KSC-2009-3554

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., access platforms are being removed from around the encapsulated GOES-O satellite in preparation for moving GOES-O to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 37 pad where it will be mated with the United Launch Alliance Delta IV expendable launch vehicle. The GOES-O satellite is targeted to launch no earlier than June 26. The latest Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite, GOES-O was developed by NASA for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. The GOES satellites continuously provide observations of 60 percent of the Earth including the continental United States, providing weather monitoring and forecast operations as well as a continuous and reliable stream of environmental information and severe weather warnings. Once in orbit, GOES-O will be designated GOES-14, and NASA will provide on-orbit checkout and then transfer operational responsibility to NOAA. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller