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Overall view of the Atlas' engines.

The Atlas used a "stage and a half" configuration: All three engines were ignited at launch, and after a period the outer two engines (called booster engines) were jettisoned, leaving only the center engine (called the sustainer engine). Jettisoning the booster engines improved the mass ratio, allowing a higher payload.

 
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Time picture taken Fri Oct 25 11:06:26 2002
Location picture taken Rocket Park
U.S. Space & Rocket Center
Huntsville, AL
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