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VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers prepare to lift the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, from a transportation trailer in the Building 836 high bay on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-2837

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers prepare to lift the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, from a transportation trailer in the Building 836 high bay on Vandenberg Air For More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers lower a half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, onto a hardware dolly in the Building 836 high bay on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/U.S. Air Force 30th Space Wing KSC-2014-2877

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers lower a half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, onto a hardware dolly in the Building 836 high bay on s More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Preparations are underway to move a section of the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, onto a transportation cradle in the Building 836 high bay on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-2842

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Preparations are underway to move a section of the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, onto a transportation cradle in the Building 836 high bay More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers rotate a section of the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, in a lifting device in the Building 836 high bay on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-2841

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers rotate a section of the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, in a lifting device in the Building 836 high bay on Vandenberg Air Force Ba More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers move a section of the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, across the floor of the Building 836 high bay on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-2839

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers move a section of the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, across the floor of the Building 836 high bay on Vandenberg Air Force Base in More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers attach a half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, to an overhead crane to lift it from a transportation trailer in the Building 836 high bay on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/U.S. Air Force 30th Space Wing KSC-2014-2874

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers attach a half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, to an overhead crane to lift it from a transportation More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers prepare to lift a half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, from a transportation trailer in the Building 836 high bay on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/U.S. Air Force 30th Space Wing KSC-2014-2873

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers prepare to lift a half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, from a transportation trailer in the Building More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The lid is removed from the transportation trailer containing a half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, in the Building 836 high bay on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/U.S. Air Force 30th Space Wing KSC-2014-2872

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The lid is removed from the transportation trailer containing a half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, in the More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A section of the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, hovers above its hardware dolly in the Building 836 high bay on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-2845

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A section of the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, hovers above its hardware dolly in the Building 836 high bay on south Vandenberg Air Force More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The lid is lifted from the transportation trailer containing the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, in the Building 836 high bay on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-2834

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The lid is lifted from the transportation trailer containing the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, in the Building 836 high bay on Vandenberg More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers rotate a half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, in a lifting device in the Building 836 high bay on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/U.S. Air Force 30th Space Wing KSC-2014-2876

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers rotate a half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, in a lifting device in the Building 836 high bay on so More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers move a section of the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, from a hardware dolly toward a transportation cradle in the Building 836 high bay on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-2844

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers move a section of the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, from a hardware dolly toward a transportation cradle in the Building 836 high More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers lower a half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, onto a hardware dolly in the Building 836 high bay on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/U.S. Air Force 30th Space Wing KSC-2014-2878

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers lower a half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, onto a hardware dolly in the Building 836 high bay on s More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The transportation trailer containing the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, arrives in the Building 836 high bay on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-2832

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The transportation trailer containing the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, arrives in the Building 836 high bay on south Vandenberg Air Force More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A worker steadies the lid of the transportation trailer containing the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, in the Building 836 high bay on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-2835

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A worker steadies the lid of the transportation trailer containing the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, in the Building 836 high bay on Vande More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, glides across the floor of the Building 836 high bay on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California with the aid of an overhead crane. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/U.S. Air Force 30th Space Wing KSC-2014-2875

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, glides across the floor of the Building 836 high bay on south Vandenb More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The lid is removed from the transportation trailer containing the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, in the Building 836 high bay on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-2836

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The lid is removed from the transportation trailer containing the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, in the Building 836 high bay on Vandenberg More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A section of the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, secured to a lifting device, glides across the floor of the Building 836 high bay on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-2843

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A section of the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, secured to a lifting device, glides across the floor of the Building 836 high bay on Vanden More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers hoist the lid off the transportation trailer containing the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, in the Building 836 high bay on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-2833

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers hoist the lid off the transportation trailer containing the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, in the Building 836 high bay on Vandenbe More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers lift a section of the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, from a transportation trailer in the Building 836 high bay on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-2838

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers lift a section of the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, from a transportation trailer in the Building 836 high bay on Vandenberg Air F More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers prepare to rotate a section of the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, in a lifting device in the Building 836 high bay on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-2840

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers prepare to rotate a section of the fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, in a lifting device in the Building 836 high bay on Vandenberg Ai More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket begins its journey from Building 836 on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California to the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3178

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket begins its journey from Building 836 on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California to the Hor More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The lid is removed from the transportation trailer containing the second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket in the Building 836 hangar on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit from Vandenberg's Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3162

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The lid is removed from the transportation trailer containing the second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket in the Building 836 hangar on sout More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The transportation trailer carrying the second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket backs into the Building 836 hangar on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit from Vandenberg's Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3161

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The transportation trailer carrying the second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket backs into the Building 836 hangar on south Vandenberg Air F More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket arrives at the Horizontal Processing Facility near the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3186

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket arrives at the Horizontal Processing Facility near the mobile service tower at Space Launch Comp More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket passes a static display of a U.S. Air Force Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile on its move from Building 836 to the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3183

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket passes a static display of a U.S. Air Force Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile on More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket is on its way from Building 836 on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California to the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3179

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket is on its way from Building 836 on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California to the Horizont More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket winds its way along the roads from Building 836 to the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3180

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket winds its way along the roads from Building 836 to the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space L More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket arrives at the Building 836 hangar on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit from Vandenberg's Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3160

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket arrives at the Building 836 hangar on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Delt More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A security detail accompanies the second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket on its move from Building 836 to the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3181

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A security detail accompanies the second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket on its move from Building 836 to the Horizontal Processing Facilit More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket and the transporter to which it is attached are lifted out of a transportation trailer in the Building 836 hangar on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The stage will be moved to the Horizontal Integration Facility at Space Launch Complex 2 for further processing. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3164

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket and the transporter to which it is attached are lifted out of a transportation trailer in the Bu More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket arrives at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California where it will undergo preparations for launch in the Horizontal Processing Facility. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3184

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket arrives at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California where it will under More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Preparations are underway to lift the second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from its transportation trailer in the Building 836 hangar on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit from Vandenberg's Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3163

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Preparations are underway to lift the second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket from its transportation trailer in the Building 836 hangar on More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket arrives at the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3185

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket arrives at the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket is towed along the roadway from Building 836 to the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3182

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The second stage, or upper stage, of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket is towed along the roadway from Building 836 to the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Laun More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is scheduled to launch in November 2014 from Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, seen here on a temperate, fog-free summer's day. A United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket will be used to deliver SMAP into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3166

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is scheduled to launch in November 2014 from Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, seen her More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Preparations are underway at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California for the arrival of the rocket components slated to launch NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, in November 2014. A United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket will be used to deliver SMAP into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3167

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Preparations are underway at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California for the arrival of the rocket components slated to launch NASA's Soil Moisture More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is delivered to the Building 836 hangar on south Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3258

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is delivered to the Building 836 hangar on south Vande More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A crane is positioned to offload the first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket following its arrival at NASA hangar 836 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The launch vehicle will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3278

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A crane is positioned to offload the first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket following its arrival at NASA hangar 836 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in Californ More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket arrives at NASA hangar 836 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3275

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket arrives at NASA hangar 836 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket arrives at NASA hangar 836 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3274

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket arrives at NASA hangar 836 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A worker is stationed on the transporter carrying the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, from the Building 836 hangar to the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3287

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A worker is stationed on the transporter carrying the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, from More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, accomplishes some tight turns on its approach to the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3290

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, accomplishes some tight turns on its approach to the H More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, crosses a railroad bridge on its move from the Building 836 hangar to the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/U.S. Air Force 30th Space Wing KSC-2014-3326

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, crosses a railroad bridge on its move from the Buildin More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A crane is used to offload the first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket following its arrival at NASA hangar 836 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The launch vehicle will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3280

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A crane is used to offload the first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket following its arrival at NASA hangar 836 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. Th More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, makes its way along the roadways on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California from the Building 836 hangar to the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3285

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, makes its way along the roadways on Vandenberg Air For More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Technicians assist in offloading the first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket following its arrival at NASA hangar 836 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The launch vehicle will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3282

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Technicians assist in offloading the first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket following its arrival at NASA hangar 836 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in Californ More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The U.S. Air Force 30th Security Forces Squadron is responsible for the safety of the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, on its move from the Building 836 hangar to the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3288

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The U.S. Air Force 30th Security Forces Squadron is responsible for the safety of the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Activ More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, makes its way along the roadways on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California from the Building 836 hangar to the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/U.S. Air Force 30th Space Wing KSC-2014-3325

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, makes its way along the roadways on Vandenberg Air For More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A security detail travels with the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, on its move from the Building 836 hangar to the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3286

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A security detail travels with the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, on its move from the Bu More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Under the watchful eye of technicians, crane is used to offload the first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket following its arrival at NASA hangar 836 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The launch vehicle will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3281

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Under the watchful eye of technicians, crane is used to offload the first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket following its arrival at NASA hangar 836 on Vanden More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, arrives at the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3292

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, arrives at the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, crosses a railroad bridge on its move from the Building 836 hangar to the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3289

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, crosses a railroad bridge on its move from the Buildin More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Technicians prepare to offload the first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket following its arrival at NASA hangar 836 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The launch vehicle will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3277

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Technicians prepare to offload the first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket following its arrival at NASA hangar 836 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket arrives at NASA hangar 836 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3276

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket arrives at NASA hangar 836 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Delta II rocket will be used to deliver More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, passes the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on its way to the Horizontal Processing Facility on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3291

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, passes the mobile service tower at Space Launch Comple More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, begins its journey from the Building 836 hangar to the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3283

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, begins its journey from the Building 836 hangar to the More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is transported from the Building 836 hangar to the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/U.S. Air Force 30th Space Wing KSC-2014-3324

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is transported from the Building 836 hangar to the Hor More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A crane is used to offload the first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket following its arrival at NASA hangar 836 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The launch vehicle will be used to deliver NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into orbit. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3279

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A crane is used to offload the first stage of a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket following its arrival at NASA hangar 836 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. Th More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is transported from the Building 836 hangar to the Horizontal Processing Facility at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3284

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is transported from the Building 836 hangar to the Hor More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – This view from the exhaust duct beneath Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California reveals the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, undergoing processing in the mobile service tower. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3362

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – This view from the exhaust duct beneath Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California reveals the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocke More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers oversee the preparations to lift the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3355

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers oversee the preparations to lift the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into the mobi More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A crane hoists the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into a vertical position alongside the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Tony Vauccin, USAF KSC-2014-3577

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A crane hoists the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into a vertical position alongside the More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers secure the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, onto the launch stand at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3365

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers secure the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, onto the launch stand at Space Launch C More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is delivered to the base of the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3354

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is delivered to the base of the mobile service tower a More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, hangs in the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California during operations to erect it on the launch stand. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Tony Vauccin, USAF KSC-2014-3581

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, hangs in the mobile service tower at Space Launch Comp More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers steady the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, after it is lifted into a vertical position beside the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3359

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers steady the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, after it is lifted into a vertical posi More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers oversee the rollback of the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California in preparation for the arrival of the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3352

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers oversee the rollback of the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California in preparation for the arrival of the first stag More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is raised off its transporter into a vertical position for its transfer into the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Tony Vauccin, USAF KSC-2014-3576

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is raised off its transporter into a vertical position More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers guide the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, onto the launcher adjacent to the fixed umbilical tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3364

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers guide the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, onto the launcher adjacent to the fixed More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is hoisted into a vertical position for its move into the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3357

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is hoisted into a vertical position for its move into More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is readied for the short trip from the Horizontal Processing Facility to the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3351

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is readied for the short trip from the Horizontal Proc More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The nozzle on the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, comes into view as the booster is lowered onto the launcher adjacent to the fixed umbilical tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3363

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The nozzle on the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, comes into view as the booster is lowere More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A crane transfers the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3360

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A crane transfers the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into the mobile service tower at Spa More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A crane hoists the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into a vertical position beside the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3358

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A crane hoists the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into a vertical position beside the mob More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is elevated off its transporter into a vertical position for its move into the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3356

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is elevated off its transporter into a vertical positi More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is positioned in the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California in preparation for mating with the rocket's second stage. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3361

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is positioned in the mobile service tower at Space Lau More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A crane transfers the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Tony Vauccin, USAF KSC-2014-3580

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A crane transfers the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, into the mobile service tower at Spa More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California is rolled back in preparation for the arrival of the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3353

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California is rolled back in preparation for the arrival of the first stage of the United L More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers steady the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, after it is lifted into a vertical position alongside the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Tony Vauccin, USAF KSC-2014-3579

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers steady the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, after it is lifted into a vertical posi More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is hoisted into a vertical position for its transfer into the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Tony Vauccin, USAF KSC-2014-3578

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is hoisted into a vertical position for its transfer i More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Preparations are underway at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California for the arrival of the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3350

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Preparations are underway at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California for the arrival of the first stage of the United Launch Alliance Delta II rocke More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The half sections of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, are delivered to the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3461

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The half sections of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, are delivered to the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is lifted into a vertical position during preparations to hoist it into the environmental enclosure at the top of the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3468

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is lifted into a vertical position during preparations to hoist it in More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is attached to a crane during preparations to hoist it into the environmental enclosure at the top of the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3467

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is attached to a crane during preparations to hoist it into the envir More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is stowed in the environmental enclosure at the top of the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California until the arrival of the spacecraft. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3466

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is stowed in the environmental enclosure at the top of the mobile ser More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, rolls out of the Horizontal Integration Facility bound for the nearby mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3459

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, rolls out of the Horizontal Integration Facility bound for the nearby More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is hoisted toward the environmental enclosure at the top of the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, past the Delta II first stage. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3464

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is hoisted toward the environmental enclosure at the top of the mobil More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is placed into position in the environmental enclosure at the top of the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3465

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is placed into position in the environmental enclosure at the top of More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is hoisted past the Delta II first stage on its way to the environmental enclosure at the top of the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3469

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is hoisted past the Delta II first stage on its way to the environmen More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is transferred into the environmental enclosure at the top of the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California where it will be stowed until arrival of the spacecraft. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3471

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is transferred into the environmental enclosure at the top of the mob More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is hoisted to the top of the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California where it will be transferred into the environmental enclosure and stowed until arrival of the spacecraft. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3470

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is hoisted to the top of the mobile service tower at Space Launch Com More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is hoisted up the side of the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, past the Delta II first stage. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3463

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is hoisted up the side of the mobile service tower at Space Launch Co More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Preparations are underway to transport a half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, from the Horizontal Integration Facility to the nearby mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3460

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Preparations are underway to transport a half section of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, from the Horizontal Integratio More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The half sections of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, arrive at the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing will protect the SMAP spacecraft from the heat and aerodynamic pressure generated during its ascent to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket. SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data will also be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3462

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The half sections of the 10-foot-diameter fairing for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, arrive at the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Va More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Preparations are underway in the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California to install a solid rocket motor on the Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP. SMAP will be launched on a Delta II 7320 configuration vehicle featuring a United Launch Alliance first stage booster powered by an Aerojet Rocketdyne RS-27A main engine and three Alliant Techsystems, or ATK, strap-on solid rocket motors. Once on station in Earth orbit, SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3597

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Preparations are underway in the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California to install a solid rocket motor on the Delta II roc More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers secure the second solid rocket motor for the Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, onto the rocket's first stage in the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will be launched on a Delta II 7320 configuration vehicle featuring a United Launch Alliance first stage booster powered by an Aerojet Rocketdyne RS-27A main engine and three Alliant Techsystems, or ATK, strap-on solid rocket motors. Once on station in Earth orbit, SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3609

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers secure the second solid rocket motor for the Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, onto the rocket's first stage in the mobile ser More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers monitor a second solid rocket motor for the Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, as it is lowered into position beside the rocket's first stage in the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will be launched on a Delta II 7320 configuration vehicle featuring a United Launch Alliance first stage booster powered by an Aerojet Rocketdyne RS-27A main engine and three Alliant Techsystems, or ATK, strap-on solid rocket motors. Once on station in Earth orbit, SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3606

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers monitor a second solid rocket motor for the Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, as it is lowered into position beside the rocket More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A second solid rocket motor for the Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is raised into a vertical position at the mobile service tower at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SMAP will be launched on a Delta II 7320 configuration vehicle featuring a United Launch Alliance first stage booster powered by an Aerojet Rocketdyne RS-27A main engine and three Alliant Techsystems, or ATK, strap-on solid rocket motors. Once on station in Earth orbit, SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3603

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – A second solid rocket motor for the Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, is raised into a vertical position at the mobile service tower a More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California monitor a solid rocket motor as it is raised into a vertical position for installation on the Delta II rocket for NASA's Soil Moisture Active Passive mission, or SMAP, in the mobile service tower. SMAP will be launched on a Delta II 7320 configuration vehicle featuring a United Launch Alliance first stage booster powered by an Aerojet Rocketdyne RS-27A main engine and three Alliant Techsystems, or ATK, strap-on solid rocket motors. Once on station in Earth orbit, SMAP will provide global measurements of soil moisture and its freeze/thaw state. These measurements will be used to enhance understanding of processes that link the water, energy and carbon cycles, and to extend the capabilities of weather and climate prediction models. SMAP data also will be used to quantify net carbon flux in boreal landscapes and to develop improved flood prediction and drought monitoring capabilities. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than November 2014. To learn more about SMAP, visit http://smap.jpl.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-2014-3598

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers at Space Launch Complex 2 on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California monitor a solid rocket motor as it is raised into a vertical position for installation on the Del More