KSC-2010-1573

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Space Operations facility in Titusville, Fla., spacecraft technicians prepare to attach half of the Delta IV payload fairing that will enclose NASA's GOES-P meteorological satellite to a lifting device. The fairing is a molded clamshell covering that fits flush with the outside surface of the rocket and forms an aerodynamic nose cone, protecting the spacecraft during launch and ascent. GOES-P, the latest Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite, was developed by NASA for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. GOES-P is designed to watch for storm development and observed current weather conditions on Earth. Launch of GOES-P is targeted for March 1 from Launch Complex 37 aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta IV rocket. For information on GOES-P, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_GOES-P_main_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Jack Pfaller