., an overhead crane lifts the crate from one of the components of the recently arrived THEMIS spacecraft More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- One of several crates containing the components of the THEMIS spacecraft is moved into Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla. THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, comprises five identical probes that will study the dynamic and colorful eruptions of auroras. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2786

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- One of several crates containing the components of the THEMIS spacecraft is moved into Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla. THEMIS, which stands for Time History of E More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The truck carrying the THEMIS spacecraft arrives at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla. THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, comprises five identical probes that will study the dynamic and colorful eruptions of auroras. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2784

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The truck carrying the THEMIS spacecraft arrives at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla. THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions d More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- One of several crates containing the components of the THEMIS spacecraft is offloaded from a truck at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla. THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, comprises five identical probes that will study the dynamic and colorful eruptions of auroras. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2785

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- One of several crates containing the components of the THEMIS spacecraft is offloaded from a truck at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla. THEMIS, which stands for Time More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Workers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., wipe down the crates containing the probes of the THEMIS spacecraft. THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, comprises five identical probes that will study the dynamic and colorful eruptions of auroras. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2787

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Workers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., wipe down the crates containing the probes of the THEMIS spacecraft. THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., one of the probes of the THEMIS spacecraft is revealed after the crate and cover were removed. THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, comprises five identical probes that will study the dynamic and colorful eruptions of auroras. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2792

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., one of the probes of the THEMIS spacecraft is revealed after the crate and cover were removed. THEMIS, which stands for Time H More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker removes the protective cover from one of the components of the recently arrived THEMIS spacecraft. THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, comprises five identical probes that will study the dynamic and colorful eruptions of auroras. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2791

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., a worker removes the protective cover from one of the components of the recently arrived THEMIS spacecraft. THEMIS, which stand More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., one of the probes of the THEMIS spacecraft is revealed after the crate and cover were removed. THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, comprises five identical probes that will study the dynamic and colorful eruptions of auroras. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2793

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., one of the probes of the THEMIS spacecraft is revealed after the crate and cover were removed. THEMIS, which stands for Time H More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Workers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., wipe down the crates containing the probes of the THEMIS spacecraft. THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, comprises five identical probes that will study the dynamic and colorful eruptions of auroras. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2788

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Workers at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., wipe down the crates containing the probes of the THEMIS spacecraft. THEMIS, which stands for Time History of Events More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- THEMIS logo: NASA's 2-year Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms (THEMIS) mission consists of five identical probes that will track these violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. When the five identical probes align over the North American continent, scientists will collect coordinated measurements along the Sun-Earth line, allowing the first comprehensive look at the onset of substorms and how they trigger auroral eruptions. Over the mission’s lifetime, the probes should be able to observe some 30 substorms – sufficient to finally know their origin. THEMIS is a NASA-funded mission managed by the Explorers Program Office at Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md. The Space Science Laboratory at the University of California at Berkeley is responsible for the project management, science instruments, mission integration, post launch operations and data analysis. Swales Aerospace of Beltsville, Md., manufactured the THEMIS spacecraft bus. KSC-06pd2798

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- THEMIS logo: NASA's 2-year Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms (THEMIS) mission consists of five identical probes that will track these violent, More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers observe and help guide the second half of the fairing toward the THEMIS spacecraft. The first half has already been put in place. The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the Delta II upper stage booster and forms an aerodynamically smooth nose cone, protecting the spacecraft during launch and ascent. THEMIS is an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms. THEMIS consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the tantalizing mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch of THEMIS is scheduled for Feb. 15 aboard a Delta II rocket, with the launch service being conducted by the United Launch Alliance. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0343

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers observe and help guide the second half of the fairing toward the THEMIS spacecraft. The firs More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers prepare to install the fairing, seen in the background, around the THEMIS spacecraft. The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the Delta II upper stage booster and forms an aerodynamically smooth nose cone, protecting the spacecraft during launch and ascent. THEMIS is an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms. THEMIS consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the tantalizing mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch of THEMIS is scheduled for Feb. 15 aboard a Delta II rocket, with the launch service being conducted by the United Launch Alliance. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd0337

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers prepare to install the fairing, seen in the background, around the THEMIS spacecraft. The fai More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the first half of the fairing is moved into place around the THEMIS spacecraft. The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the Delta II upper stage booster and forms an aerodynamically smooth nose cone, protecting the spacecraft during launch and ascent. THEMIS is an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms. THEMIS consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the tantalizing mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch of THEMIS is scheduled for Feb. 15 aboard a Delta II rocket, with the launch service being conducted by the United Launch Alliance. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0339

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the first half of the fairing is moved into place around the THEMIS spacecraft. The fairing is a mol More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers prepare to join the two fairing segments around the THEMIS spacecraft. The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the Delta II upper stage booster and forms an aerodynamically smooth nose cone, protecting the spacecraft during launch and ascent. THEMIS is an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms. THEMIS consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the tantalizing mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch of THEMIS is scheduled for Feb. 15 aboard a Delta II rocket, with the launch service being conducted by the United Launch Alliance. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0344

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers prepare to join the two fairing segments around the THEMIS spacecraft. The fairing is a molde More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the second half of the fairing, at right, moves toward the waiting THEMIS spacecraft. The first half has already been put in place. The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the Delta II upper stage booster and forms an aerodynamically smooth nose cone, protecting the spacecraft during launch and ascent. THEMIS is an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms. THEMIS consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the tantalizing mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch of THEMIS is scheduled for Feb. 15 aboard a Delta II rocket, with the launch service being conducted by the United Launch Alliance. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0342

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the second half of the fairing, at right, moves toward the waiting THEMIS spacecraft. The first half More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the first half of the fairing is in place around the THEMIS spacecraft and workers turn to wait for the second half. The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the Delta II upper stage booster and forms an aerodynamically smooth nose cone, protecting the spacecraft during launch and ascent. THEMIS is an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms. THEMIS consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the tantalizing mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch of THEMIS is scheduled for Feb. 15 aboard a Delta II rocket, with the launch service being conducted by the United Launch Alliance. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0341

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the first half of the fairing is in place around the THEMIS spacecraft and workers turn to wait for th More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the THEMIS spacecraft is being prepared for installation of the fairing. The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the Delta II upper stage booster and forms an aerodynamically smooth nose cone, protecting the spacecraft during launch and ascent. THEMIS is an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms. THEMIS consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the tantalizing mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch of THEMIS is scheduled for Feb. 15 aboard a Delta II rocket, with the launch service being conducted by the United Launch Alliance. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd0338

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the THEMIS spacecraft is being prepared for installation of the fairing. The fairing is a molded stru More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers prepare to install the fairing around the THEMIS spacecraft. The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the Delta II upper stage booster and forms an aerodynamically smooth nose cone, protecting the spacecraft during launch and ascent. THEMIS is an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms. THEMIS consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the tantalizing mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch of THEMIS is scheduled for Feb. 15 aboard a Delta II rocket, with the launch service being conducted by the United Launch Alliance. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd0336

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers prepare to install the fairing around the THEMIS spacecraft. The fairing is a molded structur More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the first half of the fairing is moved into place around the THEMIS spacecraft. The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the Delta II upper stage booster and forms an aerodynamically smooth nose cone, protecting the spacecraft during launch and ascent. THEMIS is an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms. THEMIS consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the tantalizing mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch of THEMIS is scheduled for Feb. 15 aboard a Delta II rocket, with the launch service being conducted by the United Launch Alliance. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0340

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the first half of the fairing is moved into place around the THEMIS spacecraft. The fairing is a mold More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the two fairing segments come together around the THEMIS spacecraft. The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the Delta II upper stage booster and forms an aerodynamically smooth nose cone, protecting the spacecraft during launch and ascent. THEMIS is an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms. THEMIS consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the tantalizing mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch of THEMIS is scheduled for Feb. 15 aboard a Delta II rocket, with the launch service being conducted by the United Launch Alliance. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0345

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the two fairing segments come together around the THEMIS spacecraft. The fairing is a molded structur More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In this aerial view, the Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft sits ready for launch on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, as the mobile service tower moves away from the pad. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch is scheduled for 6:05 p.m. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0419

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In this aerial view, the Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft sits ready for launch on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, as the mobile service tower moves away fr More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In this close-up aerial view, the Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop sits ready for launch on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch is scheduled for 6:05 p.m. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0418

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In this close-up aerial view, the Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop sits ready for launch on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. THEMIS, an acronym for Tim More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In this close-up aerial view, the Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop sits ready for launch on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station as the mobile service tower begins to move away. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch is scheduled for 6:05 p.m. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0416

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In this close-up aerial view, the Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop sits ready for launch on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station as the mobile service tower More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop sits ready for launch on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station after the mobile service tower moves away from the pad. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch is scheduled for 6:05 p.m. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0412

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop sits ready for launch on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station after the mobile service tower moves away from the pad. T More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop sits ready for launch on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station after the mobile service tower moves away from the pad. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch is scheduled for 6:05 p.m. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0414

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop sits ready for launch on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station after the mobile service tower moves away from the pad. T More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the mobile service tower moves away from the Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch is scheduled for 6:05 p.m. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0410

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the mobile service tower moves away from the Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop. THEMIS, an acronym for Time Hi More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In this close-up aerial view, the Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop sits ready for launch on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station as the mobile service tower moves away from the pad. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch is scheduled for 6:05 p.m. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0417

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In this close-up aerial view, the Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop sits ready for launch on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station as the mobile service tower More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop awaits launch on Pad 17-B. Friday's launch attempt was scrubbed due to upper-level wind violation. The launch window is 6:01 p.m. to 6:19 p.m. EST on Saturday. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0420

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop awaits launch on Pad 17-B. Friday's launch attempt was scrubbed due to upper-level wind vio More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop sits ready for launch on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in this aerial view of the launch complex area as the mobile service tower begins to move away. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch is scheduled for 6:05 p.m. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0415

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop sits ready for launch on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in this aerial view of the launch complex area as the mobi More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the mobile service tower surrounds the Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch is scheduled for 6:05 p.m. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0409

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the mobile service tower surrounds the Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop sits ready for launch on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station after the mobile service tower moves away from the pad. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch is scheduled for 6:05 p.m. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0413

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop sits ready for launch on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station after the mobile service tower moves away from the pad. T More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, an unusual view of the Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop gives the solid rocket boosters a "larger than life" appearance as the mobile service tower moves away. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch is scheduled for 6:05 p.m. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0411

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, an unusual view of the Delta II rocket with the THEMIS spacecraft atop gives the solid rocket boosters a "larger than life" More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A weather balloon takes flight from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station weather station. The balloon is equipped with a radiosonde, an instrument that transmits measurements on atmospheric pressure, humidity, temperature and winds as it ascends. The data will be used to determine if conditions are acceptable for the launch of NASA's THEMIS mission. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch is planned from Pad 17-B in a window that extends from 6:01 to 6:19 p.m. EST. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0425

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A weather balloon takes flight from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station weather station. The balloon is equipped with a radiosonde, an instrument that transmits measurements on at More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Amid billows of smoke, the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard lifts off Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0430

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Amid billows of smoke, the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard lifts off Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym for Time More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Amid billows of smoke, the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard lifts off Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0432

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Amid billows of smoke, the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard lifts off Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym for Time More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, clouds of smoke envelop the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard as it blasts off Pad 17-B at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Photo credit: NASA/Jerry Cannon KSC-07pd0442

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, clouds of smoke envelop the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard as it blasts off Pad 17-B at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard lifts off Pad 17-B on a crisp Florida evening at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0431

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard lifts off Pad 17-B on a crisp Florida evening at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym for More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, clouds of smoke encompass the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard as it blasts off Pad 17-B, in sight of the Atlantic Ocean, at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Photo credit: NASA/Regina Mitchell-Ryall, Robert Murray, Tony Gray KSC-07pd0438

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, clouds of smoke encompass the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard as it blasts off Pad 17-B, in sight of the Atlantic Ocean, a More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A weather balloon is prepared for release at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station weather station. The balloon is equipped with a radiosonde, an instrument that transmits measurements on atmospheric pressure, humidity, temperature and winds as it ascends. The data will be used to determine if conditions are acceptable for the launch of NASA's THEMIS mission. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch is planned from Pad 17-B in a window that extends from 6:01 to 6:19 p.m. EST. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0421

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A weather balloon is prepared for release at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station weather station. The balloon is equipped with a radiosonde, an instrument that transmits measureme More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard lifts off Pad 17-B on a crisp Florida evening at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Photo credit: NASA/Jerry Cannon KSC-07pd0439

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard lifts off Pad 17-B on a crisp Florida evening at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym for More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A radiosonde, an instrument that transmits measurements on atmospheric pressure, humidity, temperature and winds, is prepared for use on a weather balloon at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station weather station. The data it returns will be used to determine if conditions are acceptable for the launch of NASA's THEMIS mission. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch is planned from Pad 17-B in a window that extends from 6:01 to 6:19 p.m. EST. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0422

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A radiosonde, an instrument that transmits measurements on atmospheric pressure, humidity, temperature and winds, is prepared for use on a weather balloon at the Cape Canaveral Air More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A worker prepares a weather balloon for release at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station weather station. The balloon is equipped with a radiosonde, an instrument that transmits measurements on atmospheric pressure, humidity, temperature and winds as it ascends. The data will be used to determine if conditions are acceptable for the launch of NASA's THEMIS mission. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch is planned from Pad 17-B in a window that extends from 6:01 to 6:19 p.m. EST. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0427

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A worker prepares a weather balloon for release at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station weather station. The balloon is equipped with a radiosonde, an instrument that transmits mea More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Right on schedule, six solid rocket boosters fall away from the Delta II rocket carrying NASA's THEMIS spacecraft to orbit. The first six boosters were jettisoned after 66 seconds of flight. The rocket has a total of nine boosters. Launch was at 6:01 p.m. EST from Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-07pd0444

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Right on schedule, six solid rocket boosters fall away from the Delta II rocket carrying NASA's THEMIS spacecraft to orbit. The first six boosters were jettisoned after 66 seconds More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard begins its ascent from Pad 17-B on a crisp Florida evening at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Photo credit: NASA/Sandra Joseph, Ralph Hernandez KSC-07pd0435

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard begins its ascent from Pad 17-B on a crisp Florida evening at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, a More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Amid billows of smoke, the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard blasts off Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Photo credit: NASA/Sandra Joseph, Ralph Hernandez KSC-07pd0433

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Amid billows of smoke, the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard blasts off Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym for Tim More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, clouds of smoke form around the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard as it blasts off Pad 17-B at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Photo credit: NASA/Jerry Cannon KSC-07pd0441

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, clouds of smoke form around the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard as it blasts off Pad 17-B at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acr More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A worker prepares to release a weather balloon outside the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station weather station. The balloon is equipped with a radiosonde, an instrument that transmits measurements on atmospheric pressure, humidity, temperature and winds as it ascends. The data will be used to determine if conditions are acceptable for the launch of NASA's THEMIS mission. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch is planned from Pad 17-B in a window that extends from 6:01 to 6:19 p.m. EST. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0428

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A worker prepares to release a weather balloon outside the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station weather station. The balloon is equipped with a radiosonde, an instrument that transmits More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Clouds of smoke encompass the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard as it blasts off Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Photo credit: NASA/Sandra Joseph, Ralph Hernandez KSC-07pd0436

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Clouds of smoke encompass the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard as it blasts off Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acrony More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A worker prepares a weather balloon for release at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station weather station. The balloon is equipped with a radiosonde, an instrument that transmits measurements on atmospheric pressure, humidity, temperature and winds as it ascends. The data will be used to determine if conditions are acceptable for the launch of NASA's THEMIS mission. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch is planned from Pad 17-B in a window that extends from 6:01 to 6:19 p.m. EST. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0426

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A worker prepares a weather balloon for release at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station weather station. The balloon is equipped with a radiosonde, an instrument that transmits mea More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Amid billows of smoke, the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard blasts off Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Photo credit: NASA/Jerry Cannon KSC-07pd0440

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Amid billows of smoke, the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard blasts off Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym for Tim More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard begins its journey to orbit at 6:01 p.m. EST from Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-07pd0443

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard begins its journey to orbit at 6:01 p.m. EST from Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. THEMIS, an acronym for Time More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A worker releases a weather balloon at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station weather station. The balloon is equipped with a radiosonde, an instrument that transmits measurements on atmospheric pressure, humidity, temperature and winds as it ascends. The data will be used to determine if conditions are acceptable for the launch of NASA's THEMIS mission. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch is planned from Pad 17-B in a window that extends from 6:01 to 6:19 p.m. EST. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd0424

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A worker releases a weather balloon at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station weather station. The balloon is equipped with a radiosonde, an instrument that transmits measurements on More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard begins its ascent from Pad 17-B, in sight of the Atlantic Ocean, at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Photo credit: NASA/Regina MItchell-Ryall, Robert Murray, Tony Gray KSC-07pd0437

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard begins its ascent from Pad 17-B, in sight of the Atlantic Ocean, at 6:01 p.m. EST. THE More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Two weather balloons take flight from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station weather station. Each balloon is equipped with a radiosonde, an instrument that transmits measurements on atmospheric pressure, humidity, temperature and winds as it ascends. The data will be used to determine if conditions are acceptable for the launch of NASA's THEMIS mission. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Launch is planned from Pad 17-B in a window that extends from 6:01 to 6:19 p.m. EST. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0429

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Two weather balloons take flight from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station weather station. Each balloon is equipped with a radiosonde, an instrument that transmits measurements on More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Clouds of smoke encompass the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard as it blasts off Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acronym for Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms, consists of five identical probes that will track violent, colorful eruptions near the North Pole. This will be the largest number of scientific satellites NASA has ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. The THEMIS mission aims to unravel the mystery behind auroral substorms, an avalanche of magnetic energy powered by the solar wind that intensifies the northern and southern lights. The mission will investigate what causes auroras in the Earth’s atmosphere to dramatically change from slowly shimmering waves of light to wildly shifting streaks of bright color. Photo credit: NASA/Sandra Joseph, Ralph Hernandez KSC-07pd0434

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Clouds of smoke encompass the Delta II rocket with NASA's THEMIS spacecraft aboard as it blasts off Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 6:01 p.m. EST. THEMIS, an acrony More