Dawn Spacecraft Launch
![Rocket launching in Florida.](https://science.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/190739main_dawnlaunch-lg.jpg?w=4096&format=jpeg)
December 5, 2018
Credit | NASA |
---|---|
Language |
|
A Delta II-Heavy rocket propelled NASA's Dawn spacecraft into space on its journey to the asteroid belt in 2007. The Delta II was designed to boost medium-sized satellites and robotic explorers into space.
It took three stages and nine solid-fueled booster rockets to propel Dawn on its way. A 9.5-foot payload fairing protected the spacecraft from the heat and stresses of launch. It fell away from the spacecraft after the rocket reached the upper levels of the atmosphere.