Launch Coverage

    MESSENGER Mission

    MESSENGER successfully launches aboard a Delta II Heavy rocket.

    The MESSENGER spacecraft successfully launches from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Image credit: NASA

    LAUNCH STATUS:
    Launch Date: Tuesday, August 3, 2004
    Launch Time: 2:15:56.537 a.m. EDT
    Location: Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.

    + View archived launch countdown coverage

    MISSION UPDATE:
    The MESSENGER spacecraft lifted off on-time aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket from pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., at 2:15:56 a.m. EDT. MESSENGER has successfully begun its mission to unravel the mysteries of planet Mercury.

    For additional information refer to our Launch Pad, Processing and Firing Room pages.

Multimedia Resources