KSC-2011-1469

VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- On Space Launch Complex 576-E at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the Taurus XL rocket is in its launch configuration. The upper stack, consisting of Stages 1, 2 and 3, as well as the encapsulated Glory spacecraft, is attached to an interstage and Stage 0 at the launch pad. The scaffolding around Stage 0 will be removed prior to next week's launch, after workers install 12 vent-door covers to the interstage. The Orbital Sciences Taurus XL rocket will launch Glory into low Earth orbit. Once Glory reaches orbit, it will collect data on the properties of aerosols and black carbon. It also will help scientists understand how the sun's irradiance affects Earth's climate. Launch is scheduled for 5:09 a.m. EST Feb. 23. For information, visit www.nasa.gov/glory. Photo credit: NASA/Randy Beaudoin, VAFB