The Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite nears Complex 37 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.

After its arrival at the dock, the Delta IV first stage that will be used to launch the GOES-O satellite nears Complex 37 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The satellite is part of the series developed by the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite Program, a joint effort of NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, known as NOAA. Currently, the GOES system consists of GOES-12 operating as GOES-East in the eastern part of the constellation at 75° west longitude, and GOES-10 operating as GOES-West at 135° west longitude. These spacecraft help meteorologists observe and predict local weather events, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, fog, flash floods, and other severe weather. In addition, GOES observations have proven helpful in monitoring dust storms, volcanic eruptions and forest fires. GOES-O is targeted for launch on July 20 aboard a Boeing Delta IV rocket. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann