CloudSat and CALIPSO launch rocket on its launch pad at Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, USA. These two satellites were due to be launched on th

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CloudSat and CALIPSO launch rocket on its launch pad at Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, USA. These two satellites were due to be launched on this Boeing Delta II rocket on 21st April 2006. However, a series of errors and delays has caused the launch to be postponed several times. A communications failure, high winds, low cloud and a faulty temperature sensor have all grounded the launch. It is now scheduled for 28th April. The two satellites will study aerosols and clouds, and will join the A Train of satellites, along with Aqua, Aura and the French PARASOL. The A Train satellites will greatly improve our understanding of weather and climate change. Photographed on 22nd April 2006.

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Size: 2023px × 3000px
Photo credit: © Bill Ingalls/NASA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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