Space

JPL has 4 spacecraft at KSC

Our internal news board at work just had this item posted:

This is the first time JPL has ever had four spacecraft at Kennedy Space Center in Florida at the same time, getting ready for launches.

The JPL-managed Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF) is undergoing final preparations for launch at KSC aboard a Boeing Delta-II rocket. The second stage of the SIRTF expandable launch vehicle has been hoisted and installed atop the Delta-II first stage on a launch pad at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.

The Galaxy Evolution Explorer is also one step closer to launch. Workers are making adjustments on Galex while connecting the spacecraft with its Pegasus XL launch vehicle.

The two Mars Exploration Rovers are also at KSC, being prepared for launch.

I added the hyperlinks in the message. I’m not sure too many folks in the general public realize what a frenzy of design, build, and launch JPL has been going through lately.