I’ve always been fascinated by space and sci-fi. But this rocket launch is no fiction of course, but a step closer for mankind to explore more of space with its human spaceflight program.

Ares I is the crew launch vehicle being developed by NASA as a component of the Constellation Program.

Special Edition of TopTenREPORTS: Ares I Rocket Launch at ATK. The Ares I next-generation launch vehicle features a five-segment design derived from the four-segment Space Shuttle reusable solid rocket motor.

NASA plans to use Ares I to launch Orion, the spacecraft being designed for NASA human spaceflight missions after the Space Shuttle is retired in 2010.

Ares I is intended to complement the larger, unmanned Ares V, which is the cargo launch vehicle for Constellation. NASA selected the Ares designs for their anticipated overall safety, reliability and cost-effectiveness.