Nasa’s Ares I-X test rocket, its simulated crew module and launch abort system have all been assembled on a mobile launch platform at the Kennedy Space Centre.

The 327ft launch vehicle is wired with more than 700 sensors to gather data during the two-and-a-half minute flight test.

The Ares I-X flight test is scheduled for 31 October 2009.

The data collected during the launch will allow Nasa to gather critical information during ascent of the integrated Orion spacecraft and the Ares I rocket.

Numerous evaluations will be run on all rocket systems including complex instruments that will constantly measure the vehicle’s movements during launch and while the first stage separates.