Wednesday, November 5, 2014

EFT-1 Update: One Step Closer to Launch...

One of the four ogive panels that comprise the Launch Abort System is attached to the Orion EFT-1 capsule at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida...on October 14, 2014.
NASA

Orion Prepares to Move to Launch Pad (Press Release)

On Dec. 4, Orion is scheduled to launch atop a United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station’s Space Launch Complex 37 in Florida. During the test, Orion will travel 3,600 miles in altitude above Earth. 4 1/2 hours later, the spacecraft will reenter the atmosphere at 20,000 mph and splash down in the Pacific Ocean. Orion’s first flight will verify launch and high-speed reentry systems such as avionics, attitude control, parachutes and the heat shield.

Four recently-installed protective panels make up Orion's Ogive. The Ogive reduces drag and acoustic load on the crew module, making it a smoother ride for the spacecraft. Pictured here, inside the Launch Abort System Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane brings the fourth and final Ogive panel closer for installation on Orion's Launch Abort System.

The Ogive installation was one of the last pieces of the puzzle for Orion prior to its move to the launch pad on Nov. 10. There, it will be lifted and attached to the rocket for its December launch.

Source: NASA.Gov

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The Orion EFT-1 spacecraft is ready to be mated with its Delta IV Heavy launch vehicle after assembly is completed on the capsule at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, as of November 4, 2014.
Jim Grossman

The Orion EFT-1 spacecraft is ready to be mated with its Delta IV Heavy launch vehicle after assembly is completed on the capsule at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, as of November 4, 2014.
Jim Grossman

The Orion EFT-1 spacecraft is ready to be mated with its Delta IV Heavy launch vehicle after assembly is completed on the capsule at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, as of November 4, 2014.
Jim Grossman

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