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Mars Express mounted on the Fregat upper stage. Courtesy of the European Space Agency, © ESA 2001.
Mars Express mounted on the Fregat upper stage. Courtesy of the European Space Agency, © ESA 2001.
 The Mars Express flight model. Courtesy of the European Space Agency, © ESA 2001.
The Mars Express flight model. Courtesy of the European Space Agency, © ESA 2001.
 High/Super Resolution Stereo Colour Imager. Courtesy of the European Space Agency, © ESA 2001.
High/Super Resolution Stereo Colour Imager. Courtesy of the European Space Agency, © ESA 2001.
Mars Express in orbit around the Red Planet. Courtesy of the European Space Agency, © ESA 2001.
Mars Express in orbit around the Red Planet. Courtesy of the European Space Agency, © ESA 2001.
 Mars Express will take off from the launch platform at the Baikonur cosmodrome. Courtesy of the European Space Agency, © ESA 2001.
Mars Express will take off from the launch platform at the Baikonur cosmodrome. Courtesy of the European Space Agency, © ESA 2001.
 The spacecraft's electrical systems are powered by two adjustable solar panels that will be deployed shortly after the launcher housing has separated itself from Mars Express. Courtesy of the European Space Agency, © ESA 2001.
The spacecraft's electrical systems are powered by two adjustable solar panels that will be deployed shortly after the launcher housing has separated itself from Mars Express. Courtesy of the European Space Agency, © ESA 2001.
The NASA Lunar Prospector craft.
The NASA Lunar Prospector craft.
 Lunar Prospector with the Trans-Lunar injection stage.
Lunar Prospector with the Trans-Lunar injection stage.
 Athena 1 on a launch pad at Vandenberg Air Force Base.
Athena 1 on a launch pad at Vandenberg Air Force Base.
The NASA spaceport in Florida from which the spacecraft will be launched.
The NASA spaceport in Florida from which the spacecraft will be launched.
 The Athena II launch vehicle.
The Athena II launch vehicle.
 Dust collecter with aerogel used on the NASA craft.
Dust collecter with aerogel used on the NASA craft.
Cometary and Interstellar dust analyser.
Cometary and Interstellar dust analyser.
 The Stardust Navigation Camera.
The Stardust Navigation Camera.
 Dust flux monitor.
Dust flux monitor.
Whipple shield.
Whipple shield.
 Upper bus structure.
Upper bus structure.
 Stardust arriving at the Kennedy Space Centre.
Stardust arriving at the Kennedy Space Centre.
Stardust is launched.
Stardust is launched.
 Diagram of Stardust itself.
Diagram of Stardust itself.
 Messenger will conduct the first orbital study of the planet Mercury.
Messenger will conduct the first orbital study of the planet Mercury.
Variations in the colours of rocks lying in different craters, shown here in enhanced Mariner 10 images, suggest variations in composition. This is one of the things that the Messenger Mission will study.
Variations in the colours of rocks lying in different craters, shown here in enhanced Mariner 10 images, suggest variations in composition. This is one of the things that the Messenger Mission will study.
 Diagram of the Messenger trajectory.
Diagram of the Messenger trajectory.
 Mercury has not been visited since the Mariner 10 collected this image in the early 1970s.
Mercury has not been visited since the Mariner 10 collected this image in the early 1970s.
Rosetta is ESA's attempt to fly a probe to a comet and study it.
Rosetta is ESA's attempt to fly a probe to a comet and study it.
 Originally due to launch in January 2003, ESA's Rosetta mission was postponed after the entire Ariane 5 fleet was grounded.
Originally due to launch in January 2003, ESA's Rosetta mission was postponed after the entire Ariane 5 fleet was grounded.
 Manipulation of Rosetta's lander at CSG facilities.
Manipulation of Rosetta's lander at CSG facilities.
Once the spacecraft arrives at its target, the lander will detach itself and land on the comet.
Once the spacecraft arrives at its target, the lander will detach itself and land on the comet.
 The original mission for Rosetta involved gravity assists from Mars and Earth.
The original mission for Rosetta involved gravity assists from Mars and Earth.
 The Rosetta lander houses nine scientific experiments to study the composition of a comet.
The Rosetta lander houses nine scientific experiments to study the composition of a comet.
The Rosetta team involves more than 50 contractors from 16 countries.
The Rosetta team involves more than 50 contractors from 16 countries.
 Rosetta will send data back to Earth and be controlled via its steerable high-gain antenna dish.
Rosetta will send data back to Earth and be controlled via its steerable high-gain antenna dish.
 In March 2004, a modified Pegasus booster rocket and X43 vehicle drop steadily away from the NASA B-52B aircraft.
In March 2004, a modified Pegasus booster rocket and X43 vehicle drop steadily away from the NASA B-52B aircraft.
In March 2004 over the Pacific Ocean, the modified Pegasus rocket motor ignites after release from the B-52B aircraft, beginning the acceleration of the X-43A vehicle.
In March 2004 over the Pacific Ocean, the modified Pegasus rocket motor ignites after release from the B-52B aircraft, beginning the acceleration of the X-43A vehicle.
 The first captive flight of the X-43A vehicle and the Pegasus booster mounted on the B-52B carrier aircraft over the Pacific in April 2001.
The first captive flight of the X-43A vehicle and the Pegasus booster mounted on the B-52B carrier aircraft over the Pacific in April 2001.
 The photograph, taken in June 2001, shows the X-43A and the booster moments after release from the B-52B carrier aircraft, just before ignition of the Pegasus rocket motor.
The photograph, taken in June 2001, shows the X-43A and the booster moments after release from the B-52B carrier aircraft, just before ignition of the Pegasus rocket motor.
Artist concept of the Hyper X-43A in flight. The X-43A is powered by a supersonic combustion ramjet engine (scramjet) which uses gaseous hydrogen fuel.
Artist concept of the Hyper X-43A in flight. The X-43A is powered by a supersonic combustion ramjet engine (scramjet) which uses gaseous hydrogen fuel.
 Model of the X-43A vehicle mounted on the booster.
Model of the X-43A vehicle mounted on the booster.
 Layout diagram of X-43 Hypersonic vehicle.
Layout diagram of X-43 Hypersonic vehicle.
Artist concept of the X-43 vehicle mounted on the booster attached to the B-52 aircraft. A B-52 carries the X-43A to an altitude over 40,000ft (12,000m).
Artist concept of the X-43 vehicle mounted on the booster attached to the B-52 aircraft. A B-52 carries the X-43A to an altitude over 40,000ft (12,000m).
 Image (captured from an animation video) showing the X-43 separating from the booster.
Image (captured from an animation video) showing the X-43 separating from the booster.
 Image (captured from an animation video) showing the X-43 after separating from the booster.
Image (captured from an animation video) showing the X-43 after separating from the booster.
The X-43A flies at speeds of Mach 5 to Mach 10.
The X-43A flies at speeds of Mach 5 to Mach 10.
 Globalstar satellites were launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.
Globalstar satellites were launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.
 A Globalstar satellite and its components.
A Globalstar satellite and its components.
The orbit trace shows the track Delta 2 will follow into space and telemetry coverage zones.
The orbit trace shows the track Delta 2 will follow into space and telemetry coverage zones.
 Overview of the Delta 2 rocket's 7420 vehicle configuration used in Globalstar launches.
Overview of the Delta 2 rocket's 7420 vehicle configuration used in Globalstar launches.
 Diagram of the Mars Polar Lander.
Diagram of the Mars Polar Lander.
Diagam of the meteorological mast.
Diagam of the meteorological mast.
 Diagram of the spacecraft's robotic arm.
Diagram of the spacecraft's robotic arm.
 The Nasa lander was tested in Death Valley, California before being sent to Mars.
The Nasa lander was tested in Death Valley, California before being sent to Mars.
Diagram of Mars Polar Lander stages.
Diagram of Mars Polar Lander stages.
 Lockheed Martin technicians inspect the equipment.
Lockheed Martin technicians inspect the equipment.
 SpaceShipOne gliding into Mohave Airport after becoming the first privately-funded manned spacecraft to leave the earth's atmosphere.
SpaceShipOne gliding into Mohave Airport after becoming the first privately-funded manned spacecraft to leave the earth's atmosphere.
In October 2004, SpaceShipOne became the first privately-funded manned spacecraft to exceed an altitude of 328,000ft twice in 14 days, thereby winning the $10m Ansari X-Prize.
In October 2004, SpaceShipOne became the first privately-funded manned spacecraft to exceed an altitude of 328,000ft twice in 14 days, thereby winning the $10m Ansari X-Prize.
 SpaceShipOne is the first of a family of commercial suborbital and orbital spacecraft that will be owned and operated by the Virgin Galactic spaceline company.
SpaceShipOne is the first of a family of commercial suborbital and orbital spacecraft that will be owned and operated by the Virgin Galactic spaceline company.
 Sunrise over the Mohave desert as SpaceShipOne glides in to land.
Sunrise over the Mohave desert as SpaceShipOne glides in to land.
The WhiteKnight carrier aircraft carries the SpaceShip vehicles to an altitude of 50,000ft for air launch.
The WhiteKnight carrier aircraft carries the SpaceShip vehicles to an altitude of 50,000ft for air launch.
 Head of Virgin Galactic, Sir Richard Branson, holding a model of the proposed SpaceShipTwo.
Head of Virgin Galactic, Sir Richard Branson, holding a model of the proposed SpaceShipTwo.
 SpaceShipTwo will provide six passengers per flight with the experience of leaving earth's atmosphere.
SpaceShipTwo will provide six passengers per flight with the experience of leaving earth's atmosphere.
Possible design of the future Spaceport.
Possible design of the future Spaceport.
 From take-off to an altitude of 50,000ft, the spacecraft is attached to the mothership, the WhiteKnight carrier aircraft.
From take-off to an altitude of 50,000ft, the spacecraft is attached to the mothership, the WhiteKnight carrier aircraft.
 The SpaceShip passengers will experience zero gravity weightlessness for about five minutes.
The SpaceShip passengers will experience zero gravity weightlessness for about five minutes.
The Spaceship Company will develop the SpaceShipTwo suborbital space vehicle, the future orbital space vehicles and the WhiteKnight Two carrier aircraft.
The Spaceship Company will develop the SpaceShipTwo suborbital space vehicle, the future orbital space vehicles and the WhiteKnight Two carrier aircraft.
 Passengers will be able to carry out physical manoeuvres and exercises in zero gravity and also view the earth and space during the flight.
Passengers will be able to carry out physical manoeuvres and exercises in zero gravity and also view the earth and space during the flight.
 The International Space Station (ISS) is the largest international co-operative project in history.
The International Space Station (ISS) is the largest international co-operative project in history.
The $100 billion cost of constructing the ISS is being shouldered by the USA, Russia, Japan, Europe, Canada, Italy and Brazil.
The $100 billion cost of constructing the ISS is being shouldered by the USA, Russia, Japan, Europe, Canada, Italy and Brazil.
 The Zarya and Unity modules, shortly after having been joined and released from Endeavour.
The Zarya and Unity modules, shortly after having been joined and released from Endeavour.
 Quest airlock in the process of being installed onto the starboard side of Unity Node 1 using the Space Station Remote Manipulator System (SSRMS).
Quest airlock in the process of being installed onto the starboard side of Unity Node 1 using the Space Station Remote Manipulator System (SSRMS).
Drawing of the Russian Docking Compartment, named Pirs. The module serves as a Russian airlock and docking port for the station.
Drawing of the Russian Docking Compartment, named Pirs. The module serves as a Russian airlock and docking port for the station.
 The first of four ‘stand-off’ structures inside the Destiny Lab module. The stand-offs provide space for electrical connections, data management systems cabling for computers, air conditioning ducts, thermal control tubes and more.
The first of four ‘stand-off’ structures inside the Destiny Lab module. The stand-offs provide space for electrical connections, data management systems cabling for computers, air conditioning ducts, thermal control tubes and more.
 The ISS as it looked in June 2002.
The ISS as it looked in June 2002.
Cutaway diagram of the completed ISS.
Cutaway diagram of the completed ISS.
 Artist's impression of the completed ISS.
Artist's impression of the completed ISS.
 The assembled telescope before unveiling.
The assembled telescope before unveiling.
The Chandra X-ray telescope is put in a vacuuum chamber for testing.
The Chandra X-ray telescope is put in a vacuuum chamber for testing.
 Workers at Eastman Kodak in Rochester, N.Y., check the alignment of the Chandra observatory's High-Resolution Mirror Assembly.
Workers at Eastman Kodak in Rochester, N.Y., check the alignment of the Chandra observatory's High-Resolution Mirror Assembly.
 The optical bench is mated with the high resolution mirror assembly.
The optical bench is mated with the high resolution mirror assembly.
Two transmission gratings used in the Chandra telescope to investigate temperature and chemical composition.
Two transmission gratings used in the Chandra telescope to investigate temperature and chemical composition.
 The XMM's X-ray mirror in production.
The XMM's X-ray mirror in production.
 An artist's impression of the XMM in space.
An artist's impression of the XMM in space.
The XMM.
The XMM.
 XMM STM assembly and testing at ESTEC.
XMM STM assembly and testing at ESTEC.
 XMM STM assembly and testing at ESTEC.
XMM STM assembly and testing at ESTEC.
Acoustic testing on the XMM.
Acoustic testing on the XMM.
 The main cryogenic stage carries most of the electrical and guidance systems.
The main cryogenic stage carries most of the electrical and guidance systems.
 The Ariane 5 Final Assembly Building where the launcher receives its payload.
The Ariane 5 Final Assembly Building where the launcher receives its payload.
The Vinci expander cycle engine with a thrust rating of 15.5t.
The Vinci expander cycle engine with a thrust rating of 15.5t.
 The Speltra structure, which is positioned between the upper stage and the payload fairing.
The Speltra structure, which is positioned between the upper stage and the payload fairing.
 The Sylda 5 structure carries the secondary payload. Constructed with carbon-honeycomb sandwich panels.
The Sylda 5 structure carries the secondary payload. Constructed with carbon-honeycomb sandwich panels.
Diagram showing datalink to Earth.
Diagram showing datalink to Earth.
 Hubble satellite in orbit.
Hubble satellite in orbit.
 The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) was launched into orbit aroung Earth on 25 April 2001.
The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) was launched into orbit aroung Earth on 25 April 2001.
Launching Hubble via the space shuttle.
Launching Hubble via the space shuttle.
 An astronaut during the satellite's three servicing visits.
An astronaut during the satellite's three servicing visits.
 The telescope, showing its solar panels.
The telescope, showing its solar panels.
Orbcomm satellites being tested.
Orbcomm satellites being tested.
 Orbcomm satellites being manufactured.
Orbcomm satellites being manufactured.
 The Orbcomm satellites are controlled from the network control centre.
The Orbcomm satellites are controlled from the network control centre.
Eight Orbcomm Satellites integrated to Pegasus.
Eight Orbcomm Satellites integrated to Pegasus.
 An Orbcomm satellite.
An Orbcomm satellite.
 A stack of Orbcomm satellites.
A stack of Orbcomm satellites.
The Boeing 702 is the successor to the Boeing 601 (which is the world's most widely used satellite).
The Boeing 702 is the successor to the Boeing 601 (which is the world's most widely used satellite).
 This diagram shows the structure of the Boeing 702.
This diagram shows the structure of the Boeing 702.
 A Boeing 702 satellite being prepared. This was to be used for digital radio broadcasting.
A Boeing 702 satellite being prepared. This was to be used for digital radio broadcasting.
This Boeing 702 is called
This Boeing 702 is called "Roll". It is being prepared for launches.
 The NEAR probe was first launched in 1996.
The NEAR probe was first launched in 1996.
 The NEAR spacecraft has numerous instruments on it.
The NEAR spacecraft has numerous instruments on it.
The NEAR project has been sponsored by NASA.
The NEAR project has been sponsored by NASA.
 The NEAR spacecraft will have four solar panel flaps.
The NEAR spacecraft will have four solar panel flaps.
 The starting point for the NEAR mission was the American launch site at Cape Canavaral.
The starting point for the NEAR mission was the American launch site at Cape Canavaral.
The launch used a Delta II launch vehicle.
The launch used a Delta II launch vehicle.
 The GSLV launch vehicle is the latest and most advanced in India's line of launch vehicles.
The GSLV launch vehicle is the latest and most advanced in India's line of launch vehicles.
 Sriharikota Range (SHAR) is the launch station for GSLV.
Sriharikota Range (SHAR) is the launch station for GSLV.
For performance monitoring, tracking, range safety/ flight safety and preliminary Orbit Determination (POD), the vehicle is provided with instrumentation using Pulse Code Modulation(PCM) transmitting in S-band frequency and transponders operating in C-band.
For performance monitoring, tracking, range safety/ flight safety and preliminary Orbit Determination (POD), the vehicle is provided with instrumentation using Pulse Code Modulation(PCM) transmitting in S-band frequency and transponders operating in C-band.
 The GSLV was actually launched in April 2001.
The GSLV was actually launched in April 2001.
 A model of the Ascender on display. The system is designed to massively cut the cost of space travel.
A model of the Ascender on display. The system is designed to massively cut the cost of space travel.
The Ascender is designed to carry out sub-orbital flights.
The Ascender is designed to carry out sub-orbital flights.
 So far, the Ascender is a scale model a sixth of the size of the eventual aircraft.
So far, the Ascender is a scale model a sixth of the size of the eventual aircraft.
 When operational, it is hoped that the Ascender will make money through space tourism.
When operational, it is hoped that the Ascender will make money through space tourism.
Bristol Spaceplanes hopes that the Ascender will be a low cost stepping stone to its
Bristol Spaceplanes hopes that the Ascender will be a low cost stepping stone to its "Spacecab" concept, which will carry loads into space.
Bristol Spaceplanes' ultimate goal is to create a
Bristol Spaceplanes' ultimate goal is to create a "Spacebus" which will be a more mature version of the SpaceCab.
 Lockheed Martin Missiles and Space Station Solar Arrays installed and deployed on orbit.
Lockheed Martin Missiles and Space Station Solar Arrays installed and deployed on orbit.
Solar arrays in the Lockheed Martin factory.
Solar arrays in the Lockheed Martin factory.
 Space Station Solar Array Rotary Joints (SARJ).
Space Station Solar Array Rotary Joints (SARJ).
 Artist's impression of the International Space Station.
Artist's impression of the International Space Station.
The Destiny space laboratory at the Kennedy Space Centre (KSC).
The Destiny space laboratory at the Kennedy Space Centre (KSC).
 The airlock being lowered by a crane in the American Space Flight Centre in Huntsville.
The airlock being lowered by a crane in the American Space Flight Centre in Huntsville.
 The Mars Odyssey spacecraft was launched in April 2001.
The Mars Odyssey spacecraft was launched in April 2001.
Working on the Mars Odyssey spacecraft.
Working on the Mars Odyssey spacecraft.
 The Mars Odyssey lander is designed as part of NASA's search for life on Mars.
The Mars Odyssey lander is designed as part of NASA's search for life on Mars.
 The spacecraft will have a variety of sophisticated instruments such as this.
The spacecraft will have a variety of sophisticated instruments such as this.
The spacecraft will carry a GRS instrument.
The spacecraft will carry a GRS instrument.
 A diagram of how the Mars Odyssey is kitted out.
A diagram of how the Mars Odyssey is kitted out.
 The Kodiak Star will be processed in the Kodiak Launch Complex's processing facility before taking off.
The Kodiak Star will be processed in the Kodiak Launch Complex's processing facility before taking off.
Athena launch vehicle.
Athena launch vehicle.
 Kodiak Launch complex facilities.
Kodiak Launch complex facilities.
 Kodiak Launch Complex map.
Kodiak Launch Complex map.
Genesis mission timeline.
Genesis mission timeline.
 Genesis planned trajectory.
Genesis planned trajectory.
 Genesis mission at the Kennedy Space Center.
Genesis mission at the Kennedy Space Center.
Genesis spacecraft in launch configuration.
Genesis spacecraft in launch configuration.
 Genesis spacecraft as it orbits.
Genesis spacecraft as it orbits.
 Genesis spacecraft in collection configuration.
Genesis spacecraft in collection configuration.
The High Energy Solar Spectroscopic Imager (HESSI) spacecraft was launched in 2001.
The High Energy Solar Spectroscopic Imager (HESSI) spacecraft was launched in 2001.
 HESSI was built by Spectrum Astro.
HESSI was built by Spectrum Astro.
 The HESSI spacecraft has four arrays for solar panels.
The HESSI spacecraft has four arrays for solar panels.
The Cryocooler cools the Spectrometer from below the cold plate in which the Germanium Detectors sit.
The Cryocooler cools the Spectrometer from below the cold plate in which the Germanium Detectors sit.
 The HESSI spacecraft bus. The spacecraft bus consists of the structure and mechanisms, the power system (including the battery, solar panels and control electronics), the attitude control system, thermal control, command and data handling (C&DH) and telecommunications.
The HESSI spacecraft bus. The spacecraft bus consists of the structure and mechanisms, the power system (including the battery, solar panels and control electronics), the attitude control system, thermal control, command and data handling (C&DH) and telecommunications.
 The Imaging Telescope Assembly consists of the telescope tube, grid trays, Solar Aspect System (SAS), and Roll Angle System (RAS). It was constructed, assembled, aligned, and tested at the Paul Scherrer Institut in Switzerland.
The Imaging Telescope Assembly consists of the telescope tube, grid trays, Solar Aspect System (SAS), and Roll Angle System (RAS). It was constructed, assembled, aligned, and tested at the Paul Scherrer Institut in Switzerland.
The NASA Lunar Prospector craft.
The NASA Lunar Prospector craft.
 Lunar Prospector with the Trans-lunar injection stage.
Lunar Prospector with the Trans-lunar injection stage.
 Athena 1 on a launch pad at Vandenberg Air Force Base.
Athena 1 on a launch pad at Vandenberg Air Force Base.
The NASA spaceport in Florida from which the spacecraft will be launched.
The NASA spaceport in Florida from which the spacecraft will be launched.
 The Athena II launch vehicle.
The Athena II launch vehicle.
 Dust collecter with aerogel used on the NASA craft.
Dust collecter with aerogel used on the NASA craft.
Cometary and Interstellar dust analyser.
Cometary and Interstellar dust analyser.
 The Stardust Navigation Camera.
The Stardust Navigation Camera.
 Dust flux monitor.
Dust flux monitor.
Whipple shield.
Whipple shield.
 Upper bus structure.
Upper bus structure.
 Stardust arriving at the Kennedy Space Centre.
Stardust arriving at the Kennedy Space Centre.
Stardust is launched.
Stardust is launched.
 Diagram of Stardust itself.
Diagram of Stardust itself.
 Sea Launch saw a rocket blast off in May 2001.
Sea Launch saw a rocket blast off in May 2001.
The Sea Launch facilities are now fully operational.
The Sea Launch facilities are now fully operational.
 Liftoff of Zenit-3SL with PAS-9 Satellite, July 28, 2000.
Liftoff of Zenit-3SL with PAS-9 Satellite, July 28, 2000.
 PAS-9 Satellite being transferred from the Payload Processing Facility.
PAS-9 Satellite being transferred from the Payload Processing Facility.
Sea Launch Platform Odyssey prepares to lift Zenit-3SL with PAS-9 Satellite over 150ft from ACS Sea Launch Commander ramp.
Sea Launch Platform Odyssey prepares to lift Zenit-3SL with PAS-9 Satellite over 150ft from ACS Sea Launch Commander ramp.
 Sea Launch rocket components are manufactured in Dnepropetrovsk, Ukraine (first and second stages); Moscow, Russia (third or
Sea Launch rocket components are manufactured in Dnepropetrovsk, Ukraine (first and second stages); Moscow, Russia (third or "upper" stage); and Seattle, USA (payload fairing and interstage structure).
 Christmas Island is off the North West coast of Australia.
Christmas Island is off the North West coast of Australia.
Several flightpaths have been identified for satellites from Christmas Island. The possibility of debris landing on oil and gas operations below has been a serious concern.
Several flightpaths have been identified for satellites from Christmas Island. The possibility of debris landing on oil and gas operations below has been a serious concern.
 Christmas Island has traditionally had a low level of economic development and a rich wildlife. The spaceport simultaneously offers economic opportunities, and environmental threats.
Christmas Island has traditionally had a low level of economic development and a rich wildlife. The spaceport simultaneously offers economic opportunities, and environmental threats.
 The spaceport would take up a significant proportion of the island.
The spaceport would take up a significant proportion of the island.
Artist's Impression of the Launch Facility on South Point.
Artist's Impression of the Launch Facility on South Point.
 The layout of the APSC on Christmas Island.
The layout of the APSC on Christmas Island.
 The flightpath of each rocket is important because of the potential danger of falling debris. The APSC should be able to predict where the debris will land, making it safe.
The flightpath of each rocket is important because of the potential danger of falling debris. The APSC should be able to predict where the debris will land, making it safe.
Kourou is the site from which the Ariane space rockets are launched.
Kourou is the site from which the Ariane space rockets are launched.
 The European Space Agency (ESA) has extensive technical facilities.
The European Space Agency (ESA) has extensive technical facilities.
 The XMM module during testing. XMM was recently launched from Kourou on the Ariane 5 rocket.
The XMM module during testing. XMM was recently launched from Kourou on the Ariane 5 rocket.
A rocket stage being transported to Kourou.
A rocket stage being transported to Kourou.
 The final assembly building at Kourou.
The final assembly building at Kourou.
 Launch satellites before being sent to the cleanroom at Svobodny.
Launch satellites before being sent to the cleanroom at Svobodny.
Svobodny has a spacecraft assembly building.
Svobodny has a spacecraft assembly building.
 Equipment has to be stored before assembly.
Equipment has to be stored before assembly.
 A rocket arriving at Svobodny. Svobodny is now seeing regular launches.
A rocket arriving at Svobodny. Svobodny is now seeing regular launches.
Clean room activities.
Clean room activities.
 Initially, the satellites are managed from the Cosmodrome mission control centre.
Initially, the satellites are managed from the Cosmodrome mission control centre.
 Odin's main objective is to perform detailed studies of the physics and the chemistry of the interstellar medium by observing emission from key species.
Odin's main objective is to perform detailed studies of the physics and the chemistry of the interstellar medium by observing emission from key species.
The satellite control building for Odin.
The satellite control building for Odin.
 Odin in deployed configuration at System Magnetic Tests at IABG, Munich, June 1999.
Odin in deployed configuration at System Magnetic Tests at IABG, Munich, June 1999.
 The Odin satellite was subject to extensive testing before launch.
The Odin satellite was subject to extensive testing before launch.
Odin's control centre was at Estrange.
Odin's control centre was at Estrange.
 The Odin rocket arriving at Svobodny for launching.
The Odin rocket arriving at Svobodny for launching.
 The rocket was attended by Scandinavian technicians.
The rocket was attended by Scandinavian technicians.
Odin was also sent to Toulouse for pre-launch testing.
Odin was also sent to Toulouse for pre-launch testing.
 Diagram of the Mars Polar Lander.
Diagram of the Mars Polar Lander.
 Diagam of the meteological mast.
Diagam of the meteological mast.
Diagram of the spacecraft's robotic arm.
Diagram of the spacecraft's robotic arm.
 The NASA lander was tested in Death Valley in California before being sent to Mars.
The NASA lander was tested in Death Valley in California before being sent to Mars.
 Diagram of Mars Polar Lander stages.
Diagram of Mars Polar Lander stages.
Lockheed Martin technicians inspect the equipment.
Lockheed Martin technicians inspect the equipment.
 Diagram showing datalink from the Hubble Telescope to Earth.
Diagram showing datalink from the Hubble Telescope to Earth.
 Hubble Telescope in orbit.
Hubble Telescope in orbit.
Hubble above the Earth.
Hubble above the Earth.
 Launching Hubble via the space shuttle.
Launching Hubble via the space shuttle.
 An astronaut during the satellite's three servicing visits.
An astronaut during the satellite's three servicing visits.
The telescope, showing its solar panels.
The telescope, showing its solar panels.
 The assembled telescope before unveiling.
The assembled telescope before unveiling.
 The Chandra X-ray telescope is put in a vacuum chamber for testing.
The Chandra X-ray telescope is put in a vacuum chamber for testing.
Workers at Eastman Kodak in Rochester, N.Y., check the alignment of the Chandra observatory's High-Resolution Mirror Assembly.
Workers at Eastman Kodak in Rochester, N.Y., check the alignment of the Chandra observatory's High-Resolution Mirror Assembly.
 The optical bench is mated with the high resolution mirror assembly.
The optical bench is mated with the high resolution mirror assembly.
 Two transmission gratings used in the Chandra telescope to investigate temperature and chemical composition.
Two transmission gratings used in the Chandra telescope to investigate temperature and chemical composition.
Arecibo has the largest telescope in the world.
Arecibo has the largest telescope in the world.
 The upgrade cost about $27 million.
The upgrade cost about $27 million.
 The 1,000ft reflector dish rests in a mountaintop sinkhole in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, set 450ft beneath the structure supporting the dome, which houses a system of reflectors used to focus radio waves picked up by the telescope's dish.
The 1,000ft reflector dish rests in a mountaintop sinkhole in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, set 450ft beneath the structure supporting the dome, which houses a system of reflectors used to focus radio waves picked up by the telescope's dish.
The secondary and tertiary reflectors are located within a dome. The telescope can be 'steered' by moving the dome up and down along the curved arm, which can also be rotated.
The secondary and tertiary reflectors are located within a dome. The telescope can be 'steered' by moving the dome up and down along the curved arm, which can also be rotated.
 In the dome, incoming rays that are reflected first off the fixed reflector on the bottom of the sinkhole are reflected up to the secondary and then to the tertiary mirror. The rays finally come to a point focus at the receiver room.
In the dome, incoming rays that are reflected first off the fixed reflector on the bottom of the sinkhole are reflected up to the secondary and then to the tertiary mirror. The rays finally come to a point focus at the receiver room.
 View of Mississippi River from Aqua satellite.
View of Mississippi River from Aqua satellite.
Modis instrument in laboratory.
Modis instrument in laboratory.
 Modis instrument front view.
Modis instrument front view.
 Modis instrument lateral view.
Modis instrument lateral view.
Surrey Satellite Technology (SSTL) is based at the Surrey Space Centre, which is linked to the University of Surrey.
Surrey Satellite Technology (SSTL) is based at the Surrey Space Centre, which is linked to the University of Surrey.
 The Topsat device will be mounted on a SSTL spacecraft.
The Topsat device will be mounted on a SSTL spacecraft.
 Topsat will use an innovative, compact optical system providing 2.5m resolution panchromatic and 5m multi-spectral imagery over a wide swath, together with a downlink direct to local users.
Topsat will use an innovative, compact optical system providing 2.5m resolution panchromatic and 5m multi-spectral imagery over a wide swath, together with a downlink direct to local users.
Diagram of the Topsat device.
Diagram of the Topsat device.
 The ScanER site receives messages from the Resurs-01 satellite.
The ScanER site receives messages from the Resurs-01 satellite.
 Resurs O1 satellite view of Italy.
Resurs O1 satellite view of Italy.
Resurs O1 satellite view of Cyprus.
Resurs O1 satellite view of Cyprus.
 Map of installations.
Map of installations.
 MSU-E coverage map.
MSU-E coverage map.
An aerial view of the Svalbard Ground Station.
An aerial view of the Svalbard Ground Station.
 The control centre.
The control centre.
 A technician installing part of the data processing equipment.
A technician installing part of the data processing equipment.
The ground station.
The ground station.
 This gap in the equipment rack was later filled by a satellite status monitoring unit.
This gap in the equipment rack was later filled by a satellite status monitoring unit.
 The Svalbard Ground Station crew.
The Svalbard Ground Station crew.
View of USA from satellite.
View of USA from satellite.
 Antennas to receive satellite signals.
Antennas to receive satellite signals.
 Artistic representation of the satellite.
Artistic representation of the satellite.
The orbits of the satellites will be evenly spaced to provide a good rate of data refresh.
The orbits of the satellites will be evenly spaced to provide a good rate of data refresh.
 Layout of the Kennedy Space Center (KSC); the Kennedy Space Center is the oldest of the American space programme's sites.
Layout of the Kennedy Space Center (KSC); the Kennedy Space Center is the oldest of the American space programme's sites.
 Space Shuttle taking off from the Kennedy Space Center.
Space Shuttle taking off from the Kennedy Space Center.
Vehicle assembly building at the KSC.
Vehicle assembly building at the KSC.
 SSPF main building.
SSPF main building.
 Johnson Space Center location.
Johnson Space Center location.
Johnson Space Center Mission Control Center.
Johnson Space Center Mission Control Center.
 Desk module at the Mission Control Center in Houston.
Desk module at the Mission Control Center in Houston.
 Curved rear-panel and open top grill at the MCC.
Curved rear-panel and open top grill at the MCC.
A rear pull-out storage drawer accommodated by the console system at the new MCC in Houston.
A rear pull-out storage drawer accommodated by the console system at the new MCC in Houston.
 The Lovell telescope is 76m across.
The Lovell telescope is 76m across.
 The smaller Mark II radio telescope, with its 25m x 38m elliptical bowl, can be connected to the Lovell Telescope to form an interferometer.
The smaller Mark II radio telescope, with its 25m x 38m elliptical bowl, can be connected to the Lovell Telescope to form an interferometer.
An observer in the VLBI room. The tape deck in the background is recording the radio signals for future analysis.
An observer in the VLBI room. The tape deck in the background is recording the radio signals for future analysis.
 Upgrade work was needed to enhance the quality of the surface.
Upgrade work was needed to enhance the quality of the surface.
 The work required galvanised steel panels.
The work required galvanised steel panels.
The Jodrell Bank site is one of the UK's premier scientific institutions.
The Jodrell Bank site is one of the UK's premier scientific institutions.
 The graphic shows the extent of degrading in the surface of the telescope.
The graphic shows the extent of degrading in the surface of the telescope.
 The XMM's X-ray mirror in production.
The XMM's X-ray mirror in production.
An artist's impression of the XMM in space.
An artist's impression of the XMM in space.
 The XMM.
The XMM.
 XMM STM assembly and testing at ESTEC.
XMM STM assembly and testing at ESTEC.
The tests included space simulation, vibration tests and functional checks.
The tests included space simulation, vibration tests and functional checks.
 Acoustic testing on the XMM.
Acoustic testing on the XMM.
 The main cryogenic stage carries most of the electrical and guidance systems.
The main cryogenic stage carries most of the electrical and guidance systems.
The Ariane 5 Final Assembly Building where the launcher receives its payload.
The Ariane 5 Final Assembly Building where the launcher receives its payload.
 The Vinci expander cycle engine with a thrust rating of 15.5t.
The Vinci expander cycle engine with a thrust rating of 15.5t.
 The Speltra structure, which is positioned between the upper stage and the payload fairing.
The Speltra structure, which is positioned between the upper stage and the payload fairing.
The Sylda 5 structure carries the secondary payload.
The Sylda 5 structure carries the secondary payload.
 Ariane's solid booster stage.
Ariane's solid booster stage.
 The NEAR probe was first launched in 1996.
The NEAR probe was first launched in 1996.
The NEAR spacecraft has numerous instruments on it.
The NEAR spacecraft has numerous instruments on it.
 The NEAR project has been sponsored by NASA.
The NEAR project has been sponsored by NASA.
 The NEAR spacecraft will have four solar panel flaps.
The NEAR spacecraft will have four solar panel flaps.
The starting point for the NEAR mission was the American launch site at Cape Canaveral.
The starting point for the NEAR mission was the American launch site at Cape Canaveral.
 The launch used a Delta II launch vehicle.
The launch used a Delta II launch vehicle.
 The GSLV is the latest and most advanced in India's line of launch vehicles.
The GSLV is the latest and most advanced in India's line of launch vehicles.
Sriharikota Range (SHAR) is the launch station for GSLV.
Sriharikota Range (SHAR) is the launch station for GSLV.
 For performance monitoring, tracking, range safety/ flight safety and Preliminary Orbit Determination (POD), the vehicle is provided with instrumentation using Pulse Code Modulation(PCM) transmitting in S-band frequency and transponders operating in C-band.
For performance monitoring, tracking, range safety/ flight safety and Preliminary Orbit Determination (POD), the vehicle is provided with instrumentation using Pulse Code Modulation(PCM) transmitting in S-band frequency and transponders operating in C-band.
 The GSLV was launched in April 2001.
The GSLV was launched in April 2001.
The GSLV is a prestigious national project for India.
The GSLV is a prestigious national project for India.
 The Boeing 702 is the successor to the Boeing 601 (which is the world's most widely used satellite).
The Boeing 702 is the successor to the Boeing 601 (which is the world's most widely used satellite).
 This diagram shows the structure of the Boeing 702.
This diagram shows the structure of the Boeing 702.
A Boeing 702 satellite being prepared. This was to be used for digital radio broadcasting.
A Boeing 702 satellite being prepared. This was to be used for digital radio broadcasting.
 This Boeing 702 is called
This Boeing 702 is called "Roll". It is being prepared for launches.
 A model of the Ascender on display. The system is designed to massively cut the cost of space travel.
A model of the Ascender on display. The system is designed to massively cut the cost of space travel.
The Ascender is designed to carry out sub-orbital flights.
The Ascender is designed to carry out sub-orbital flights.
 So far, the Ascender is a scale model a sixth of the size of the eventual aircraft.
So far, the Ascender is a scale model a sixth of the size of the eventual aircraft.
 When operational, it is hoped that the Ascender will make money through space tourism.
When operational, it is hoped that the Ascender will make money through space tourism.
Bristol Spaceplanes hopes that the Ascender will be a low-cost stepping stone to its Spacecab concept, which will carry loads into space.
Bristol Spaceplanes hopes that the Ascender will be a low-cost stepping stone to its Spacecab concept, which will carry loads into space.
Bristol Spaceplanes' ultimate goal is to create a Spacebus which will be a more mature version of the SpaceCab.
Bristol Spaceplanes' ultimate goal is to create a Spacebus which will be a more mature version of the SpaceCab.
 Beagle 2, part of the ESA's Mars Express mission, will be landing on the Red Planet on 26 December 2003 after a journey of over six months.<BR>All rights reserved by Beagle 2.
Beagle 2, part of the ESA's Mars Express mission, will be landing on the Red Planet on 26 December 2003 after a journey of over six months.
All rights reserved by Beagle 2.
Beagle 2 will be released from the Mars Express by the SUEM which will push the probe away whilst making it spin on its axis for stability.<BR>All rights reserved by Beagle 2.
Beagle 2 will be released from the Mars Express by the SUEM which will push the probe away whilst making it spin on its axis for stability.
All rights reserved by Beagle 2.
 With a landed mass of less than 30kg, Beagle 2 represents the most ambitious science payload to systems mass ratio ever attempted.<BR>All rights reserved by Beagle 2.
With a landed mass of less than 30kg, Beagle 2 represents the most ambitious science payload to systems mass ratio ever attempted.
All rights reserved by Beagle 2.
 Once it has landed, Beagle 2 will begin collecting and analysing geological samples for evidence of life on Mars.<BR>All rights reserved by Beagle 2.
Once it has landed, Beagle 2 will begin collecting and analysing geological samples for evidence of life on Mars.
All rights reserved by Beagle 2.
This tube, less than 100th the width of a human hair, was found in a meteorite believed to be of Martian origin. Experts are divided as to whether it is the fossilised remains of primitive life on Mars 3.6 billion years ago. Image courtesy of NASA.
This tube, less than 100th the width of a human hair, was found in a meteorite believed to be of Martian origin. Experts are divided as to whether it is the fossilised remains of primitive life on Mars 3.6 billion years ago. Image courtesy of NASA.
 The Integral spacecraft was delivered in July 2001.
The Integral spacecraft was delivered in July 2001.
 The Integral service module being prepared for Electromagnetic Compatibility tests.
The Integral service module being prepared for Electromagnetic Compatibility tests.
The payload module with the spectrometer SPI.
The payload module with the spectrometer SPI.
 The Integral spacecraft during one of the many vibration tests at ESTEC.
The Integral spacecraft during one of the many vibration tests at ESTEC.
 The Integral spacecraft in Alenia Spazio clean-room being prepared for journey to ESTEC.
The Integral spacecraft in Alenia Spazio clean-room being prepared for journey to ESTEC.
Integral spacecraft at Alenia before trip to the Netherlands, showing on its near side the two star trackers
Integral spacecraft at Alenia before trip to the Netherlands, showing on its near side the two star trackers
The payload module during structural thermal testing.
The payload module during structural thermal testing.
 The Artemis satellite was launched from the European Space Agency (ESA) base at Kourou on 12 July 2001.
The Artemis satellite was launched from the European Space Agency (ESA) base at Kourou on 12 July 2001.
The Artemis satellite is designed to test new technologies.
The Artemis satellite is designed to test new technologies.
Artemis, an artist's impression. Artemis carrys three payloads plus a number of experiments.
Artemis, an artist's impression. Artemis carrys three payloads plus a number of experiments.
 Preparation of Artemis PFM model for acoustic test in the Large European Acoustic Facility (LEAF) at ESTEC.
Preparation of Artemis PFM model for acoustic test in the Large European Acoustic Facility (LEAF) at ESTEC.
Artemis has an innovative ion propulsion system.
Artemis has an innovative ion propulsion system.
 The operation control centre is in Fucino, Italy.
The operation control centre is in Fucino, Italy.
 Envisat is an advanced polar-orbiting Earth observation satellite that was launched in March 2002 on an Ariane 5 rocket by the European Space Agency (ESA).
Envisat is an advanced polar-orbiting Earth observation satellite that was launched in March 2002 on an Ariane 5 rocket by the European Space Agency (ESA).
Envisat at that time was the largest European satellite ever to be launched.
Envisat at that time was the largest European satellite ever to be launched.
 The Envisat satellite went through its last testing in January 2001 before being shipped to the French dependency Kourou for launch. Transportation was a major task involving the transport of machinery by air, land and water.
The Envisat satellite went through its last testing in January 2001 before being shipped to the French dependency Kourou for launch. Transportation was a major task involving the transport of machinery by air, land and water.
The flight operation ground centre has command and control of the satellite. The ground stations are at Kiruna, Fucino, Svallbard, and Villafranca. The flight operations control centre (FOCC) is located at ESOC in Darmstadt, Germany.
The flight operation ground centre has command and control of the satellite. The ground stations are at Kiruna, Fucino, Svallbard, and Villafranca. The flight operations control centre (FOCC) is located at ESOC in Darmstadt, Germany.
Loading the Payload Module on to Antonow 124 at Schiphol Airport, Amsterdam.
Loading the Payload Module on to Antonow 124 at Schiphol Airport, Amsterdam.
 The Envisat launcher was assembled in Kourou in August 2001.
The Envisat launcher was assembled in Kourou in August 2001.
 A technician working on the Contour spacecraft.
A technician working on the Contour spacecraft.
The Traveling Wave Tube Amplifier (TWTA) flight unit #1 being integrated on the spacecraft.
The Traveling Wave Tube Amplifier (TWTA) flight unit #1 being integrated on the spacecraft.
The high gain antenna in the process of assembly.
The high gain antenna in the process of assembly.
The Contour spacecraft is subject to extensive testing.
The Contour spacecraft is subject to extensive testing.
The power switching unit (PSU).
The power switching unit (PSU).
 The Contour gyro was supplied by Honeywell.
The Contour gyro was supplied by Honeywell.
 The aft panel of the Contour spacecraft.
The aft panel of the Contour spacecraft.
Backside wiring on the Contour spacecraft.
Backside wiring on the Contour spacecraft.
 The Herschel Space Observatory is the largest space telescope ever built.
The Herschel Space Observatory is the largest space telescope ever built.
 The space telescope has Alcatel as its main contractor.
The space telescope has Alcatel as its main contractor.
The Hershel spacecraft will be launched alongside the Planck spacecraft.
The Hershel spacecraft will be launched alongside the Planck spacecraft.
 The Herschel spacecraft will be in operation by 2007.
The Herschel spacecraft will be in operation by 2007.
 The two spacecraft will be launched from an Ariane 5 rocket.
The two spacecraft will be launched from an Ariane 5 rocket.
Herschel and Planck in the fairing.
Herschel and Planck in the fairing.
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