air force

nasa

kennedy space center

california

vandenberg

vandenberg air

carbon

vandenberg air force base

taurus, air force

304 media by topic ∙ page 1 of 4
VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The first stage of the Delta II rocket that will carry NASA's Aquarius satellite into low Earth orbit is raised onto the launch pad at Vandenberg Air Force Base's Space Launch Complex-2 (SLC-2) in California. While the Delta II rocket is stacked on SLC-2, teams for NASA's Glory spacecraft and Orbital Sciences Taurus XL rocket are in launch preparation mode at Vandenberg's nearby Space Launch Complex 576-E. Scheduled to launch in June, Aquarius' mission will be to provide monthly maps of global changes in sea surface salinity. By measuring ocean salinity from space, Aquarius will provide new insights into how the massive natural exchange of freshwater between the ocean, atmosphere and sea ice influences ocean circulation, weather and climate. Also going up with the satellite are optical and thermal cameras, a microwave radiometer and the SAC-D spacecraft, which were developed with the help of institutions in Italy, France, Canada and Argentina. Photo credit: NASA/VAFB KSC-2011-1966

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The first stage of the Delta II r...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The first stage of the Delta II rocket that will carry NASA's Aquarius satellite into low Earth orbit is raised onto the launch pad at Vandenberg Air Force Base's Space Laun... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Technicians guide the first stage of the Delta II rocket that will carry NASA's Aquarius satellite into low Earth orbit onto the launch pad at Vandenberg Air Force Base's Space Launch Complex-2 (SLC-2) in California. While the Delta II rocket is stacked on SLC-2, teams for NASA's Glory spacecraft and Orbital Sciences Taurus XL rocket are in launch preparation mode at Vandenberg's nearby Space Launch Complex 576-E. Scheduled to launch in June, Aquarius' mission will be to provide monthly maps of global changes in sea surface salinity. By measuring ocean salinity from space, Aquarius will provide new insights into how the massive natural exchange of freshwater between the ocean, atmosphere and sea ice influences ocean circulation, weather and climate. Also going up with the satellite are optical and thermal cameras, a microwave radiometer and the SAC-D spacecraft, which were developed with the help of institutions in Italy, France, Canada and Argentina. Photo credit: NASA/VAFB KSC-2011-1969

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Technicians guide the first stage...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Technicians guide the first stage of the Delta II rocket that will carry NASA's Aquarius satellite into low Earth orbit onto the launch pad at Vandenberg Air Force Base's Sp... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The first stage of the Delta II rocket that will carry NASA's Aquarius satellite into low Earth orbit is raised onto the launch pad at Vandenberg Air Force Base's Space Launch Complex-2 (SLC-2) in California. While the Delta II rocket is stacked on SLC-2, teams for NASA's Glory spacecraft and Orbital Sciences Taurus XL rocket are in launch preparation mode at Vandenberg's nearby Space Launch Complex 576-E. Scheduled to launch in June, Aquarius' mission will be to provide monthly maps of global changes in sea surface salinity. By measuring ocean salinity from space, Aquarius will provide new insights into how the massive natural exchange of freshwater between the ocean, atmosphere and sea ice influences ocean circulation, weather and climate. Also going up with the satellite are optical and thermal cameras, a microwave radiometer and the SAC-D spacecraft, which were developed with the help of institutions in Italy, France, Canada and Argentina. Photo credit: NASA/VAFB KSC-2011-1970

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The first stage of the Delta II r...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The first stage of the Delta II rocket that will carry NASA's Aquarius satellite into low Earth orbit is raised onto the launch pad at Vandenberg Air Force Base's Space Laun... More

Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton, Washington. The insignia for Patrol Combatant Missile Hydrofoil Squadron Two on the hydrofoil USS TAURUS (PHM 3)

Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton, Washington. The insignia for Pa...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Bremerton State: Washington (WA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: PH1 Terry C. Mitchell Release Status: Released t... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory and its Taurus booster lift off Feb. 24 from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California at 4:55 a.m. EST. A contingency was declared a few minutes later and the satellite failed to reach orbit after liftoff. Preliminary indications are that the fairing on the Taurus XL launch vehicle failed to separate. The fairing is a clamshell structure that encapsulates the satellite as it travels through the atmosphere. A Mishap Investigation Board is being set up to determine the cause of the launch failure. Photo courtesy of Orbital Sciences KSC-2009-1827

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observato...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory and its Taurus booster lift off Feb. 24 from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California at 4:55 a.m. EST. A contingency was declared a few m... More

An air to ground view of the US Air Force Taurus portable Satellite booster and support equipment located at Vandenberg AFB, California. From AIRMAN Magazine, July 2000 article. "The New Space Experiments"

An air to ground view of the US Air Force Taurus portable Satellite bo...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Vandenberg Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Andy Dunaway Release Status... More

US Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Perry Ballard Tarurs launch director, and other USAF personnel discuss specifying affordable spacecraft and boosters for national security, standing near the US Air Force Taurus portable Satellite booster located at Vandenberg AFB, California. From AIRMAN Magazine, July 2000 article."The New Space Experiments"

US Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Perry Ballard Tarurs launch director, ...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Vandenberg Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Andy Dunaway Release Status... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first stage of the Taurus rocket is being moved into Building 1555's west bay. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, in 2009. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-08pd1883

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first sta...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first stage of the Taurus rocket is being moved into Building 1555's west bay. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, in 20... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In Building 1555's west bay at Vandenberg AFB, workers secure the strapping holding the third stage of the Taurus rocket on the assembly integration trailer. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, in 2009. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-08pd1874

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In Building 1555's west bay at ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In Building 1555's west bay at Vandenberg AFB, workers secure the strapping holding the third stage of the Taurus rocket on the assembly integration trailer. The Taurus w... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In Building 1555's west bay at Vandenberg AFB, the third and second stages of the Taurus rocket rest on the stationary rails. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, in 2009. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-08pd1880

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In Building 1555's west bay at V...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In Building 1555's west bay at Vandenberg AFB, the third and second stages of the Taurus rocket rest on the stationary rails. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Obs... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first stage of the Taurus rocket is being moved onto the stationary rails in Building 1555's west bay. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, in 2009. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-08pd1884

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first sta...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first stage of the Taurus rocket is being moved onto the stationary rails in Building 1555's west bay. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Obs... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first stage of the Taurus rocket is moved out of the transportation trailer onto the assembly integration trailer. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, in 2009. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-08pd1881

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first sta...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first stage of the Taurus rocket is moved out of the transportation trailer onto the assembly integration trailer. The Taurus will launch the Orbiti... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In Building 1555's west bay at Vandenberg AFB, the third stage of the Taurus rocket is moved onto the stationary rails. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, in 2009. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-08pd1878

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In Building 1555's west bay at V...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In Building 1555's west bay at Vandenberg AFB, the third stage of the Taurus rocket is moved onto the stationary rails. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observat... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first stage of the Taurus rocket is being moved onto the stationary rails in Building 1555's west bay. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, in 2009. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-08pd1885

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first sta...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first stage of the Taurus rocket is being moved onto the stationary rails in Building 1555's west bay. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Obs... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first stage of the Taurus rocket is being moved onto the stationary rails in Building 1555's west bay. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, in 2009. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-08pd1886

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first sta...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first stage of the Taurus rocket is being moved onto the stationary rails in Building 1555's west bay. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Ob... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the third stage of the Taurus rocket is moved into Building 1555's west bay. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, in 2009. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-08pd1873

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the third sta...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the third stage of the Taurus rocket is moved into Building 1555's west bay. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, in 2009. ... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, workers stabilize the third stage of the Taurus rocket on the assembly integration trailer. The segment will be moved onto the stationary rails in Building 1555's west bay. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, in 2009. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-08pd1875

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, workers stabi...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, workers stabilize the third stage of the Taurus rocket on the assembly integration trailer. The segment will be moved onto the stationary rails in Build... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the second stage of the Taurus rocket moves behind the third stage in front of the Building 1555's west bay. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, in 2009. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-08pd1877

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the second st...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the second stage of the Taurus rocket moves behind the third stage in front of the Building 1555's west bay. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon O... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first stage of the Taurus rocket is being moved onto the stationary rails in Building 1555's west bay. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, in 2009. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-08pd1887

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first sta...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first stage of the Taurus rocket is being moved onto the stationary rails in Building 1555's west bay. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Ob... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the second stage of the Taurus rocket is moved out of the transportation trailer onto the assembly integration trailer. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, in 2009. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-08pd1876

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the second st...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the second stage of the Taurus rocket is moved out of the transportation trailer onto the assembly integration trailer. The Taurus will launch the Orbit... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the third stage of the Taurus rocket is offloaded from the truck onto an assembly integration trailer. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, in 2009. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-08pd1872

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the third sta...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the third stage of the Taurus rocket is offloaded from the truck onto an assembly integration trailer. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observ... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In Building 1555's west bay at Vandenberg AFB, the second stage of the Taurus rocket is moved onto the stationary rails. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, in 2009. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-08pd1879

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In Building 1555's west bay at V...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In Building 1555's west bay at Vandenberg AFB, the second stage of the Taurus rocket is moved onto the stationary rails. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observa... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first stage of the Taurus rocket is moved out of the transportation trailer onto the assembly integration trailer. The Taurus will launch the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, in 2009. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin KSC-08pd1882

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first sta...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg AFB, the first stage of the Taurus rocket is moved out of the transportation trailer onto the assembly integration trailer. The Taurus will launch the Orbitin... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The Stage 0 motor for the Taurus XL launch vehicle arrives at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The motor will be transported to Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555. The Taurus XL will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft targeted for Jan. 15. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3533

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The Stage 0 motor for the Taurus X...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The Stage 0 motor for the Taurus XL launch vehicle arrives at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The motor will be transported to Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555. The Ta... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The Taurus XL Stage 0 motor is moved into Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Taurus XL will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft targeted for Jan. 15. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3543

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The Taurus XL Stage 0 motor is m...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The Taurus XL Stage 0 motor is moved into Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Taurus XL will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observa... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – After its arrival at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the Taurus XL Stage 0 motor is transported to Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555. The Taurus XL will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft targeted for Jan. 15. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3542

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – After its arrival at Vandenberg ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – After its arrival at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the Taurus XL Stage 0 motor is transported to Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555. The Taurus XL will launch NASA's ... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a worker secures a crane on the Taurus XL Stage 0 motor. The motor will be lifted onto a flatbed truck and transported to Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555. The Taurus XL will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft targeted for Jan. 15. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3538

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – At Vandenberg Air Force Base in ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a worker secures a crane on the Taurus XL Stage 0 motor. The motor will be lifted onto a flatbed truck and transported to Orbit... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – After arrival of the Stage 0 motor for the Taurus XL launch vehicle at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane lifts off the protective shipping cover. The motor will be transported to Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555. The Taurus XL will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft targeted for Jan. 15. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3534

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – After arrival of the Stage 0 motor...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – After arrival of the Stage 0 motor for the Taurus XL launch vehicle at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane lifts off the protective shipping cover. The motor wi... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The Taurus XL Stage 0 motor is moved into Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Taurus XL will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft targeted for Jan. 15. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3544

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The Taurus XL Stage 0 motor is mo...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The Taurus XL Stage 0 motor is moved into Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Taurus XL will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observa... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – After arrival of the Stage 0 motor for the Taurus XL launch vehicle at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane lifts off the protective cage. The motor will be transported to Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555. The Taurus XL will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft targeted for Jan. 15. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3535

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – After arrival of the Stage 0 motor...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – After arrival of the Stage 0 motor for the Taurus XL launch vehicle at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane lifts off the protective cage. The motor will be tran... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane lifts the Taurus XL Stage 0 motor to move it to a flatbed truck. The motor will be transported to Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555. The Taurus XL will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft targeted for Jan. 15. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3541

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – At Vandenberg Air Force Base in ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane lifts the Taurus XL Stage 0 motor to move it to a flatbed truck. The motor will be transported to Orbital Sciences' Hang... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a worker secures a crane on the Taurus XL Stage 0 motor. The motor will be lifted onto a flatbed truck and transported to Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555. The Taurus XL will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft targeted for Jan. 15. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3537

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – At Vandenberg Air Force Base in ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a worker secures a crane on the Taurus XL Stage 0 motor. The motor will be lifted onto a flatbed truck and transported to Orbit... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane lifts the Taurus XL Stage 0 motor to move it to a flatbed truck. The motor will be transported to Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555. The Taurus XL will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft targeted for Jan. 15. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3539

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – At Vandenberg Air Force Base in ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane lifts the Taurus XL Stage 0 motor to move it to a flatbed truck. The motor will be transported to Orbital Sciences' Hang... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – After arrival of the Stage 0 motor for the Taurus XL launch vehicle at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane lifts off the protective cage. The motor will be transported to Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555. The Taurus XL will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft targeted for Jan. 15. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3536

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – After arrival of the Stage 0 moto...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – After arrival of the Stage 0 motor for the Taurus XL launch vehicle at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane lifts off the protective cage. The motor will be tra... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The Taurus XL Stage 0 motor has been moved into Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Taurus XL will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft targeted for Jan. 15. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3545

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The Taurus XL Stage 0 motor has be...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The Taurus XL Stage 0 motor has been moved into Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Taurus XL will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Obs... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane lifts the Taurus XL Stage 0 motor to move it to a flatbed truck. The motor will be transported to Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555. The Taurus XL will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft targeted for Jan. 15. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3540

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – At Vandenberg Air Force Base in ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane lifts the Taurus XL Stage 0 motor to move it to a flatbed truck. The motor will be transported to Orbital Sciences' Hang... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The Taurus XL Stage 0 motor has been moved into Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Taurus XL will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft targeted for Jan. 15. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3546

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The Taurus XL Stage 0 motor has be...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The Taurus XL Stage 0 motor has been moved into Orbital Sciences' Hangar 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Taurus XL will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Obs... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Building 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, ssembly is underway for the Taurus XL rocket that will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft. Lined up left to right are the Stage 1 and Stage 2 motors, the boattail, the avionics shelf and the Stage 3 motor. The graphite/epoxy boattail structure provides the transition from the smaller diameter of the Stage 2 motor to the larger diameter of the avionics skirt. The avionics skirt, also a graphite/epoxy structure, supports the avionics shelf and carries the primary structural loads from the fairing and payload cone. The aluminum avionics shelf supports the third stage avionics. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The launch of OCO is targeted for January. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3866

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Building 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Ba...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Building 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, ssembly is underway for the Taurus XL rocket that will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft. Lin... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Building 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers do a fit check on the mating of the Stage 1 to Stage 2 motors for the Taurus XL rocket that will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft. At right can be seen the avionics shelf. The avionics skirt, a graphite/epoxy structure, supports the avionics shelf and carries the primary structural loads from the fairing and payload cone. The aluminum avionics shelf supports the third stage avionics. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The launch of OCO is targeted for January. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3868

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Building 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Base...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Building 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers do a fit check on the mating of the Stage 1 to Stage 2 motors for the Taurus XL rocket that will launch NASA's Orbi... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Building 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, assembly is underway for the Taurus XL rocket that will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft. In the foreground at left is the boattail; behind it is the Stage 0 Castor 120 motor. At right near the wall (from left) are the Stage 1 and Stage 2 motors, the avionics shelf and the Stage 3 motor. The graphite/epoxy boattail structure provides the transition from the smaller diameter of the Stage 2 motor to the larger diameter of the avionics skirt. The avionics skirt, also a graphite/epoxy structure, supports the avionics shelf and carries the primary structural loads from the fairing and payload cone. The aluminum avionics shelf supports the third stage avionics. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The launch of OCO is targeted for January. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3867

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Building 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Ba...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Building 1555 at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, assembly is underway for the Taurus XL rocket that will launch NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft. In ... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At the Orbital Sciences payload processing facility on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the first stage motor for the Glory spacecraft's Taurus XL rocket waits to be moved inside. Glory is a low-Earth orbit scientific research satellite designed to collect data on the properties and distributions of aerosols in the Earth's atmosphere and on solar irradiance for the long-term Earth climate record. Glory will be launched from Vandenberg aboard Orbital's Taurus XL 3110 launch vehicle. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3873

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At the Orbital Sciences payload...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At the Orbital Sciences payload processing facility on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the first stage motor for the Glory spacecraft's Taurus XL rocket waits to ... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In the Orbital Sciences payload processing facility on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the first, second and third stage motors for the Glory spacecraft's Taurus XL rocket are lined up after arrival. Glory is a low-Earth orbit scientific research satellite designed to collect data on the properties and distributions of aerosols in the Earth's atmosphere and on solar irradiance for the long-term Earth climate record. Glory will be launched from Vandenberg aboard Orbital's Taurus XL 3110 launch vehicle. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3875

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In the Orbital Sciences payload ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In the Orbital Sciences payload processing facility on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the first, second and third stage motors for the Glory spacecraft's Taurus X... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At the Orbital Sciences payload processing facility on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers offload the second (right) and third stage motors of the Taurus XL rocket for the launch of the Glory spacecraft in June 2009. Glory is a low-Earth orbit scientific research satellite designed to collect data on the properties and distributions of aerosols in the Earth's atmosphere and on solar irradiance for the long-term Earth climate record. Glory will be launched from Vandenberg aboard Orbital's Taurus XL 3110 launch vehicle. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3871

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At the Orbital Sciences payloa...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At the Orbital Sciences payload processing facility on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers offload the second (right) and third stage motors of the Taurus XL... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At the Orbital Sciences payload processing facility on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers offload the third stage motor of the Taurus XL rocket for the launch of the Glory spacecraft in June 2009. Glory is a low-Earth orbit scientific research satellite designed to collect data on the properties and distributions of aerosols in the Earth's atmosphere and on solar irradiance for the long-term Earth climate record. Glory will be launched from Vandenberg aboard Orbital's Taurus XL 3110 launch vehicle. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3870

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At the Orbital Sciences payload...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At the Orbital Sciences payload processing facility on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers offload the third stage motor of the Taurus XL rocket for the launc... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- A truck arrives at the Orbital Sciences payload processing facility on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California carrying the first, second and third stage motors for the launch of the Glory spacecraft in June 2009. Glory is a low-Earth orbit scientific research satellite designed to collect data on the properties and distributions of aerosols in the Earth's atmosphere and on solar irradiance for the long-term Earth climate record. Glory will be launched from Vandenberg aboard Orbital's Taurus XL 3110 launch vehicle. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3869

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- A truck arrives at the Orbital S...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- A truck arrives at the Orbital Sciences payload processing facility on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California carrying the first, second and third stage motors for the lau... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At the Orbital Sciences payload processing facility on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers unstrap the newly arrived second (left) and first stage motors for the Glory spacecraft's Taurus XL rocket. Glory is a low-Earth orbit scientific research satellite designed to collect data on the properties and distributions of aerosols in the Earth's atmosphere and on solar irradiance for the long-term Earth climate record. Glory will be launched from Vandenberg aboard Orbital's Taurus XL 3110 launch vehicle. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3874

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At the Orbital Sciences payload ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At the Orbital Sciences payload processing facility on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers unstrap the newly arrived second (left) and first stage motors for t... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Workers move the second stage motor of the Taurus XL rocket for the launch of the Glory spacecraft in June 2009 into the Orbital Sciences payload processing facility on Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. Glory is a low-Earth orbit scientific research satellite designed to collect data on the properties and distributions of aerosols in the Earth's atmosphere and on solar irradiance for the long-term Earth climate record. Glory will be launched from Vandenberg aboard Orbital's Taurus XL 3110 launch vehicle. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-08pd3872

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Workers move the second stage mo...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Workers move the second stage motor of the Taurus XL rocket for the launch of the Glory spacecraft in June 2009 into the Orbital Sciences payload processing facility on Van... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The avionics are mated to stage 2 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle for the Orbiting Carbon Observatory at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The launch of OCO is scheduled for Feb. 23. Photo credit: NASA/VAFB KSC-2009-1498

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The avionics are mated to stage ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The avionics are mated to stage 2 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle for the Orbiting Carbon Observatory at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The OCO is a new Earth-or... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --In Space Launch Complex 576-E, Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, Stages 1 and 2 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle are being integrated for NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, called OCO. OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The observatory is targeted to launch Feb. 23 from Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg. Photo credit: NASA/VAFB KSC-2009-1547

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --In Space Launch Complex 576-E, Van...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --In Space Launch Complex 576-E, Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, Stages 1 and 2 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle are being integrated for NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observa... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --In Space Launch Complex 576-E, Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, Stages 1 and 2 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle are being integrated for NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, called OCO. OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The observatory is targeted to launch Feb. 23 from Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg. Photo credit: NASA/VAFB KSC-2009-1549

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --In Space Launch Complex 576-E, Van...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --In Space Launch Complex 576-E, Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, Stages 1 and 2 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle are being integrated for NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observa... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Space Launch Complex 576-E, Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a worker checks the integration of the Taurus XL Stages 1 and 2. The Taurus is the launch vehicle for NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, called OCO, a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The observatory is targeted to launch Feb. 23 from Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg. Photo credit: NASA/VAFB KSC-2009-1552

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Space Launch Complex 576-E, Vand...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Space Launch Complex 576-E, Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a worker checks the integration of the Taurus XL Stages 1 and 2. The Taurus is the launch vehicle for ... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --In Space Launch Complex 576-E, Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, Stages 1 and 2 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle are being integrated for NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, called OCO. OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The observatory is targeted to launch Feb. 23 from Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg. Photo credit: NASA/VAFB KSC-2009-1550

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --In Space Launch Complex 576-E, Van...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --In Space Launch Complex 576-E, Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, Stages 1 and 2 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle are being integrated for NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observa... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --In Space Launch Complex 576-E, Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, Stages 1 and 2 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle are being integrated for NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, called OCO. OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The observatory is targeted to launch Feb. 23 from Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg. Photo credit: NASA/VAFB KSC-2009-1548

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --In Space Launch Complex 576-E, Van...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --In Space Launch Complex 576-E, Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, Stages 1 and 2 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle are being integrated for NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observa... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Space Launch Complex 576-E, Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a worker checks the integration of the Taurus XL Stages 1 and 2. The Taurus is the launch vehicle for NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, called OCO, a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The observatory is targeted to launch Feb. 23 from Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg. Photo credit: NASA/VAFB KSC-2009-1551

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Space Launch Complex 576-E, Vand...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Space Launch Complex 576-E, Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a worker checks the integration of the Taurus XL Stages 1 and 2. The Taurus is the launch vehicle for ... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At complex 576E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane lifts Stage 0 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle for the Orbiting Carbon Observatory from its transporter. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. It is scheduled to launch Feb. 23. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1504

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At complex 576E at Vandenberg Ai...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At complex 576E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane lifts Stage 0 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle for the Orbiting Carbon Observatory from its transporter. ... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At complex 576E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane raises Stage 0 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle for the Orbiting Carbon Observatory from its transporter. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. It is scheduled to launch Feb. 23. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1501

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At complex 576E at Vandenberg Ai...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At complex 576E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane raises Stage 0 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle for the Orbiting Carbon Observatory from its transporter.... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At complex 576E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane lifts Stage 0 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle for the Orbiting Carbon Observatory from its transporter. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. It is scheduled to launch Feb. 23. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1503

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At complex 576E at Vandenberg Ai...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At complex 576E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane lifts Stage 0 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle for the Orbiting Carbon Observatory from its transporter. ... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Stage 0 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle for the Orbiting Carbon Observatory arrives at complex 576E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. It will be mated with stages 1, 2 and 3 for the launch of OCO. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. It is scheduled to launch Feb. 23. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1500

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Stage 0 of the Taurus XL launch ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Stage 0 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle for the Orbiting Carbon Observatory arrives at complex 576E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. It will be mated with stage... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At complex 576E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane lifts Stage 0 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle for the Orbiting Carbon Observatory from its transporter. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. It is scheduled to launch Feb. 23. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1502

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At complex 576E at Vandenberg A...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At complex 576E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a crane lifts Stage 0 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle for the Orbiting Carbon Observatory from its transporter.... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Stage 0 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle for the Orbiting Carbon Observatory arrives at complex 576E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. It will be mated with stages 1, 2 and 3 for the launch of OCO. The OCO is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. It is scheduled to launch Feb. 23. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1499

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Stage 0 of the Taurus XL launch ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Stage 0 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle for the Orbiting Carbon Observatory arrives at complex 576E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. It will be mated with stage... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Stage 1, 2 and 3 motors of the Taurus XL rocket are being prepared for transfer to Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Taurus is the launch vehicle for NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, which is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The observatory is scheduled to launch Feb. 23 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. This improved understanding will enable more reliable forecasts of future changes in the abundance and distribution of CO2 in the atmosphere and the effect that these changes may have on the Earth's climate. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1559

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Stage 1, 2 and 3 motors of t...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Stage 1, 2 and 3 motors of the Taurus XL rocket are being prepared for transfer to Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Taurus is... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Stage 1, 2 and 3 motors of the Taurus XL rocket are being prepared for transfer to Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Taurus is the launch vehicle for NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, which is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The observatory is scheduled to launch Feb. 23 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. This improved understanding will enable more reliable forecasts of future changes in the abundance and distribution of CO2 in the atmosphere and the effect that these changes may have on the Earth's climate. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1558

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Stage 1, 2 and 3 motors of t...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Stage 1, 2 and 3 motors of the Taurus XL rocket are being prepared for transfer to Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Taurus is... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Stage 1, 2 and 3 motors of the Taurus XL rocket are being prepared for transfer to Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Taurus is the launch vehicle for NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, which is a new Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The observatory is scheduled to launch Feb. 23 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. This improved understanding will enable more reliable forecasts of future changes in the abundance and distribution of CO2 in the atmosphere and the effect that these changes may have on the Earth's climate. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1560

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Stage 1, 2 and 3 motors of t...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Stage 1, 2 and 3 motors of the Taurus XL rocket are being prepared for transfer to Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The Taurus is... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Stages 1, 2 and 3 of Orbital Sciences’ Taurus XL launch vehicle for NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, are transported from Building 1555 to Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The OCO is an Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The observatory will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze the data returned to better understand the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. Launch is targeted for 1:51:30 a.m. PST Feb. 24. Photo credit: VAFB KSC-2009-1654

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Stages 1, 2 and 3 of Orbital Scie...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Stages 1, 2 and 3 of Orbital Sciences’ Taurus XL launch vehicle for NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, are transported from Building 1555 to Space Launch Complex 57... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Stages 1, 2 and 3 of Orbital Sciences’ Taurus XL launch vehicle for NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, are parked under a tent at Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The OCO is an Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The observatory will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze the data returned to better understand the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. Launch is targeted for 1:51:30 a.m. PST Feb. 24. Photo credit: VAFB KSC-2009-1656

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Stages 1, 2 and 3 of Orbital Scie...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Stages 1, 2 and 3 of Orbital Sciences’ Taurus XL launch vehicle for NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, are parked under a tent at Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vand... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Stages 1, 2 and 3 of Orbital Sciences’ Taurus XL launch vehicle for NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, arrive at Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The OCO is an Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The observatory will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze the data returned to better understand the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. Launch is targeted for 1:51:30 a.m. PST Feb. 24. Photo credit: VAFB KSC-2009-1655

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Stages 1, 2 and 3 of Orbital Scie...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Stages 1, 2 and 3 of Orbital Sciences’ Taurus XL launch vehicle for NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, arrive at Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force ... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Stages 1, 2 and 3 of Orbital Sciences’ Taurus XL launch vehicle for NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, have arrived and are prepared for erection at Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The OCO is an Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The observatory will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze the data returned to better understand the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. Launch is targeted for 1:51:30 a.m. PST Feb. 24. Photo credit: VAFB KSC-2009-1658

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Stages 1, 2 and 3 of Orbital Scien...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Stages 1, 2 and 3 of Orbital Sciences’ Taurus XL launch vehicle for NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, have arrived and are prepared for erection at Space Launch Com... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers prepare to erect Stages 1, 2 and 3 of Orbital Sciences’ Taurus XL launch vehicle for NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, at Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The OCO is an Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The observatory will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze the data returned to better understand the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. Launch is targeted for 1:51:30 a.m. PST Feb. 24. Photo credit: VAFB KSC-2009-1657

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers prepare to erect Stages 1,...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Workers prepare to erect Stages 1, 2 and 3 of Orbital Sciences’ Taurus XL launch vehicle for NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, at Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vand... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Stages 1, 2 and 3 of Orbital Sciences’ Taurus XL launch vehicle for NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, have arrived and are prepared for lifting onto Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The OCO is an Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The observatory will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze the data returned to better understand the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. Launch is targeted for 1:51:30 a.m. PST Feb. 24. Photo credit: VAFB KSC-2009-1659

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Stages 1, 2 and 3 of Orbital Scien...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Stages 1, 2 and 3 of Orbital Sciences’ Taurus XL launch vehicle for NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, have arrived and are prepared for lifting onto Space Launch Co... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Inside the Astrotech payload processing facility at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, Orbital Sciences technicians conduct an ultraviolet light cleanliness inspection on the payload load isolators of the Taurus XL launch vehicle for the Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, before installation on the ballast ring. From left are Dana Frederic, Bill Nelson and Randy Bone. The OCO is an Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The observatory will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze the data returned to better understand the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. Launch is targeted for Feb. 24 from Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg. Photo credit: NASA/Richard Nielsen, KSC KSC-2009-1624

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Inside the Astrotech payload proc...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Inside the Astrotech payload processing facility at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, Orbital Sciences technicians conduct an ultraviolet light cleanliness inspection... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The second half of the fairing is prepared for installation around NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the rocket and forms an aerodynamically smooth nose cone, protecting the spacecraft during launch and ascent. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket on Feb. 23 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. This improved understanding will enable more reliable forecasts of future changes in the abundance and distribution of CO2 in the atmosphere and the effect that these changes may have on the Earth's climate. Photo credit: NASA/Robert Hargreaves Jr., VAFB KSC-2009-1590

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The second half of the fairing i...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The second half of the fairing is prepared for installation around NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing is ... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- – Workers check the movement of the fairing at right toward NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, at left, to complete installation. The work is being done in Building 1032 of Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the rocket and forms an aerodynamically smooth nose cone, protecting the spacecraft during launch and ascent. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket on Feb. 23 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. This improved understanding will enable more reliable forecasts of future changes in the abundance and distribution of CO2 in the atmosphere and the effect that these changes may have on the Earth's climate. Photo credit: NASA/Robert Hargreaves Jr., VAFB KSC-2009-1593

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- – Workers check the movement of ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- – Workers check the movement of the fairing at right toward NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, at left, to complete installation. The work is being done in Buildi... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The first half of the fairing is placed around NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the rocket and forms an aerodynamically smooth nose cone, protecting the spacecraft during launch and ascent. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket on Feb. 23 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. This improved understanding will enable more reliable forecasts of future changes in the abundance and distribution of CO2 in the atmosphere and the effect that these changes may have on the Earth's climate. Photo credit: NASA/Robert Hargreaves Jr., VAFB KSC-2009-1589

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The first half of the fairing is...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The first half of the fairing is placed around NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing is a molded structure th... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Workers check the movement of the fairing at right toward NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, at left, to complete installation. The work is being done in Building 1032 of Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the rocket and forms an aerodynamically smooth nose cone, protecting the spacecraft during launch and ascent. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket on Feb. 23 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. This improved understanding will enable more reliable forecasts of future changes in the abundance and distribution of CO2 in the atmosphere and the effect that these changes may have on the Earth's climate. Photo credit: NASA/Robert Hargreaves Jr., VAFB KSC-2009-1594

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Workers check the movement of th...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Workers check the movement of the fairing at right toward NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, at left, to complete installation. The work is being done in Building... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The second half of the fairing, at right, is moved closer to NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, at left, to complete installation. The work is being done in Building 1032 of Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the rocket and forms an aerodynamically smooth nose cone, protecting the spacecraft during launch and ascent. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket on Feb. 23 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. This improved understanding will enable more reliable forecasts of future changes in the abundance and distribution of CO2 in the atmosphere and the effect that these changes may have on the Earth's climate. Photo credit: NASA/Robert Hargreaves Jr., VAFB KSC-2009-1592

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The second half of the fairing, ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The second half of the fairing, at right, is moved closer to NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, at left, to complete installation. The work is being done in Build... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Workers secure the installation of the fairing around NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO. The work is being done in Building 1032 of Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the rocket and forms an aerodynamically smooth nose cone, protecting the spacecraft during launch and ascent. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket on Feb. 23 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. This improved understanding will enable more reliable forecasts of future changes in the abundance and distribution of CO2 in the atmosphere and the effect that these changes may have on the Earth's climate. Photo credit: NASA/Robert Hargreaves Jr., VAFB KSC-2009-1595

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Workers secure the installation ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Workers secure the installation of the fairing around NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO. The work is being done in Building 1032 of Vandenberg Air Force Base in C... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At left, the second half of the fairing is moved toward NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, at right, for installation. The work is being done in Building 1032 of Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The fairing is a molded structure that fits flush with the outside surface of the rocket and forms an aerodynamically smooth nose cone, protecting the spacecraft during launch and ascent. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket on Feb. 23 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. This improved understanding will enable more reliable forecasts of future changes in the abundance and distribution of CO2 in the atmosphere and the effect that these changes may have on the Earth's climate. Photo credit: NASA/Robert Hargreaves Jr., VAFB KSC-2009-1591

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At left, the second half of the ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At left, the second half of the fairing is moved toward NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, at right, for installation. The work is being done in Building 1032 of V... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --The Encapsulated Cargo Element (ECE) containing NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, is lowered to a horizontal position after arrival at Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket on Feb. 23 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. This improved understanding will enable more reliable forecasts of future changes in the abundance and distribution of CO2 in the atmosphere and the effect that these changes may have on the Earth's climate. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1606

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --The Encapsulated Cargo Element (EC...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --The Encapsulated Cargo Element (ECE) containing NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, is lowered to a horizontal position after arrival at Space Launch Complex 576-E at... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, arrives at Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket on Feb. 23 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. This improved understanding will enable more reliable forecasts of future changes in the abundance and distribution of CO2 in the atmosphere and the effect that these changes may have on the Earth's climate. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1603

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observato...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, arrives at Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboar... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Encapsulated Cargo Element (ECE) containing NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, is lowered to a horizontal position after arrival at Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket on Feb. 23 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. This improved understanding will enable more reliable forecasts of future changes in the abundance and distribution of CO2 in the atmosphere and the effect that these changes may have on the Earth's climate. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1607

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Encapsulated Cargo Element (E...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Encapsulated Cargo Element (ECE) containing NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, is lowered to a horizontal position after arrival at Space Launch Complex 576-E a... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Encapsulated Cargo Element containing NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, is lifted from its transporter on Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket on Feb. 23 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. This improved understanding will enable more reliable forecasts of future changes in the abundance and distribution of CO2 in the atmosphere and the effect that these changes may have on the Earth's climate. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1605

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Encapsulated Cargo Element co...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Encapsulated Cargo Element containing NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, is lifted from its transporter on Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force B... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --The Encapsulated Cargo Element containing NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, lowered to a horizontal position on a transporter, is moved under a protective tent after arrival at Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket on Feb. 23 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. This improved understanding will enable more reliable forecasts of future changes in the abundance and distribution of CO2 in the atmosphere and the effect that these changes may have on the Earth's climate. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1608

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --The Encapsulated Cargo Element con...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --The Encapsulated Cargo Element containing NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, lowered to a horizontal position on a transporter, is moved under a protective tent afte... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, is transported to Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket on Feb. 23 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. This improved understanding will enable more reliable forecasts of future changes in the abundance and distribution of CO2 in the atmosphere and the effect that these changes may have on the Earth's climate. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1602

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observato...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, is transported to Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, arrives at Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket, being erected at left, on Feb. 23 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. This improved understanding will enable more reliable forecasts of future changes in the abundance and distribution of CO2 in the atmosphere and the effect that these changes may have on the Earth's climate. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1604

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observato...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, arrives at Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboar... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the transporter holding NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, heads for Launch Complex 576-E. OCO will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. OCO is scheduled to launch Feb. 24 aboard an Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket. Photo credit: NASA/VAFB KSC-2009-1731

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the transporter holding NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, heads for Launch Complex 576-E. OCO will collect precise glo... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the transporter holding NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, arrives on Launch Complex 576-E. OCO will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. OCO is scheduled to launch Feb. 24 aboard an Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket. Photo credit: NASA/VAFB KSC-2009-1733

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the transporter holding NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, arrives on Launch Complex 576-E. OCO will collect precise gl... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In the Astrotech payload processing facility at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, is being prepared for transfer to Launch Complex 576-E. OCO will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. OCO is scheduled to launch Feb. 24 aboard an Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket. Photo credit: NASA/VAFB KSC-2009-1726

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In the Astrotech payload process...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In the Astrotech payload processing facility at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, is being prepared for transfer to Laun... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In the Astrotech payload processing facility at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers secure an overhead crane to NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO. The spacecraft will be moved to a transporter for the trip to Launch Complex 576-E. An umbilical line (left) has been attached. OCO will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. OCO is scheduled to launch Feb. 24 aboard an Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket. Photo credit: NASA/VAFB KSC-2009-1727

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In the Astrotech payload process...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In the Astrotech payload processing facility at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers secure an overhead crane to NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO. T... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In the Astrotech payload processing facility at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers help guide NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, into place on a transporter. The spacecraft will be moved to Launch Complex 576-E. An umbilical line is attached. OCO will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. OCO is scheduled to launch Feb. 24 aboard an Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket. Photo credit: NASA/VAFB KSC-2009-1729

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In the Astrotech payload process...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In the Astrotech payload processing facility at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers help guide NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, into place on a tra... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the transporter holding NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, heads for Launch Complex 576-E. OCO will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. OCO is scheduled to launch Feb. 24 aboard an Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket. Photo credit: NASA/VAFB KSC-2009-1732

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the transporter holding NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, heads for Launch Complex 576-E. OCO will collect precise glo... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the transporter holding NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, is ready to leave the Astrotech payload processing facility for Launch Complex 576-E. An umbilical line is attached. OCO will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. OCO is scheduled to launch Feb. 24 aboard an Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket. Photo credit: NASA/VAFB KSC-2009-1730

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- At Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the transporter holding NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, is ready to leave the Astrotech payload processing facility ... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the encapsulated cargo element containing NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, enters the tent for integration with Orbital Sciences’ Taurus XL launch vehicle, at right. The OCO is an Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The observatory will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze the data returned to better understand the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. Launch is targeted for Feb. 24 from Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg. Photo credit: VAFB/Wayne North KSC-2009-1625

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the encapsulated cargo element containing NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, enters the te... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In the Astrotech payload processing facility at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers keep watch as a crane lifts and moves NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, to a transporter (foreground). OCO will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. OCO is scheduled to launch Feb. 24 aboard an Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket. Photo credit: NASA/VAFB KSC-2009-1728

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In the Astrotech payload process...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In the Astrotech payload processing facility at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, workers keep watch as a crane lifts and moves NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, ... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, an Orbital Sciences technician connects ground wires to the Stage 3 motor of the Taurus XL launch vehicle for NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO. The encapsulated cargo element containing the observatory is integrated with the vehicle. The OCO is an Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The observatory will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze the data returned to better understand the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. Launch is targeted for Feb. 24 from Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg. Photo credit: VAFB/Wayne North KSC-2009-1627

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, an Orbital Sciences technician connects ground wires to the Stage 3 motor of the Taurus XL launch v... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, scaffolding is built around Stage 0 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle for NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, stacked on the launch mount. An umbilical tower is being erected on the pad using the portable crane. Stage 0 utilizes a Castor 120 Motor. The OCO is an Earth-orbiting mission sponsored by NASA's Earth System Science Pathfinder Program. The observatory will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze the data returned to better understand the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. Launch is targeted for Feb. 24 from Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg. Photo credit: VAFB/Wayne North KSC-2009-1626

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at ...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, scaffolding is built around Stage 0 of the Taurus XL launch vehicle for NASA’s Orbiting Carbon Obse... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a worker applies a mission decal to NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket Feb. 24 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1674

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a worker applies a mission decal to NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO. The spacecraft is... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft displays the mission decals. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket Feb. 24 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1675

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft displays the mission decals. The spacecraf... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a worker applies a mission decal to NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket Feb. 24 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1673

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a worker applies a mission decal to NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft. The s... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, cranes are in position to move the tent where the upper stage of Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket is ready to be moved and lifted into the tower for stacking. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket Feb. 24 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1676

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, cranes are in position to move the tent where the upper stage of Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocke... More

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a worker applies a mission decal onto NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO. The spacecraft is scheduled for launch aboard Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket Feb. 24 from Vandenberg. The spacecraft will collect precise global measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the Earth's atmosphere. Scientists will analyze OCO data to improve our understanding of the natural processes and human activities that regulate the abundance and distribution of this important greenhouse gas. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB KSC-2009-1672

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at...

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, a worker applies a mission decal onto NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO. The spacecraft ... More

Previous

of 4

Next