I’ve just gotten back from the CYGNSS pre-launch reception. We were happy to get to this day, after countless hours of hard work. Now, we’re all just excited and nervous to see what happens when our baby CYGNSS satellites (Octuplets!) are born into the world. We can’t wait to see what science mysteries CYGNSS data will help us unlock.
If all goes according to plan, on Monday, Dec. 12, at 8:24 a.m. EST, the spacecraft will launch aboard Orbital ATK’s Pegasus XL rocket. The rocket will deploy from Stargazer, Orbital ATK’s L-1011 carrier aircraft, over the Atlantic Ocean. You can watch coverage of the launch on NASA TV. The L-1011 will begin to taxi at 7:11 AM, taking off at 7:26 AM. The launch window opens at 8:19 AM. Prof. Ruf and I had fun hanging out near the L-1011 on Saturday, and I think this photo gives you some idea of the size of the rocket and aircraft.
Prof. Ruf and I chat with the L-1011 aircraft and Pegasus XL rocket in the background. Photo credit: Aaron Ridley
Here is a photo of the chase plane, which will monitor the rocket visually, providing us with footage back in the control room:
The plane that will fly near the L-1011, getting us a visual on the rocket as it flies out to the launch area. Photo credit: Aaron Ridley
I have an early morning and long day ahead of me, so I’m going to sign off now. Stay tuned and go CYGNSS!