RBSP Night Launch . ... Snug inside the rocket's Centaur upper stage were NASA's twin Radiation Belt Storm Probes (RBSP) , now in separate orbits within planet Earth's Van Allen radiation belts. ... One highlights the dramatic play of launch pad lighting, clouds, and sky. ... While most spacecraft try to avoid the radiation belts , named for their discoverer James Van Allen, RBSP's mission will be to explore their dynamic and harsh conditions. ... NASA Web Site Statements, Warnings, and Disclaimers . ...