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Under the goals of the Vision for Space Exploration, Ares I is a chief component of the cost-effective space transportation infrastructure being developed by NASA's Constellation Program. This transportation system will safely and reliably carry human explorers back to the moon, and then onward to Mars and other destinations in the solar system. The Ares I effort includes multiple project element teams at NASA centers and contract organizations around the nation, and is managed by the Exploration Launch Projects Office at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MFSC). ATK Launch Systems near Brigham City, Utah, is the prime contractor for the first stage booster. ATK's subcontractor, United Space Alliance of Houston, is designing, developing and testing the parachutes at its facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston hosts the Constellation Program and Orion Crew Capsule Project Office and provides test instrumentation and support personnel. Together, these teams are developing vehicle hardware, evolving proven technologies, and testing components and systems. Their work builds on powerful, reliable space shuttle propulsion elements and nearly a half-century of NASA space flight experience and technological advances. Ares I is an inline, two-stage rocket configuration topped by the Crew Exploration Vehicle, its service module, and a launch abort system. This HD video image depicts friction stir welding used in manufacturing aluminum panels that will fabricate the Ares I upper stage barrel. The aluminum panels are subjected to confidence panel tests during which the bent aluminum is stressed to breaking point and thoroughly examined. The panels are manufactured by AMRO Manufacturing located in El Monte, California. (Highest resolution available) n/a

Under the goals of the Vision for Space Exploration, Ares I is a chief...

Under the goals of the Vision for Space Exploration, Ares I is a chief component of the cost-effective space transportation infrastructure being developed by NASA's Constellation Program. This transportation sy... More

LAS VEGAS -- The Boeing Company tests the forward heat shield FHS jettison system of its CST-100 spacecraft at the Bigelow Aerospace facility in Las Vegas as part of an agreement with NASA's Commercial Crew Program CCP during Commercial Crew Development Round 2 CCDev2) activities. The FHS will protect the spacecraft's parachutes, rendezvous-and-docking sensor packages, and docking mechanism during ascent and re-entry. During a mission to low Earth orbit, the shield will be jettisoned after re-entry heating, allowing the spacecraft's air bags to deploy for a safe landing. In 2011, NASA selected Boeing for CCDev2 to mature the design and development of a crew transportation system with the overall goal of accelerating a United States-led capability to the International Space Station. The goal of CCP is to drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before by balancing industry’s own innovative capabilities with NASA's 50 years of human spaceflight experience. Six other aerospace companies also were selected to mature launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Alliant Techsystems Inc. ATK, Excalibur Almaz Inc., Blue Origin, Sierra Nevada Corp. SNC, Space Exploration Technologies SpaceX, and United Launch Alliance ULA. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew. Image credit: Boeing The Ground Systems Development and Operations Program is developing the necessary ground systems, infrastructure and operational approaches required to safely process, assemble, transport and launch the next generation of rockets and spacecraft in support of NASA’s exploration objectives. Future work also will replace the antiquated communications, power and vehicle access resources with modern efficient systems. Some of the utilities and systems slated for replacement have been used since the VAB opened in 1965. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/exploration/systems/ground/index.html Photo credit: Boeing KSC-2012-4386

LAS VEGAS -- The Boeing Company tests the forward heat shield FHS jett...

LAS VEGAS -- The Boeing Company tests the forward heat shield FHS jettison system of its CST-100 spacecraft at the Bigelow Aerospace facility in Las Vegas as part of an agreement with NASA's Commercial Crew Pro... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – ATK and NASA officials accompanied the Florida East Coast Railroad train carrying the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket on its route to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida from Jacksonville, Fla. Seen here in the passenger car are, from left NASA KSC Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach, a Florida East Coast Railroad representative, ATK Ares I First Stage program Director Fred Brasfield, a Florida East Coast Railroad representative, ATK Vice President Space Launch Systems Charlie Precourt, a Florida East Coast Railroad representative, and NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Reusable Solid Rocket Booster Integration Lead Roy Worthy. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-2206

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – ATK and NASA officials accompanied the Florida ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – ATK and NASA officials accompanied the Florida East Coast Railroad train carrying the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket on its route to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida ... More

HAWTHORNE, Calif. -- NASA astronauts and industry experts check out the crew accommodations in the Dragon spacecraft under development by Space Exploration Technologies SpaceX of Hawthorne, Calif., for the agency's Commercial Crew Program. On top, from left, are NASA Crew Survival Engineering Team Lead Dustin Gohmert, NASA astronauts Tony Antonelli and Lee Archambault, and SpaceX Mission Operations Engineer Laura Crabtree. On bottom, from left, are SpaceX Thermal Engineer Brenda Hernandez and NASA astronauts Rex Walheim and Tim Kopra. In 2011, NASA selected SpaceX during Commercial Crew Development Round 2 CCDev2) activities to mature the design and development of a crew transportation system with the overall goal of accelerating a United States-led capability to the International Space Station. The goal of CCP is to drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before by balancing industry’s own innovative capabilities with NASA's 50 years of human spaceflight experience. Six other aerospace companies also are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Alliant Techsystems Inc. ATK, The Boeing Co., Excalibur Almaz Inc., Blue Origin, Sierra Nevada, and United Launch Alliance ULA. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew. Image credit: Space Exploration Technologies KSC-2012-1824

HAWTHORNE, Calif. -- NASA astronauts and industry experts check out th...

HAWTHORNE, Calif. -- NASA astronauts and industry experts check out the crew accommodations in the Dragon spacecraft under development by Space Exploration Technologies SpaceX of Hawthorne, Calif., for the agen... More

CANOGA PARK, Calif. -- Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne hot-fires a launch abort engine for The Boeing Co., which is developing its CST-100 spacecraft for NASA's Commercial Crew Program. Under its fixed-price contract with Boeing, Pratt and Whitney Rocketdyne is combining its Attitude Control Propulsion System thrusters from heritage spaceflight programs, Bantam abort engine design and storable propellant engineering capabilities. In 2011, NASA selected Boeing of Houston during Commercial Crew Development Round 2 CCDev2) activities to mature the design and development of a crew transportation system with the overall goal of accelerating a United States-led capability to the International Space Station. The goal of CCP is to drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before by balancing industry’s own innovative capabilities with NASA's 50 years of human spaceflight experience. Six other aerospace companies also are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Alliant Techsystems Inc. ATK, Blue Origin, Excalibur Almaz Inc., Sierra Nevada Corp., Space Exploration Technologies SpaceX, and United Launch Alliance ULA. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew. Image credit: Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne KSC-2012-1828

CANOGA PARK, Calif. -- Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne hot-fires a launch a...

CANOGA PARK, Calif. -- Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne hot-fires a launch abort engine for The Boeing Co., which is developing its CST-100 spacecraft for NASA's Commercial Crew Program. Under its fixed-price contrac... More

HAWTHORNE, Calif. -- NASA astronaut Rex Walheim checks out the Dragon spacecraft under development by Space Exploration Technologies SpaceX of Hawthorne, Calif., for the agency's Commercial Crew Program. In 2011, NASA selected SpaceX during Commercial Crew Development Round 2 CCDev2) activities to mature the design and development of a crew transportation system with the overall goal of accelerating a United States-led capability to the International Space Station. The goal of CCP is to drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before by balancing industry’s own innovative capabilities with NASA's 50 years of human spaceflight experience. Six other aerospace companies also are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Alliant Techsystems Inc. ATK, The Boeing Co., Excalibur Almaz Inc., Blue Origin, Sierra Nevada, and United Launch Alliance ULA. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew. Image credit: Space Exploration Technologies KSC-2012-1826

HAWTHORNE, Calif. -- NASA astronaut Rex Walheim checks out the Dragon ...

HAWTHORNE, Calif. -- NASA astronaut Rex Walheim checks out the Dragon spacecraft under development by Space Exploration Technologies SpaceX of Hawthorne, Calif., for the agency's Commercial Crew Program. In 201... More

CANOGA PARK, Calif. -- Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne hot-fires a launch abort engine for The Boeing Co., which is developing its CST-100 spacecraft for NASA's Commercial Crew Program. Under its fixed-price contract with Boeing, Pratt and Whitney Rocketdyne is combining its Attitude Control Propulsion System thrusters from heritage spaceflight programs, Bantam abort engine design and storable propellant engineering capabilities. In 2011, NASA selected Boeing of Houston during Commercial Crew Development Round 2 CCDev2) activities to mature the design and development of a crew transportation system with the overall goal of accelerating a United States-led capability to the International Space Station. The goal of CCP is to drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before by balancing industry’s own innovative capabilities with NASA's 50 years of human spaceflight experience. Six other aerospace companies also are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Alliant Techsystems Inc. ATK, Blue Origin, Excalibur Almaz Inc., Sierra Nevada Corp., Space Exploration Technologies SpaceX, and United Launch Alliance ULA. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew. Image credit: Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne KSC-2012-1829

CANOGA PARK, Calif. -- Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne hot-fires a launch a...

CANOGA PARK, Calif. -- Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne hot-fires a launch abort engine for The Boeing Co., which is developing its CST-100 spacecraft for NASA's Commercial Crew Program. Under its fixed-price contrac... More

HAWTHORNE, Calif. -- NASA astronauts and industry experts are monitored while they check out the crew accommodations in the Dragon spacecraft under development by Space Exploration Technologies SpaceX of Hawthorne, Calif., for the agency's Commercial Crew Program. In 2011, NASA selected SpaceX during Commercial Crew Development Round 2 CCDev2) activities to mature the design and development of a crew transportation system with the overall goal of accelerating a United States-led capability to the International Space Station. The goal of CCP is to drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before by balancing industry’s own innovative capabilities with NASA's 50 years of human spaceflight experience. Six other aerospace companies also are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Alliant Techsystems Inc. ATK, The Boeing Co., Excalibur Almaz Inc., Blue Origin, Sierra Nevada, and United Launch Alliance ULA. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew. Image credit: Space Exploration Technologies KSC-2012-1825

HAWTHORNE, Calif. -- NASA astronauts and industry experts are monitore...

HAWTHORNE, Calif. -- NASA astronauts and industry experts are monitored while they check out the crew accommodations in the Dragon spacecraft under development by Space Exploration Technologies SpaceX of Hawtho... More

CANOGA PARK, Calif. -- Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne hot-fires a launch abort engine for The Boeing Co., which is developing its CST-100 spacecraft for NASA's Commercial Crew Program. Under its fixed-price contract with Boeing, Pratt and Whitney Rocketdyne is combining its Attitude Control Propulsion System thrusters from heritage spaceflight programs, Bantam abort engine design and storable propellant engineering capabilities. In 2011, NASA selected Boeing of Houston during Commercial Crew Development Round 2 CCDev2) activities to mature the design and development of a crew transportation system with the overall goal of accelerating a United States-led capability to the International Space Station. The goal of CCP is to drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before by balancing industry’s own innovative capabilities with NASA's 50 years of human spaceflight experience. Six other aerospace companies also are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Alliant Techsystems Inc. ATK, Blue Origin, Excalibur Almaz Inc., Sierra Nevada Corp., Space Exploration Technologies SpaceX, and United Launch Alliance ULA. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew. Image credit: Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne KSC-2012-1827

CANOGA PARK, Calif. -- Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne hot-fires a launch a...

CANOGA PARK, Calif. -- Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne hot-fires a launch abort engine for The Boeing Co., which is developing its CST-100 spacecraft for NASA's Commercial Crew Program. Under its fixed-price contrac... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A train carrying space shuttle reusable solid rocket motor segments from the ATK Launch Systems manufacturing site in Brigham City,Utah, to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida was derailed May 2. At the site of the train mishap involving eight NASA solid rocket booster segment cars, a handling fixture has been attached to a box car being used as a spacer between the segment cars so that it can be removed from the rails. The solid rocket booster cars can be seen behind it. The train was traveling over the Meridian & Bigbee railroad near Pennington, Ala., at the time of the mishap.. The hardware was intended for use on shuttle Discovery's STS-120 mission in October and shuttle Atlantis's STS-122 mission in December. These segments are interchangeable, and ATK Launch Systems has replacement units that could be used for the shuttle flights, if necessary. KSC-07pd1044

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A train carrying space shuttle reusable...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A train carrying space shuttle reusable solid rocket motor segments from the ATK Launch Systems manufacturing site in Brigham City,Utah, to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida ... More

Under the goals of the Vision for Space Exploration, Ares I is a chief component of the cost-effective space transportation infrastructure being developed by NASA's Constellation Program. This transportation system will safely and reliably carry human explorers back to the moon, and then onward to Mars and other destinations in the solar system. The Ares I effort includes multiple project element teams at NASA centers and contract organizations around the nation, and is managed by the Exploration Launch Projects Office at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MFSC). ATK Launch Systems near Brigham City, Utah, is the prime contractor for the first stage booster. ATK's subcontractor, United Space Alliance of Houston, is designing, developing and testing the parachutes at its facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston hosts the Constellation Program and Orion Crew Capsule Project Office and provides test instrumentation and support personnel. Together, these teams are developing vehicle hardware, evolving proven technologies, and testing components and systems. Their work builds on powerful, reliable space shuttle propulsion elements and nearly a half-century of NASA space flight experience and technological advances. Ares I is an inline, two-stage rocket configuration topped by the Crew Exploration Vehicle, its service module, and a launch abort system. This HD video image depicts a manufactured aluminum panel that will be used to fabricate the Ares I upper stage barrel, undergoing a confidence panel test. In this test, the bent aluminum is stressed to breaking point and thoroughly examined. The panels are manufactured by AMRO Manufacturing located in El Monte, California. n/a

Under the goals of the Vision for Space Exploration, Ares I is a chief...

Under the goals of the Vision for Space Exploration, Ares I is a chief component of the cost-effective space transportation infrastructure being developed by NASA's Constellation Program. This transportation sy... More

Under the goals of the Vision for Space Exploration, Ares I is a chief component of the cost-effective space transportation infrastructure being developed by NASA's Constellation Program. This transportation system will safely and reliably carry human explorers back to the moon, and then onward to Mars and other destinations in the solar system. The Ares I effort includes multiple project element teams at NASA centers and contract organizations around the nation, and is managed by the Exploration Launch Projects Office at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MFSC). ATK Launch Systems near Brigham City, Utah, is the prime contractor for the first stage booster. ATK's subcontractor, United Space Alliance of Houston, is designing, developing and testing the parachutes at its facilities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston hosts the Constellation Program and Orion Crew Capsule Project Office and provides test instrumentation and support personnel. Together, these teams are developing vehicle hardware, evolving proven technologies, and testing components and systems. Their work builds on powerful, reliable space shuttle propulsion elements and nearly a half-century of NASA space flight experience and technological advances. Ares I is an inline, two-stage rocket configuration topped by the Crew Exploration Vehicle, its service module, and a launch abort system. This HD video image depicts a manufactured panel that will be used for the Ares I upper stage barrel fabrication. The aluminum panels are manufacturing process demonstration articles that will undergo testing until perfected. The panels are built by AMRO Manufacturing located in El Monte, California. (Highest resolution available) n/a

Under the goals of the Vision for Space Exploration, Ares I is a chief...

Under the goals of the Vision for Space Exploration, Ares I is a chief component of the cost-effective space transportation infrastructure being developed by NASA's Constellation Program. This transportation sy... More

NASA Advanced Concept. NASA public domain image colelction.

NASA Advanced Concept. NASA public domain image colelction.

Shown is the installation of O-rings in the aft nozzle section in support of the Ares/CLV First Stage at ATK in Utah. This image is extracted from a high definition video file and is the highest resolution available

NASA Advanced Concept. NASA public domain image colelction.

NASA Advanced Concept. NASA public domain image colelction.

Shown is a test of the TEM-13 solid rocket motor at the ATK test facility in Utah in support of the Ares/CLV first stage. This image is extracted from high definition video and is the highest resolution available.

NASA Advanced Concept. NASA public domain image colelction.

NASA Advanced Concept. NASA public domain image colelction.

Shown is a test of the TEM-13 solid rocket motor at the ATK test facility in Utah in support of the Ares/CLV first stage. This image is extracted from high definition video and is the highest resolution available.

NASA Advanced Concept. NASA public domain image colelction.

NASA Advanced Concept. NASA public domain image colelction.

Shown is a test of the TEM-13 solid rocket motor at the ATK test facility in Utah in support of the Ares/CLV first stage. This image is extracted from high definition video and is the highest resolution available.

PHILLIP THOMPSON (ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN, ATK LS) ASSEMBLES A COMPOSITE 1000553

PHILLIP THOMPSON (ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN, ATK LS) ASSEMBLES A COMPOSIT...

PHILLIP THOMPSON (ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN, ATK LS) ASSEMBLES A COMPOSITE Public domain photograph of NASA experimental aircraft development, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

PHILLIP THOMPSON (ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN, ATK LS) ASSEMBLES A COMPOSITE 1000552

PHILLIP THOMPSON (ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN, ATK LS) ASSEMBLES A COMPOSIT...

PHILLIP THOMPSON (ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN, ATK LS) ASSEMBLES A COMPOSITE

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Vibration and laser testing is being conducted on Ares I-X segments at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Team members (from left) Ryan Tuttle, with Aerospace Corporation, Jim Gaspar, with NASA's Langley Research Center, and Vaughn Behun, with Langley ATK, execute modal testing using a Laser Vibrometer to collect deflection data from the test article. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-08pd1193

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Vibration and laser testing is being conducte...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Vibration and laser testing is being conducted on Ares I-X segments at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Team members (from left) Ryan Tuttle, with Aerospace Corporation, Jim Gaspar, with N... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X forward skirt is lifted from the transporter that delivered it to Astrotech in Titusville, Fla. The forward skirt will be moved to a stand. Major Tool is subcontractor to Ares I prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, in Utah. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will integrate and assemble the forward skirt components in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-08pd3655

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X forward skirt is lifted from the...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X forward skirt is lifted from the transporter that delivered it to Astrotech in Titusville, Fla. The forward skirt will be moved to a stand. Major Tool is subcontractor to ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X forward skirt arrives at the Astrotech facility in Titusville, Fla., after its journey from Major Tool & Machine Inc. in Indiana. Major Tool is subcontractor to Ares I prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, in Utah. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will integrate and assemble the forward skirt components in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-08pd3652

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X forward skirt arrives at the Astr...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X forward skirt arrives at the Astrotech facility in Titusville, Fla., after its journey from Major Tool & Machine Inc. in Indiana. Major Tool is subcontractor to Ares I prime... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Alliant Techsystems Inc. workers at Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., begin removing an internal cover from around the Ares I-X forward skirt. The hardware was delivered from Major Tool & Machine Inc. in Indiana. Major Tool is subcontractor to Ares I prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, in Utah. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will integrate and assemble the forward skirt components in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-08pd3656

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Alliant Techsystems Inc. workers at Astrotech...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Alliant Techsystems Inc. workers at Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., begin removing an internal cover from around the Ares I-X forward skirt. The hardware was delivered from Major Tool &... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., the Ares I-X forward skirt is revealed after its delivery from Major Tool & Machine Inc. in Indiana. Major Tool is subcontractor to Ares I prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, in Utah. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will integrate and assemble the forward skirt components in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-08pd3658

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., the Ares I-X...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., the Ares I-X forward skirt is revealed after its delivery from Major Tool & Machine Inc. in Indiana. Major Tool is subcontractor to Ares I prime contrac... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Alliant Techsystems Inc. workers at Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., attach an overhead crane to the Ares I-X forward skirt just arrived from Major Tool & Machine Inc. in Indiana. The forward skirt will be lifted and moved to a stand. Major Tool is subcontractor to Ares I prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, in Utah. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will integrate and assemble the forward skirt components in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-08pd3654

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Alliant Techsystems Inc. workers at Astrotech ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Alliant Techsystems Inc. workers at Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., attach an overhead crane to the Ares I-X forward skirt just arrived from Major Tool & Machine Inc. in Indiana. The for... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Alliant Techsystems Inc. workers at Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., remove the protective outer shipping cover from the Ares I-X forward skirt after its arrival from Major Tool & Machine Inc. in Indiana. Major Tool is subcontractor to Ares I prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, in Utah. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will integrate and assemble the forward skirt components in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-08pd3653

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Alliant Techsystems Inc. workers at Astrotech ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Alliant Techsystems Inc. workers at Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., remove the protective outer shipping cover from the Ares I-X forward skirt after its arrival from Major Tool & Machine ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Alliant Techsystems Inc. workers at Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., remove an internal cover from around the Ares I-X forward skirt. The hardware was delivered from Major Tool & Machine Inc. in Indiana. Major Tool is subcontractor to Ares I prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, in Utah. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will integrate and assemble the forward skirt components in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-08pd3657

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Alliant Techsystems Inc. workers at Astrotech ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Alliant Techsystems Inc. workers at Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., remove an internal cover from around the Ares I-X forward skirt. The hardware was delivered from Major Tool & Machine ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., workers get ready to remove one of the separation rings from around a segment of one of the retrieved solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch. The pins attaching the segments to each other are removed at the start. Each separation ring has three joints that help mold the ring around the segment and an air motor is used to rotate the rings to separate the segments. After disassembly, the segments will be sent to ATK (Alliant Techsystems) in Utah for final processing and return to Kennedy for another shuttle launch. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3950

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., workers...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., workers get ready to remove one of the separation rings from around a segment of one of the retrieved solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., workers remove the separation rings from around a segment of one of the retrieved solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch. The pins attaching the segments to each other are removed at the start. Each separation ring has three joints that help mold the ring around the segment and an air motor is used to rotate the rings to separate the segments. After disassembly, the segments will be sent to ATK (Alliant Techsystems) in Utah for final processing and return to Kennedy for another shuttle launch. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3951

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., workers...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., workers remove the separation rings from around a segment of one of the retrieved solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch. The pins attaching... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., workers separate segments of one of the retrieved solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch. The pins attaching the segments to each other are removed at the start. Each separation ring has three joints that help mold the ring around the segment and an air motor is used to rotate the rings to separate the segments. After disassembly, the segments will be sent to ATK (Alliant Techsystems) in Utah for final processing and return to Kennedy for another shuttle launch. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3949

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., workers...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., workers separate segments of one of the retrieved solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch. The pins attaching the segments to each other are ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., workers put separation rings around segments of one of the retrieved solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch. The pins attaching the segments to each other are removed at the start. Each separation ring has three joints that help mold the ring around the segment and an air motor is used to rotate the rings to separate the segments. After disassembly, the segments will be sent to ATK (Alliant Techsystems) in Utah for final processing and return to Kennedy for another shuttle launch. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3952

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., workers...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., workers put separation rings around segments of one of the retrieved solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch. The pins attaching the segments... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., with separation rings in place, workers begin to move apart segments of one of the retrieved solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch. The pins attaching the segments to each other are removed at the start. Each separation ring has three joints that help mold the ring around the segment and an air motor is used to rotate the rings to separate the segments. After disassembly, the segments will be sent to ATK (Alliant Techsystems) in Utah for final processing and return to Kennedy for another shuttle launch. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3953

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., with se...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., with separation rings in place, workers begin to move apart segments of one of the retrieved solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch. The pi... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., workers again remove separation rings from around segments of one of the retrieved solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch. The pins attaching the segments to each other are removed at the start. Each separation ring has three joints that help mold the ring around the segment and an air motor is used to rotate the rings to separate the segments. After disassembly, the segments will be sent to ATK (Alliant Techsystems) in Utah for final processing and return to Kennedy for another shuttle launch. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3954

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., workers...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., workers again remove separation rings from around segments of one of the retrieved solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch. The pins attachi... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., the disassembled solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch will be transported to the NASA railway. The segments will be sent to ATK (Alliant Techsystems) in Utah for final processing and return to Kennedy for another shuttle launch. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3957

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., the disa...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., the disassembled solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch will be transported to the NASA railway. The segments will be sent to ATK (Alliant Te... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., one of the retrieved solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch is ready to be disassembled. Separation rings will be used to move the segments apart. The pins attaching the segments to each other are removed at the start. Each separation ring has three joints that help mold the ring around the seg¬ment and an air motor is used to rotate the rings to separate the segments. After disassembly, the segments will be sent to ATK (Alliant Techsystems) in Utah for final processing and return to Kennedy for another shuttle launch. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3948

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., one of ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., one of the retrieved solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch is ready to be disassembled. Separation rings will be used to move the segments... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., workers prepare the separated segments of one of the retrieved solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch for their transport to the NASA railway. The segments will be sent to ATK (Alliant Techsystems) in Utah for final processing and return to Kennedy for another shuttle launch. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3956

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., workers ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., workers prepare the separated segments of one of the retrieved solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch for their transport to the NASA railway... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., separation rings are moved above two segments of one of the retrieved solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch. The rings will be lowered and locked around the segments. The pins attaching the segments to each other are removed at the start. Each separation ring has three joints that help mold the ring around the segment and an air motor is used to rotate the rings to separate the segments. After disassembly, the segments will be sent to ATK (Alliant Techsystems) in Utah for final processing and return to Kennedy for another shuttle launch. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3955

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., separati...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Hanger AF at Cape Canaveral, Fla., separation rings are moved above two segments of one of the retrieved solid rocket boosters from the STS-126 launch. The rings will be lowered and l... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., the Ares I-X forward skirt, wrapped in a protective cover, is lifted by a crane for a move to a transporter. The segment will be transferred to the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, or ARF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will complete the integration and assembly of the forward skirt components in the ARF. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-1303

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., the Ares I...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., the Ares I-X forward skirt, wrapped in a protective cover, is lifted by a crane for a move to a transporter. The segment will be transferred to the A... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., workers place protective covers around the Ares I-X forward skirt. The segment will be transferred to the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, or ARF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will complete the integration and assembly of the forward skirt components in the ARF. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-1302

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., workers pl...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., workers place protective covers around the Ares I-X forward skirt. The segment will be transferred to the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, or ARF... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, or ARF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers lift the padding away from the Ares I-X forward skirt transferred from the Astrotech facility in Titusville, Fla. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will complete the integration and assembly of the forward skirt components in the ARF. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-1309

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facilit...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, or ARF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers lift the padding away from the Ares I-X forward skirt transferred from the Ast... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Wrapped and strapped, the Ares I-X forward skirt is transported away from Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., heading for the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, or ARF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will complete the integration and assembly of the forward skirt components in the ARF. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-1306

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Wrapped and strapped, the Ares I-X forward s...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Wrapped and strapped, the Ares I-X forward skirt is transported away from Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., heading for the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, or ARF, at NASA's Kennedy ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, or ARF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the padding is being removed from around the Ares I-X forward skirt. It was transferred from the Astrotech facility in Titusville, Fla. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will complete the integration and assembly of the forward skirt components in the ARF. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-1308

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facili...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, or ARF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the padding is being removed from around the Ares I-X forward skirt. It was transfer... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Wrapped and strapped, the Ares I-X forward skirt arrives at the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, or ARF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will complete the integration and assembly of the forward skirt components in the ARF. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-1307

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Wrapped and strapped, the Ares I-X forward s...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Wrapped and strapped, the Ares I-X forward skirt arrives at the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, or ARF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The forward skirt is the initial... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., the Ares I-X forward skirt, wrapped in a protective cover, is lowered by crane onto a transporter. The segment will be transferred to the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, or ARF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will complete the integration and assembly of the forward skirt components in the ARF. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-1304

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., the Ares I...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., the Ares I-X forward skirt, wrapped in a protective cover, is lowered by crane onto a transporter. The segment will be transferred to the Assembly and... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, or ARF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers begin removing the protective cover from around the Ares I-X forward skirt. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will complete the integration and assembly of the forward skirt components in the ARF. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-1310

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facilit...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, or ARF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers begin removing the protective cover from around the Ares I-X forward skirt. Th... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., workers place padding and cables over the Ares I-X forward skirt for its transfer to the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, or ARF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will complete the integration and assembly of the forward skirt components in the ARF. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-1305

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., workers pl...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., workers place padding and cables over the Ares I-X forward skirt for its transfer to the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, or ARF, at NASA's Kenned... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, or ARF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the pristine Ares I-X forward skirt is examined by workers after the protective cover was removed. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will complete the integration and assembly of the forward skirt components in the ARF. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-1311

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, or ARF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the pristine Ares I-X forward skirt is examined by workers after the protective cover w... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X forward skirt is lowered onto supports on the floor. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will complete the integration and assembly of the forward skirt components in the ARF. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1315

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facili...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X forward skirt is lowered onto supports on the floor. United Space Alliance, under... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X forward skirt is lifted off the transporter that carried it from the Astrotech facility. The segment will be lifted off the transporter and placed on supports on the floor. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will complete the integration and assembly of the forward skirt components in the ARF. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1313

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facili...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X forward skirt is lifted off the transporter that carried it from the Astrotech fa... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers attach cables to the Ares I-X forward skirt, which was transported from the Astrotech facility. The segment will be lifted off the transporter and placed on supports on the floor. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will complete the integration and assembly of the forward skirt components in the ARF. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1312

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facili...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers attach cables to the Ares I-X forward skirt, which was transported from the Astrotech ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X forward skirt is lowered onto supports on the floor. United Space Alliance, under a subcontract to ATK, will complete the integration and assembly of the forward skirt components in the ARF. It will then be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 3 for stacking operations. The forward skirt is the initial piece of first-stage hardware in preparation for the July 2009 test flight of the agency's next-generation spacecraft and launch vehicle system. Built entirely of armored steel, the 14,000-pound segment is seven feet tall and 12-1/4 feet wide. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1314

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facilit...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X forward skirt is lowered onto supports on the floor. United Space Alliance, unde... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers remove the cover from the frustum, the last newly manufactured section of the Ares I-X test rocket. Resembling a giant funnel, the frustum's function is to transition the primary flight loads from the rocket's upper stage to the first stage. The frustum is located between the forward skirt extension and the upper stage of the Ares I-X. Weighing in at approximately 13,000 pounds, the 10-foot-long section is composed of two aluminum rings attached to a truncated conic section. The large diameter of the cone is 18 feet and the small diameter is 12 feet. The cone is 1.25 inches thick. The frustum will be integrated with the forward skirt and forward skirt extension, which already are in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility. That will complete the forward assembly. The assembly then will be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building for stacking operations, which are scheduled to begin in April. Manufactured by Major Tool and Machine Inc. in Indiana under a subcontract with Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, the Ares I-X is targeted to launch in the summer of 2009. The flight will provide NASA with an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with the Ares I launch vehicle. The flight test also will bring NASA a step closer to its exploration goals of sending humans to the moon and destinations beyond. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1749

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of N...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers remove the cover from the frustum, the last newly manufactured section of the Ares I-X test rocket. Res... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers remove the cover from the frustum, the last newly manufactured section of the Ares I-X test rocket. Resembling a giant funnel, the frustum's function is to transition the primary flight loads from the rocket's upper stage to the first stage. The frustum is located between the forward skirt extension and the upper stage of the Ares I-X. Weighing in at approximately 13,000 pounds, the 10-foot-long section is composed of two aluminum rings attached to a truncated conic section. The large diameter of the cone is 18 feet and the small diameter is 12 feet. The cone is 1.25 inches thick. The frustum will be integrated with the forward skirt and forward skirt extension, which already are in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility. That will complete the forward assembly. The assembly then will be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building for stacking operations, which are scheduled to begin in April. Manufactured by Major Tool and Machine Inc. in Indiana under a subcontract with Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, the Ares I-X is targeted to launch in the summer of 2009. The flight will provide NASA with an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with the Ares I launch vehicle. The flight test also will bring NASA a step closer to its exploration goals of sending humans to the moon and destinations beyond. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1748

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of N...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers remove the cover from the frustum, the last newly manufactured section of the Ares I-X test rocket. Res... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The last newly manufactured section of the Ares I-X test rocket, the frustum, is offloaded in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Resembling a giant funnel, the frustum's function is to transition the primary flight loads from the rocket's upper stage to the first stage. The frustum is located between the forward skirt extension and the upper stage of the Ares I-X. Weighing in at approximately 13,000 pounds, the 10-foot-long section is composed of two aluminum rings attached to a truncated conic section. The large diameter of the cone is 18 feet and the small diameter is 12 feet. The cone is 1.25 inches thick. The frustum will be integrated with the forward skirt and forward skirt extension, which already are in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility. That will complete the forward assembly. The assembly then will be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building for stacking operations, which are scheduled to begin in April. Manufactured by Major Tool and Machine Inc. in Indiana under a subcontract with Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, the Ares I-X is targeted to launch in the summer of 2009. The flight will provide NASA with an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with the Ares I launch vehicle. The flight test also will bring NASA a step closer to its exploration goals of sending humans to the moon and destinations beyond. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1747

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The last newly manufactured section of the Ares...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The last newly manufactured section of the Ares I-X test rocket, the frustum, is offloaded in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Resembling a giant f... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the last newly manufactured section of the Ares I-X test rocket, the frustum, is revealed after removal of the shipping covers. Resembling a giant funnel, the frustum's function is to transition the primary flight loads from the rocket's upper stage to the first stage. The frustum is located between the forward skirt extension and the upper stage of the Ares I-X. Weighing in at approximately 13,000 pounds, the 10-foot-long section is composed of two aluminum rings attached to a truncated conic section. The large diameter of the cone is 18 feet and the small diameter is 12 feet. The cone is 1.25 inches thick. The frustum will be integrated with the forward skirt and forward skirt extension, which already are in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility. That will complete the forward assembly. The assembly then will be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building for stacking operations, which are scheduled to begin in April. Manufactured by Major Tool and Machine Inc. in Indiana under a subcontract with Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, the Ares I-X is targeted to launch in the summer of 2009. The flight will provide NASA with an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with the Ares I launch vehicle. The flight test also will bring NASA a step closer to its exploration goals of sending humans to the moon and destinations beyond. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1750

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of N...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the last newly manufactured section of the Ares I-X test rocket, the frustum, is revealed after removal of the s... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The last newly manufactured section of the Ares I-X test rocket, the frustum, arrives at the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Resembling a giant funnel, the frustum's function is to transition the primary flight loads from the rocket's upper stage to the first stage. The frustum is located between the forward skirt extension and the upper stage of the Ares I-X. Weighing in at approximately 13,000 pounds, the 10-foot-long section is composed of two aluminum rings attached to a truncated conic section. The large diameter of the cone is 18 feet and the small diameter is 12 feet. The cone is 1.25 inches thick. The frustum will be integrated with the forward skirt and forward skirt extension, which already are in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility. That will complete the forward assembly. The assembly then will be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building for stacking operations, which are scheduled to begin in April. Manufactured by Major Tool and Machine Inc. in Indiana under a subcontract with Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, the Ares I-X is targeted to launch in the summer of 2009. The flight will provide NASA with an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with the Ares I launch vehicle. The flight test also will bring NASA a step closer to its exploration goals of sending humans to the moon and destinations beyond. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1746

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The last newly manufactured section of the Ares...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The last newly manufactured section of the Ares I-X test rocket, the frustum, arrives at the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility of NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Resembling a giant funne... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – ATK and NASA officials accompanied the Florida East Coast Railroad train carrying the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket on its route to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida from Jacksonville, Fla. Seen here in the passenger car are, from left, ATK Vice President Space Launch Systems Charlie Precourt, a Florida East Coast Railroad representative, ATK Deputy Site Director in Florida Ted Shaffner, ATK Vice President Of Space Launch Propulsion Cary Ralston, NASA KSC Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach, a Florida East Coast Railroad representative and ATK Ares I First Stage program Director Fred Brasfield. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-2207

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – ATK and NASA officials accompanied the Florida ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – ATK and NASA officials accompanied the Florida East Coast Railroad train carrying the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket on its route to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Florida East Coast Railway train arrives at the Jay Jay Rail Yard with the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket for interchange with the NASA Railroad. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-2204

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Florida East Coast Railway train arrives at...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Florida East Coast Railway train arrives at the Jay Jay Rail Yard with the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket for interchange with the NASA Railroad. The four reusable mot... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket were delivered to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida by the Florida East Coast Railroad and the NASA Railroad. Accompanying the train on its route from Jacksonville, Fla., were NASA and ATK officials. Standing here, from left, are ATK Ares I Flight Tests Program Director Joe Oliva, ATK Ares I-X Florida Program Manager Russ Page, NASA Ares Program Manager Steve Cook, ATK Deputy Site Director in Florida Ted Shaffner, NASA KSC Ares I-X Deputy Mission Manager Jon Cowart, ATK Vice President of Space Launch Propulson Cary Ralston, ATK Ares I First Stage program Director Fred Brasfield, ATK Vice President Space Launch Systems Charlie Precourt, ATK Ares I Flight Tests Deputy Program Director Kathy Philpot, NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Reusable Solid Rocket Booster Integration Lead Roy Worthy, ATK Florida Site Director Bob Herman, NASA Res First Stage Project Manager Alex Priskos and NASA KSC Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-2211

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The booster segments for the Ares I-X test rock...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket were delivered to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida by the Florida East Coast Railroad and the NASA Railroad. Accompanying the trai... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Leaving the Florida East Coast Railroad train that delivered the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida are Senior Manager of Regional Communications for ATK Jessica Rye and ATK Vice President of Space Launch Systems Charlie Precourt, who is a former astronaut. ATK and NASA officials accompanied the train on its route from Jacksonville, Fla. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-2210

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Leaving the Florida East Coast Railroad train t...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Leaving the Florida East Coast Railroad train that delivered the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida are Senior Manager of Regional Com... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The NASA Railroad (right) is ready for the exchange of the Florida East Coast Railway cars carrying the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-2208

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The NASA Railroad (right) is ready for the exch...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The NASA Railroad (right) is ready for the exchange of the Florida East Coast Railway cars carrying the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket. The four reusable motor segments and... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The NASA Railroad makes the exchange with the Florida East Coast Railway cars carrying the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-2212

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The NASA Railroad makes the exchange with the F...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The NASA Railroad makes the exchange with the Florida East Coast Railway cars carrying the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle e... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – – The NASA Railroad (right) is ready for the exchange of the Florida East Coast Railway cars carrying the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-2209

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – – The NASA Railroad (right) is ready for the ex...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – – The NASA Railroad (right) is ready for the exchange of the Florida East Coast Railway cars carrying the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket. The four reusable motor segments a... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Florida East Coast Railway train arrives at the Jay Jay Rail Yard with the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket for interchange with the NASA Railroad. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-2203

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Florida East Coast Railway train arrives at...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Florida East Coast Railway train arrives at the Jay Jay Rail Yard with the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket for interchange with the NASA Railroad. The four reusable moto... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Florida East Coast Railway train arrives at the Jay Jay Rail Yard with the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket for interchange with the NASA Railroad. Officials from Alliant Techsystems Inc. and NASA accompany the train. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-2202

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Florida East Coast Railway train arrives at...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Florida East Coast Railway train arrives at the Jay Jay Rail Yard with the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket for interchange with the NASA Railroad. Officials from Allian... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Florida East Coast Railway train arrives at the Jay Jay Rail Yard with the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket for interchange with the NASA Railroad. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-2201

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Florida East Coast Railway train arrives at...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Florida East Coast Railway train arrives at the Jay Jay Rail Yard with the booster segments for the Ares I-X test rocket for interchange with the NASA Railroad. The four reusable moto... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The NASA Railroad leaves four of the cars with Ares I-X segments at Suspect siding on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida and continues on with the remaining car to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to Kennedy's Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-2230

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The NASA Railroad leaves four of the cars with ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The NASA Railroad leaves four of the cars with Ares I-X segments at Suspect siding on NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida and continues on with the remaining car to the Rotation, Proce... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The NASA Railroad hauls cars carrying the Ares I-X motor segments and nozzle exit cone over a river bridge to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to Kennedy's Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-2227

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The NASA Railroad hauls cars carrying the Ares ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The NASA Railroad hauls cars carrying the Ares I-X motor segments and nozzle exit cone over a river bridge to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The four reusable motor segments and ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The NASA Railroad hauls cars carrying the Ares I-X motor segments and nozzle exit cone over a river bridge to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to Kennedy's Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-2226

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The NASA Railroad hauls cars carrying the Ares ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The NASA Railroad hauls cars carrying the Ares I-X motor segments and nozzle exit cone over a river bridge to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The four reusable motor segments and... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –This NASA Railroad engine is hauling one of the cars with an Ares I-X segment to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to Kennedy's Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-2232

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –This NASA Railroad engine is hauling one of the ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –This NASA Railroad engine is hauling one of the cars with an Ares I-X segment to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The four reusable m... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The NASA Railroad hauls cars carrying the Ares I-X motor segments and nozzle exit cone over a river bridge to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to Kennedy's Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-2225

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The NASA Railroad hauls cars carrying the Ares ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The NASA Railroad hauls cars carrying the Ares I-X motor segments and nozzle exit cone over a river bridge to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The four reusable motor segments and... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –The cars on the NASA Railroad are separated for different destinations at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. They carry Ares I-X segments. One of the cars is going to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to Kennedy's Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-2231

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –The cars on the NASA Railroad are separated for ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –The cars on the NASA Railroad are separated for different destinations at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. They carry Ares I-X segments. One of the cars is going to the Rotation, ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A close-up of the NASA Railroad locomotive #3, and the EMDSW-1500 switcher, that is hauling the Ares I-X motor segments and nozzle exit cone to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to Kennedy's Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-2228

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A close-up of the NASA Railroad locomotive #3, ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A close-up of the NASA Railroad locomotive #3, and the EMDSW-1500 switcher, that is hauling the Ares I-X motor segments and nozzle exit cone to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Th... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –The NASA Railroad is hauling one of the cars with an Ares I-X segment to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to Kennedy's Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-2233

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –The NASA Railroad is hauling one of the cars wit...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –The NASA Railroad is hauling one of the cars with an Ares I-X segment to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The four reusable motor seg... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After switching out the box cars on the train, the NASA Railroad hauls the Ares I-X motor segments and nozzle exit cone to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The four reusable motor segments and the nozzle exit cone, manufactured by the Ares I first-stage prime contractor Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK, departed Utah March 12 on the seven-day, cross-country trip to Florida. The segments will be delivered to Kennedy's Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility for final processing and integration. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The motor is the final hardware needed for the rocket's upcoming test flight this summer. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-2229

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After switching out the box cars on the train, ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After switching out the box cars on the train, the NASA Railroad hauls the Ares I-X motor segments and nozzle exit cone to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The four reusable motor ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Joe Oliva, with ATK, speaks to employees before the move of the Ares I-X aft skirt from the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility. The aft skirt underwent modifications in the ARF. In the RSPF, it will be stacked with the aft motor to form the aft assembly. The complete Ares I-X will be assembled in the Vehicle Assembly Building. The launch of Ares I-X is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2009-3582

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Joe Oliva, with ATK, speaks to employees before...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Joe Oliva, with ATK, speaks to employees before the move of the Ares I-X aft skirt from the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to the Rotation, Processing ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Receipt Inspection Shop on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, an ATK Space Systems' 60-inch graphite epoxy motor, or GEM, slated for launch of the GOES-P spacecraft rests on a work stand awaiting further processing. The United Launch Alliance Delta IV is the launch vehicle for GOES-P, the latest Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite developed by NASA for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. Launch is targeted for March 4, 2010, from Launch Complex 37. For information on GOES-P, visit http://nasascience.nasa.gov/missions/goes-n-o-p. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-5456

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Receipt Inspection Shop on Cape Canavera...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Receipt Inspection Shop on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, an ATK Space Systems' 60-inch graphite epoxy motor, or GEM, slated for launch of the GOES-P spacecraft rests... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Receipt Inspection Shop on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, ATK Space Systems workers guide a 60-inch graphite epoxy motor, or GEM, slated for launch of the GOES-P spacecraft as it is moved toward a work stand. The United Launch Alliance Delta IV is the launch vehicle for GOES-P, the latest Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite developed by NASA for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. Launch is targeted for March 4, 2010, from Launch Complex 37. For information on GOES-P, visit http://nasascience.nasa.gov/missions/goes-n-o-p. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-5454

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Receipt Inspection Shop on Cape Canavera...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Receipt Inspection Shop on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, ATK Space Systems workers guide a 60-inch graphite epoxy motor, or GEM, slated for launch of the GOES-P spac... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Receipt Inspection Shop on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, an ATK Space Systems' 60-inch graphite epoxy motor, or GEM, slated for launch of the GOES-P spacecraft is lifted from the tractor-trailer in which it was delivered. The two GEMs in the foreground were delivered previously to support another mission. The United Launch Alliance Delta IV is the launch vehicle for GOES-P, the latest Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite developed by NASA for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. Launch is targeted for March 4, 2010, from Launch Complex 37. For information on GOES-P, visit http://nasascience.nasa.gov/missions/goes-n-o-p. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-5452

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Receipt Inspection Shop on Cape Canavera...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Receipt Inspection Shop on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, an ATK Space Systems' 60-inch graphite epoxy motor, or GEM, slated for launch of the GOES-P spacecraft is li... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Receipt Inspection Shop on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, ATK Space Systems workers guide a 60-inch graphite epoxy motor, or GEM, slated for launch of the GOES-P spacecraft as it is lowered toward a work stand. The United Launch Alliance Delta IV is the launch vehicle for GOES-P, the latest Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite developed by NASA for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. Launch is targeted for March 4, 2010, from Launch Complex 37. For information on GOES-P, visit http://nasascience.nasa.gov/missions/goes-n-o-p. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2009-5455

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Receipt Inspection Shop on Cape Canavera...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Receipt Inspection Shop on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, ATK Space Systems workers guide a 60-inch graphite epoxy motor, or GEM, slated for launch of the GOES-P spac... More

POST TEST INSPECTION ON P9038-SRTMV-N1 24" MOTOR (LEFT) SARA HOWSE, EM41 MATERIALS ENGINEER; (RIGHT) RANDY HANDLEY, ATK TECH 1000769

POST TEST INSPECTION ON P9038-SRTMV-N1 24" MOTOR (LEFT) SARA HOWSE, EM...

POST TEST INSPECTION ON P9038-SRTMV-N1 24" MOTOR (LEFT) SARA HOWSE, EM41 MATERIALS ENGINEER; (RIGHT) RANDY HANDLEY, ATK TECH

ATK Solar Array Deployment Test at Plum Brook Station Space Power Facility, SPF GRC-2014-C-07751

ATK Solar Array Deployment Test at Plum Brook Station Space Power Faci...

ATK Solar Array Deployment Test at Plum Brook Station Space Power Facility, SPF

ATK Solar Array Deployment Test at Plum Brook Station Space Power Facility, SPF GRC-2014-C-07760

ATK Solar Array Deployment Test at Plum Brook Station Space Power Faci...

ATK Solar Array Deployment Test at Plum Brook Station Space Power Facility, SPF

ATK Solar Array Deployment Test at Plum Brook Station Space Power Facility, SPF GRC-2014-C-07765

ATK Solar Array Deployment Test at Plum Brook Station Space Power Faci...

ATK Solar Array Deployment Test at Plum Brook Station Space Power Facility, SPF

ATK Solar Array Deployment Test at Plum Brook Station Space Power Facility, SPF GRC-2014-C-07744

ATK Solar Array Deployment Test at Plum Brook Station Space Power Faci...

ATK Solar Array Deployment Test at Plum Brook Station Space Power Facility, SPF

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- NASA and Alliant Techsystems (ATK) managers discuss an agreement that could accelerate the availability of U.S. commercial crew transportation capabilities with media representatives in the Press Site auditorium at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. From left are Ed Mango, Commercial Crew Program manager, NASA; Kent Rominger, vice president, Strategy and Business Development, ATK Aerospace; and John Schumacher, vice president, Space Programs, EADS North America. The unfunded Space Act Agreement (SAA) through NASA's Commercial Crew Program will allow the agency and ATK to review and discuss Liberty system requirements, safety and certification plans, computational models of rocket stage performance, and avionics architecture designs. The agreement outlines key milestones including an Initial System Design review, during which ATK will present to NASA officials the Liberty systems level requirements, preliminary design, and certification process development. For more information about NASA's Commercial Crew Program, visit http://www.nasa.gov/exploration/commercial. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2011-6951

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- NASA and Alliant Techsystems (ATK) managers di...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- NASA and Alliant Techsystems (ATK) managers discuss an agreement that could accelerate the availability of U.S. commercial crew transportation capabilities with media representatives in ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- NASA and Alliant Techsystems (ATK) managers announce an agreement that could accelerate the availability of U.S. commercial crew transportation capabilities in the Press Site auditorium at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. From left are Candrea Thomas, NASA Public Affairs; Ed Mango, Commercial Crew Program manager, NASA; Kent Rominger, vice president, Strategy and Business Development, ATK Aerospace; and John Schumacher, vice president, Space Programs, EADS North America. The unfunded Space Act Agreement (SAA) through NASA's Commercial Crew Program will allow the agency and ATK to review and discuss Liberty system requirements, safety and certification plans, computational models of rocket stage performance, and avionics architecture designs. The agreement outlines key milestones including an Initial System Design review, during which ATK will present to NASA officials the Liberty systems level requirements, preliminary design, and certification process development. For more information about NASA's Commercial Crew Program, visit http://www.nasa.gov/exploration/commercial. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2011-6950

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- NASA and Alliant Techsystems (ATK) managers an...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- NASA and Alliant Techsystems (ATK) managers announce an agreement that could accelerate the availability of U.S. commercial crew transportation capabilities in the Press Site auditorium ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The pressurized vessel of The Boeing Co.'s Commercial Crew Transportation System, which could take NASA astronauts to the International Space Station, is on display in Orbiter Processing Facility-3 (OPF-3) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Boeing is maturing its CST-100 spacecraft design for NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP) under the Commercial Crew Development Round 2 (CCDev2) activities. Boeing's current design shows the CST-100 taking up to seven astronauts and cargo to the space station or other low Earth orbit destinations by the middle of the decade. Through an agreement with NASA and Space Florida, Boeing is leasing OPF-3, the Processing Control Facility (PCC) and Space Shuttle Main Engine Shop at Kennedy to design, manufacture, process and integrate the CST-100. This work is expected to generate up to 550 engineering and technical jobs for Florida's Space Coast. Chuck Hardison, Boeing's production and ground operations manager, explained that the CST-100 will be manufactured using a spin-form technology, which is expected to bring down the cost and safety concerns of a traditional welded spacecraft. It's innovations such as this that CCP hopes will drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before. Seven aerospace companies are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Alliant Techsystems Inc. (ATK) of Promontory, Utah, Blue Origin of Kent, Wash., The Boeing Co., of Houston, Excalibur Almaz Inc. of Houston, Sierra Nevada Corp. of Louisville, Colo., Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) of Hawthorne, Calif., and United Launch Alliance (ULA) of Centennial, Colo. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/exploration/commercial Photo credit: Jim Grossmann KSC-2011-7883

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The pressurized vessel of The Boeing Co.'s Com...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The pressurized vessel of The Boeing Co.'s Commercial Crew Transportation System, which could take NASA astronauts to the International Space Station, is on display in Orbiter Processing... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Chuck Hardison, the production and ground operations manager of The Boeing Co.'s Commercial Crew Transportation System, talks to media about plans to take NASA astronauts to the International Space Station in Orbiter Processing Facility-3 (OPF-3) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Boeing is maturing its CST-100 spacecraft design for NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP) under the Commercial Crew Development Round 2 (CCDev2) activities. Boeing's current design shows the CST-100 taking up to seven astronauts and cargo to the space station or other low Earth orbit destinations by the middle of the decade. Through an agreement with NASA and Space Florida, Boeing is leasing OPF-3, the Processing Control Facility (PCC) and Space Shuttle Main Engine Shop at Kennedy to design, manufacture, process and integrate the CST-100. This work is expected to generate up to 550 engineering and technical jobs for Florida's Space Coast. Hardison explained that the CST-100 will be manufactured using a spin-form technology, which is expected to bring down the cost and safety concerns of a traditional welded spacecraft. It's innovations such as this that CCP hopes will drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before. Seven aerospace companies are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Alliant Techsystems Inc. (ATK) of Promontory, Utah, Blue Origin of Kent, Wash., The Boeing Co., of Houston, Excalibur Almaz Inc. of Houston, Sierra Nevada Corp. of Louisville, Colo., Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) of Hawthorne, Calif., and United Launch Alliance (ULA) of Centennial, Colo. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/exploration/commercial Photo credit: Jim Grossmann KSC-2011-7884

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Chuck Hardison, the production and ground oper...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Chuck Hardison, the production and ground operations manager of The Boeing Co.'s Commercial Crew Transportation System, talks to media about plans to take NASA astronauts to the Internat... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Ed Mango, program manager for NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP), updates media on the progress of Commercial Crew Development Round 2 (CCDev2) activities in which seven aerospace companies are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft systems designed to take astronauts to the International Space Station. The goal of the program is to drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before by balancing industry’s own innovative capabilities with NASA's 50 years of human spaceflight experience. Seven aerospace companies are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Alliant Techsystems Inc. (ATK) of Promontory, Utah, Blue Origin of Kent, Wash., The Boeing Co., of Houston, Excalibur Almaz Inc. of Houston, Sierra Nevada Corp. of Louisville, Colo., Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) of Hawthorne, Calif., and United Launch Alliance (ULA) of Centennial, Colo. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/exploration/commercial Photo credit: Jim Grossmann KSC-2011-7882

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Ed Mango, program manager for NASA's Commercia...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Ed Mango, program manager for NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP), updates media on the progress of Commercial Crew Development Round 2 (CCDev2) activities in which seven aerospace comp... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Ed Mango, program manager for NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP), updates media on the progress of Commercial Crew Development Round 2 (CCDev2) activities in which seven aerospace companies are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft systems designed to take astronauts to the International Space Station. The goal of the program is to drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before by balancing industry’s own innovative capabilities with NASA's 50 years of human spaceflight experience. Seven aerospace companies are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Alliant Techsystems Inc. (ATK) of Promontory, Utah, Blue Origin of Kent, Wash., The Boeing Co., of Houston, Excalibur Almaz Inc. of Houston, Sierra Nevada Corp. of Louisville, Colo., Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) of Hawthorne, Calif., and United Launch Alliance (ULA) of Centennial, Colo. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/exploration/commercial Photo credit: Jim Grossmann KSC-2011-7881

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Ed Mango, program manager for NASA's Commercia...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Ed Mango, program manager for NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP), updates media on the progress of Commercial Crew Development Round 2 (CCDev2) activities in which seven aerospace comp... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Media learn about the plans Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) has to take NASA astronauts to the International Space Station at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. SpaceX is working to make its Falcon 9 rocket and Dragon capsule safe for humans for NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP) under the Commercial Crew Development Round 2 (CCDev2) activities. SpaceX already is developing these systems under NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation System (COTS) Program to take supplies to the space station. Scott Henderson, director of SpaceX mission assurance, explained that the company is drafting designs to make the Dragon capsule crew-capable with life support systems while meeting CCP's safety requirements. One such option under discussion is a launch abort system that would push astronauts away from the launch pad in the event of an emergency, which is different than traditional pull systems. It's the freedom to develop innovative solutions such as this that CCP hopes will drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before. CCP, which is based at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, partnered with seven aerospace companies to mature launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Alliant Techsystems Inc. (ATK) of Promontory, Utah, Blue Origin of Kent, Wash., The Boeing Co., of Houston, Excalibur Almaz Inc. of Houston, Sierra Nevada Corp. of Louisville, Colo., Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) of Hawthorne, Calif., and United Launch Alliance (ULA) of Centennial, Colo. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/exploration/commercial Photo credit: Jim Grossmann KSC-2011-7885

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Media learn about the plans Space Exploration ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Media learn about the plans Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX) has to take NASA astronauts to the International Space Station at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is an artist's conception of the Liberty Launch Vehicle under development by Alliant Techsystems Inc. (ATK) of Promontory, Utah, for NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP). In 2011, NASA and ATK entered into an unfunded Space Act Agreement during Commercial Crew Development Round 2 (CCDev2) activities to mature the design and development of a crew transportation system with the overall goal of accelerating a United States-led capability to the International Space Station. The goal of CCP is to drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before by balancing industry’s own innovative capabilities with NASA's 50 years of human spaceflight experience. Six other aerospace companies also are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Blue Origin, The Boeing Co., Excalibur Almaz Inc., Sierra Nevada Corp., Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX), and United Launch Alliance (ULA). For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew. Image credit: Alliant Techsystems Inc. KSC-2011-8113

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is an artist's conception of the Liberty ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is an artist's conception of the Liberty Launch Vehicle under development by Alliant Techsystems Inc. (ATK) of Promontory, Utah, for NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP). In 2011, N... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is an artist's conception of the Dragon capsule under development by Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) of Hawthorne, Calif., for NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP). In 2011, NASA selected SpaceX during Commercial Crew Development Round 2 (CCDev2) activities to mature the design and development of a crew transportation system with the overall goal of accelerating a United States-led capability to the International Space Station. The goal of CCP is to drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before by balancing industry’s own innovative capabilities with NASA's 50 years of human spaceflight experience. Six other aerospace companies also are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Alliant Techsystems Inc. (ATK), The Boeing Co., Excalibur Almaz Inc., Blue Origin, Sierra Nevada, and United Launch Alliance (ULA). For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew. Image credit: Space Exploration Technologies KSC-2011-8117

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is an artist's conception of the Dragon c...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is an artist's conception of the Dragon capsule under development by Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) of Hawthorne, Calif., for NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP). In 2011,... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is an artist's conception of the Dream Chaser spacecraft under development by Sierra Nevada of Centennial, Colo., for NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP). In 2011, NASA selected Sierra Nevada during Commercial Crew Development Round 2 (CCDev2) activities to mature the design and development of a crew transportation system with the overall goal of accelerating a United States-led capability to the International Space Station. The goal of CCP is to drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before by balancing industry’s own innovative capabilities with NASA's 50 years of human spaceflight experience. Six other aerospace companies also are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Alliant Techsystems Inc. (ATK), The Boeing Co., Excalibur Almaz Inc., Blue Origin, Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX), and United Launch Alliance (ULA). For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew. Image credit: Sierra Nevada Corp. KSC-2011-8116

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is an artist's conception of the Dream Ch...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is an artist's conception of the Dream Chaser spacecraft under development by Sierra Nevada of Centennial, Colo., for NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP). In 2011, NASA selected Si... More

MCGREGOR, Texas -- Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) completes a full-duration, full-thrust firing of its new SuperDraco engine prototype at the company’s Rocket Development Facility in McGregor, Texas. The firing was in preparation for the ninth milestone to be completed under SpaceX's funded Space Act Agreement (SAA) with NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP). SpaceX is working with CCP during Commercial Crew Development Round 2 (CCDev2) in order to mature the design and development of its Dragon spacecraft with the overall goal of accelerating a United States-led capability to the International Space Station. Eight SuperDracos would be built into the sidewalls of the Dragon capsule to carry astronauts to safety should an emergency occur during launch or ascent. The goal of CCP is to drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before by balancing industry’s own innovative capabilities with NASA's 50 years of human spaceflight experience. Six other aerospace companies also are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Alliant Techsystems Inc. (ATK), Blue Origin, The Boeing Co., Excalibur Almaz Inc., Sierra Nevada Corp. and United Launch Alliance (ULA). For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew KSC-2012-1210

MCGREGOR, Texas -- Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) completes a...

MCGREGOR, Texas -- Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) completes a full-duration, full-thrust firing of its new SuperDraco engine prototype at the company’s Rocket Development Facility in McGregor, Texas. T... More

MCGREGOR, Texas -- Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) completes a full-duration, full-thrust firing of its new SuperDraco engine prototype at the company’s Rocket Development Facility in McGregor, Texas. The firing was in preparation for the ninth milestone to be completed under SpaceX's funded Space Act Agreement (SAA) with NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP). SpaceX is working with CCP during Commercial Crew Development Round 2 (CCDev2) in order to mature the design and development of its Dragon spacecraft with the overall goal of accelerating a United States-led capability to the International Space Station. Eight SuperDracos would be built into the sidewalls of the Dragon capsule to carry astronauts to safety should an emergency occur during launch or ascent. The goal of CCP is to drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before by balancing industry’s own innovative capabilities with NASA's 50 years of human spaceflight experience. Six other aerospace companies also are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Alliant Techsystems Inc. (ATK), Blue Origin, The Boeing Co., Excalibur Almaz Inc., Sierra Nevada Corp. and United Launch Alliance (ULA). For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew KSC-2012-1209

MCGREGOR, Texas -- Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) completes a...

MCGREGOR, Texas -- Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) completes a full-duration, full-thrust firing of its new SuperDraco engine prototype at the company’s Rocket Development Facility in McGregor, Texas. T... More

MCGREGOR, Texas -- Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) completes a full-duration, full-thrust firing of its new SuperDraco engine prototype at the company’s Rocket Development Facility in McGregor, Texas. The firing was in preparation for the ninth milestone to be completed under SpaceX's funded Space Act Agreement (SAA) with NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP). SpaceX is working with CCP during Commercial Crew Development Round 2 (CCDev2) in order to mature the design and development of its Dragon spacecraft with the overall goal of accelerating a United States-led capability to the International Space Station. Eight SuperDracos would be built into the sidewalls of the Dragon capsule to carry astronauts to safety should an emergency occur during launch or ascent. The goal of CCP is to drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before by balancing industry’s own innovative capabilities with NASA's 50 years of human spaceflight experience. Six other aerospace companies also are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Alliant Techsystems Inc. (ATK), Blue Origin, The Boeing Co., Excalibur Almaz Inc., Sierra Nevada Corp. and United Launch Alliance (ULA). For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew KSC-2012-1208

MCGREGOR, Texas -- Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) completes a...

MCGREGOR, Texas -- Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) completes a full-duration, full-thrust firing of its new SuperDraco engine prototype at the company’s Rocket Development Facility in McGregor, Texas. T... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is an artist's conception of the Dream Chaser spacecraft integrated with an Atlas V rocket. Dream Chaser is under development by Sierra Nevada of Centennial, Colo., for NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP). In 2011, NASA selected Sierra Nevada during Commercial Crew Development Round 2 (CCDev2) activities to mature the design and development of a crew transportation system with the overall goal of accelerating a United States-led capability to the International Space Station. United Launch Alliance's Atlas V also is being considered under CCDev2. The goal of CCP is to drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before by balancing industry’s own innovative capabilities with NASA's 50 years of human spaceflight experience. Five other aerospace companies also are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Alliant Techsystems Inc. (ATK), The Boeing Co., Excalibur Almaz Inc., Blue Origin, and Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX). For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew. Image credit: Sierra Nevada Corp. KSC-2012-1015

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is an artist's conception of the Dream Ch...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is an artist's conception of the Dream Chaser spacecraft integrated with an Atlas V rocket. Dream Chaser is under development by Sierra Nevada of Centennial, Colo., for NASA's Comme... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is a printable banner of the aerospace companies NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP) entered into Space Act Agreements with during Commercial Crew Development Round 2 (CCDev2) activities in 2011 in order to mature the design and development of crew transportation systems with the overall goal of accelerating a United States-led capability to the International Space Station. CCDev2 companies are Alliant Techsystems (ATK), Blue Origin, The Boeing Co., Excalibur Almaz Inc., Sierra Nevada Corp., Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX), and United Launch Alliance (ULA). The goal of CCP is to drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before by balancing industry’s own innovative capabilities with NASA's 50 years of human spaceflight experience. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew KSC-2012-1009

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is a printable banner of the aerospace co...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is a printable banner of the aerospace companies NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP) entered into Space Act Agreements with during Commercial Crew Development Round 2 (CCDev2) acti... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is an artist's conception of an Almaz capsule, the basis of Excalibur Almaz Inc.'s Human Spacecraft design. In 2011, NASA's Commercial Crew Program CCP and the Houston-based company entered into an unfunded Space Act Agreement during Commercial Crew Development Round 2 CCDev2) activities to mature the design and development of a crew transportation system with the overall goal of accelerating a United States-led capability to the International Space Station. The goal of CCP is to drive down the cost of space travel as well as open up space to more people than ever before by balancing industry’s own innovative capabilities with NASA's 50 years of human spaceflight experience. Six other aerospace companies also are maturing launch vehicle and spacecraft designs under CCDev2, including Alliant Techsystems ATK, Blue Origin, The Boeing Co., Sierra Nevada Corp., Space Exploration Technologies SpaceX, and United Launch Alliance ULA. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew. Image credit: Excalibur Almaz Limited KSC-2012-1016

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is an artist's conception of an Almaz cap...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is an artist's conception of an Almaz capsule, the basis of Excalibur Almaz Inc.'s Human Spacecraft design. In 2011, NASA's Commercial Crew Program CCP and the Houston-based company... More

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