Delta II STEREO launches from Cape Canaveral

  • Published
  • By Ken Warren
  • 45th Space Wing Public Affairs
PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (AFPN) --  Two NASA observatories called "STEREO" blasted off from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., Oct. 25 starting a two-year mission to study solar flares.
 
A Delta II booster carried these spacecraft from Space Launch Complex 17B, lighting up Space Coast skies and the spirits of launch team members such as Capt. Chin Hiransonboom of the 1st Space Launch Squadron. She served as the Air Force Launch Crew Commander for this mission. 

Captain Hiransonboom coordinated various requirements between NASA, Boeing and the Air Force. "This was an awesome mission, and I'm honored to be part of it," she said. "There are several benefits to be gained from this." 

The Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory, or "STEREO," consists of two spacecraft that together comprise the first mission that will take measurements of the sun and solar wind in 3-D. 

"All of us at the 45th Space Wing, as well as our launch partners, take great pride in helping to launch this ground-breaking scientific expedition," said Brig. Gen. Susan Helms, 45th SW commander. "Our congratulations go to NASA for a terrific mission start."