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The CCD 424 is a 1024 x 1024, 21µm pixel split frame transfer Charge Coupled Device (CCD). The imaging area is divided into two active image areas, each containing 1024 serial pixels by 512 parallel pixels. Each imaging subsection has its own independent clocks to allow maximum flexibility in charge transport. There are two image storage areas located adjacent and on either side of the photosensitive areas covered by a light shield. This device is operated in a back-illuminated mode for optimum quantum efficiency. This high performance CCD imager was developed for the NASA mission, Deep Impact, to explore the Tempel 1 comet. Discover more about this exciting mission to explore the origin and composition of comets on NASA's Deep Impact home page.