Photo - from space!

OK, a bit off topic, but I can't resist. I work at the USGS Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center. Today was a (so far) successful satellite launch, of the "Landsat 8" satellite. This continues a series of Landsat satellites, with the first launched in 1972. The data they produce of the Earth's surface are used by scientists world-wide, to study issues ranging from biodiversity to climate to natural disasters.

A "photo" if you will of my favorite moment...just after the satellite separates from the rocket. This is the view from the camera on the rocket, looking towards the satellite, about 15 seconds after separation. Incredible, goosebump-inspiring moment for USGS EROS, given the years of planning going into this, to see it succssfully launch and successfully separate...with the sun peeking out behind the curvature of the Earth.

Very cool day.

Definitely a WOW moment Terry. You should be proud to part of this.
Love that 'starburst' from the sun at earths edge, and right behind the sat.
Very cool

Took me a minute to realize the BG was earth... very cool! Congrats

Congratulations on a succesful launch! Very cool image. Seeing the rocket, Landsat, and the Earth in the same image is wonderful. The starburst from the sun adds beauty and artistry to the image.

Cool stuff Terry! I always enjoy the launches coming from NASA projects. (And just to brag a little, I helped design the microprocessor that handles the flight controls - "C&DH" in satellite parlance, for Command and Data Handling. It's a BAE Systems RAD750 )

I am often humbled by the crowd here at NPN, and this is another example.

Thanks for sharing this special photo and moment.

Full speed ahead, Terry!