Boeing

A Boeing Delta II lifted off on schedule Saturday May 4, 2002 at 2:55 a.m. PDT from Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. carrying the Aqua Earth observing satellite for NASA. Approximately one hour later, the launch vehicle successfully deployed Aqua to its Sun-synchronous orbit. NASA officials report that the spacecraft appears to be operating normally. Aqua will study the Earth's water systems and will aid in weather forecasting.