Feb. 24, 2009

Steve Cole
Headquarters, Washington
202-657-2194
Stephen.e.cole{at}nasa.gov

George Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
805-605-3051
George.h.diller{at}nasa.gov

Alan Buis
Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif.
818-653-8339
Alan.buis{at}jpl.nasa.gov
RELEASE: 09-039

NASA'S LAUNCH OF CARBON-SEEKING SATELLITE IS UNSUCCESSFUL

WASHINGTON -- NASA's Orbiting Carbon Observatory satellite failed to
reach orbit after its 4:55 a.m. EST liftoff Tuesday from California's
Vandenberg Air Force Base.

Preliminary indications are that the fairing on the Taurus XL launch
vehicle failed to separate. The fairing is a clamshell structure that
encapsulates the satellite as it travels through the atmosphere.

A Mishap Investigation Board will be immediately convened to
determine
the cause of the launch failure.

For more information, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov

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