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KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, workers move the platform with the Phoenix spacecraft into another room. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, last attempted with NASA’s Viking missions in the 1970s. A stereo color camera and a weather station will study the surrounding environment while the other instruments check excavated soil samples for water, organic chemicals and conditions that could indicate whether the site was ever hospitable to life. Microscopes can reveal features as small as one one-thousandth the width of a human hair. Launch of Phoenix aboard a Delta II rocket is targeted for Aug. 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1064

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, workers move the platform with the Phoenix spacecraft into another room. The Phoenix mission is the first proj More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III lands at the Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility carrying the Phoenix spacecraft. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, last attempted with NASA’s Viking missions in the 1970s. A stereo color camera and a weather station will study the surrounding environment while the other instruments check excavated soil samples for water, organic chemicals and conditions that could indicate whether the site was ever hospitable to life. Microscopes can reveal features as small as one one-thousandth the width of a human hair. Launch of Phoenix aboard a Delta II rocket is targeted for Aug. 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Charisse Nahser KSC-07pd1055

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III lands at the Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility carrying the Phoenix spacecraft. The Phoenix mission is the first project in More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After its arrival at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, the crated Phoenix spacecraft has been placed on a flat bed truck for transportation to the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, last attempted with NASA’s Viking missions in the 1970s. A stereo color camera and a weather station will study the surrounding environment while the other instruments check excavated soil samples for water, organic chemicals and conditions that could indicate whether the site was ever hospitable to life. Microscopes can reveal features as small as one one-thousandth the width of a human hair. Launch of Phoenix aboard a Delta II rocket is targeted for Aug. 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Charisse Nahser KSC-07pd1059

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After its arrival at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, the crated Phoenix spacecraft has been placed on a flat bed truck for transportation to the Payload Hazardous More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, workers dressed in clean-room garb begin removing the protective wrapping from around the Phoenix spacecraft. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, last attempted with NASA’s Viking missions in the 1970s. A stereo color camera and a weather station will study the surrounding environment while the other instruments check excavated soil samples for water, organic chemicals and conditions that could indicate whether the site was ever hospitable to life. Microscopes can reveal features as small as one one-thousandth the width of a human hair. Launch of Phoenix aboard a Delta II rocket is targeted for Aug. 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1065

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, workers dressed in clean-room garb begin removing the protective wrapping from around the Phoenix spacecraft. More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, a crane lifts the shipping crate from around the Phoenix spacecraft. The spacecraft arrived May 7 via a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III at the Shuttle Landing Facility. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, last attempted with NASA’s Viking missions in the 1970s. A stereo color camera and a weather station will study the surrounding environment while the other instruments check excavated soil samples for water, organic chemicals and conditions that could indicate whether the site was ever hospitable to life. Microscopes can reveal features as small as one one-thousandth the width of a human hair. Launch of Phoenix aboard a Delta II rocket is targeted for Aug. 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1062

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, a crane lifts the shipping crate from around the Phoenix spacecraft. The spacecraft arrived May 7 via a U.S. More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, the crated Phoenix spacecraft is maneuvered away from the U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III that delivered it. The crate will be transported to the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, last attempted with NASA’s Viking missions in the 1970s. A stereo color camera and a weather station will study the surrounding environment while the other instruments check excavated soil samples for water, organic chemicals and conditions that could indicate whether the site was ever hospitable to life. Microscopes can reveal features as small as one one-thousandth the width of a human hair. Launch of Phoenix aboard a Delta II rocket is targeted for Aug. 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Charisse Nahser KSC-07pd1058

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, the crated Phoenix spacecraft is maneuvered away from the U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III that delivered it. The crate will More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After its arrival at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, the crated Phoenix spacecraft is secure on a flat bed truck for transportation to the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, last attempted with NASA’s Viking missions in the 1970s. A stereo color camera and a weather station will study the surrounding environment while the other instruments check excavated soil samples for water, organic chemicals and conditions that could indicate whether the site was ever hospitable to life. Microscopes can reveal features as small as one one-thousandth the width of a human hair. Launch of Phoenix aboard a Delta II rocket is targeted for Aug. 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Charisse Nahser KSC-07pd1060

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After its arrival at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, the crated Phoenix spacecraft is secure on a flat bed truck for transportation to the Payload Hazardous Servi More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, a crane lifts the shipping crate from around the Phoenix spacecraft. The spacecraft arrived May 7 via a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III at the Shuttle Landing Facility. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, last attempted with NASA’s Viking missions in the 1970s. A stereo color camera and a weather station will study the surrounding environment while the other instruments check excavated soil samples for water, organic chemicals and conditions that could indicate whether the site was ever hospitable to life. Microscopes can reveal features as small as one one-thousandth the width of a human hair. Launch of Phoenix aboard a Delta II rocket is targeted for Aug. 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1061

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, a crane lifts the shipping crate from around the Phoenix spacecraft. The spacecraft arrived May 7 via a U.S. More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, workers oversee the offloading of the crated Phoenix spacecraft inside the cargo hold of a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III. The crate will be transported to the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, last attempted with NASA’s Viking missions in the 1970s. A stereo color camera and a weather station will study the surrounding environment while the other instruments check excavated soil samples for water, organic chemicals and conditions that could indicate whether the site was ever hospitable to life. Microscopes can reveal features as small as one one-thousandth the width of a human hair. Launch of Phoenix aboard a Delta II rocket is targeted for Aug. 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Charisse Nahser KSC-07pd1057

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, workers oversee the offloading of the crated Phoenix spacecraft inside the cargo hold of a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III. More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, the cargo hold of this U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III opens to reveal the crated Phoenix spacecraft inside. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, last attempted with NASA’s Viking missions in the 1970s. A stereo color camera and a weather station will study the surrounding environment while the other instruments check excavated soil samples for water, organic chemicals and conditions that could indicate whether the site was ever hospitable to life. Microscopes can reveal features as small as one one-thousandth the width of a human hair. Launch of Phoenix aboard a Delta II rocket is targeted for Aug. 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Charisse Nahser KSC-07pd1056

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, the cargo hold of this U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III opens to reveal the crated Phoenix spacecraft inside. The Phoenix m More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, media dressed in clean-room garb document the arrival of the Phoenix spacecraft. The spacecraft arrived May 7 via a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III at the Shuttle Landing Facility. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, last attempted with NASA’s Viking missions in the 1970s. A stereo color camera and a weather station will study the surrounding environment while the other instruments check excavated soil samples for water, organic chemicals and conditions that could indicate whether the site was ever hospitable to life. Microscopes can reveal features as small as one one-thousandth the width of a human hair. Launch of Phoenix aboard a Delta II rocket is targeted for Aug. 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1063

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, media dressed in clean-room garb document the arrival of the Phoenix spacecraft. The spacecraft arrived May 7 More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The unwrapped Phoenix spacecraft is on display in the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, last attempted with NASA’s Viking missions in the 1970s. A stereo color camera and a weather station will study the surrounding environment while the other instruments check excavated soil samples for water, organic chemicals and conditions that could indicate whether the site was ever hospitable to life. Microscopes can reveal features as small as one one-thousandth the width of a human hair. Launch of Phoenix aboard a Delta II rocket is targeted for Aug. 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1067

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The unwrapped Phoenix spacecraft is on display in the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Ma More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, workers dressed in clean-room garb remove the protective wrapping from around the Phoenix spacecraft. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, last attempted with NASA’s Viking missions in the 1970s. A stereo color camera and a weather station will study the surrounding environment while the other instruments check excavated soil samples for water, organic chemicals and conditions that could indicate whether the site was ever hospitable to life. Microscopes can reveal features as small as one one-thousandth the width of a human hair. Launch of Phoenix aboard a Delta II rocket is targeted for Aug. 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1066

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, workers dressed in clean-room garb remove the protective wrapping from around the Phoenix spacecraft. The Phoe More

Phoenix Spacecraft Heat Shield Deployment Test

In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers monitor the Phoenix spacecraft during a heat shield deployment test, with a firing of ordnance associated with the separation device. Phoenix will land in ic More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers prepare to put the Phoenix spacecraft through a heat shield deployment test, with a firing of ordnance associated with the separation device. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Launch of Phoenix aboard a Delta II rocket is targeted for Aug. 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1221

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers prepare to put the Phoenix spacecraft through a heat shield deployment test, with a firing of ordnance associated with the se More

Phoenix Spacecraft Heat Shield Deployment Test

In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, a worker monitors the Phoenix spacecraft during a heat shield deployment test, with a firing of ordnance associated with the separation device. Phoenix will land in More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In Hangar A&O at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, United Launch Alliance workers prepare the Delta II second stage for the Phoenix spacecraft. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Launch of Phoenix aboard a Delta II rocket is targeted for Aug. 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-07pd1226

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In Hangar A&O at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, United Launch Alliance workers prepare the Delta II second stage for the Phoenix spacecraft. Phoenix will land in icy soils near More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers monitor the Phoenix spacecraft during a heat shield deployment test, with a firing of ordnance associated with the separation device. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Launch of Phoenix aboard a Delta II rocket is targeted for Aug. 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1225

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers monitor the Phoenix spacecraft during a heat shield deployment test, with a firing of ordnance associated with the separation More

Phoenix Spacecraft Heat Shield Deployment Test

In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers monitor the Phoenix spacecraft during a heat shield deployment test, with a firing of ordnance associated with the separation device. Phoenix will land in ic More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, a worker monitors the Phoenix spacecraft during a heat shield deployment test, with a firing of ordnance associated with the separation device. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Launch of Phoenix aboard a Delta II rocket is targeted for Aug. 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1223

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, a worker monitors the Phoenix spacecraft during a heat shield deployment test, with a firing of ordnance associated with the separatio More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, the Phoenix spacecraft undergoes a heat shield deployment test, with a firing of ordnance associated with the separation device. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Launch of Phoenix aboard a Delta II rocket is targeted for Aug. 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1222

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, the Phoenix spacecraft undergoes a heat shield deployment test, with a firing of ordnance associated with the separation device. Ph More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers monitor the Phoenix spacecraft during a heat shield deployment test, with a firing of ordnance associated with the separation device. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Launch of Phoenix aboard a Delta II rocket is targeted for Aug. 3 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1224

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers monitor the Phoenix spacecraft during a heat shield deployment test, with a firing of ordnance associated with the separation More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An overhead crane lifts the Phoenix spacecraft from its stand for a move to a rotation stand for an interim weight and center of gravity determination. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1338

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An overhead crane lifts the Phoenix spacecraft from its stand for a move to a rotation stand for an interim weight and center of gravity determination. The Phoenix mission is the More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Workers in the Payload Handling Servicing Facility attach an overhead crane to the Phoenix spacecraft. The spacecraft will be lifted and moved to a rotation stand for an interim weight and center of gravity determination. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1337

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Workers in the Payload Handling Servicing Facility attach an overhead crane to the Phoenix spacecraft. The spacecraft will be lifted and moved to a rotation stand for an interi More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Handling Servicing Facility, an overhead crane lifts the Phoenix spacecraft from its stand for a move to a rotation stand for an interim weight and center of gravity determination. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1339

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Handling Servicing Facility, an overhead crane lifts the Phoenix spacecraft from its stand for a move to a rotation stand for an interim weight and center of gravity More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Handling Servicing Facility, the Phoenix spacecraft is being rotated for center of gravity determination. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1344

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Handling Servicing Facility, the Phoenix spacecraft is being rotated for center of gravity determination. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first o More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Handling Servicing Facility, the Phoenix spacecraft is being rotated for center of gravity determination. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1342

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Handling Servicing Facility, the Phoenix spacecraft is being rotated for center of gravity determination. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Handling Servicing Facility, an overhead crane lowers the Phoenix spacecraft onto a rotation stand for an interim weight and center of gravity determination. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1341

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Handling Servicing Facility, an overhead crane lowers the Phoenix spacecraft onto a rotation stand for an interim weight and center of gravity determination. The Pho More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Handling Servicing Facility, an overhead crane lifts the Phoenix spacecraft from its stand for a move to a rotation stand for an interim weight and center of gravity determination. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1340

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Handling Servicing Facility, an overhead crane lifts the Phoenix spacecraft from its stand for a move to a rotation stand for an interim weight and center of gravity More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Handling Servicing Facility, the Phoenix spacecraft is upside down during rotation. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1345

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Handling Servicing Facility, the Phoenix spacecraft is upside down during rotation. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Handling Servicing Facility, the Phoenix spacecraft is being rotated for center of gravity determination. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. It will serve as NASA's first exploration of a potential modern habitat on Mars and open the door to a renewed search for carbon-bearing compounds, Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1343

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Handling Servicing Facility, the Phoenix spacecraft is being rotated for center of gravity determination. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first o More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers integrate the landing radar with the Phoenix spacecraft. Testing will follow. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1382

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers integrate the landing radar with the Phoenix spacecraft. Testing will follow. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, the landing radar is integrated with the Phoenix spacecraft. Testing will follow. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1378

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, the landing radar is integrated with the Phoenix spacecraft. Testing will follow. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers integrate the landing radar with the Phoenix spacecraft. Testing will follow. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1379

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers integrate the landing radar with the Phoenix spacecraft. Testing will follow. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NAS More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers integrate the landing radar with the Phoenix spacecraft. Testing will follow. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1381

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers integrate the landing radar with the Phoenix spacecraft. Testing will follow. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers integrate the landing radar with the Phoenix spacecraft. Testing will follow. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1380

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers integrate the landing radar with the Phoenix spacecraft. Testing will follow. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A closeup of the landing radar installed on the Phoenix spacecraft. Testing will follow. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars Scout missions. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1383

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A closeup of the landing radar installed on the Phoenix spacecraft. Testing will follow. The Phoenix mission is the first project in NASA's first openly competed program of Mars More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the first stage of a Delta II rocket is raised off the transporter beneath the mobile service tower. The rocket is the launch vehicle for the Phoenix spacecraft, targeted for launch on Aug. 3 heading for Mars. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller KSC-07pd1552

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the first stage of a Delta II rocket is raised off the transporter beneath the mobile service tower. The rocket is the lau More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers prepare the first stage of a Delta II rocket to be lifted up into the mobile service tower. The rocket is the launch vehicle for the Phoenix spacecraft, targeted for launch on Aug. 3 heading for Mars. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller KSC-07pd1553A

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers prepare the first stage of a Delta II rocket to be lifted up into the mobile service tower. The rocket is the laun More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the first stage of a Delta II rocket has been lifted into the mobile service tower. The rocket is the launch vehicle for the Phoenix spacecraft, targeted for launch on Aug. 3 heading for Mars. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller KSC-07pd1554

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the first stage of a Delta II rocket has been lifted into the mobile service tower. The rocket is the launch vehicle for t More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The first stage of a Delta II rocket arrives on Launch Pad 17-A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The rocket is the launch vehicle for the Phoenix spacecraft, targeted for launch on Aug. 3 heading for Mars. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller KSC-07pd1549

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The first stage of a Delta II rocket arrives on Launch Pad 17-A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The rocket is the launch vehicle for the Phoenix spacecraft, targeted for lau More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the first stage of a Delta II rocket is raised off the transporter beneath the mobile service tower. The rocket is the launch vehicle for the Phoenix spacecraft, targeted for launch on Aug. 3,heading for Mars. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller KSC-07pd1551

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the first stage of a Delta II rocket is raised off the transporter beneath the mobile service tower. The rocket is the la More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the first stage of a Delta II rocket is ready for lifting up into the mobile service tower. The rocket is the launch vehicle for the Phoenix spacecraft, targeted for launch on Aug. 3 heading for Mars. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller KSC-07pd1553

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 17-A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, the first stage of a Delta II rocket is ready for lifting up into the mobile service tower. The rocket is the launch vehic More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The truck and transporter carrying the first stage of a Delta II rocket pull beneath the mobile service tower on Launch Pad 17-A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The rocket is the launch vehicle for the Phoenix spacecraft, targeted for launch on Aug. 3,heading for Mars. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller KSC-07pd1550

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The truck and transporter carrying the first stage of a Delta II rocket pull beneath the mobile service tower on Launch Pad 17-A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The rocket i More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Preparations to move the mobile service tower, or gantry, from around the Delta II 7925 rocket are under way under the lights on Launch Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Equipped with three stages and nine strap-on solid rocket motors, the Delta II rocket packs plenty of punch for sending the Phoenix spacecraft on its way toward Mars. Launch is targeted for Aug. 4 during one of two opportunities for liftoff: 5:26 or 6:02 a.m. EDT. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar, permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd2163

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Preparations to move the mobile service tower, or gantry, from around the Delta II 7925 rocket are under way under the lights on Launch Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Rollback of the mobile service tower, or gantry, from around the Delta II 7925 rocket is complete on Launch Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Equipped with three stages and nine strap-on solid rocket motors, the Delta II rocket packs plenty of punch for sending the Phoenix spacecraft on its way toward Mars. Launch is targeted for Aug. 4 during one of two opportunities for liftoff: 5:26 or 6:02 a.m. EDT. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar, permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd2168

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Rollback of the mobile service tower, or gantry, from around the Delta II 7925 rocket is complete on Launch Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Equipped with three stages More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta II 7925 rocket is revealed as the mobile service tower, or gantry, rolls back on Launch Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Equipped with three stages and nine strap-on solid rocket motors, the Delta II rocket packs plenty of punch for sending the Phoenix spacecraft on its way toward Mars. Launch is targeted for Aug. 4 during one of two opportunities for liftoff: 5:26 or 6:02 a.m. EDT. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar, permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd2165

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta II 7925 rocket is revealed as the mobile service tower, or gantry, rolls back on Launch Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Equipped with three stages and nine More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta II 7925 rocket is revealed as the mobile service tower, or gantry, is retracted on Launch Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Equipped with three stages and nine strap-on solid rocket motors, the Delta II rocket packs plenty of punch for sending the Phoenix spacecraft on its way toward Mars. Launch is targeted for Aug. 4 during one of two opportunities for liftoff: 5:26 or 6:02 a.m. EDT. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar, permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd2164

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta II 7925 rocket is revealed as the mobile service tower, or gantry, is retracted on Launch Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Equipped with three stages and nin More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Rollback of the mobile service tower, or gantry, from around the Delta II 7925 rocket is complete on Launch Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Equipped with three stages and nine strap-on solid rocket motors, the Delta II rocket packs plenty of punch for sending the Phoenix spacecraft on its way toward Mars. Launch is targeted for Aug. 4 during one of two opportunities for liftoff: 5:26 or 6:02 a.m. EDT. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar, permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd2169

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Rollback of the mobile service tower, or gantry, from around the Delta II 7925 rocket is complete on Launch Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Equipped with three stages More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The solid rocket boosters on the Delta II 7925 rocket are revealed following the retraction of the mobile service tower, or gantry, on Launch Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Equipped with three stages and nine strap-on solid rocket motors, the Delta II rocket packs plenty of punch for sending the Phoenix spacecraft on its way toward Mars. Launch is targeted for Aug. 4 during one of two opportunities for liftoff: 5:26 or 6:02 a.m. EDT. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar, permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd2167

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The solid rocket boosters on the Delta II 7925 rocket are revealed following the retraction of the mobile service tower, or gantry, on Launch Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force St More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta II 7925 rocket stands ready for launch following rollback of the mobile service tower, or gantry, on Launch Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Equipped with three stages and nine strap-on solid rocket motors, the Delta II rocket packs plenty of punch for sending the Phoenix spacecraft on its way toward Mars. Launch is targeted for Aug. 4 during one of two opportunities for liftoff: 5:26 or 6:02 a.m. EDT. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar, permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd2166

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Delta II 7925 rocket stands ready for launch following rollback of the mobile service tower, or gantry, on Launch Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Equipped with th More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - NASA's Phoenix spacecraft makes a dramatic start on its mission to Mars aboard a Delta II 7925 rocket at 5:26 a.m. EDT from Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar, permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Tony Gray and Robert Murray KSC-07pd2175

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - NASA's Phoenix spacecraft makes a dramatic start on its mission to Mars aboard a Delta II 7925 rocket at 5:26 a.m. EDT from Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Phoenix will More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - NASA's Phoenix spacecraft makes an auspicious start on its journey to Mars aboard a Delta II 7925 rocket at 5:26 a.m. EDT from Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar, permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Tony Gray and Robert Murray KSC-07pd2180

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - NASA's Phoenix spacecraft makes an auspicious start on its journey to Mars aboard a Delta II 7925 rocket at 5:26 a.m. EDT from Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Phoenix More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - NASA's Phoenix spacecraft begins its journey to Mars aboard a Delta II 7925 rocket at 5:26 a.m. EDT from Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar, permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Tony Gray and Robert Murray KSC-07pd2176

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - NASA's Phoenix spacecraft begins its journey to Mars aboard a Delta II 7925 rocket at 5:26 a.m. EDT from Pad 17A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Phoenix will land in icy soils More