KSC-2009-4059

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Solar Dynamics Observatory sits on a stand at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla. Engineers will lower the high-gain antenna to access the battery compartment for installation of the flight battery. SDO is the first space weather research network mission in NASA's Living With a Star Program. The spacecraft's long-term measurements will give solar scientists in-depth information about changes in the sun's magnetic field and insight into how they affect Earth. In preparation for its anticipated November launch, engineers will perform a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure SDO can withstand the stresses and vibrations of the launch itself, as well as what it will encounter in the space environment after launch. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller