MAVEN within the launch shroud on its way to the assembly building at Complex 41
MAVEN – One who understands.
If you have been following this blog you know that I have a connection to the MAVEN mission to Mars. I have been trying to provide background and updates on the project in preparation for the launch window which opens next Monday, Nov. 18. Shortly after my last post, I received and e-mail from the project team with photos from the Complex 41 Vertical Integration Building. Don’t you just love these scientific terms? What in means is they were putting a spacecraft together. So here are some pics showing MAVEN being lifted to the top of the Atlas V 304 launch vehicle. All pictures are used with permission and are courtesy of NASA and the Lockheed Martin, MAVEN project team.
MAVEN arrives at the assembly building at Complex 41
That’s the Atlas V launch vehicle already in the building. Note the people standing next to the truck. This is not a small vehicle.
- Lowering the sling to take MAVEN for a ride to the top
MAVEN On its way up
Here’s a better view of the Atlas V launch vehicle in the background.
MAVEN almost to the top
MAVEN Settling in place
Now that is a
Looooooong way down!
The doors are closing.
This is where MAVEN will stay until it’s time to move to the launch pad.
Launch time is scheduled for 11/18/13 1:28 EST.
T minus 91 hours!
Tales From The Hare 