FalconSAT-5 rockets into orbit

A rocket carrying FalconSAT-5 lifts off Nov. 19, 2010 from the Kodiak Launch Complex, Alaska. (U.S. Air Force photo)

FalconSAT-5 rockets into orbit

A rocket carrying the Air Force Academy's FalconSAT-5 satellite lifts off Nov. 19, 2010, from the Kodiak Launch Complex in Alaska. FalconSAT is a capstone program that allows Academy cadets to design, build, test and operate a satellite. FalconSAT-5 carried Space Test Program payloads to measure measure the ionosphere and its effects on radio frequency signals. (U.S. Air Force photo/Col. Marty France)

Delta IV PB

The 45th Space Wing launched a Delta IV Heavy Nov. 21, carrying a National Reconnaissance Office satellite. (U.S Air Force photo)

Orbiter "Discovery is revealed during "rollback"

The massive rotating service structure swings away from the space shuttle revealing the orbiter Discovery on Nov 3, 2010 at the Kennedy Space Complex, Fla. Between now and launch time, numerous checks will be accomplished before the mission will be ready to go. But, because of a weather delay the launch is expected to be Friday. Late that morning the space travelers will head to the launch complex to be strapped in and prepare to blast-off into space. STS-133 will be commanded by retired (USAF) Colonel Steve Lindsey. This final flight of Discovery will be piloted by active duty (USAF) Col. Eric Boe. The lead mission specialist is (USAF) Col. Alvin Drew. (U.S. Air Force photo/Lance Cheung)

Vandenberg Airmen conduct Minuteman III flight test

A scheduled unarmed operational test Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile launch occurred Sept. 17, 2010, from Launch Facility-09 at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. The missile's single reentry test vehicle traveled approximately 5,300 miles to a pre-determined target about 200 miles southwest of Guam. ICBM analysts, including officials from the Department of Defense and the Department of Energy, will use the data collected to ensure the readiness and capability of the ICBM fleet. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Andrew Lee)

Vandenberg Airmen conduct Minuteman III flight test

Launch team members from the 576th Flight Test Squadron conduct pre-flight operations for a Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile launch Sept. 17, 2010, at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. The launch tested the missiles operational effectiveness, readiness and accuracy. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Andrew Lee)