http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/index.html en-us Fri, 17 May 2013 18:32:29 GMT
Flight Simulation no. 3 involving the Pegasus XL and IRIS is scheduled for May 17.]]> Thu, 16 May 2013 19:30:39 GMT Fri, 10 May 2013 17:48:31 GMT Tue, 30 Apr 2013 18:34:51 GMT Mon, 29 Apr 2013 15:25:41 GMT Mon, 22 Apr 2013 18:59:06 GMT Wed, 17 Apr 2013 16:19:35 GMT Mon, 08 Apr 2013 18:24:20 GMT Tue, 26 Mar 2013 13:13:53 GMT Tue, 05 Mar 2013 18:56:25 GMT Tue, 26 Feb 2013 16:40:35 GMT
"The satellite is doing great," said Ken Schwer, LDCM project manager from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md. He announced that a few minutes after the spacecraft separated from the rocket's Centaur upper stage, it began communicating with Earth and generating power with its solar array.

LDCM is a collaboration between NASA and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The Landsat program has been providing uninterrupted imagery of Earth since the first Landsat in 1972. About three months after liftoff, USGS will take control and the spacecraft will be renamed Landsat 8. Once on station 438 miles above Earth, LDCM will orbit every 99 minutes and image the entire Earth every 16 days.

"Landsat is the one monitoring system that for the last 40 years has provided every citizen of planet Earth the scale and the resolution to observe - for himself or herself - the changes and the ability of this planet to provide for each and every one of us those services that we require," said Marcia McNutt, director of the USGS. "I'm happy to say that thanks to that flawless launch today, the Landsat legacy will live on."

NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md., is responsible for LDCM project management. Orbital Sciences Corporation built the LDCM satellite. NASA's Launch Services Program at the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida provides launch management. United Launch Alliance of Denver, Colo., is NASA's launch service provider of the Atlas V 401 rocket.

"I want to thank the KSC Launch Services Program and United Space Alliance," Schwer said. "They have once again put us exactly where we want to be."]]> Mon, 11 Feb 2013 20:43:13 GMT
Launch and mission managers will gather for a post-launch press conference at 3 p.m. EST. Watch it live on http://www.nasa.gov/ntv.]]> Mon, 11 Feb 2013 19:20:36 GMT
Follow NASA's Launch Blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/landsat/launch/launch_blog.html or NASA Television at http://www.nasa.gov/ntv. For more information on the LDCM mission, visit http://www.nasa.gov/landsat.]]> Mon, 11 Feb 2013 19:14:01 GMT Mon, 11 Feb 2013 18:20:40 GMT
Follow NASA's Launch Blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/landsat/launch/launch_blog.html or NASA Television at http://www.nasa.gov/ntv. For more information on the LDCM mission, visit http://www.nasa.gov/landsat.]]> Mon, 11 Feb 2013 18:02:24 GMT
Follow NASA's Launch Blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/landsat/launch/launch_blog.html or NASA Television at http://www.nasa.gov/ntv. For more information on the LDCM mission, visit http://www.nasa.gov/landsat.]]> Mon, 11 Feb 2013 17:58:14 GMT
Follow NASA's Launch Blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/landsat/launch/launch_blog.html or NASA Television at http://www.nasa.gov/ntv. For more information on the LDCM mission, visit http://www.nasa.gov/landsat.]]> Mon, 11 Feb 2013 17:48:10 GMT
The countdown will enter a 10-minute hold at the T-4 minute mark at 12:48 p.m. EST. During the hold, managers will conduct a final "go-no go" poll for launch. Liftoff of the United Launch Alliance Atlas V and Landsat Data Continuity Mission spacecraft remains targeted for 1:02 p.m. EST.

Follow NASA's Launch Blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/landsat/launch/launch_blog.html or NASA Television at http://www.nasa.gov/ntv. For more information on the LDCM mission, visit http://www.nasa.gov/landsat.]]> Mon, 11 Feb 2013 17:33:16 GMT
Fueling operations are under way at Vandenberg's Space Launch Complex 3. The Atlas V booster stage uses 48,860 gallons of liquid oxygen and 25,540 gallons of RP-1, a refined kerosene that previously was loaded. The Centaur's main engine is powered by 4,150 gallons of liquid oxygen and 12,680 gallons of liquid hydrogen.

Follow NASA's Launch Blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/landsat/launch/launch_blog.html or NASA Television at http://www.nasa.gov/ntv. For more information on the LDCM mission, visit http://www.nasa.gov/landsat.]]> Mon, 11 Feb 2013 16:16:31 GMT
The Atlas V is ready for fueling at VAFB Space Launch Complex 3. Managers have polled their teams and given the go-ahead to start fueling procedures, or "tanking," which will begin momentarily with chill down of the transfer lines to adjust the hardware to the cold propellant temperatures. The Atlas V booster stage uses 48,860 gallons of liquid oxygen and 25,540 gallons of RP-1, a refined kerosene that previously was loaded. The Centaur's main engine is powered by 4,150 gallons of liquid oxygen and 12,680 gallons of liquid hydrogen.

NASA Television will provide live coverage of launch beginning at 10:15 a.m. EST: www.nasa.gov/ntv

For more information on the LDCM mission, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/landsat]]> Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:54:07 GMT
NASA Television will provide live coverage of launch beginning at 10:15 a.m. EST: www.nasa.gov/ntv

For more information on the LDCM mission, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/landsat]]> Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:30:05 GMT
Weather is forecast to be favorable for launch, which is targeted for 1:02 p.m. EST at the beginning of a 48-minute launch window.

LDCM is a collaboration between NASA and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The Landsat program has been providing uninterrupted imagery of Earth since the first Landsat in 1972. About three months after liftoff, USGS will take control and the spacecraft will be renamed Landsat 8. Once on station 438 miles above Earth, LDCM will orbit every 99 minutes and image the entire Earth every 16 days.

NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md., is responsible for LDCM project management. Orbital Sciences Corporation built the LDCM satellite. NASA's Launch Services Program at the agency's Kennedy Space Center in Florida provides launch management. United Launch Alliance of Denver, Colo., is NASA's launch service provider of the Atlas V 401 rocket.

NASA Television will provide live coverage of launch beginning at 10:15 a.m. EST: www.nasa.gov/ntv

For more information on the LDCM mission, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/landsat]]> Mon, 11 Feb 2013 13:46:19 GMT Sat, 09 Feb 2013 22:29:57 GMT
Liftoff of the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket and the LDCM spacecraft is targeted for Monday at 1:02 p.m. EST at the beginning of a 48-minute launch window. The LRR, one of the standard meetings held prior to each NASA launch, was conducted at Vandenberg Air Force Base (VAFB) in California. Forecasters predict a 100 percent chance of acceptable weather for the launch of LDCM from Space Launch Complex 3 at VAFB. Launch operations are managed by NASA's Launch Services Program (LSP) at Kennedy Space Center in Florida.]]> Fri, 08 Feb 2013 21:23:58 GMT
Also taking place today is the Launch Countdown Coordination Meeting, which will pave the way for tomorrow's Countdown Dress Rehearsal.

At this time, the launch is scheduled for 10:02 a.m. PST (1:02 p.m. EST), beginning a 48-minute launch window. The long-range weather forecast calls for mostly clear skies on launch day.]]> Wed, 06 Feb 2013 22:42:01 GMT Mon, 04 Feb 2013 17:55:52 GMT Thu, 31 Jan 2013 03:35:33 GMT Thu, 31 Jan 2013 03:30:18 GMT Thu, 31 Jan 2013 02:09:42 GMT Thu, 31 Jan 2013 01:53:37 GMT Thu, 31 Jan 2013 01:48:06 GMT Thu, 31 Jan 2013 01:41:58 GMT Thu, 31 Jan 2013 01:23:16 GMT Thu, 31 Jan 2013 01:04:28 GMT Wed, 30 Jan 2013 23:52:18 GMT
Weather remains 70 percent favorable for launch during a 40-minute window that opens at 8:48 p.m. EST. A frontal boundary is expected to stay to the north of the pad throughout the countdown and be near Jacksonville at the time of liftoff. There is no significant threat of lightning or rain showers. The main concern is for winds at the launch pad exceeding the limit. Weather currently is go.]]> Wed, 30 Jan 2013 23:35:54 GMT
TDRS-K is perched atop a two-stage United Launch Alliance Atlas V 401 rocket at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Space Launch Complex 41 in Florida.

There is a 70 percent chance of favorable weather for liftoff during a 40-minute window.

Launch coverage is scheduled to begin at 6:15 p.m. on NASA Television online at www.nasa.gov/ntv and the NASA launch blog at http://go.nasa.gov/WxGY2r.]]> Wed, 30 Jan 2013 19:04:29 GMT Wed, 30 Jan 2013 15:37:21 GMT Wed, 30 Jan 2013 16:36:29 GMT Tue, 29 Jan 2013 17:46:27 GMT
A prelaunch news conference will air on NASA Television, www.nasa.gov/ntv at 1p.m. today.]]> Mon, 28 Jan 2013 16:46:57 GMT
The prelaunch news conference will air on NASA Television, www.nasa.gov/ntv at 1p.m. today. At 10 a.m. Tuesday, the Atlas V rocket will roll out of the Vertical Integration Facility to the launch pad at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Space Launch Complex 41.]]> Mon, 28 Jan 2013 15:07:24 GMT Fri, 25 Jan 2013 15:27:06 GMT
The Ordnance Remote Control Assembly, or ORCA, unit on the Atlas V has been successfully removed, replaced and retested. A countdown dress rehearsal is scheduled for Friday. On Monday, the Launch Readiness Review will cover any action items from the Flight Readiness Review. It also will give a go for the rollout of the Atlas V to the launch pad at 10 a.m. on Tuesday.

The prelaunch new conference is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Monday at Kennedy and will be carried live on NASA Television.

At this time, the launch is scheduled for 8:48 p.m. Wednesday at the opening of a 40-minute launch window.]]> Thu, 24 Jan 2013 18:00:00 GMT
The standard Launch Readiness Review is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 28. At the conclusion of this review, the go is given for the Atlas V rollout to the launch pad. The prelaunch news conference will then be held at 1 p.m. Rollout is targeted for 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 29. News media should be at the KSC Press Site at 9 a.m. for transportation to view the rollout.

Launch coverage on NASA Television and the Web will begin at 6:15 p.m. on Jan. 30.]]> Wed, 23 Jan 2013 18:00:49 GMT Launch remains on track for Tuesday, Jan. 29 at 8:52 p.m.]]> Sun, 20 Jan 2013 17:54:20 GMT Fri, 18 Jan 2013 18:31:22 GMT Thu, 17 Jan 2013 14:45:01 GMT
On Saturday, TDRS-K will be transported from Astrotech to the Vertical Integration Facility at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Space Launch Complex 41 where it will be hoisted atop the Atlas V.]]> Wed, 16 Jan 2013 20:51:35 GMT Tue, 15 Jan 2013 17:33:57 GMT
Inside the Astrotech payload processing facility near Kennedy Space Center, TDRS-K was installed onto the launch vehicle's payload adapter today. The Atlas V payload fairing will be cleaned tomorrow in preparation for encapsulation of the satellite, which currently is planned for Wednesday.]]> Mon, 14 Jan 2013 22:17:28 GMT Tue, 08 Jan 2013 17:12:36 GMT Fri, 04 Jan 2013 21:52:29 GMT
Launch preparations also are proceeding smoothly in California where technicians are readying the Landsat Data Continuity Mission for liftoff Feb. 11 from Vandenberg AFB. The spacecraft Comprehensive Performance Test of the instruments and systems is complete, the solar array first motion test was successfully performed and the X-band communications antenna has been installed. Today the spacecraft battery is being charged. Fueling of the spacecraft is scheduled to occur next week. Liftoff will occur aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket from Space Launch Complex 3 at 1:04 p.m. EST/10:04 a.m. PST.]]> Wed, 02 Jan 2013 19:31:13 GMT Thu, 20 Dec 2012 20:17:35 GMT Tue, 18 Dec 2012 14:51:33 GMT Tue, 11 Dec 2012 16:36:25 GMT Fri, 07 Dec 2012 20:53:19 GMT Tue, 04 Dec 2012 14:35:29 GMT Fri, 30 Nov 2012 21:40:55 GMT Tue, 27 Nov 2012 20:17:28 GMT Fri, 09 Nov 2012 21:07:27 GMT Tue, 06 Nov 2012 16:27:57 GMT Mon, 05 Nov 2012 21:01:38 GMT Tue, 30 Oct 2012 13:56:23 GMT Fri, 19 Oct 2012 20:02:12 GMT Thu, 27 Sep 2012 13:34:38 GMT
"I'm very happy to report that we have two happy spacecraft on orbit," said Rick Fitzgerald, RBSP project manager from the John Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, which is managing the mission for NASA. "Many thanks to ULA and Launch Services Program for getting us on orbit, giving us a great ride and injecting us in exactly the orbit that we wanted to be in."

During the RBSP mission, the identical twin spacecraft will fly in separate orbits throughout the inner and outer Van Allen radiation belts that encircle the Earth. The sun influences the behavior of the radiation belts, which in turn can impact life on Earth and endanger astronauts and spacecraft in orbit.

"Today, 11 years of hard work was realized by the science team as a number of us stood together watching the rocket lift off the pad," said Nicky Fox, RBSP deputy project scientist from APL. "(The spacecraft) are now at home in the Van Allen belts where they belong, and we can all finally breathe out now that solar panels are out on both of them."

The spacecraft will go through a 60-day commissioning period before beginning its prime mission.

"Now that the spacecraft are safely in orbit, the real fun begins," said Mike Luther, deputy associate administrator for the Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington. "After the commissioning period, we get to then begin to perform the most detailed study of Earth's radiation belts that's ever been undertaken."]]> Thu, 30 Aug 2012 11:07:41 GMT Thu, 30 Aug 2012 09:36:33 GMT
The RBSP spacecraft launched aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket at 4:05 a.m. EDT following a remarkably smooth overnight countdown that saw good weather and no technical problems.

You can follow the flight online with NASA TV at http://www.nasa.gov/nasatv or NASA's Launch Blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/rbsp/launch/launch_blog.html.]]> Thu, 30 Aug 2012 09:26:45 GMT
The vehicle lifted off from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Space Launch Complex-41 at 4:05 a.m. EDT following a remarkably smooth overnight countdown that saw good weather and no technical problems.

You can follow the flight online with NASA TV at http://www.nasa.gov/nasatv or NASA's Launch Blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/rbsp/launch/launch_blog.html.]]> Thu, 30 Aug 2012 09:15:21 GMT
Following successful burns of the Atlas V first stage and Centaur upper stage, the flight has entered a coast phase that's expected to last about 56 minutes.

You can follow the flight online with NASA TV at http://www.nasa.gov/nasatv or NASA's Launch Blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/rbsp/launch/launch_blog.html.]]> Thu, 30 Aug 2012 08:19:27 GMT
The rocket's first-stage booster will burn for about four minutes, then burn out and separate, leaving the Centaur upper stage to propel the spacecraft on the rest of its ascent journey. The protective payload fairing will fall away moments later. About 13 minutes into flight, the Centaur's engine will shut down and the vehicle will enter a coast phase.

You can follow the rocket's ascent online with NASA TV at http://www.nasa.gov/nasatv or NASA's Launch Blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/rbsp/launch/launch_blog.html.]]> Thu, 30 Aug 2012 08:05:07 GMT
You can follow the countdown and liftoff online with NASA TV at http://www.nasa.gov/nasatv or NASA's Launch Blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/rbsp/launch/launch_blog.html.]]> Thu, 30 Aug 2012 08:01:03 GMT
The launch weather forecast was upgraded for the second time minutes ago. Launch Weather Officer Kathy Winters predicts a 90 percent chance of good conditions at liftoff time.

You can follow the countdown online with NASA TV at http://www.nasa.gov/nasatv or NASA's Launch Blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/rbsp/launch/launch_blog.html.]]> Thu, 30 Aug 2012 07:37:20 GMT
You can follow the countdown online with NASA TV at http://www.nasa.gov/nasatv or NASA's Launch Blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/rbsp/launch/launch_blog.html.]]> Thu, 30 Aug 2012 07:34:49 GMT
You can follow the countdown online with NASA TV at http://www.nasa.gov/nasatv or NASA's Launch Blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/rbsp/launch/launch_blog.html.]]> Thu, 30 Aug 2012 07:12:18 GMT
The weather continues to cooperate and the forecast predicts a 70 percent chance of good conditions at launch time.

You can follow the countdown online with NASA TV at http://www.nasa.gov/nasatv or NASA's Launch Blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/rbsp/launch/launch_blog.html.]]> Thu, 30 Aug 2012 07:06:06 GMT
You can follow the countdown online with NASA TV at http://www.nasa.gov/nasatv or NASA's Launch Blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/rbsp/launch/launch_blog.html.]]> Thu, 30 Aug 2012 06:26:24 GMT
Launch Weather Officer Kathy Winters of the U.S. Air Force's 45th Weather Squadron predicts a 70 percent chance of acceptable weather, and conditions currently are observed "go."]]> Thu, 30 Aug 2012 05:50:01 GMT
Liftoff is scheduled for 4:05 a.m. EDT at the start of a 20-minute launch window.]]> Thu, 30 Aug 2012 05:31:05 GMT
The terminal countdown to load the cryogenic liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen into the rocket will begin at 1:35 a.m. The launch weather forecast has improved with a 30 percent chance of not meeting the launch weather criteria on Thursday morning due to cloud conditions.]]> Wed, 29 Aug 2012 12:36:53 GMT
The launch countdown is currently planned to begin at 1:35 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 30. At that time, cryogenic fueling will begin to load the Atlas V with liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen. The weather forecast calls for a 40 percent chance of not meeting the launch weather criteria due to cloud conditions at the targeted 4:05 a.m. liftoff time.]]> Tue, 28 Aug 2012 19:32:38 GMT Tue, 28 Aug 2012 13:05:15 GMT
On the Atlas V, the C-band beacon determined to be out of family has been removed and replaced from the top of the rocket's Centaur stage. A re-test of the new beacon was successfully completed and both spacecraft are in good health.

The rollout of the Atlas V to the pad from the Vertical Integration Facility at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Space Launch Complex 41 currently is scheduled for 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 28, and loading of the RP-1 fuel is planned to begin as soon as the vehicle has reached the pad.]]> Mon, 27 Aug 2012 21:15:03 GMT Sat, 25 Aug 2012 11:10:20 GMT
The next launch attempt currently is scheduled for Sunday at 4:07 a.m. EDT. Launch managers will meet today at 6 a.m. to assess future launch opportunities and evaluate all of the factors, including the status of the rocket and spacecraft, and the weather. An update will be provided at the conclusion of the meeting.]]> Sat, 25 Aug 2012 08:26:43 GMT
The RBSP mission calls for two identical satellites to follow each other as they fly in and out of the Van Allen radiation belts that circle the Earth. By flying together, instruments on the spacecraft can take similar readings at the same time but in different places of the radiation belts. That way, astronomers can evaluate what changes are under way. The probes are equipped with numerous sensors designed specifically for studying the intense radiation field in the Van Allen belts.]]> Sat, 25 Aug 2012 08:18:02 GMT
The launch window expires at 4:27 a.m. EDT.

The RBSP mission calls for two identical satellites to follow each other as they fly in and out of the Van Allen radiation belts that circle the Earth. By flying together, instruments on the spacecraft can take similar readings at the same time but in different places of the radiation belts. That way, astronomers can evaluate what changes are under way. The probes are equipped with numerous sensors designed specifically for studying the intense radiation field in the Van Allen belts.]]> Sat, 25 Aug 2012 08:05:51 GMT
The countdown has entered a 25-minute built-in hold at the T-4 minute mark.

Weather continues to be "no go" for launch. There currently are three weather violations: attached anvil clouds, cumulus clouds and lightning. There is a 60 percent chance that weather will be favorable during the 20-minute launch window that begins at 4:07 a.m. EDT.

The RBSP mission calls for two identical satellites to follow each other as they fly in and out of the Van Allen radiation belts that circle the Earth. By flying together, instruments on the spacecraft can take similar readings at the same time but in different places of the radiation belts. That way, astronomers can evaluate what changes are under way. The probes are equipped with numerous sensors designed specifically for studying the intense radiation field in the Van Allen belts.]]> Sat, 25 Aug 2012 07:56:34 GMT
The countdown has entered a 25-minute built-in hold at the T-4 minute mark.

Kathy Winters from the U.S. Air Force 45th Weather Squadron told the launch team that we are "no go" at this time because of cumulus clouds and lightning in the area. Thunderstorms to the south of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station have been migrating to the north and there is a risk that the violations will not clear by the time of launch. The official forecast continues to call for a 60 percent chance of acceptable conditions.

The RBSP mission calls for two identical satellites to follow each other as they fly in and out of the Van Allen radiation belts that circle the Earth. By flying together, instruments on the spacecraft can take similar readings at the same time but in different places of the radiation belts. That way, astronomers can evaluate what changes are under way. The probes are equipped with numerous sensors designed specifically for studying the intense radiation field in the Van Allen belts.]]> Sat, 25 Aug 2012 07:38:33 GMT
The RBSP mission calls for two identical satellites to follow each other as they fly in and out of the Van Allen radiation belts that circle the Earth. By flying together, instruments on the spacecraft can take similar readings at the same time but in different places of the radiation belts. That way, astronomers can evaluate what changes are under way. The probes are equipped with numerous sensors designed specifically for studying the intense radiation field in the Van Allen belts.]]> Sat, 25 Aug 2012 07:30:12 GMT
Weather forecasters predict a 60 percent chance of conditions favorable for liftoff at the 4:07 a.m. EDT launch time. Today's launch window lasts 20 minutes.]]> Sat, 25 Aug 2012 07:15:14 GMT
Weather forecasters predict a 60 percent chance of conditions favorable for liftoff at the 4:07 a.m. EDT launch time. Today's launch window lasts 20 minutes.]]> Sat, 25 Aug 2012 06:30:17 GMT
The decision followed a series of meetings to evaluate "out-of-family" readings in the signal of a C-Band tracking device linking the Atlas V rocket and ground-based range equipment that caused a scrub early Friday morning. The C-Band Transponder is one of several systems used to track the vehicle after launch for range safety purposes.

Join us for live countdown coverage starting at 2:30 a.m. NASA TV will feature full televised coverage at http://www.nasa.gov/nasatv while blogger Steve Siceloff provides updates from the Launch Vehicle Data Center on NASA's Launch Blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/rbsp/launch/launch_blog.html.]]> Fri, 24 Aug 2012 18:55:29 GMT
The C-Band is one of several systems used to track the vehicle after launch, and it is mandatory for it to operate prior to liftoff. Because of the limited 20-minute launch window, the launch team was not able to determine the cause of the signal drift before the window expired.

Managers have set up for a 24-hour recycle, pending clearance of the issue. Launch is targeted for the opening of a 20-minute launch window at 4:07 a.m. EDT on Saturday.

At this time, the Atlas rocket is being safed and propellants removed. When those operations are complete, C-Band beacon troubleshooting will begin. If the issue is found to be on the Atlas transponder, it may be necessary to replace the hardware.

NASA and United Launch Alliance managers will know more within a few hours, after the troubleshooting has been completed.]]> Fri, 24 Aug 2012 08:39:52 GMT Fri, 24 Aug 2012 08:26:04 GMT
Weather continues to be favorable, with forecasters predicting a 90 percent chance of allowable conditions at launch time. Today's 20-minute launch window expires at 4:27 a.m. EDT.]]> Fri, 24 Aug 2012 08:15:32 GMT
Weather continues to be favorable, with forecasters predicting a 90 percent chance of allowable conditions at launch time. There is a 20-minute launch window that expires at 4:27 a.m. EDT.]]> Fri, 24 Aug 2012 07:38:30 GMT
Weather continues to be favorable, with forecasters predicting a 70 percent chance of allowable conditions at launch time. Launch remains set for 4:07 a.m. EDT at the start of a 20-minute launch window.]]> Fri, 24 Aug 2012 07:11:48 GMT
Weather continues to be favorable, with forecasters predicting a 70 percent chance of allowable conditions at launch time. Launch remains set for 4:07 a.m. EDT at the start of a 20-minute launch window.]]> Fri, 24 Aug 2012 06:40:56 GMT
At this point, the launch team is loading liquid oxygen into the Atlas V booster and the Centaur upper stage. A refined kerosene called RP-1 was pumped into the rocket's first stage prior to today's countdown. The countdown continues on schedule, with liftoff set for 4:07 a.m. EDT at the opening of a 20-minute launch window.]]> Fri, 24 Aug 2012 06:06:11 GMT
RBSP will explore changes in Earth's space environment caused by the sun -- known as space weather -- that can disable satellites, create power-grid failures and disrupt GPS service. The mission also will provide data on the fundamental radiation and particle acceleration processes throughout the universe.]]> Fri, 24 Aug 2012 05:32:41 GMT
Join us for live countdown coverage starting at 1:30 a.m. NASA TV will feature full televised coverage at http://www.nasa.gov/nasatv while blogger Steve Siceloff provides updates from the Launch Vehicle Data Center on NASA's Launch Blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/rbsp/launch/launch_blog.html.]]> Thu, 23 Aug 2012 22:26:35 GMT
The terminal countdown operation begins at 12:57 a.m., at which time the launch pad will be cleared of personnel in preparation for fueling the Atlas V rocket. Loading cryogenic propellants begins at 1:42 a.m. The weather forecast continues to reflect only a 30 percent chance of not meeting the launch weather criteria, calling for temperatures near 78 degrees and light southeasterly winds at the targeted 4:07 a.m. liftoff time.]]> Thu, 23 Aug 2012 13:52:44 GMT
The launch weather forecast has improved to only a 30 percent chance of not meeting the weather criteria for liftoff. Scattered clouds are forecast, with a temperature at launch time near 78 degrees and a light southwest wind. Tropical Storm Isaac will not be a factor if launch occurs on Friday or Saturday.]]> Wed, 22 Aug 2012 14:10:50 GMT
After extensive testing of the booster engine actuator system on the RD-180 engines and a thorough data analysis, no problems were found and the rocket has been cleared for launch. The RBSP spacecraft also was cleared for flight during the review and is ready for liftoff.

To avoid predicted afternoon thunderstorm activity on Wednesday, the Atlas V rollout has been moved earlier to 8 a.m. EDT. This will allow sufficient time for the RP-1 fuel to be loaded aboard the Atlas first stage before adverse weather arrives.

The launch weather forecast calls for a 60 percent chance of acceptable conditions Friday morning. Liftoff is scheduled for 4:07 a.m. EDT on Friday, Aug. 24.]]> Tue, 21 Aug 2012 21:39:18 GMT
If the Launch Readiness Review has a positive outcome and the rocket is cleared for launch, rollout to the launch pad at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Space Launch Complex-41 will occur at 8 a.m. EDT on Wednesday morning. The RBSP spacecraft is ready for launch. The current launch weather forecast for Friday morning has only a 40 percent chance of not meeting the required weather criteria at the 4:07 a.m. liftoff time.]]> Tue, 21 Aug 2012 13:57:17 GMT Mon, 20 Aug 2012 20:21:31 GMT Mon, 20 Aug 2012 01:17:14 GMT Thu, 16 Aug 2012 16:36:50 GMT Thu, 16 Aug 2012 13:02:00 GMT
The Integrated Systems Test, an interface verification check between the Atlas V and the spacecraft, is planned for tomorrow. These activities are on schedule, with launch slated for August 23.]]> Mon, 13 Aug 2012 17:03:42 GMT Tue, 07 Aug 2012 13:19:32 GMT Tue, 31 Jul 2012 14:31:39 GMT Mon, 23 Jul 2012 20:14:00 GMT Thu, 05 Jul 2012 02:09:24 GMT Mon, 25 Jun 2012 07:39:45 GMT
This weekend, the Atlas V's first-stage booster will be delivered by barge to Port Canaveral, located near Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The booster will be offloaded on Tuesday and transported to the Atlas Spaceflight Operations Center. The rocket's Centaur upper stage arrived last month.

The comprehensive performance tests are complete for both of the mission's twin probes, which continue to undergo prelaunch processing at the Astrotech payload processing facility in Titusville.]]> Thu, 14 Jun 2012 18:43:58 GMT
The 772-pound NuSTAR will spend at least two years observing high-energy X-rays more closely, in higher resolution, than any space telescope before it. On the electromagnetic spectrum, high-energy X-rays are beyond the scope of visible light and are challenging to detect. NuSTAR's advanced design uses two sets of 133 thin, nested shells of mirrors to capture the X-rays as they bounce off the reflecting surfaces at glancing angles. The expected result is an orbiting observatory that enables astronomers to see the universe in an additional band of light, advancing our understanding of how galaxies form and evolve.]]> Wed, 13 Jun 2012 16:26:12 GMT Wed, 13 Jun 2012 16:15:33 GMT
Follow live coverage on www.nasa.gov/ntv and on the NASA launch blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/nustar/launch/launch_blog.html]]> Wed, 13 Jun 2012 16:06:01 GMT
Follow live coverage on www.nasa.gov/ntv and on the NASA launch blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/nustar/launch/launch_blog.html]]> Wed, 13 Jun 2012 16:02:08 GMT
Weather is 100 percent "go" for launch.

Follow live coverage on www.nasa.gov/ntv and on the NASA launch blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/nustar/launch/launch_blog.html]]> Wed, 13 Jun 2012 15:01:41 GMT
The Orbital Sciences' L-1011 aircraft that will carry the Pegasus is preparing to taxi out to the end of the runway for an 11 a.m. take off from Kwajalein Atoll. The drop location for the Pegasus is 117 nautical miles south of Kwajalein, at an altitude of 39,000 feet over the Pacific Ocean. This location is 6.75 degrees above the equator. Spacecraft separation occurs 13 minutes, 14 seconds after deployment from the L-1011.

Follow live coverage on www.nasa.gov/ntv and on the NASA launch blog at http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/nustar/launch/launch_blog.html]]> Wed, 13 Jun 2012 14:41:11 GMT
The Orbital Sciences' L-1011 aircraft that will carry the Pegasus is scheduled to taxi out to the end of the runway at approximately 70 minutes before launch, and take off from Kwajalein Atoll ten minutes later. The drop location for the Pegasus is 117 nautical miles south of Kwajalein, at an altitude of 39,000 feet over the Pacific Ocean. This location is 6.75 degrees above the equator. Spacecraft separation occurs 13 minutes, 14 seconds after deployment from the L-1011.]]> Wed, 13 Jun 2012 01:59:31 GMT
The Orbital Sciences' L-1011 aircraft that will carry the Pegasus is scheduled to taxi out to the end of the runway at approximately 70 minutes before launch, and take off from Kwajalein Atoll ten minutes later. The drop location for the Pegasus is 117 nautical miles south of Kwajalein, at an altitude of 39,000 feet over the Pacific Ocean. This location is 6.75 degrees above the equator. Spacecraft separation occurs 13 minutes, 14 seconds after deployment from the L-1011.]]> Wed, 13 Jun 2012 12:43:35 GMT
A launch countdown dress rehearsal was conducted on June 9, providing an opportunity for the launch team to work a combination of both simulated and actual problems. The team is scheduled to be off today to allow for sufficient rest before the countdown begins. On Wednesday, Orbital Sciences' L-1011 aircraft that will carry the Pegasus is scheduled to taxi out to the end of the runway at approximately 70 minutes before launch, and take off from Kwajalein Atoll ten minutes later. The drop location for the Pegasus is 117 nautical miles south of Kwajalein, at an altitude of 39,000 feet over the Pacific Ocean. This location is 6.75 degrees above the equator. Spacecraft separation occurs 13 minutes, 14 seconds after deployment from the L-1011.

Launch coverage begins at 10 a.m. EDT.]]> Tue, 12 Jun 2012 13:41:08 GMT Thu, 07 Jun 2012 13:31:00 GMT Tue, 05 Jun 2012 20:12:42 GMT Mon, 04 Jun 2012 19:29:58 GMT
On Sunday June 3, all the final pre-ferry testing will be completed and on Tuesday the L-1011 takes off from Vandenberg Air Force in California for a ferry flight to Kwajalein for the launch of the Pegasus XL rocket carrying NuSTAR.]]> Sat, 02 Jun 2012 01:33:51 GMT
At the Astrotech payload processing facility near Kennedy, the flight batteries were installed this week on the RBSP spacecraft's A and B probes. A comprehensive performance test, an electrical test of the two probes, is scheduled for June 4-7.

Launch is slated for Aug. 23 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Space Launch Complex-41.]]> Fri, 25 May 2012 18:39:25 GMT
The L-1011 carrier aircraft is set to arrive at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California on May 24, with rollout of the rocket to the flight line for attachment to the aircraft planned for June 2. The aircraft would depart California on June 5, arriving at the Kwajalein launch site June 6. Following the June 13 launch of the Pegasus from the aircraft, the deployment of NuSTAR is targeted for 11:30 a.m. EDT.]]> Mon, 21 May 2012 18:45:39 GMT Fri, 04 May 2012 20:10:52 GMT Fri, 04 May 2012 15:26:37 GMT Thu, 03 May 2012 19:57:34 GMT Tue, 01 May 2012 13:26:39 GMT Tue, 10 Apr 2012 01:55:13 GMT Wed, 04 Apr 2012 15:32:05 GMT Tue, 03 Apr 2012 12:50:48 GMT
The time required to complete the work moves the launch period beyond the timeframe currently available on the range at the launch site. In the interim, NASA will coordinate with the Reagan Test Site on Kwajalein Atoll to determine the earliest launch opportunity available, which is anticipated to be within the next couple of months.]]> Fri, 16 Mar 2012 17:46:31 GMT
After the review concludes, a launch date is expected to be set and a "go" given to move the Pegasus from the Orbital's hangar at Vandenberg to the runway ramp. There the rocket will be attached to the L-1011 carrier aircraft in preparation for the ferry flight to Kwajalein, which will begin no earlier than March 18.]]> Thu, 15 Mar 2012 14:41:36 GMT Tue, 13 Mar 2012 17:17:49 GMT
The Flight Readiness Review for NuSTAR is now rescheduled for Thursday, March 15, allowing time for review of data and simulations to qualify software associated with a new Pegasus flight computer. The review will assure that the computer is giving correct flight commands to the Pegasus. A revised launch date will be set at the Flight Readiness Review.]]> Mon, 12 Mar 2012 17:51:43 GMT
The Pegasus, with NASA's NuSTAR spacecraft onboard, is today being placed on the launch vehicle transporter that will carry it to the runway ramp. There the Pegasus will be integrated beneath Orbital's L-1011 carrier aircraft.

The NuSTAR launch is currently targeted for March 22 from Reagan Test Site, Kwajalein Atoll, but the launch date is under review.]]> Fri, 09 Mar 2012 18:58:08 GMT
If following the flight readiness review on March 11 a "go" is given for rollout, then the rocket will be moved from the Orbital hangar to the ramp at the Vandenberg runway the following day. There it will be integrated beneath Orbital's L-1011 carrier aircraft.

The NuSTAR launch is currently targeted for March 22 from Reagan Test Site, Kwajalein Atoll, but the launch date will have a final evaluation at the review on Sunday.]]> Thu, 08 Mar 2012 15:06:19 GMT
When all testing and processing is complete, the integrated vehicle will be flown aboard the carrier aircraft from Vandenberg to the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site at the Pacific Ocean's Kwajalein Atoll for launch, which is currently scheduled for no earlier than March 21.]]> Mon, 05 Mar 2012 20:31:21 GMT
When all testing and processing is complete, the integrated vehicle will be flown on Orbital's L-1011 carrier aircraft from Vandenberg to the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site at the Pacific Ocean's Kwajalein Atoll for launch, which is currently scheduled for no earlier than March 21.]]> Fri, 02 Mar 2012 14:47:51 GMT
When all testing and processing is complete, the integrated vehicle will be flown on Orbital's L-1011 carrier aircraft from Vandenberg to the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site at the Pacific Ocean's Kwajalein Atoll for launch, which is currently scheduled for no earlier than March 21.]]> Thu, 01 Mar 2012 13:34:37 GMT
When all testing and processing is complete, the integrated vehicle will be flown on Orbital's L-1011 carrier aircraft from Vandenberg to the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site at the Pacific Ocean's Kwajalein Atoll for launch, which is currently scheduled for no earlier than March 21.]]> Wed, 29 Feb 2012 17:48:27 GMT
When all testing and processing is complete, the integrated vehicle will be flown on Orbital's L-1011 carrier aircraft from Vandenberg to the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site at the Pacific Ocean's Kwajalein Atoll for launch, which is currently scheduled for no earlier than March 21.]]> Mon, 27 Feb 2012 15:47:41 GMT
While spacecraft and launch vehicle work still remains to be completed, at Tuesday's NuSTAR mission readiness review held at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California, there was a consensus by mission managers to proceed with the integrated pre-ferry flight preparations.

When all testing and processing is complete, the integrated vehicle will be flown on Orbital's L-1011 carrier aircraft from Vandenberg to the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site at the Pacific Ocean's Kwajalein Atoll for launch, which is currently scheduled for no earlier than March 21.]]> Thu, 23 Feb 2012 19:22:14 GMT
While spacecraft and launch vehicle work still remains to be completed, at yesterday's NuSTAR mission readiness review held at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California, there was a consensus by mission managers to proceed with the integrated pre-ferry flight preparations.

When all testing and processing is complete, the vehicle will be flown on Orbital's L-1011 carrier aircraft from Vandenberg to the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site at the Pacific Ocean's Kwajalein Atoll for launch, which is currently scheduled for no earlier than March 21.]]> Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:39:46 GMT
On Friday, technicians used 58 attach bolts to successfully join the spacecraft to the rocket. When all testing and processing is complete, the vehicle will be flown on Orbital's L-1011 carrier aircraft from Vandenberg to the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site at the Pacific Ocean's Kwajalein Atoll for launch, which is currently scheduled for no earlier than March 21.]]> Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:58:11 GMT
At the conclusion of yesterday's Launch Vehicle Readiness Review, a decision was made to reschedule the launch for no earlier than March 21, which allows the launch vehicle team an additional week to complete the necessary engineering reviews. This will lead to beginning the final preparations for the ferry flight to the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site at the Pacific Ocean's Kwajalein Atoll aboard Orbital's L-1011 carrier aircraft.]]> Fri, 17 Feb 2012 14:51:26 GMT
After the spacecraft and rocket are integrated, the vehicle will be flown on Orbital's L-1011 carrier aircraft from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California to the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site at the Pacific Ocean's Kwajalein Atoll for launch in March.]]> Thu, 16 Feb 2012 18:01:42 GMT
After the spacecraft and rocket are integrated, the vehicle will be flown on Orbital's L-1011 carrier aircraft from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California to the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site at the Pacific Ocean's Kwajalein Atoll for launch in March.]]> Wed, 15 Feb 2012 13:43:31 GMT
After the spacecraft and rocket are integrated, the vehicle will be flown on Orbital's L-1011 carrier aircraft from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California to the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site at the Pacific Ocean's Kwajalein Atoll for launch in March.]]> Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:53:52 GMT
After the spacecraft and rocket are integrated, the vehicle will be flown on Orbital's L-1011 carrier aircraft from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California to the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site at the Pacific Ocean's Kwajalein Atoll for launch in March.]]> Mon, 13 Feb 2012 17:38:06 GMT
After NuSTAR is integrated with the Pegasus, the vehicle will be flown on Orbital's L-1011 carrier aircraft from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California to the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site at the Pacific Ocean's Kwajalein Atoll for launch in March.]]> Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:33:16 GMT Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:20:23 GMT
After the spacecraft is integrated with the rocket, the vehicle will be flown on Orbital's L-1011 carrier aircraft to the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site at the Pacific Ocean's Kwajalein Atoll for launch in March.]]> Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:57:50 GMT
Following yesterday's arrival of the Pegasus payload fairing, workers today will move the two halves into the clean room environmental enclosure. Once in the enclosure, they will unwrap the fairing components so that processing can begin.

After the spacecraft is integrated with the rocket, the vehicle will be flown on Orbital's L-1011 carrier aircraft to the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site at the Pacific Ocean's Kwajalein Atoll for launch in March.]]> Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:33:49 GMT
Once the spacecraft is integrated with the rocket in mid-February, the vehicle will be flown on Orbital's L-1011 carrier aircraft to the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site at the Pacific Ocean's Kwajalein Atoll for launch in March.]]> Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:43:23 GMT Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:12:47 GMT Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:28:42 GMT Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:43:39 GMT Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:54:29 GMT Thu, 26 Jan 2012 13:35:11 GMT Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:37:02 GMT Mon, 23 Jan 2012 19:04:08 GMT Fri, 20 Jan 2012 14:18:43 GMT Fri, 13 Jan 2012 20:53:19 GMT Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:47:22 GMT Tue, 10 Jan 2012 21:02:40 GMT Mon, 09 Jan 2012 09:10:33 GMT Fri, 06 Jan 2012 13:47:11 GMT Tue, 20 Dec 2011 19:27:13 GMT Mon, 19 Dec 2011 18:09:10 GMT Thu, 15 Dec 2011 14:43:24 GMT Tue, 13 Dec 2011 01:25:17 GMT Mon, 12 Dec 2011 18:26:16 GMT Thu, 08 Dec 2011 16:17:32 GMT Wed, 07 Dec 2011 17:07:14 GMT Tue, 06 Dec 2011 20:41:50 GMT Tue, 06 Dec 2011 20:14:43 GMT