KSC-2012-1181

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A firefighter mans his post at the edge of a controlled burn in the vicinity of the Industrial Area at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The burn, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, targeted 2,174 acres near Kennedy's administrative complex. Shifting winds caused the fire to flare up in places to dramatic effect. Limited visibility caused by the smoke required NASA Security to close some roadways. The burn, which began during the 8 o'clock hour this morning, is expected to be extinguished this evening. Controlled burns are commonplace on the center to reduce the likelihood of an unplanned brush fire during Central Florida's dry season. Photo Credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis