KSC-07pd0213
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the high bay at Astrotech Space Operations, workers secure the upper cylindrical canister to the lower panels already in place around the THEMIS spacecraft and upper stage booster. When completely enclosed, THEMIS will be transported to Launch Complex 17-B for mating with its launch vehicle. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket managed by the United Launch Alliance. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder
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Details
NASA ID
KSC-07pd0213
Date Created
January 31, 2007
Center
KSC
Media Type
image
Location
Kennedy Space Center, FL
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