KSC-02PD-0038
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Vertical Processing Facility, STS-109 Payload Commander John Grunsfeld checks out the NICMOS radiator during crew familiarization activities. Part of the payload on mission STS-109, the Near Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrometer (NICMOS) is a new experimental cooling system consisting of a compressor and tiny turbines. With the experimental cryogenic system, NASA hopes to re-cool the infrared detectors to below -315 degrees F (-193 degrees Celsius). NICMOS II was previously tested aboard STS-95 in 1998. NICMOS could extend the life of the Hubble Space Telescope by several years. Astronauts aboard Columbia on mission STS-109 will be replacing the original NICMOS with the newer version. Launch of Columbia is scheduled Feb. 28, 2002
Usage Rights
Most NASA images are in the public domain and free to use. Credit NASA as the source. Check NASA's media usage guidelines for details. Images featuring identifiable individuals may require additional permissions.
Details
NASA ID
02pd0038
Date Created
January 22, 2002
Center
KSC
Media Type
image
Photographer
NASA or National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Downloads
Download this image in multiple resolutions. All NASA media are free for public use.