Nasa’s attempt to launch Earth observation satellite Glory from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California on 4 March 2011 has failed to reach orbit.

According to telemetry indications, the protective shell atop the Taurus XL rocket, the fairing, did not detach properly after launch.

The new satellite was carrying two instruments that were intended to provide a better understanding of the Earth’s radioactive balance and to improve the ability to forecast future climate change.

The satellite has been manufactured and assembled by Orbital Sciences Corporation (OSC) and the cost of the mission was $464m.