NASA is schedule to launch an uncrewed test of its first space capsule in 40 years on Dec. 4. The space agency's prototype Orion space capsule is due to launch into space atop a United Launch Alliance Delta 4 Heavy rocket for a 4.5 hour test of its key systems. TheOrion spacecraft built for NASA by Lockheed Martin is designed to take humans deeper into space than ever before. Officials hope that future versions of the spacecraft will transport astronauts to deep space destinations like Mars or an asteroid towed into orbit around the moon.

Launch Status Update Dec. 1: NASA officials are reporting a 60 percent chance that the weather will be favorable for Orion's scheduled launch on Thursday (Dec. 4).

Latest Story:NASA's 1st Deep-Space Capsule in 40 Years Ready for Launch Debut The Orion space capsule is NASA's first deep-space capsule in 40 years, and it will go farther into space than any spacecraft made for humans in more than four decades. Scroll down for our latest stories, videos and se images of Orion and its first test flight, calledExploration Test Flight-1, below:

The Orion Space Capsule: NASA's Next Spaceship: Photos

Photos: Step-by-Step Guide to NASA's EFT-1 Orion Spacecraft Test Flight

Orion Capsule Will Sport 'Glass Cockpit' To Minimize Weight

How NASA's 2017 Orion Capsule Deep-Space Test Works: Photos

Photos: Orion Space Capsule's Parachute Test

Photos: NASA's Orion Spacecraft Heat Shield on Display

NASA to Launch First Orion Spaceship Test Flight This Week Find out how to watch the historic test flight live online via NASA.

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NASA's Orion Spacecraft: Full Coverage of First Test Flight