Nasa crews and workers putting together the differentpieces that make up a craft that can be launched into outer space

Workers Atop Launch Abort System Base

In order to ensure that Ares I-X flight characteristics are fully understood, extreme care was taken to precisely fabricate the crew module and associated launch abort tower, pictured. These full-scale hardware components must accurately reflect the shape and physical properties of the models used in computer analyses and wind tunnel tests in order to confidently compare flight results with preflight predictions.

Credit: NASA/Sean Smith

Overhead View of a LAS, CM Stacking Test

Workers carefully guide the completed Launch Abort System simulator over the Crew Module simulator in a stacking test in the NASA Langley hangar prior to shipping.

Instrumentation in Crew Module

While one team worked to complete fabrication and assembly of structural members, another team installed about 150 sensors in the crew module and launch abort tower. The sensors will measure aerodynamic pressure and temperature at the nose of the rocket, and contribute to measurements of vehicle acceleration and angle of attack.

Crew Module, Launch Abort System Stacked

Ares I-X, the first in a series of unpiloted Ares I test rockets, is scheduled to lift off from NASA's Kennedy Space Center, Fla., this summer. It will climb about 25 miles (40 km) in a two-minute powered flight, continuously measuring vehicle aerodyamics and controls and first-stage performance. It will culminate with a test of first stage separation and the parachute recovery system.

Credit: NASA/Sean Smith

LAS on Flat-bed Trailer

The Ares I-X Launch Abort System simulator is backed into the NASA Langley hangar. Two extra-length flatbed trucks will be rolled into a C-5 transport aircraft for the trip to NASA Kennedy Space Center.

Credit: NASA/Sean Smith