NASA is hoping to launch its third mission in six months and get a jump on the looming deadline to finish International Space Station assembly before the shuttle fleet is retired in 2010. However, the clouds of concern gathered for Thursday night’s liftoff of the space shuttle Discovery as NASA downgraded launch chances to 90 percent now this time due to high winds stirred by a cold front pushing through central Florida. NASA gave it the best shot but did not get clear, still not disappointed and will be ready to support the next time if they get a chance.
The concerned weather conditions have to be promising not only here in Kennedy Space Center but also over at least one of the three sites, two in Spain and one in France, that NASA has chosen for emergency landings in case the shuttle cannot reach the orbit.
Discovery is set for the first planned night launch in four years after two technical issues, one with the shuttle’s electrical system and the other with an adhesive used in the ship’s solid rocket boosters, that were resolved of course.
On the last flight to ISS, astronauts delivered new solar arrays to provide power for additional modules scheduled to be installed next year. The tricky task of wiring the arrays into the station’s power grid falls to Discovery’s crew. At least 14 more missions are needed to finish the $100 billion outpost.
The next opportunity for flight is at 9:13 p.m. on Friday. Discovery’s flight is scheduled to last 12 days.
Via: Reuters
