The launch of the Canadian Space Agency’s SCISAT-1 (Scientific Satellite
Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment) aboard an Orbital Sciences Pegasus XL
vehicle occurred on time from Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif., at 10:09.33
p.m. EDT.
The 330-pound SCISAT-1 spacecraft was placed into a 400-mile-high polar
orbit at an inclination of 73.9 degrees following spacecraft separation
which occurred 10 minutes, 38 seconds after deployment from the L-1011.
The SCISAT-1 spacecraft will investigate processes that control the
distribution of ozone in the upper atmosphere. The purpose of the mission
is to measure and understand the chemical processes that control the
distribution of ozone in the Earth’s atmosphere, particularly at high
altitudes. The data from the satellite will provide Canadian and
international scientists with improved measurements relating to global ozone
processes and help policymakers assess existing environmental policy and
develop protective measures for improving the health of our atmosphere,
preventing further ozone depletion. This mission is designed to last two
years.
