KSC-2009-1723
VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory, or OCO, spacecraft awaits a GN2 instrument purge flow test in preparation for launch Feb. 24. The spacecraft sits atop Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket. At right is a portion of the umbilical tower attached to the upper stack. The spacecraft sits atop Orbital Sciences' Taurus XL rocket. At right is a portion of the umbilical tower attached to the upper stack. 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 courtesy of Jim Stowers, Orbital Sciences
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.
Keywords
Details
NASA ID
KSC-2009-1723
Date Created
February 19, 2009
Center
KSC
Media Type
image
Location
Vandenberg AFB, CA
Downloads
Download this image in multiple resolutions. All NASA media are free for public use.