X-31 simulator

U.S. and German personnel of the X-31 Enhanced Fighter Maneuverability Technology Demonstrator aircraft program removing the right wing of the aircraft, which was ferried from Edwards Air Force Base, California, to Europe on May 22, 1995 aboard an Air Force Reserve C-5 transport. The X-31, based at the NASA Dryden Flight Research Center was ferried to Europe and flown in the Paris Air Show in June. The wing of the X-31 was removed on May 18, 1995, to allow the aircraft to fit inside the C-5 fuselage. Officials of the X-31 project used Manching, Germany, as a staging base to prepare the aircraft for the flight demonstration. At the air show, the X-31 demonstrated the value of using thrust vectoring (directing engine exhaust flow) coupled with advanced flight control systems to provide controlled flight at very high angles of attack. The aircraft arrived back at Edwards in a Air Force Reserve C-5 on June 25, 1995 and off loaded at Dryden June 27. The X-31 aircraft was developed jointly by Rockwell International's North American Aircraft Division (now part of Boeing) and Daimler-Benz Aerospace (formerly Messerschmitt-Bolkow-Blohm), under sponsorship by the U.S. Department of Defense and the German Federal Ministry of Defense.

X-31 team members perform an engine fit check on the X-31 Enhanced Fighter Maneuverability demonstrator aircraft in a hangar at the Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, California.

The right wing of the X-31 Enhanced Fighter Maneuverability Technology Demonstrator Aircraft is seen here being put into a shipping container May 18, 1995, at NASA's Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, California, by U.S. and German members of the program. To fit inside an Air Force Reserve C-5 transport, which was used to ferry the X-31 to Europe on May 22, 1995, the right wing had to be removed. Manching, Germany, was used as a staging base to prepare the aircraft for participation in the Paris Air Show. At the air show on June 11 through the 18th, the X-31 demonstrated the value of using thrust vectoring (directing engine exhaust flow) coupled with advanced flight control systems to provide controlled flight at very high angles of attack. The aircraft arrived back at Edwards in an Air Force Reserve C-5 on June 25, 1995, and off loaded at Dryden the 27th. The X-31 aircraft was developed jointly by Rockwell International's North American Aircraft Division (now part of Boeing) and Daimler-Benz Aerospace (formerly Messerschmitt-Bolkow-Blohm), under sponsorship by the U.S. Department of Defense and the German Federal Ministry of Defense.

The X-31, the world’s first international X-plane, demonstrates controlled flight at high alpha courtesy of its canards and thrust vectoring paddles in the exhaust stream.

The X-31 Enhanced Fighter Maneuverability Technology Demonstrator Aircraft, based at the NASA Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, California, begins rolling aboard an Air Force Reserve C-5 transport which ferried it on May 22, 1995 to Europe where it was flown in the Paris Air Show in June 1995. To fit in the C-5 the right wing of the X-31 had to be removed. At the air show, the X-31 demonstrated the value of using thrust vectoring (directing engine exhaust flow) coupled with advanced flight control systems to provide controlled flight at very high angles of attack.

A collection of NASA's research aircraft on the ramp at the Dryden Flight Research Center in July 1997: X-31, F-15 ACTIVE, SR-71, F-106, F-16XL Ship #2, X-38, Radio Controlled Mothership and X-36.

NASA research pilot Jack McKay was injured in a crash landing of the X-15 #2 on November 9, 1962. Following the launch from the B-52 to begin flight 2-31-52, he started the X-15's rocket engine, only to discover that it produced just 30 percent of its maximum thrust. He had to make a high-speed emergency landing on Mud Lake, NV, without flaps but with a significant amount of fuel still in the aircraft. As the X-15 slid across the lakebed, the left skid collapsed; the aircraft turned sideways and flipped onto its back. McKay suffered back injuries but was eventually able to resume X-15 pilot duties, making 22 more flights. The X-15 was sent back to North American Aviation and rebuilt into the X-15A-2.

The three thrust-vectoring aircraft at Edwards, California, each capable of flying at extreme angles of attack, cruise over the California desert in formation during flight in March 1994. They are, from left, NASA's F-18 High Alpha Research Vehicle (HARV), flown by the NASA Dryden Flight Research Center; the X-31, flown by the X-31 International Test Organization (ITO) at Dryden; and the Air Force F-16 Multi-Axis Thrust Vectoring (MATV) aircraft.

The three thrust-vectoring aircraft at Edwards, California, each capable of flying at extreme angles of attack, cruise over the California desert in formation during flight in March 1994. They are, from left, NASA's F-18 High Alpha Research Vehicle (HARV), flown by the NASA Dryden Flight Research Center; the X-31, flown by the X-31 International Test Organization (ITO) at Dryden; and the Air Force F-16 Multi-Axis Thrust Vectoring (MATV) aircraft.

NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe left, learned about the Mach 10 X-43 research vehicle from manager, Joel Sitz during O'Keefe's visit to the NASA Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, California, January 31, 2002.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39B, the stabilizing arm is moved into place on the fixed service structure for attachment. The arm will be used in the Ares I-X rocket launch, targeted for Oct. 31. Ares I-X is part of NASA's Constellation Program. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Firing Room 1 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, mission engineers take part in a countdown simulation for the upcoming Ares I-X flight test. The test vehicle for the Ares I, Ares I-X is targeted for the test on Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Firing Room 1 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Bob Holl and Jeff Spaulding take part in a countdown simulation for the upcoming Ares I-X flight test. Ares I-X is targeted for the test on Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39B, the stabilizing arm is moved into place on the fixed service structure for attachment. The arm will be used in the Ares I-X rocket launch, targeted for Oct. 31. Ares I-X is part of NASA's Constellation Program. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Firing Room 1 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, mission engineers take part in a countdown simulation for the upcoming Ares I-X flight test. Ares I-X is targeted for the test on Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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. – 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 Mission Director Center in Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Hangar AE, mission engineers take part in a countdown simulation for the upcoming Ares I-X flight test. Ares I-X is targeted for the test on Oct. 31. The Hangar AE control rooms provide real-time voice, data and video information for ex¬pendable vehicle checkout and launch operations, similar to that provided by the space shuttle control rooms. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39B, the stabilizing arm is lifted from the pad surface. It will be attached to the fixed service structure for use in the Ares I-X rocket launch, targeted for Oct. 31. Ares I-X is part of NASA's Constellation Program. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39B, a second stabilizing arm is ready to be lifted for installation at the top of the fixed service structure. The hardware is being reconfigured for launch of NASA's Ares I-X rocket, part of the agency's Constellation Program. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39B, a second stabilizing arm is lifted for installation at the top of the fixed service structure. The hardware is being reconfigured for launch of NASA's Ares I-X rocket, part of the agency's Constellation Program. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39B, a second stabilizing arm is lifted for installation at the top of the fixed service structure. The hardware is being reconfigured for launch of NASA's Ares I-X rocket, part of the agency's Constellation Program. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39B, the stabilizing arm is moved closer to the fixed service structure where it will be attached. The arm will be used in the Ares I-X rocket launch, targeted for Oct. 31. Ares I-X is part of NASA's Constellation Program. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39B, a second stabilizing arm is moved closer to the top of the fixed service structure for installation. The hardware is being reconfigured for launch of NASA's Ares I-X rocket, part of the agency's Constellation Program. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39B, the stabilizing arm is lifted toward the fixed service structure where it will be attached. The arm will be used in the Ares I-X rocket launch, targeted for Oct. 31. Ares I-X is part of NASA's Constellation Program. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39B, a second stabilizing arm is moved into place (at upper right) on the top of the fixed service structure for installation. The hardware is being reconfigured for launch of NASA's Ares I-X rocket, part of the agency's Constellation Program. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39B, hardware known as the stabilizing arm is ready to be lifted and attached to the fixed service structure. The arm will used for the Ares I-X rocket launch, targeted for Oct. 31. Ares I-X is part of NASA's Constellation Program. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39B, a second stabilizing arm is moved into place on the top of the fixed service structure for installation. The hardware is being reconfigured for launch of NASA's Ares I-X rocket, part of the agency's Constellation Program. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Firing Room 1 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, mission engineers take part in a countdown simulation for the upcoming Ares I-X flight test. Ares I-X is targeted for the test on Oct. 31. In the foreground is George Odom. Seen in the back is Jeremy Graeber. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Near the top of the fixed service structure on NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39B, the new stabilizing arm (white) has been attached. The hardware is being reconfigured for launch of NASA's Ares I-X rocket, part of the agency's Constellation Program. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder

F-8 Digital Fly-By-Wire aircraft in flight. The computer-controlled flight systems pioneered by the F-8 DFBW created a revolution in aircraft design. The F-117A, X-29, X-31, and many other aircraft have relied on computers to make them flyable. Built with inherent instabilities to make them more maneuverable, they would be impossible for human pilots to fly if the computers failed or received incorrect data.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Platforms surround the 327-foot tall Ares I-X rocket in NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building. . The rocket is stacked on the mobile launcher platform in High Bay 3. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage below. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lowers Super Stack 2, part of the Ares I-X upper stage, for attachment with Super Stack 1 below. The upper stage comprises five super stacks, which are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building, a crane lowers the Ares I-X Super Stack 3 into High Bay 4. There it will be integrated with Super Stack 2. The upper stage comprises five super stacks, which are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Platforms surround the 327-foot tall Ares I-X rocket in NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building. The rocket is stacked on the mobile launcher platform in High Bay 3. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage below. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lowers Super Stack 2, part of the Ares I-X upper stage, for integration with Super Stack 1. The upper stage comprises five super stacks, which are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building, sunlight highlights the 327-foot tall Ares I-X rocket in High Bay 3. Mission, program and NASA decals are lined up on the upper stack below the U.S. flag. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage below. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lowers Super Stack 2, part of the Ares I-X upper stage, onto Super Stack 1 for integration. The upper stage comprises five super stacks, which are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building, the 327-foot tall Ares I-X rocket is silhouetted against the light flowing in from open panels in High Bay 3. Mission, program and NASA decals are lined up on the stack below the U.S. flag. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage below. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3, a crane lowers the Ares I-X Super Stack 4 toward Super Stack 3 for integration. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that will be integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building High Bay 4, a crane lowers the Ares I-X Super Stack 3 toward Super Stack 2 for integration. The upper stage comprises five super stacks, which are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3, a worker watches as a crane lowers the Ares I-X Super Stack 4 for integration with Super Stack 3. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that will be integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3, the Ares I-X "super stack 1" is being attached to the forward motor segment. Super stack 1 comprises the frustum, forward skirt, forward skirt extension, interstages 1 and 2 and the fifth segment simulator. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending forma NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building High Bay 3, NASA's Ares I-X mission team members Bobby Williams, Trent Smith and Karl Kendall get ready for the rocket's 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's High Bay 4, the Ares I-X "super stack 1" is to be lifted into High Bay 3 and attached to the forward motor segment. Super stack 1 comprises the frustum, forward skirt, forward skirt extension, interstages 1 and 2 and the fifth segment simulator. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending forma NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3, the Ares I-X rocket is being assembled on the mobile launcher platform. Super Stack 4 has just been mated to Super Stack 3 on top. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that will be integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3, a crane lowers the Ares I-X Super Stack 4 toward Super Stack 3 for integration. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that will be integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building High Bay 3, NASA's Ares I-X mission team members Trent Smith and Karl Kendall get ready for the rocket's 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. – Platforms surround the 327-foot tall Ares I-X rocket in NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building. The rocket is stacked on the mobile launcher platform in High Bay 3. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage below. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lowers Super Stack 2, part of the Ares I-X upper stage, onto Super Stack 1 for integration. The upper stage comprises five super stacks, which are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building High Bay 3, NASA's Ares I-X mission team members Bobby Williams, Trent Smith and Karl Kendall monitor the rocket's 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, a crane lifts the Ares I-X Super Stack 3 to move it across the transfer aisle to High Bay 4. There it will be integrated with Super Stack 2. The upper stage comprises five super stacks, which are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3, a crane lowers the Ares I-X Super Stack 4 toward Super Stack 3 for integration. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that will be integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building, a crane is attached to the Ares I-X Super Stack 3 in High Bay 3. The stack is being moved to High Bay 4 for integration with Super Stack 2. The upper stage comprises five super stacks, which are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building High Bay 4, a crane lowers the Ares I-X Super Stack 3 onto Super Stack 2 for integration. The upper stage comprises five super stacks, which are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building, a crane lowers the Ares I-X Super Stack 3 into High Bay 4. There it will be integrated with Super Stack 2. The upper stage comprises five super stacks, which are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3, the Ares I-X "super stack 1" is being attached to the forward motor segment. Super stack 1 comprises the frustum, forward skirt, forward skirt extension, interstages 1 and 2 and the fifth segment simulator. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending forma NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Control Center, NASA's Ares I-X mission team members 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's High Bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane has lowered Super Stack 2, part of the Ares I-X upper stage, onto Super Stack 1 for integration atop the first stage, which comprises four solid rocket booster segments, on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Control Center, NASA's Ares I-X mission engineers (from front) George Odom, Jeremy Graeber, Roberta Wyrick and Rudy Tench 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's High Bay 3, a crane lowers the Ares I-X Super Stack 4 onto Super Stack 3 for integration. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that will be integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane has lowered Super Stack 2, part of the Ares I-X upper stage, onto Super Stack 1 for assembly. The upper stage comprises five super stacks, which are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3, a crane lowers the Ares I-X Super Stack 4 onto Super Stack 3 for integration. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that will be integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. 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, a crane moves the Ares I-X Super Stack 4 across the floor to High Bay 3 for integration with Super Stack 3. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that will be integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3, the Ares I-X "super stack 1" is being attached to the forward motor segment. Super stack 1 comprises the frustum, forward skirt, forward skirt extension, interstages 1 and 2 and the fifth segment simulator. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending forma NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Control Center, NASA's Ares I-X mission team monitor data from 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's High Bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lifts the Ares I-X Super Stack 4. The stack will be moved to High Bay 3 for integration with Super Stack 3. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that will be integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3, the Ares I-X rocket is being assembled on the mobile launcher platform. Super Stack 4 has just been mated to Super Stack 3 on top. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that will be integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building High Bay 3, a crane moves the Ares I-X Super Stack 3 across the transfer aisle to High Bay 4. There it will be integrated with Super Stack 2. The upper stage comprises five super stacks, which are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

The X-38, a research vehicle built to help develop technology for an emergency Crew Return Vehicle (CRV), descends under its steerable parachute during a July 1999 test flight at the Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, California. It was the fourth free flight of the test vehicles in the X-38 program, and the second free flight test of Vehicle 132 or Ship 2. The goal of this flight was to release the vehicle from a higher altitude -- 31,500 feet -- and to fly the vehicle longer -- 31 seconds -- than any previous X-38 vehicle had yet flown. The project team also conducted aerodynamic verification maneuvers and checked improvements made to the drogue parachute.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane is attached to the Ares I-X Super Stack 4. The stack will be lifted and moved to High Bay 3 for integration with Super Stack 3. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that will be integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building High Bay 3, a crane moves the Ares I-X Super Stack 3 across the transfer aisle to High Bay 4. There it will be integrated with Super Stack 2. The upper stage comprises five super stacks, which are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3, a crane lowers the Ares I-X Super Stack 4 onto Super Stack 3 for integration. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that will be integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The 327-foot tall Ares I-X rocket stretches into the upper regions of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building. The rocket is stacked on the mobile launcher platform in High Bay 3. Mission, program and NASA decals are lined up on the stack below the U.S. flag. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage below. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The 327-foot tall Ares I-X rocket stretches into the upper regions of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building. The rocket is stacked on the mobile launcher platform in High Bay 3. Mission, program and NASA decals are lined up on the stack below the U.S. flag. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage below. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31. 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, a crane lifts the Ares I-X Super Stack 4. The stack will be moved to High Bay 3 for integration with Super Stack 3. Five super stacks make up the upper stage that will be integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building, a crane is attached to the Ares I-X Super Stack 3 in High Bay 3. The stack is being moved to High Bay 4 for integration with Super Stack 2. The upper stage comprises five super stacks, which are integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage on the mobile launch platform. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the 327-foot-tall Ares I-X rocket is the first vehicle processed on Launch Pad 39B other than the space shuttle since the Apollo Program's Saturn rockets were retired. The transfer of the pad from the Space Shuttle Program to the Constellation Program took place May 31. Pad modifications to support the Ares I-X include the removal of shuttle unique subsystems, such as the orbiter access arm and a section of the gaseous oxygen vent arm, and the installation of three 600-foot lightning towers, access platforms, environmental control systems and a vehicle stabilization system. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I. The Ares I-X flight test is set for Oct. 27. For information on the Ares I-X vehicle and flight test, visit http://www.nasa.gov/aresIX. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Poised inside Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X rocket's upper stage is adorned with the American flag, NASA logo, and the logos of the Constellation Program, Ares, and Ares I-X. The transfer of the pad from the Space Shuttle Program to the Constellation Program took place May 31. Modifications made to the pad include the removal of shuttle unique subsystems, such as the orbiter access arm and a section of the gaseous oxygen vent arm, along with the installation of three 600-foot lightning towers, access platforms, environmental control systems and a vehicle stabilization system. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I. 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/aresIX. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3, assembly of the Ares I-X rocket nears completion. The yellow framework, nicknamed the "birdcage," lowers Super Stack 5 onto the Ares I-X segments already in place on the mobile launcher platform. Once in position, assembly of the Ares I-X rocket will be complete. The 327-foot-tall rocket is one of the largest processed in the bay, rivaling the height of the Apollo Program's 364-foot-tall Saturn V. Five super stacks make up the rocket's upper stage that is integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - With the work platforms retracted, the Ares I-X stands tall inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The platforms were retracted in preparation for the rocket's rollout to Launch Pad 39B. The transfer of the pad from the Space Shuttle Program to the Constellation Program took place May 31. Modifications made to the pad include the removal of shuttle unique subsystems, such as the orbiter access arm and a section of the gaseous oxygen vent arm, along with the installation of three 600-foot lightning towers, access platforms, environmental control systems and a vehicle stabilization system. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I. 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/aresIX. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The Ares I-X rocket heads toward Launch Pad 39B at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, riding atop a crawler-transporter. The 4.2-mile trip to the pad from the massive Vehicle Assembly Building began at 1:39 a.m. EDT. The transfer of the pad from the Space Shuttle Program to the Constellation Program took place May 31. Modifications made to the pad include the removal of shuttle unique subsystems, such as the orbiter access arm and a section of the gaseous oxygen vent arm, along with the installation of three 600-foot lightning towers, access platforms, environmental control systems and a vehicle stabilization system. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I. 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/aresIX. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the 327-foot-tall Ares I-X rocket stands on its mobile launcher platform. The transfer of the pad from the Space Shuttle Program to the Constellation Program took place May 31. Modifications made to the pad include the removal of shuttle unique subsystems, such as the orbiter access arm and a section of the gaseous oxygen vent arm, along with the installation of three 600-foot lightning towers, access platforms, environmental control systems and a vehicle stabilization system. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I. 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/aresIX. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 4, assembly of the Ares I-X rocket nears completion. The yellow framework, nicknamed the "birdcage," is lowered by crane toward Super Stack 5. The birdcage has the ability to lift and to stack and de-stack the Ares I-X rocket's Super Stack 5. Next, the stack will be lifted on top of the segments already in place on the mobile launcher platform, completing assembly of the rocket. Five super stacks make up the rocket's upper stage that will be integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 4, assembly of the Ares I-X rocket nears completion. The yellow framework, nicknamed the "birdcage," is lowered by crane over Super Stack 5. The birdcage has the ability to lift and to stack and de-stack the Ares I-X rocket's Super Stack 5. Next, the stack will be lifted on top of the segments already in place on the mobile launcher platform, completing assembly of the rocket. Five super stacks make up the rocket's upper stage that will be integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3, the yellow framework, nicknamed the "birdcage," lifts Super Stack 5 to the top of the Ares I-X segments already in place on the mobile launcher platform. Once in position, assembly of the Ares I-X rocket will be complete. The 327-foot-tall rocket is one of the largest processed in the bay, rivaling the height of the Apollo Program's 364-foot-tall Saturn V. Five super stacks make up the rocket's upper stage that is integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The 327-foot-tall Ares I-X rocket clears the door of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, on its way to Launch Pad 39B. The move to the launch pad, known as "rollout," began at 1:39 a.m. EDT. The transfer of the pad from the Space Shuttle Program to the Constellation Program took place May 31. Modifications made to the pad include the removal of shuttle unique subsystems, such as the orbiter access arm and a section of the gaseous oxygen vent arm, along with the installation of three 600-foot lightning towers, access platforms, environmental control systems and a vehicle stabilization system. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I. 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/aresIX. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3, a technician monitors the lift of Super Stack 5 by the yellow framework, nicknamed the "birdcage," to the top of the Ares I-X segments already in place on the mobile launcher platform. Once in position, assembly of the Ares I-X rocket will be complete. The 327-foot-tall rocket is one of the largest processed in the bay, rivaling the height of the Apollo Program's 364-foot-tall Saturn V. Five super stacks make up the rocket's upper stage that is integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Standing tall, the Ares I-X rocket rides atop the crawler-transporter as it moves beyond the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Its slow trek to Launch Pad 39B, known as "rollout," began at 1:39 a.m. EDT. The transfer of the pad from the Space Shuttle Program to the Constellation Program took place May 31. Modifications made to the pad include the removal of shuttle unique subsystems, such as the orbiter access arm and a section of the gaseous oxygen vent arm, along with the installation of three 600-foot lightning towers, access platforms, environmental control systems and a vehicle stabilization system. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I. 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/aresIX. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, modifications to Launch Pad 39B are complete, and the pad is ready to support the Ares I-X rocket. The transfer of the pad from the Space Shuttle Program to the Constellation Program took place May 31. Modifications made to the pad include the removal of shuttle unique subsystems, such as the orbiter access arm and a section of the gaseous oxygen vent arm, along with the installation of three 600-foot lightning towers, access platforms, environmental control systems and a vehicle stabilization system. 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/aresIX. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 4, assembly of the Ares I-X rocket nears completion. Technicians monitor the yellow framework, nicknamed the "birdcage," as it is lowered by crane toward Super Stack 5. The birdcage has the ability to lift and to stack and de-stack the Ares I-X rocket's Super Stack 5. Next, the stack will be lifted on top of the segments already in place on the mobile launcher platform, completing assembly of the rocket. Five super stacks make up the rocket's upper stage that will be integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The towering 327-foot-tall Ares I-X rocket rides aboard a crawler-transporter as it exits the massive Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The rocket is bolted to its mobile launcher platform for the move to the launch pad. The transfer of the pad from the Space Shuttle Program to the Constellation Program took place May 31. Modifications made to the pad include the removal of shuttle unique subsystems, such as the orbiter access arm and a section of the gaseous oxygen vent arm, along with the installation of three 600-foot lightning towers, access platforms, environmental control systems and a vehicle stabilization system. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I. 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/aresIX. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – As the sun falls behind Launch Pad 39B at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the rotating service structure, or RSS, has been retracted from the 327-foot-tall Ares I-X rocket to allow a full test of the rocket to be conducted. The transfer of the pad from the Space Shuttle Program to the Constellation Program took place May 31. Modifications made to the pad include the removal of shuttle unique subsystems, such as the orbiter access arm and a section of the gaseous oxygen vent arm, along with the installation of three 600-foot lightning towers, access platforms, environmental control systems and a vehicle stabilization system. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I. 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/aresIX. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3, Super Stack 5 is secured to the Ares I-X segments already in place on the mobile launcher platform. Assembly of the Ares I-X rocket is complete. The 327-foot-tall rocket is one of the largest processed in the bay, rivaling the height of the Apollo Program's 364-foot-tall Saturn V. Five super stacks make up the rocket's upper stage that is integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Outside the massive Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of the news media (foreground) wait in the dark for the rollout of the Ares I-X to begin. The rocket will travel the 4.2 miles to Launch Pad 39B atop the crawler-transporter. The transfer of the pad from the Space Shuttle Program to the Constellation Program took place May 31. Modifications made to the pad include the removal of shuttle unique subsystems, such as the orbiter access arm and a section of the gaseous oxygen vent arm, along with the installation of three 600-foot lightning towers, access platforms, environmental control systems and a vehicle stabilization system. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I. 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/aresIX. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The American flag waves as the Ares I-X rocket passes by on its slow trek to Launch Pad 39B at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The rocket, riding atop a crawler-transporter, began the 4.2-mile journey at 1:39 a.m. EDT. The transfer of the pad from the Space Shuttle Program to the Constellation Program took place May 31. Modifications made to the pad include the removal of shuttle unique subsystems, such as the orbiter access arm and a section of the gaseous oxygen vent arm, along with the installation of three 600-foot lightning towers, access platforms, environmental control systems and a vehicle stabilization system. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I. 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/aresIX. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 3, Super Stack 5 is secured to the Ares I-X segments already in place on the mobile launcher platform. Assembly of the Ares I-X rocket is complete. The 327-foot-tall rocket is one of the largest processed in the bay, rivaling the height of the Apollo Program's 364-foot-tall Saturn V. Five super stacks make up the rocket's upper stage that is integrated with the four-segment solid rocket booster first stage. 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 flight test is targeted for Oct. 31, pending formal NASA Headquarters approval. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Spotlighted against the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the 327-foot-tall Ares I-X rocket begins its slow trek to Launch Pad 39B. The move, known as "rollout," began at 1:39 a.m. EDT. The transfer of the pad from the Space Shuttle Program to the Constellation Program took place May 31. Modifications made to the pad include the removal of shuttle unique subsystems, such as the orbiter access arm and a section of the gaseous oxygen vent arm, along with the installation of three 600-foot lightning towers, access platforms, environmental control systems and a vehicle stabilization system. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I. 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/aresIX. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann