CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X fifth segment simulator aft section arrives in the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X fifth segment simulator aft section is lifted by a crane from the transporter. The aft section will be moved to a stand. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X fifth segment simulator aft section is lowered onto a stand in the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X fifth segment simulator aft section is rid of its protective cover before being moved to a stand. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X fifth segment simulator aft section is being transported from the Astrotech facility in Titusville, Fla., to NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X fifth segment simulator aft section heads for the open door of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for no earlier than Aug. 30.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X is on a work stand. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A banner inside NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building captures the excitement building at Kennedy in anticipation of the flight test of the Ares I-X rocket, towering above it in High Bay 3. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system designed to carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for Oct. 27. For information on the Ares I-X vehicle and flight test, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/constellation/ares/flighttests/aresIx/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Glenn Benson

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– The fifth segment simulator segments of the Ares I-X rocket have been moved to the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The stacking operations with other segments in the VAB in June. Ares I-X is the flight test for the Ares I. The I-X flight will provide NASA an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– The fifth segment simulator segments of the Ares I-X rocket have been moved to the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The stacking operations with other segments in the VAB in June. Ares I-X is the flight test for the Ares I. The I-X flight will provide NASA an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lifts the conjoined forward and center segments of the fifth segment simulator for the Ares I-X. The segments will be mated to the simulator’s aft segment, at left. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers prepare to lift the conjoined forward and center segments of the fifth segment simulator for the Ares I-X. The segments will be mated to the simulator’s aft segment, at left. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the conjoined forward and center segments of the fifth segment simulator for the Ares I-X is secured to the simulator’s aft segment. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lowers the conjoined forward and center segments of the fifth segment simulator for the Ares I-X onto the simulator’s aft segment. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the conjoined forward and center segments of the fifth segment simulator for the Ares I-X is attached to a crane prior to lifting operations. The segments will be mated to the simulator’s aft segment. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers monitor the conjoined forward and center segments of the fifth segment simulator for the Ares I-X as a crane lifts them toward the simulator’s aft segment. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Media were invited to a showing of the Ares I-X simulator rocket segments at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Here, Bob Ess and Jon Cowart discuss the flight test objectives of the Ares I-X targeted for launch in July 2009. Ess is manager of the Ares I-X project. Cowart is Ares I-X deputy mission manager. The I-X flight will provide NASA an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with Ares I, part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X aft assembly moves toward the door of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Inside, it will be stacked with other segments to complete the Ares I-X test vehicle. The aft assembly will be the first segment to be stacked on the mobile launch platform in the VAB. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted no earlier than Aug. 30 from Launch Pad 39B. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Steep ladders mounted to opposing sides of the interior wall of the upper stage simulator of the Ares I-X rocket provide the only access inside the vehicle for the installation of instruments and equipment. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system designed to carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for Oct. 27. For information on the Ares I-X vehicle and flight test, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/constellation/ares/flighttests/aresIx/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Glenn Benson

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X aft assembly is being moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. There it will be stacked with other segments to complete the Ares I-X test vehicle. The aft assembly will be the first segment to be stacked on the mobile launch platform in the VAB. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted no earlier than Aug. 30 from Launch Pad 39B. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X aft assembly nears the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. It is being moved to the VAB for stacking to complete the Ares I-X test vehicle. The aft assembly will be the first segment to be stacked on the mobile launch platform in the VAB. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted no earlier than Aug. 30 from Launch Pad 39B. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X aft assembly moves inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. It will be stacked with other segments to complete the Ares I-X test vehicle.The aft assembly will be the first segment to be stacked on the mobile launch platform in the VAB. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted no earlier than Aug. 30 from Launch Pad 39B. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Processing of the Ares I-X vehicle nears completion in the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Rollout to Launch Pad 39B is targeted for Oct. 19. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system designed to carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for Oct. 27. For information on the Ares I-X vehicle and flight test, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/constellation/ares/flighttests/aresIx/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X rocket stands tall inside NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building Bay 3. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system . The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for Oct. 27. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A crane is attached to the Ares I-X forward center assembly in NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building. It will be mated with the aft center assembly. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system . The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for no earlier than Aug. 30. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building High Bay 3, NASA's Ares I-X rocket is ready to undergo its first power-up. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building High Bay 3, NASA's Ares I-X rocket undergoes its first power-up. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – – Inside NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building Bay 3, Ares I-X mission manager Bob Ess, former astronaut Robert Crippen and mission team member Trent Smith stand in front of the Ares I-X rocket. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system . The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for Oct. 27. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Control Center, NASA's Ares I-X Avionics IPT Lead Kevin Flynn and Ares I-X deputy mission manager Jon Cowart monitor data in the firing room as the rocket undergoes its first power-up. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments bears the decal of the U.S. flag. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers adhere a decal of the U.S. flag on one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments bears the Constellation patch. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers begin adhering a decal of the U.S. flag on one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers remove the final cover from the U.S. flag decal affixed to one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers begin adhering the Constellation patch on one of the Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I may also use its 25-ton payload capacity to deliver resources and supplies to the International Space Station, or to "park" payloads in orbit for retrieval by other spacecraft bound for the moon or other destinations. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X forward assembly (comprising the frustum, forward skirt extension and forward skirt) begins to move out of the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility. It is being transferred to the Vehicle Assembly Building for stacking operations with other segments. Ares I-X is the flight test for the Ares I which will provide NASA an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X forward assembly comprising the frustum, forward skirt extension and forward skirt moves into the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building. The assembly will be placed in the VAB's High Bay 4 where it will undergo processing and stacking to the upper stage. Ares I-X is the flight test for the Ares I which will provide NASA an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X forward assembly comprising the frustum, forward skirt extension and forward skirt heads for the Vehicle Assembly Building, in the background. In the VAB's High Bay 4, the forward assembly will undergo processing and stacking to the upper stage. Ares I-X is the flight test for the Ares I which will provide NASA an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X forward assembly (comprising the frustum, forward skirt extension and forward skirt) moves out of the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility. It is being transferred to the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 4 for processing and stacking to the upper stage. Ares I-X is the flight test for the Ares I which will provide NASA an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X forward assembly comprising the frustum, forward skirt extension and forward skirt , at left, moves toward the Vehicle Assembly Building, in the background. In the VAB's High Bay 4, the forward assembly will undergo processing and stacking to the upper stage. Ares I-X is the flight test for the Ares I which will provide NASA an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X forward assembly (comprising the frustum, forward skirt extension and forward skirt) is ready to be moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building for stacking operations with other segments. Ares I-X is the flight test for the Ares I which will provide NASA an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The covered fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X is transported from Astrotech in Titusville, Fla. It is being moved to the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida for stacking operations. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building, the forward fifth segment simulator for the Ares I-X rocket is lifted toward the center segment beside it for stacking. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X launch abort system that will form the tip of the Ares rocket arrives in the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The launch abort system will provide safe evacuation if a launch vehicle failure occurs. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers keep close watch on the Ares I-X simulated launch abort system, or LAS, as it is lowered toward the crew module simulator. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers remove the shipping cover from the fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building, the forward fifth segment simulator for the Ares I-X rocket is lowered toward the center segment for stacking. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the crane raises the Ares I-X simulated launch abort system, or LAS, to a vertical position. The LAS will then be ready for assembly with the crew module simulator. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building, technicians ensure the forward fifth segment simulator for the Ares I-X rocket is lowered in the proper position on the center segment. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers prepare the crane that will lift and rotate the Ares I-X simulated launch abort system (center) for assembly with the crew module simulator. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building, the forward fifth segment simulator for the Ares I-X rocket is lifted from the transporter. It will be stacked with the center segment beside it. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The covered fifth segment simulator center for the Ares I-X rocket leaves Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., heading for the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. It will join other segments being stacked there. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the crane begins to raise the Ares I-X simulated launch abort system, or LAS, to a vertical position. The LAS will then be ready for assembly with the crew module simulator. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers keep close watch on the Ares I-X simulated launch abort system, or LAS, as it is lowered onto the crew module simulator for assembly. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The covered fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X arrives in the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building, technicians ensure the forward fifth segment simulator for the Ares I-X rocket is stacked correctly on the center segment. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building, the forward fifth segment simulator for the Ares I-X rocket is ready to be lifted for stacking with the center segment beside it. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X simulated launch abort system, or LAS, (left of center) is being moved to the crew module simulator (center) for assembly. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., the bagged fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X is placed on a transporter. The segment will be transferred to the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida for stacking operations. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers place a crane and straps on the Ares I-X simulated launch abort system to lift and rotate it for assembly with the crew module simulator. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers begin removing the protective material wrapping the fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The covered fifth segment simulator center for the Ares I-X rocket arrives at the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. It will join other segments being stacked there. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., a crane lowers a protective cover onto the bagged fifth segment simulator of the Ares I-X. The segment will be transferred to the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida for stacking operations. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The covered fifth segment simulator center for the Ares I-X rocket arrives in the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. It will join other segments being stacked there. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers keep close watch on the Ares I-X simulated launch abort system, or LAS, as it is lowered toward the crew module simulator. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the crane lifts the Ares I-X simulated launch abort system, or LAS, from its stand. The LAS will be rotated to vertical for assembly with the crew module simulator. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building, the forward fifth segment simulator for the Ares I-X rocket is lowered toward the center segment for stacking. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In High Bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X upper stage simulator service module/service adapter segment (foreground) is being prepared for its move to a stand. Other segments are placed and stacked on the floor around it. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, at right, technicians get ready to install the roll control system in the Ares I-X segment at left. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In High Bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a second roll control system module is ready to be installed in an Ares I-X segment. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X fifth segment simulator assembly is lowered through a work platform in High Bay 4. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In High Bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians maneuver the crane that will lift a second roll control system module for installation in an Ares I-X segment. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In High Bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a large crane moves the Ares I-X upper stage simulator service module/service adapter segment toward a stand. Other segments are placed and stacked on the floor around it. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In the lower right, the roll control system can be seen installed inside the Ares I-X segment. The work is being done in high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In High Bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lifts a second roll control system module for installation in an Ares I-X segment. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians are seen inside the Ares I-X segment installing the roll control system. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In High Bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X upper stage simulator service module/service adapter (left, center) has been installed on a stand. Other segments are placed and stacked on the floor around it. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In High Bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians are ready to maneuver a second roll control system module into place for installation in the Ares I-X segment. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, at left center, technicians install the roll control system in the Ares I-X segment in the center. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, at left center, technicians get ready to install the roll control system in the Ares I-X segment in the center. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In High Bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians maneuver a second roll control system module into place for installation in the Ares I-X segment. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In High Bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X upper stage simulator service module/service adapter segment has been installed on a stand. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In High Bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians complete installation of a second roll control system module in an Ares I-X segment. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –In High Bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a large crane is attached to the Ares I-X upper stage simulator service module/service adapter segment to lift and move it to a stand. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In High Bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a large crane lifts the Ares I-X upper stage simulator service module/service adapter segment to move it to a stand. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. The Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X aft skirt is moved out of the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility to the test building nearby at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida for testing. The I-X flight will provide NASA an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with Ares I, part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's transfer aisle at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lifts the Ares I-X forward assembly toward a stand in preparation for being moved into High Bay 4. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The fifth segment simulator assembly for the Ares I-X is moved onto a stand in the Vehicle Assembly Building near High Bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lifts the fifth segment simulator assembly for the Ares I-X to move it into High Bay 4. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane is attached to the fifth segment simulator assembly for the Ares I-X. The crane will lift and move the segment assembly into High Bay 4. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's transfer aisle at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lowers the Ares I-X forward assembly onto a stand in preparation for being moved into High Bay 4. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's transfer aisle at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane is attached to the Ares I-X forward assembly. The assembly will be lifted from the trailer and placed on a stand in preparation for being moved into High Bay 4. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X forward assembly has joined other segments on the floor. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Media, at right, gather outside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to get more details about the Ares I-X flight test system. The I-X flight will provide NASA an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with Ares I, part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Media gather in the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to see the aft skirt for the Ares I-X flight test, targeted for launch in July 2009. The I-X flight will provide NASA an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with Ares I, part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Assembly and Refurbishment Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the aft skirt for the Ares I-X flight test is displayed for the media. The I-X flight will provide NASA an early opportunity to test and prove hardware, facilities and ground operations associated with Ares I, part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X fifth segment simulator assembly is lowered into High Bay 4 where other Ares I-X segments are located. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X fifth segment simulator assembly is lifted from the transfer aisle. It will be moved into High Bay 4 with other Ares I-X segments. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X fifth segment simulator assembly is lowered into High Bay 4 where other Ares I-X segments are located. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett