Did you know that the first satellite, Sputnik 1, was launched into space in 1957 by the Soviet Union? Over 45 years later the United States is still sending satellites into space. The newest addition to the Atlas family, the Atlas V was sent into space on January 23rd with a satellite strapped onto it. This type of launch vehicle was first launched in 2002, and is first launch of 2014. Those in the central & south Florida area were able to see the launch vehicle in the night time sky.
What exactly is the Atlas V? The Atlas V rockets are called ELVs or expendable launch vehicles. Each rocket is only used one time. It consists of a nose cone, one engine and four rocket boosters. This particular launch vehicle also had a inscribed tribute to Captain Arthur J. Mackey Jr. who was a NASA engineer that died in 2013.
Why The Atlas V? The Atlas V was chosen to be launched into space because it met the specific requirements necessary for this mission. It was determined that it would safely be able to hold the NASA tracking and Data Relay Satellite, also known as TDRS-L, that needed to be carried into orbit. Before determining if the Atlas V was the right launch vehicle, NASA first had to determine the amount of mass that it would safely be able to carry into space. Since similar rockets have successfully carried objects with near identical masses in the past, the Atlas V was considered to be the best choice for this mission.
What’s the purpose of this mission? Many of the satellites in orbit are old and need to be replaced. The TDRS-L is one of many of the new satellites that will help improve the overall communication between the Earth to Space communication network. Satellites are beneficial for many things including better television and phone signals and they provide data about climates and weather conditions that affect the earth.
If you are upset because you missed this launch, don’t worry, there’s more rocket launches to come in 2014. The Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida is launching more rockets in February, June, September and December. While you are there, why don’t you take a tour? You can learn about space missions from the past and also see retired and active launch pads. It definitely will be an experience that is out of this world.
