Well up till the columbia accident i was posting the shuttle status reports i was getting in my email. Well those may not be back for a while but i do also get the expendable launch vehicle status reports as well so till the shuttle reports return i'll start posting these when i get them. Here is the newest one. including the newest information on the launch preparations for the 2 Mars exploration rovers scheduled to launch this month.SPACECRAFT AND EXPENDABLE VEHICLES STATUS REPORT
June 4, 2003
George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center
321/867-2468
MISSION: Mars Exploration Rover (MER-A)
LAUNCH VEHICLES: Delta II
LAUNCH PAD: 17-A
LAUNCH DATE: June 8, 2003
LAUNCH TIMES: 2:05:55 p.m. / 2:44:07 p.m. EDT
The Flight Readiness Review for MER-A was held today in the
Mission Briefing Room at KSC. At its conclusion, NASA managers affirmed
Sunday, June 8 as the launch date for MER-A. The next major activity is the
fueling of the Delta second stage on Thursday, June 5 with its complement of
storable hypergolic propellants. The payload fairing was installed around
the spacecraft last weekend on Saturday, May 31.
MER-A was hoisted atop the Delta II rocket at Pad 17-A on May 27.
A state of health check was successfully completed on May 28. The Flight
Program Verification, an integrated vehicle/spacecraft test and the final
major test before the launch, was completed on May 29.
The Delta first stage for MER-A was erected on Pad 17-A on April
23. The second stage erection was completed on April 28, and the fairing
was installed in the white room on April 30. The solid rocket booster
erection began on May 13 with the first set of three motors being attached
to the first stage. The second set of three was erected on May 14, and the
final set was hoisted into position on May 15. The Simulated Flight Test,
an electrical test of the vehicle's systems used during powered flight, was
successfully completed on May 21.
MISSION: Mars Exploration Rover (MER-B vehicle/MER-1 rover)
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Delta II Heavy
LAUNCH PAD: 17-B
LAUNCH DATE: June 25, 2003
LAUNCH TIMES: 12:38:16 a.m. / 1:19:19 a.m. EDT
Fueling of MER-1 was completed on May 28. Spin balance testing
began the next day on May 29 and was completed May 30. Mating to the Delta
third stage (upper stage booster) took place on June 12. Transportation to
the launch pad is scheduled for June 16.
The MER-B vehicle's first stage is on Pad 17-B. Erection of the
nine solid rocket boosters was completed May 22. The second stage was
hoisted atop the first stage on May 29.
There are no issues or concerns at this time.
MISSION: SCISAT-1/Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Pegasus XL
LAUNCH FACILITY: Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
LAUNCH DATE: NET July 25, 2003
LAUNCH TIME: 10:36:55 p.m. - 11:34:04 p.m. PDT
The SCISAT spacecraft is completing final testing at the Canadian
Space Agency's David Florida Laboratories. Arrival of the spacecraft at
Vandenberg Air Force Base is currently scheduled for June 18.
SCISAT-1 weighs approximately 330 pounds and will be placed in a
400-mile-high polar orbit to investigate processes that control the
distribution of ozone in the upper atmosphere.
Meanwhile, the Pegasus XL rocket is undergoing prelaunch
preparations at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California by Orbital Sciences
Corporation.
The scientific mission of SCISAT-1/ACE (Atmospheric Chemistry
Experiment) mission is to measure and understand the chemical processes that
control the distribution of ozone in the Earth's atmosphere, particularly at
high altitudes. The data from the satellite will provide Canadian and
international scientists with improved measurements relating to global ozone
processes and help policy makers assess existing environmental policy and
develop protective measures for improving the health of our atmosphere,
preventing further zone depletion. The mission is designed to last two
years.
MISSION: Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF)
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Delta II Heavy
LAUNCH PAD: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
LAUNCH DATE: August 23, 2003
LAUNCH TIME: TBD
The SIRTF observatory is in NASA's class 10,000 laminar flow clean
room at spacecraft Hangar AE awaiting its return to the launch pad in early
August.
The launch date has been moved forward four days to August 23.
Project management of SIRTF for NASA is by the Jet Propulsion
Laboratory. The observatory was built for NASA by Lockheed Martin and Ball
Aerospace.
# # #
Expendable vehicle status reports
Moderator: Vincent
Expendable vehicle status reports
Jason original callsign Loverboy
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
NASA News
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
John F. Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center, Florida 32899
AC 321-867-2468
____________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________
For Release: June 5, 2003
Dennis Armstrong
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
(321) 867-2468
KSC Release No. 41 - 03
KSC'S EXPENDABLE VEHICLE WEB COVERAGE DEBUTS WITH MER-A LAUNCH
With the launch of the first rover beginning the Mars Exploration Rover
(MER) mission, the Kennedy Space Center Web site is celebrating its
first-time online coverage of an expendable vehicle mission.
On Saturday, June 7, NASA Direct!'s MER-A programming will kick off with
"Preparing for Launch," hosted by Jon Cowart and featuring Launch Weather
Officer Joel Tumbiolo, NASA Launch Manager Omar Baez, and MER Manager Matt
Wallace. The launch day program, "MER Mission Overview," will be hosted by
Tiffany Nail and will include MER Flight Systems Manager Richard Cook and
Deputy Project Manager Richard Brace.
Viewers will see informative programming highlighting the objectives of the
MER-A launch and the twin rovers' upcoming mission. During both programs,
featured guests will answer questions submitted to the NASA Direct! Question
Boards from space enthusiasts around the world. The NASA Direct! home page
and Question Boards can be viewed online at
http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/nasadirect/index.htm.
In addition to NASA Direct!, the KSC Web will provide live countdown
coverage from the Virtual Launch Control Center, located at
http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/elvnew/mera/vlcc.htm. Coverage will feature
real-time updating as milestones occur during the countdown, as well as
downloadable and streaming video clips of countdown events. All videos will
be provided in RealMedia format, with downloadable clips available in two
sizes for users with 56K modems or cable/broadband connections.
MER-A WEB COVERAGE SCHEDULE (all times are EDT and subject to change)
L-1 Day - Saturday, June 7
Approx. 2:15 p.m. NASA Direct! program: Preparing for Launch
http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/nasadirect/elv/mera/event1.htm
L-0 Days - Launch Day, Sunday, June 8
Approx. 12:15 p.m. Live countdown coverage begins
http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/elvnew/mera/vlcc.htm
Approx. 5:15 p.m. NASA Direct! program: MER Mission Overview
http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/nasadirect/elv/mera/event2.htm
For the exact time of the start of NASA Direct! programming, please check
the NASA Direct! site each program day.
Although coverage events for this mission do not begin until one day prior
to launch, the MER-A coverage site at
<http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/elvnew/mera/index.htm> was activated approximately
one month before the anticipated launch date. KSC's Expendable Launch
Vehicles site at <http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/elvnew/elv.htm> will always serve
as a starting point for coverage of other NASA ELV missions.
-- end --
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
John F. Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center, Florida 32899
AC 321-867-2468
____________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________
For Release: June 5, 2003
Dennis Armstrong
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
(321) 867-2468
KSC Release No. 41 - 03
KSC'S EXPENDABLE VEHICLE WEB COVERAGE DEBUTS WITH MER-A LAUNCH
With the launch of the first rover beginning the Mars Exploration Rover
(MER) mission, the Kennedy Space Center Web site is celebrating its
first-time online coverage of an expendable vehicle mission.
On Saturday, June 7, NASA Direct!'s MER-A programming will kick off with
"Preparing for Launch," hosted by Jon Cowart and featuring Launch Weather
Officer Joel Tumbiolo, NASA Launch Manager Omar Baez, and MER Manager Matt
Wallace. The launch day program, "MER Mission Overview," will be hosted by
Tiffany Nail and will include MER Flight Systems Manager Richard Cook and
Deputy Project Manager Richard Brace.
Viewers will see informative programming highlighting the objectives of the
MER-A launch and the twin rovers' upcoming mission. During both programs,
featured guests will answer questions submitted to the NASA Direct! Question
Boards from space enthusiasts around the world. The NASA Direct! home page
and Question Boards can be viewed online at
http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/nasadirect/index.htm.
In addition to NASA Direct!, the KSC Web will provide live countdown
coverage from the Virtual Launch Control Center, located at
http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/elvnew/mera/vlcc.htm. Coverage will feature
real-time updating as milestones occur during the countdown, as well as
downloadable and streaming video clips of countdown events. All videos will
be provided in RealMedia format, with downloadable clips available in two
sizes for users with 56K modems or cable/broadband connections.
MER-A WEB COVERAGE SCHEDULE (all times are EDT and subject to change)
L-1 Day - Saturday, June 7
Approx. 2:15 p.m. NASA Direct! program: Preparing for Launch
http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/nasadirect/elv/mera/event1.htm
L-0 Days - Launch Day, Sunday, June 8
Approx. 12:15 p.m. Live countdown coverage begins
http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/elvnew/mera/vlcc.htm
Approx. 5:15 p.m. NASA Direct! program: MER Mission Overview
http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/nasadirect/elv/mera/event2.htm
For the exact time of the start of NASA Direct! programming, please check
the NASA Direct! site each program day.
Although coverage events for this mission do not begin until one day prior
to launch, the MER-A coverage site at
<http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/elvnew/mera/index.htm> was activated approximately
one month before the anticipated launch date. KSC's Expendable Launch
Vehicles site at <http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/elvnew/elv.htm> will always serve
as a starting point for coverage of other NASA ELV missions.
-- end --
Jason original callsign Loverboy
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
<<...OLE_Obj...>> Eastern Range Operations Forecast Op Number: F7326 Issued: 6 Jun 03 (0700 EDT) Valid: 8 Jun 03 (2:05 p.m., 2:44 p.m. EDT)
Vehicle/Payload: Delta II / MER-A
Location: Pad 17-A
Launch Weather Officer: Joel Tumbiolo
Synoptic Discussion:
Once again, no changes to current forecast reasoning. Subtropical ridge will be the dominant large scale feature in control, with a weak frontal boundary located over northern FL. This boundary will keep the low level high pressure ridge axis south of the area through mid next week. This will result in the continuation of south-southwesterly flow throughout the atmosphere. Moisture levels will remain high, and will provide the fuel for daily afternoon thunderstorms. Daytime heating, in addition to local sea and lake breezes will be the triggers for thunderstorm development. Main concerns during will be cumulus clouds and developing thunderstorms within in the vicinity of the launch pad/flight path.
Clouds Coverage Bases (feet) Tops (feet)
BKN030 5/8 3,000 10,000
BKN100 5/8 10,000 18,000
BKN180 6/8 18,000 25,000
Visibility: 7 miles
Wind: 150 degrees / 10 - 15 KTS Pressure: 30.00 IN HG
Temperature: 82 F - 84 F RH: 70%
Weather: Showers and thunderstorms in the vicinity
Solar Activity: N/A
Overall probability of violating weather constraints: 60%
Primary concern(s): Cumulus Cloud Rule, Lightning Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 24 hour delay: 60%
Primary concern(s): Cumulus Cloud Rule, Lightning Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 48 hour delay: 60%
Primary concern(s): Cumulus Cloud Rule, Lightning Rule
Sunrise: 8 June 03 / 0625 EDT 9 June 03 / 0625 EDT 10 June 03 / 0625 EDT Moonrise/ (% illum): 8 June 03 / 1411 EDT / % 9 June 03 / 1514 EDT / % 10 June 03 / 1619 EDT / %
Sunset: 8 June 03 / 2018 EDT 9 June 03 / 2019 EDT 10 June 03 / 2019 EDT Moonset: 9 June 03 / 0247 EDT 10 June 03 / 0321 EDT 11 June 03 / 0358 EDT
Next forecast will be issued: 7 June 03
<<MER-Afcst.doc>>
-------------------------------------------------------------
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Vehicle/Payload: Delta II / MER-A
Location: Pad 17-A
Launch Weather Officer: Joel Tumbiolo
Synoptic Discussion:
Once again, no changes to current forecast reasoning. Subtropical ridge will be the dominant large scale feature in control, with a weak frontal boundary located over northern FL. This boundary will keep the low level high pressure ridge axis south of the area through mid next week. This will result in the continuation of south-southwesterly flow throughout the atmosphere. Moisture levels will remain high, and will provide the fuel for daily afternoon thunderstorms. Daytime heating, in addition to local sea and lake breezes will be the triggers for thunderstorm development. Main concerns during will be cumulus clouds and developing thunderstorms within in the vicinity of the launch pad/flight path.
Clouds Coverage Bases (feet) Tops (feet)
BKN030 5/8 3,000 10,000
BKN100 5/8 10,000 18,000
BKN180 6/8 18,000 25,000
Visibility: 7 miles
Wind: 150 degrees / 10 - 15 KTS Pressure: 30.00 IN HG
Temperature: 82 F - 84 F RH: 70%
Weather: Showers and thunderstorms in the vicinity
Solar Activity: N/A
Overall probability of violating weather constraints: 60%
Primary concern(s): Cumulus Cloud Rule, Lightning Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 24 hour delay: 60%
Primary concern(s): Cumulus Cloud Rule, Lightning Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 48 hour delay: 60%
Primary concern(s): Cumulus Cloud Rule, Lightning Rule
Sunrise: 8 June 03 / 0625 EDT 9 June 03 / 0625 EDT 10 June 03 / 0625 EDT Moonrise/ (% illum): 8 June 03 / 1411 EDT / % 9 June 03 / 1514 EDT / % 10 June 03 / 1619 EDT / %
Sunset: 8 June 03 / 2018 EDT 9 June 03 / 2019 EDT 10 June 03 / 2019 EDT Moonset: 9 June 03 / 0247 EDT 10 June 03 / 0321 EDT 11 June 03 / 0358 EDT
Next forecast will be issued: 7 June 03
<<MER-Afcst.doc>>
-------------------------------------------------------------
For automatic email subscriptions to this KSC originated press releases, send an Internet electronic mail message to mailto:[email protected]. With no subject or message. The system will reply with a confirmation via e-mail of each subscription.
To remove your name from the list at any time, send an email addressed to mailto:[email protected] . With no subject or message.
or you can (un)subscribe on the World Wide Web at: http://kscnews.ksc.nasa.gov/
Status reports and other NASA publications are available on the World Wide Web at: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/kscpao.htm .
Jason original callsign Loverboy
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
Eastern Range Operations Forecast
Op Number: F7326
Issued: 8 Jun 03 (0600 EDT)
Valid: 8 Jun 03 (2:06, 2:44 p.m.)
Vehicle/Payload:
Delta II / MER-A
Location:
Pad 17-A
Launch Weather Officer:
Joel Tumbiolo
Synoptic Discussion:
No changes. High moistures levels, daytime heating, and local sea and lake breezes will trigger widespread thunderstorm development over the state again today. Main concerns during will be cumulus clouds , developing thunderstorms, and associated anvil clouds within the vicinity of the launch pad/flight path.
Clouds
Coverage
Bases (feet)
Tops (feet)
BKN030
5/8
3,000
10,000
BKN100
5/8
10,000
18,000
BKN250
6/8
25,000
28,000
Visibility:
7 miles
Wind:
170 degrees / 10 - 15 KTS
Pressure:
30.00 IN HG
Temperature:
82 F - 84 F
RH:
70%
Weather:
Showers and thunderstorms in the vicinity
Solar Activity:
N/A
Overall probability of violating weather constraints:
60%
Primary concern(s):
Cumulus Cloud Rule, Lightning Rule, Anvil Cloud Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 24 hour delay:
60%
Primary concern(s):
Cumulus Cloud Rule, Lightning Rule, Anvil Cloud Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 48 hour delay:
40%
Primary concern(s):
Cumulus Cloud Rule, Lightning Rule, Anvil Cloud Rule
Sunrise:
8 June 03 / 0625 EDT
9 June 03 / 0625 EDT
10 June 03 / 0625 EDT
Moonrise/
(% illum):
8 June 03 / 1411 EDT / %
9 June 03 / 1514 EDT / %
10 June 03 / 1619 EDT / %
Sunset:
8 June 03 / 2018 EDT
9 June 03 / 2019 EDT
10 June 03 / 2019 EDT
Moonset:
9 June 03 / 0247 EDT
10 June 03 / 0321 EDT
11 June 03 / 0358 EDT
Next forecast will be issued:
As needed
Op Number: F7326
Issued: 8 Jun 03 (0600 EDT)
Valid: 8 Jun 03 (2:06, 2:44 p.m.)
Vehicle/Payload:
Delta II / MER-A
Location:
Pad 17-A
Launch Weather Officer:
Joel Tumbiolo
Synoptic Discussion:
No changes. High moistures levels, daytime heating, and local sea and lake breezes will trigger widespread thunderstorm development over the state again today. Main concerns during will be cumulus clouds , developing thunderstorms, and associated anvil clouds within the vicinity of the launch pad/flight path.
Clouds
Coverage
Bases (feet)
Tops (feet)
BKN030
5/8
3,000
10,000
BKN100
5/8
10,000
18,000
BKN250
6/8
25,000
28,000
Visibility:
7 miles
Wind:
170 degrees / 10 - 15 KTS
Pressure:
30.00 IN HG
Temperature:
82 F - 84 F
RH:
70%
Weather:
Showers and thunderstorms in the vicinity
Solar Activity:
N/A
Overall probability of violating weather constraints:
60%
Primary concern(s):
Cumulus Cloud Rule, Lightning Rule, Anvil Cloud Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 24 hour delay:
60%
Primary concern(s):
Cumulus Cloud Rule, Lightning Rule, Anvil Cloud Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 48 hour delay:
40%
Primary concern(s):
Cumulus Cloud Rule, Lightning Rule, Anvil Cloud Rule
Sunrise:
8 June 03 / 0625 EDT
9 June 03 / 0625 EDT
10 June 03 / 0625 EDT
Moonrise/
(% illum):
8 June 03 / 1411 EDT / %
9 June 03 / 1514 EDT / %
10 June 03 / 1619 EDT / %
Sunset:
8 June 03 / 2018 EDT
9 June 03 / 2019 EDT
10 June 03 / 2019 EDT
Moonset:
9 June 03 / 0247 EDT
10 June 03 / 0321 EDT
11 June 03 / 0358 EDT
Next forecast will be issued:
As needed
Jason original callsign Loverboy
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
John F. Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center, Florida 32899
AC 321 867-2468
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
For Release: June 8, 2003
George Diller
Kennedy Space Center
321/867-2468
KSC Release No. 42-03
Note to Editors:
MER-A LAUNCH DELAYED FOR 24 HOURS
Launch of the MER-A spacecraft aboard a Boeing Delta II vehicle scheduled for June 8 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. has been postponed for 24 hours.
Due to approaching thunderstorms and the potential for high winds at the pad at launch time, mission managers opted to call off today’s launch attempt. The weather forecast for tomorrow is similar to that of today’s forecast with a 60 percent chance of violation of weather criteria. The forecast for Tuesday shows a slight improvement with a 40 percent chance of violation of weather criteria.
The launch times available for Monday, June 9 are 2:02:23 p.m. and 2:40:30 p.m. EDT.
NASA Television countdown coverage will begin 12 noon EDT tomorrow.
Space Administration
John F. Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center, Florida 32899
AC 321 867-2468
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
For Release: June 8, 2003
George Diller
Kennedy Space Center
321/867-2468
KSC Release No. 42-03
Note to Editors:
MER-A LAUNCH DELAYED FOR 24 HOURS
Launch of the MER-A spacecraft aboard a Boeing Delta II vehicle scheduled for June 8 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. has been postponed for 24 hours.
Due to approaching thunderstorms and the potential for high winds at the pad at launch time, mission managers opted to call off today’s launch attempt. The weather forecast for tomorrow is similar to that of today’s forecast with a 60 percent chance of violation of weather criteria. The forecast for Tuesday shows a slight improvement with a 40 percent chance of violation of weather criteria.
The launch times available for Monday, June 9 are 2:02:23 p.m. and 2:40:30 p.m. EDT.
NASA Television countdown coverage will begin 12 noon EDT tomorrow.
Jason original callsign Loverboy
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
Eastern Range Operations Forecast
Op Number: F7326
Issued: 8 Jun 03 (1300 EDT)
Valid: 9 Jun 03 (2:02 p.m. 2:40 p.m.)
Vehicle/Payload:
Delta II / MER-A
Location:
Pad 17-A
Launch Weather Officer:
Joel Tumbiolo, 45th Weather Squadron
Synoptic Discussion:
High moistures levels, daytime heating, and local sea and lake breezes will trigger widespread thunderstorm development over the state again on Monday. Conditions are expected to improve on Tuesday as drier air moves in thunderstorms will concentrate more over inland sections. Main concerns during will be cumulus clouds , developing thunderstorms, and associated anvil clouds within the vicinity of the launch pad/flight path.
Clouds
Coverage
Bases (feet)
Tops (feet)
BKN030
5/8
3,000
10,000
BKN100
5/8
10,000
18,000
BKN250
6/8
25,000
28,000
Visibility:
7 miles
Wind:
100 degrees / 10 - 15 KTS
Pressure:
30.00 IN HG
Temperature:
83 degrees
RH:
70%
Weather:
Showers and thunderstorms in the vicinity
Solar Activity:
N/A
Overall probability of violating weather constraints:
60%
Primary concern(s):
Cumulus Cloud Rule, Lightning Rule, Anvil Cloud Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 24 hour delay:
40%
Primary concern(s):
Cumulus Cloud Rule, Lightning Rule, Anvil Cloud Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 48 hour delay:
30%
Primary concern(s):
Cumulus Cloud Rule, Lightning Rule, Anvil Cloud Rule
Sunrise:
9 June 03 / 0625 EDT
10 June 03 / 0625 EDT
Moonrise/
(% illum):
9 June 03 / 1514 EDT / %
10 June 03 / 1619 EDT / %
Sunset:
9 June 03 / 2019 EDT
10 June 03 / 2019 EDT
Moonset:
10 June 03 / 0321 EDT
11 June 03 / 0358 EDT
Next forecast will be issued:
9 June 03
-------------------------------------------------------------
For automatic email subscriptions to this KSC originated press releases, send an Internet electronic mail message to mailto:[email protected]. With no subject or message. The system will reply with a confirmation via e-mail of each subscription.
To remove your name from the list at any time, send an email addressed to mailto:[email protected] . With no subject or message.
or you can (un)subscribe on the World Wide Web at: http://kscnews.ksc.nasa.gov/
Status reports and other NASA publications are available on the World Wide Web at: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/kscpao.htm
Op Number: F7326
Issued: 8 Jun 03 (1300 EDT)
Valid: 9 Jun 03 (2:02 p.m. 2:40 p.m.)
Vehicle/Payload:
Delta II / MER-A
Location:
Pad 17-A
Launch Weather Officer:
Joel Tumbiolo, 45th Weather Squadron
Synoptic Discussion:
High moistures levels, daytime heating, and local sea and lake breezes will trigger widespread thunderstorm development over the state again on Monday. Conditions are expected to improve on Tuesday as drier air moves in thunderstorms will concentrate more over inland sections. Main concerns during will be cumulus clouds , developing thunderstorms, and associated anvil clouds within the vicinity of the launch pad/flight path.
Clouds
Coverage
Bases (feet)
Tops (feet)
BKN030
5/8
3,000
10,000
BKN100
5/8
10,000
18,000
BKN250
6/8
25,000
28,000
Visibility:
7 miles
Wind:
100 degrees / 10 - 15 KTS
Pressure:
30.00 IN HG
Temperature:
83 degrees
RH:
70%
Weather:
Showers and thunderstorms in the vicinity
Solar Activity:
N/A
Overall probability of violating weather constraints:
60%
Primary concern(s):
Cumulus Cloud Rule, Lightning Rule, Anvil Cloud Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 24 hour delay:
40%
Primary concern(s):
Cumulus Cloud Rule, Lightning Rule, Anvil Cloud Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 48 hour delay:
30%
Primary concern(s):
Cumulus Cloud Rule, Lightning Rule, Anvil Cloud Rule
Sunrise:
9 June 03 / 0625 EDT
10 June 03 / 0625 EDT
Moonrise/
(% illum):
9 June 03 / 1514 EDT / %
10 June 03 / 1619 EDT / %
Sunset:
9 June 03 / 2019 EDT
10 June 03 / 2019 EDT
Moonset:
10 June 03 / 0321 EDT
11 June 03 / 0358 EDT
Next forecast will be issued:
9 June 03
-------------------------------------------------------------
For automatic email subscriptions to this KSC originated press releases, send an Internet electronic mail message to mailto:[email protected]. With no subject or message. The system will reply with a confirmation via e-mail of each subscription.
To remove your name from the list at any time, send an email addressed to mailto:[email protected] . With no subject or message.
or you can (un)subscribe on the World Wide Web at: http://kscnews.ksc.nasa.gov/
Status reports and other NASA publications are available on the World Wide Web at: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/kscpao.htm
Jason original callsign Loverboy
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SPACECRAFT AND EXPENDABLE VEHICLES STATUS REPORT
June 13, 2003
George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center
321/867-2468
MISSION: Mars Exploration Rover (MER-A)
LAUNCH VEHICLES: Delta II
LAUNCH PAD: 17-A
LAUNCH DATE: June 10, 2003
The MER-A Delta II launch vehicle carrying the “Spirit” Mars Exploration Rover was launched successfully from Pad 17-A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on Tuesday, June 10. The official liftoff time was 1:58:46.773 p.m. EDT. Communication with the spacecraft through the Deep Space Network indicates that the spacecraft is in good health and on the proper trajectory. There are no issues or concerns with the mission at this time.
MISSION: Mars Exploration Rover (MER-B/Opportunity)
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Delta II Heavy
LAUNCH PAD: 17-B
LAUNCH DATE: June 25, 2003 NET
LAUNCH TIME: 12:38:16 a.m. / 1:19:19 a.m. EDT
Mating of the spacecraft to the upper stage booster, the Delta’s third stage, was completed on Thursday in the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility (PHSF). Today the spacecraft is being placed into its transportation canister in preparation for going to the launch pad. That is scheduled to occur before dawn on Tuesday, June 17.
Meanwhile, at Pad 17-B, preparations are under way for the Simulated Flight test of the Delta II launch vehicle to occur sometime within the next few days. This is a test that activates the Delta’s mechanical and electrical systems during a simulated flight of the vehicle to verify how they will perform during ascent. A decision on the final launch date is expected on Monday after the test has been completed.
The MER-B vehicle’s first stage is on Pad 17-B. Erection of the nine solid rocket boosters was completed May 22. The second stage was hoisted atop the first stage on May 29. Encapsulation of the spacecraft into the payload fairing atop the Delta II is currently planned for June 21.
MISSION: SCISAT-1/Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Pegasus XL
LAUNCH FACILITY: Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
LAUNCH DATE: August 2, 2003
LAUNCH TIME: 9:03:05 p.m. – 10:00:14 p.m. PDT
The SCISAT spacecraft is completing final testing at the Canadian Space Agency’s David Florida Laboratories. Arrival of the spacecraft at Vandenberg Air Force Base is currently scheduled for June 25.
The first Flight Simulation is scheduled for June 10-11 and will be followed by mating the stages together June 11-17. The second Flight Simulation is planned for June 25-26.
SCISAT-1 weighs approximately 330 pounds and will be placed in a 400-mile-high polar orbit to investigate processes that control the distribution of ozone in the upper atmosphere.
Meanwhile, the Pegasus XL rocket is undergoing prelaunch preparations at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California by Orbital Sciences Corporation.
The scientific mission of SCISAT-1/ACE (Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment) mission is to measure and understand the chemical processes that control the distribution of ozone in the Earth’s atmosphere, particularly at high altitudes. The data from the satellite will provide Canadian and international scientists with improved measurements relating to global ozone processes and help policy-makers assess existing environmental policy and develop protective measures for improving the health of our atmosphere, preventing further zone depletion. The mission is designed to last two years.
MISSION: Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF)
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Delta II Heavy
LAUNCH PAD: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
LAUNCH DATE: August 23, 2003
LAUNCH TIME: TBD
The SIRTF observatory is in NASA’s class 10,000 laminar flow clean room at spacecraft Hangar AE awaiting its return to the launch pad in early August.
The launch date has been moved forward four days to August 23.
Project management of SIRTF for NASA is by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The observatory was built for NASA by Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace.
# # #
June 13, 2003
George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center
321/867-2468
MISSION: Mars Exploration Rover (MER-A)
LAUNCH VEHICLES: Delta II
LAUNCH PAD: 17-A
LAUNCH DATE: June 10, 2003
The MER-A Delta II launch vehicle carrying the “Spirit” Mars Exploration Rover was launched successfully from Pad 17-A at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on Tuesday, June 10. The official liftoff time was 1:58:46.773 p.m. EDT. Communication with the spacecraft through the Deep Space Network indicates that the spacecraft is in good health and on the proper trajectory. There are no issues or concerns with the mission at this time.
MISSION: Mars Exploration Rover (MER-B/Opportunity)
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Delta II Heavy
LAUNCH PAD: 17-B
LAUNCH DATE: June 25, 2003 NET
LAUNCH TIME: 12:38:16 a.m. / 1:19:19 a.m. EDT
Mating of the spacecraft to the upper stage booster, the Delta’s third stage, was completed on Thursday in the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility (PHSF). Today the spacecraft is being placed into its transportation canister in preparation for going to the launch pad. That is scheduled to occur before dawn on Tuesday, June 17.
Meanwhile, at Pad 17-B, preparations are under way for the Simulated Flight test of the Delta II launch vehicle to occur sometime within the next few days. This is a test that activates the Delta’s mechanical and electrical systems during a simulated flight of the vehicle to verify how they will perform during ascent. A decision on the final launch date is expected on Monday after the test has been completed.
The MER-B vehicle’s first stage is on Pad 17-B. Erection of the nine solid rocket boosters was completed May 22. The second stage was hoisted atop the first stage on May 29. Encapsulation of the spacecraft into the payload fairing atop the Delta II is currently planned for June 21.
MISSION: SCISAT-1/Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Pegasus XL
LAUNCH FACILITY: Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
LAUNCH DATE: August 2, 2003
LAUNCH TIME: 9:03:05 p.m. – 10:00:14 p.m. PDT
The SCISAT spacecraft is completing final testing at the Canadian Space Agency’s David Florida Laboratories. Arrival of the spacecraft at Vandenberg Air Force Base is currently scheduled for June 25.
The first Flight Simulation is scheduled for June 10-11 and will be followed by mating the stages together June 11-17. The second Flight Simulation is planned for June 25-26.
SCISAT-1 weighs approximately 330 pounds and will be placed in a 400-mile-high polar orbit to investigate processes that control the distribution of ozone in the upper atmosphere.
Meanwhile, the Pegasus XL rocket is undergoing prelaunch preparations at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California by Orbital Sciences Corporation.
The scientific mission of SCISAT-1/ACE (Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment) mission is to measure and understand the chemical processes that control the distribution of ozone in the Earth’s atmosphere, particularly at high altitudes. The data from the satellite will provide Canadian and international scientists with improved measurements relating to global ozone processes and help policy-makers assess existing environmental policy and develop protective measures for improving the health of our atmosphere, preventing further zone depletion. The mission is designed to last two years.
MISSION: Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF)
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Delta II Heavy
LAUNCH PAD: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
LAUNCH DATE: August 23, 2003
LAUNCH TIME: TBD
The SIRTF observatory is in NASA’s class 10,000 laminar flow clean room at spacecraft Hangar AE awaiting its return to the launch pad in early August.
The launch date has been moved forward four days to August 23.
Project management of SIRTF for NASA is by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The observatory was built for NASA by Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace.
# # #
Jason original callsign Loverboy
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SPACECRAFT AND EXPENDABLE VEHICLES STATUS REPORT
June 18, 2003
George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center
321/867-2468
MISSION: Mars Exploration Rover (MER-B/Opportunity)
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Delta II Heavy
LAUNCH PAD: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
LAUNCH DATE: June 25, 2003 NET
LAUNCH TIME: 12:27:31 a.m. / 1:08:45 a.m. EDT
The MER-1 rover, Opportunity, mated to the upper stage booster and
contained within its payload transporter, rolled out of the Payload
Hazardous Servicing Facility on Tuesday morning, June 17 at 1:58 a.m. It
arrived at Pad 17-B at 4:30 a.m. and was hoisted atop the Boeing MER-B Delta
II Heavy launch vehicle at 9:15 a.m.
The spacecraft electrical umbilical connections were established
last night. A spacecraft state of health check is under way today. The
integrated vehicle/spacecraft Flight Program Verification test will follow
on Thursday. This will demonstrate the ability of the spacecraft and the
launch vehicle to work together during the terminal countdown and flight.
The Simulated Flight Test of the Delta II vehicle has been successfully
completed.
Installation of the fairing around the spacecraft is scheduled to
occur on Saturday, June 21. Fueling of the Delta second stage with its
complement of storable hypergolic propellants is planned for Monday, June
23.
The Flight Readiness Review (FRR) will be held on Saturday, June
21 in the Mission Briefing Room at KSC. Pending successful completion of
this review, launch is scheduled for June 26. There are no significant
issues or concerns at this time.
MISSION: SCISAT-1/Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Pegasus XL
LAUNCH FACILITY: Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
LAUNCH DATE: August 2, 2003
LAUNCH TIME: 9:03:05 p.m. - 10:00:14 p.m. PDT
The SCISAT spacecraft is completing final testing at the Canadian
Space Agency's David Florida Laboratories. Arrival of the spacecraft at
Vandenberg Air Force Base is currently scheduled for June 25.
After arrival, the solar arrays will be mated to the vehicle,
followed by spacecraft functional testing. SCISAT will be mated to the
Pegasus on or about July 7. This will be followed by integrated testing.
Installation of the fairing around the spacecraft is planned for July 22 and
mating to the L-1011 carrier aircraft on July 30.
SCISAT-1 weighs approximately 330 pounds and will be placed in a
400-mile-high polar orbit to investigate processes that control the
distribution of ozone in the upper atmosphere.
Meanwhile, the Pegasus XL rocket is undergoing prelaunch
preparations at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California by Orbital Sciences
Corporation. Mating of the second and third stages occurred earlier this
week. The Mission Readiness Review for the vehicle is being held today at
Orbital Sciences headquarters in Dulles, Virginia.
The scientific mission of SCISAT-1/ACE (Atmospheric Chemistry
Experiment) is to measure and understand the chemical processes that control
the distribution of ozone in the Earth's atmosphere, particularly at high
altitudes. The data from the satellite will provide Canadian and
international scientists with improved measurements relating to global ozone
processes and help policy-makers assess existing environmental policy and
develop protective measures for improving the health of our atmosphere,
preventing further zone depletion. The mission is designed to last two
years.
MISSION: Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF)
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Delta II Heavy
LAUNCH PAD: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
LAUNCH DATE: August 23, 2003
LAUNCH TIME: 12:37:30 a.m. EDT
The SIRTF observatory is in NASA's class 10,000 laminar flow clean
room at spacecraft Hangar AE awaiting its return to the launch pad in early
August.
Project management of SIRTF for NASA is by the Jet Propulsion
Laboratory. The observatory was built for NASA by Lockheed Martin and Ball
Aerospace.
The launch period extends to September 9.
SIRTF is the fourth and final element in NASA's family of orbiting
"Great Observatories." All objects in the universe with temperatures above
absolute zero (-460 F) emit some infrared radiation, or heat. Infrared
wavelengths lie beyond the red portion of the visible spectrum and are
invisible to the human eye. Most infrared light emitted by celestial
objects is absorbed by Earth's atmosphere. Scientists rely on orbiting
telescopes, such as SIRTF, to capture data on celestial objects and
phenomena that are too dim, distant or cool to study using ground-based
telescopes or by other astronomical techniques.
# # #
-------------------------------------------------------------
For automatic email subscriptions to this KSC originated press releases, send an Internet electronic mail message to mailto:[email protected]. With no subject or message. The system will reply with a confirmation via e-mail of each subscription.
To remove your name from the list at any time, send an email addressed to mailto:[email protected] . With no subject or message.
or you can (un)subscribe on the World Wide Web at: http://kscnews.ksc.nasa.gov/
Status reports and other NASA publications are available on the World Wide Web at: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/kscpao.htm .
June 18, 2003
George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center
321/867-2468
MISSION: Mars Exploration Rover (MER-B/Opportunity)
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Delta II Heavy
LAUNCH PAD: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
LAUNCH DATE: June 25, 2003 NET
LAUNCH TIME: 12:27:31 a.m. / 1:08:45 a.m. EDT
The MER-1 rover, Opportunity, mated to the upper stage booster and
contained within its payload transporter, rolled out of the Payload
Hazardous Servicing Facility on Tuesday morning, June 17 at 1:58 a.m. It
arrived at Pad 17-B at 4:30 a.m. and was hoisted atop the Boeing MER-B Delta
II Heavy launch vehicle at 9:15 a.m.
The spacecraft electrical umbilical connections were established
last night. A spacecraft state of health check is under way today. The
integrated vehicle/spacecraft Flight Program Verification test will follow
on Thursday. This will demonstrate the ability of the spacecraft and the
launch vehicle to work together during the terminal countdown and flight.
The Simulated Flight Test of the Delta II vehicle has been successfully
completed.
Installation of the fairing around the spacecraft is scheduled to
occur on Saturday, June 21. Fueling of the Delta second stage with its
complement of storable hypergolic propellants is planned for Monday, June
23.
The Flight Readiness Review (FRR) will be held on Saturday, June
21 in the Mission Briefing Room at KSC. Pending successful completion of
this review, launch is scheduled for June 26. There are no significant
issues or concerns at this time.
MISSION: SCISAT-1/Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Pegasus XL
LAUNCH FACILITY: Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
LAUNCH DATE: August 2, 2003
LAUNCH TIME: 9:03:05 p.m. - 10:00:14 p.m. PDT
The SCISAT spacecraft is completing final testing at the Canadian
Space Agency's David Florida Laboratories. Arrival of the spacecraft at
Vandenberg Air Force Base is currently scheduled for June 25.
After arrival, the solar arrays will be mated to the vehicle,
followed by spacecraft functional testing. SCISAT will be mated to the
Pegasus on or about July 7. This will be followed by integrated testing.
Installation of the fairing around the spacecraft is planned for July 22 and
mating to the L-1011 carrier aircraft on July 30.
SCISAT-1 weighs approximately 330 pounds and will be placed in a
400-mile-high polar orbit to investigate processes that control the
distribution of ozone in the upper atmosphere.
Meanwhile, the Pegasus XL rocket is undergoing prelaunch
preparations at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California by Orbital Sciences
Corporation. Mating of the second and third stages occurred earlier this
week. The Mission Readiness Review for the vehicle is being held today at
Orbital Sciences headquarters in Dulles, Virginia.
The scientific mission of SCISAT-1/ACE (Atmospheric Chemistry
Experiment) is to measure and understand the chemical processes that control
the distribution of ozone in the Earth's atmosphere, particularly at high
altitudes. The data from the satellite will provide Canadian and
international scientists with improved measurements relating to global ozone
processes and help policy-makers assess existing environmental policy and
develop protective measures for improving the health of our atmosphere,
preventing further zone depletion. The mission is designed to last two
years.
MISSION: Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF)
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Delta II Heavy
LAUNCH PAD: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
LAUNCH DATE: August 23, 2003
LAUNCH TIME: 12:37:30 a.m. EDT
The SIRTF observatory is in NASA's class 10,000 laminar flow clean
room at spacecraft Hangar AE awaiting its return to the launch pad in early
August.
Project management of SIRTF for NASA is by the Jet Propulsion
Laboratory. The observatory was built for NASA by Lockheed Martin and Ball
Aerospace.
The launch period extends to September 9.
SIRTF is the fourth and final element in NASA's family of orbiting
"Great Observatories." All objects in the universe with temperatures above
absolute zero (-460 F) emit some infrared radiation, or heat. Infrared
wavelengths lie beyond the red portion of the visible spectrum and are
invisible to the human eye. Most infrared light emitted by celestial
objects is absorbed by Earth's atmosphere. Scientists rely on orbiting
telescopes, such as SIRTF, to capture data on celestial objects and
phenomena that are too dim, distant or cool to study using ground-based
telescopes or by other astronomical techniques.
# # #
-------------------------------------------------------------
For automatic email subscriptions to this KSC originated press releases, send an Internet electronic mail message to mailto:[email protected]. With no subject or message. The system will reply with a confirmation via e-mail of each subscription.
To remove your name from the list at any time, send an email addressed to mailto:[email protected] . With no subject or message.
or you can (un)subscribe on the World Wide Web at: http://kscnews.ksc.nasa.gov/
Status reports and other NASA publications are available on the World Wide Web at: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/kscpao.htm .
Jason original callsign Loverboy
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
NASA News
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
John F. Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center, Florida 32899
AC 321-867-2468
____________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________
For Release: June 20, 2003
Dennis Armstrong
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
(Phone: 321/867-2468)
KSC Release No. 47-03
NOTICE TO EDITORS/NEWS DIRECTORS:
KSC WEB TO PROVIDE LIVE COVERAGE OF MER-B LAUNCH
On Tuesday, June 24, the Kennedy Space Center Web site will begin its
coverage of the launch of Mars Exploration Rover (MER) Opportunity,
currently scheduled for June 26. The KSC Web Studio will present two NASA
Direct! webcast events in addition to live coverage of the launch countdown.
The first program, "Preparing for Launch," on June 24, will be hosted by Jon
Cowart and will feature Launch Weather Officer Joel Tumbiolo, NASA Launch
Manager Omar Baez, and MER Principal Investigator Steve Squyres. The "MER
Mission Overview" program, on June 26, will feature MER spacecraft mission
director Peter Theisinger with host Tiffany Nail.
During both programs, guests will answer questions submitted to the NASA
Direct! Question Boards from space enthusiasts around the world. Anyone with
questions regarding the MER mission or MER-B launch is encouraged to submit
their questions to the appropriate NASA Direct! Question Board for a
possible answer during the webcast. The NASA Direct! home page and Question
Boards can be viewed online at http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/nasadirect/index.htm.
In addition to NASA Direct!, the KSC Web will provide live countdown
coverage from the Virtual Launch Control Center, located at
http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/elvnew/merb/vlcc.htm. Coverage will feature
real-time updating as milestones occur during the countdown, as well as
downloadable and streaming video clips of countdown events. All videos will
be provided in RealMedia format, with downloadable clips available in two
sizes for users with 56K modems or cable/broadband connections.
-- end of general release --
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
John F. Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center, Florida 32899
AC 321-867-2468
____________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________
For Release: June 20, 2003
Dennis Armstrong
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
(Phone: 321/867-2468)
KSC Release No. 47-03
NOTICE TO EDITORS/NEWS DIRECTORS:
KSC WEB TO PROVIDE LIVE COVERAGE OF MER-B LAUNCH
On Tuesday, June 24, the Kennedy Space Center Web site will begin its
coverage of the launch of Mars Exploration Rover (MER) Opportunity,
currently scheduled for June 26. The KSC Web Studio will present two NASA
Direct! webcast events in addition to live coverage of the launch countdown.
The first program, "Preparing for Launch," on June 24, will be hosted by Jon
Cowart and will feature Launch Weather Officer Joel Tumbiolo, NASA Launch
Manager Omar Baez, and MER Principal Investigator Steve Squyres. The "MER
Mission Overview" program, on June 26, will feature MER spacecraft mission
director Peter Theisinger with host Tiffany Nail.
During both programs, guests will answer questions submitted to the NASA
Direct! Question Boards from space enthusiasts around the world. Anyone with
questions regarding the MER mission or MER-B launch is encouraged to submit
their questions to the appropriate NASA Direct! Question Board for a
possible answer during the webcast. The NASA Direct! home page and Question
Boards can be viewed online at http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/nasadirect/index.htm.
In addition to NASA Direct!, the KSC Web will provide live countdown
coverage from the Virtual Launch Control Center, located at
http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/elvnew/merb/vlcc.htm. Coverage will feature
real-time updating as milestones occur during the countdown, as well as
downloadable and streaming video clips of countdown events. All videos will
be provided in RealMedia format, with downloadable clips available in two
sizes for users with 56K modems or cable/broadband connections.
-- end of general release --
Jason original callsign Loverboy
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
NASA News
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
John F. Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center, Florida 32899
AC 321-867-2468
____________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________
For Release: June 23, 2003
George Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
(321) 867-2468
KSC Release No. 49 - 03
Launch Advisory:
LAUNCH OF DELTA II WITH "OPPORTUNITY" TARGETED FOR JUNE 28
Based on completing the work as currently scheduled, launch managers
continue to plan toward Saturday, June 28 as the launch date for MER-B with
the "Opportunity" Mars Exploration Rover. The launch time is 11:56:16 p.m.
EDT with a second time available at 12:37:59 a.m. EDT on June 29.
NASA and Boeing engineers met today to assess the progress of the cork
insulation rework on the Delta first stage for MER-B. The effort is
proceeding on schedule to remove and replace the lower band of cork.
Inspections on the upper band are under way, and it has not been decided
what work, if any, will be required.
Pending a successful schedule assessment by NASA and Boeing managers on
Tuesday afternoon, a revised Note to Editors will then be issued with
updated plans for news media activities and the launch coverage on NASA
Television. The prelaunch press conference will not be held on Tuesday,
June 24. It is being rescheduled so that it may continue to be held on L-1
day, Friday, June 27 at 1 p.m.
# # #
-------------------------------------------------------------
For automatic email subscriptions to this KSC originated press releases, send an Internet electronic mail message to mailto:[email protected]. With no subject or message. The system will reply with a confirmation via e-mail of each subscription.
To remove your name from the list at any time, send an email addressed to mailto:[email protected] . With no subject or message.
or you can (un)subscribe on the World Wide Web at: http://kscnews.ksc.nasa.gov/
Status reports and other NASA publications are available on the World Wide Web at: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/kscpao.htm .
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
John F. Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center, Florida 32899
AC 321-867-2468
____________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________
For Release: June 23, 2003
George Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
(321) 867-2468
KSC Release No. 49 - 03
Launch Advisory:
LAUNCH OF DELTA II WITH "OPPORTUNITY" TARGETED FOR JUNE 28
Based on completing the work as currently scheduled, launch managers
continue to plan toward Saturday, June 28 as the launch date for MER-B with
the "Opportunity" Mars Exploration Rover. The launch time is 11:56:16 p.m.
EDT with a second time available at 12:37:59 a.m. EDT on June 29.
NASA and Boeing engineers met today to assess the progress of the cork
insulation rework on the Delta first stage for MER-B. The effort is
proceeding on schedule to remove and replace the lower band of cork.
Inspections on the upper band are under way, and it has not been decided
what work, if any, will be required.
Pending a successful schedule assessment by NASA and Boeing managers on
Tuesday afternoon, a revised Note to Editors will then be issued with
updated plans for news media activities and the launch coverage on NASA
Television. The prelaunch press conference will not be held on Tuesday,
June 24. It is being rescheduled so that it may continue to be held on L-1
day, Friday, June 27 at 1 p.m.
# # #
-------------------------------------------------------------
For automatic email subscriptions to this KSC originated press releases, send an Internet electronic mail message to mailto:[email protected]. With no subject or message. The system will reply with a confirmation via e-mail of each subscription.
To remove your name from the list at any time, send an email addressed to mailto:[email protected] . With no subject or message.
or you can (un)subscribe on the World Wide Web at: http://kscnews.ksc.nasa.gov/
Status reports and other NASA publications are available on the World Wide Web at: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/kscpao.htm .
Jason original callsign Loverboy
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
NASA News
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
John F. Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center, Florida 32899
AC 321-867-2468
____________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________
For Release: June 24, 2003
Don Savage
NASA Headquarters
202/358-1727
George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center
321/867-2468
Guy Webster
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
818/354-6278
KSC Release No: 50-03
REVISED NOTE TO EDITORS/NEWS DIRECTORS:
"OPPORTUNITY" MARS EXPLORATION ROVER TARGETED FOR LAUNCH JUNE 28
The second of two Mars Exploration Rovers, Opportunity, is targeted
for launch on Saturday, June 28 at 11:56:16 p.m. EDT. Liftoff will occur
aboard the Boeing Delta II Heavy launch vehicle from Pad B at Space Launch
Complex 17 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. A second launch opportunity
exists at 12:37:59 a.m. EDT, if necessary. Should launch be delayed by 24
hours, the two launch times available are 11:46:14 p.m. and 12:28:07 a.m.
EDT. The window of the planetary launch period extends through July 15.
Opportunity will reach Mars on Jan. 25, 2004. Together the two MER
rovers, Spirit and Opportunity, seek to determine the history of climate and
water at two sites on Mars where conditions may once have been favorable to
life. The rovers are identical. Each rover carries five scientific
instruments including a panoramic camera and microscope, plus a rock
abrasion tool that will grind away the outer surfaces of rocks to expose
their interiors for examination. The rovers each weigh approximately 400
pounds. They will navigate themselves around obstacles as they drive across
the Martian surface, traveling up to about 130 feet each Martian day. Each
rover's prime mission is planned to last three months on Mars.
PRELAUNCH PRESS CONFERENCE
The prelaunch press conference is scheduled for L-1 day, Friday,
June 27 at 1 p.m. EDT in the KSC News Center auditorium and will be carried
live on NASA Television. Participating in the briefing will be:
Dr. Ed Weiler, Associate Administrator, Office of Space Science
NASA Headquarters
Omar Baez, NASA launch director
NASA John F. Kennedy Space Center
Kris Walsh, Boeing director for NASA programs
Boeing Expendable Launch Systems
Peter Theisinger, Mars Exploration Rover project manager
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Dr. Cathy Weitz, Mars Exploration Rover program scientist
NASA Headquarters
Dr. Steve Squyers, Mars Exploration Rover principal investigator
Cornell University
Joel Tumbiolo, launch weather officer
45th Weather Squadron, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
No post-launch press conference will be held.
ACCREDITATION
Media not already accredited for the MER-B/Opportunity prelaunch
press conference and launch day activities should send a letter of request
to the NASA-KSC News Center on news organization letterhead. It should
include full legal name, Social Security number, birth date, birthplace and
country of citizenship. Accreditation requests must be received by the
close of business on Thursday, June 26. Letters may be faxed to
321-867-2692 or addressed to:
MER-B Launch Accreditation
NASA XA-E1
Kennedy Space Center, FL 32899
For further information on MER-B launch accreditation, contact Diana Boles
or Cynthia Pettiford at the NASA-KSC News Center at 321-867-2468.
Badges for access to the NASA-KSC News Center may be obtained at
Gate 3 on State Road 405, just east of U.S. 1 south of Titusville through
Friday, June 27 between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. Badges issued for MER-A are not
valid.
On launch day, June 28, badges to cover the MER-B launch from the Trident
Bluff press viewing area will be issued to all media starting at 10:30 p.m.
at the Pass and Identification Building on State Road 401 outside Gate 1 of
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Proof of identification and news media
affiliation will be required. Departure for the Trident Bluff press viewing
area will be at 10:45 p.m. After launch, media will be escorted back to
Gate 1. An escort is required for all areas of the Kennedy Space Center and
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
L-1 DAY SET UP OF REMOTE CAMERAS
Media wishing to establish remote cameras at the launch pad should
meet at the Gate 1 Pass and Identification Building of Cape Canaveral Air
Force Station on State Road 401 on Friday, June 27, at 9:45 a.m. to be
escorted to Space Launch Complex 17.
LAUNCH DAY PAD PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
A photo opportunity at Space Launch Complex 17 of the MER-B launch
vehicle on the pad will be provided on Saturday afternoon upon rollback of
the mobile service tower. Media wishing to attend should be at the Gate 1
Pass and Identification Building of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on
State Road 401 at 3 p.m.
PRESS SITE OPERATING HOURS ON LAUNCH DAY
The NASA-KSC News Center will not open on Saturday, June 28 until launch
occurs. It will then remain open until the spacecraft's complete state of
health can be confirmed. This information is anticipated about two and one
half hours after liftoff.
NASA TELEVISION COVERAGE, "V" CIRCUITS, AND LAUNCH STATUS
NASA Television will carry the prelaunch press conference beginning
at 1 p.m. on Friday, June 27. Two-way question-and-answer capability will
be available from other NASA field centers. There will not be a post-launch
press conference.
For launch, commentary will begin at 10 p.m. on Saturday, June 28
for a liftoff at 11:56:16 p.m. Coverage will conclude after acquisition of
the spacecraft by the Deep Space Network no earlier than one hour forty
minutes after launch, at which time the spacecraft's initial state of health
will be reported.
NASA Television is available on satellite AMC-2, transponder 9C,
located at 85 degrees West longitude.
Audio only of NASA Television coverage of the prelaunch news
conference and launch commentary will be available on the "V" circuits which
may be dialed directly at 321/867-1220, 867-1240, 867-1260, 867-7135.
The NASA-KSC News Center codaphone carries recorded MER-B prelaunch status
reports daily that may be dialed at 321-867-2525.
"NASA DIRECT!" WEB COVERAGE
The Kennedy Space Center's Expendable Launch Vehicle (ELV) coverage will
include special webcasts on NASA Direct!
For more information on the MER-B/Opportunity web activities, go to
<http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/elvnew/merb/index.htm>
For a detailed NASA Direct! event calendar, go to:
<http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/nasadirect/index.htm>
Information about the MER missions is available online at:
<http://mars.jpl.nasa.gov/mer/>
-- end --
-------------------------------------------------------------
For automatic email subscriptions to this KSC originated press releases, send an Internet electronic mail message to mailto:[email protected]. With no subject or message. The system will reply with a confirmation via e-mail of each subscription.
To remove your name from the list at any time, send an email addressed to mailto:[email protected] . With no subject or message.
or you can (un)subscribe on the World Wide Web at: http://kscnews.ksc.nasa.gov/
Status reports and other NASA publications are available on the World Wide Web at: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/kscpao.htm .
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
John F. Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center, Florida 32899
AC 321-867-2468
____________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________
For Release: June 24, 2003
Don Savage
NASA Headquarters
202/358-1727
George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center
321/867-2468
Guy Webster
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
818/354-6278
KSC Release No: 50-03
REVISED NOTE TO EDITORS/NEWS DIRECTORS:
"OPPORTUNITY" MARS EXPLORATION ROVER TARGETED FOR LAUNCH JUNE 28
The second of two Mars Exploration Rovers, Opportunity, is targeted
for launch on Saturday, June 28 at 11:56:16 p.m. EDT. Liftoff will occur
aboard the Boeing Delta II Heavy launch vehicle from Pad B at Space Launch
Complex 17 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. A second launch opportunity
exists at 12:37:59 a.m. EDT, if necessary. Should launch be delayed by 24
hours, the two launch times available are 11:46:14 p.m. and 12:28:07 a.m.
EDT. The window of the planetary launch period extends through July 15.
Opportunity will reach Mars on Jan. 25, 2004. Together the two MER
rovers, Spirit and Opportunity, seek to determine the history of climate and
water at two sites on Mars where conditions may once have been favorable to
life. The rovers are identical. Each rover carries five scientific
instruments including a panoramic camera and microscope, plus a rock
abrasion tool that will grind away the outer surfaces of rocks to expose
their interiors for examination. The rovers each weigh approximately 400
pounds. They will navigate themselves around obstacles as they drive across
the Martian surface, traveling up to about 130 feet each Martian day. Each
rover's prime mission is planned to last three months on Mars.
PRELAUNCH PRESS CONFERENCE
The prelaunch press conference is scheduled for L-1 day, Friday,
June 27 at 1 p.m. EDT in the KSC News Center auditorium and will be carried
live on NASA Television. Participating in the briefing will be:
Dr. Ed Weiler, Associate Administrator, Office of Space Science
NASA Headquarters
Omar Baez, NASA launch director
NASA John F. Kennedy Space Center
Kris Walsh, Boeing director for NASA programs
Boeing Expendable Launch Systems
Peter Theisinger, Mars Exploration Rover project manager
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Dr. Cathy Weitz, Mars Exploration Rover program scientist
NASA Headquarters
Dr. Steve Squyers, Mars Exploration Rover principal investigator
Cornell University
Joel Tumbiolo, launch weather officer
45th Weather Squadron, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
No post-launch press conference will be held.
ACCREDITATION
Media not already accredited for the MER-B/Opportunity prelaunch
press conference and launch day activities should send a letter of request
to the NASA-KSC News Center on news organization letterhead. It should
include full legal name, Social Security number, birth date, birthplace and
country of citizenship. Accreditation requests must be received by the
close of business on Thursday, June 26. Letters may be faxed to
321-867-2692 or addressed to:
MER-B Launch Accreditation
NASA XA-E1
Kennedy Space Center, FL 32899
For further information on MER-B launch accreditation, contact Diana Boles
or Cynthia Pettiford at the NASA-KSC News Center at 321-867-2468.
Badges for access to the NASA-KSC News Center may be obtained at
Gate 3 on State Road 405, just east of U.S. 1 south of Titusville through
Friday, June 27 between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. Badges issued for MER-A are not
valid.
On launch day, June 28, badges to cover the MER-B launch from the Trident
Bluff press viewing area will be issued to all media starting at 10:30 p.m.
at the Pass and Identification Building on State Road 401 outside Gate 1 of
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Proof of identification and news media
affiliation will be required. Departure for the Trident Bluff press viewing
area will be at 10:45 p.m. After launch, media will be escorted back to
Gate 1. An escort is required for all areas of the Kennedy Space Center and
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
L-1 DAY SET UP OF REMOTE CAMERAS
Media wishing to establish remote cameras at the launch pad should
meet at the Gate 1 Pass and Identification Building of Cape Canaveral Air
Force Station on State Road 401 on Friday, June 27, at 9:45 a.m. to be
escorted to Space Launch Complex 17.
LAUNCH DAY PAD PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
A photo opportunity at Space Launch Complex 17 of the MER-B launch
vehicle on the pad will be provided on Saturday afternoon upon rollback of
the mobile service tower. Media wishing to attend should be at the Gate 1
Pass and Identification Building of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on
State Road 401 at 3 p.m.
PRESS SITE OPERATING HOURS ON LAUNCH DAY
The NASA-KSC News Center will not open on Saturday, June 28 until launch
occurs. It will then remain open until the spacecraft's complete state of
health can be confirmed. This information is anticipated about two and one
half hours after liftoff.
NASA TELEVISION COVERAGE, "V" CIRCUITS, AND LAUNCH STATUS
NASA Television will carry the prelaunch press conference beginning
at 1 p.m. on Friday, June 27. Two-way question-and-answer capability will
be available from other NASA field centers. There will not be a post-launch
press conference.
For launch, commentary will begin at 10 p.m. on Saturday, June 28
for a liftoff at 11:56:16 p.m. Coverage will conclude after acquisition of
the spacecraft by the Deep Space Network no earlier than one hour forty
minutes after launch, at which time the spacecraft's initial state of health
will be reported.
NASA Television is available on satellite AMC-2, transponder 9C,
located at 85 degrees West longitude.
Audio only of NASA Television coverage of the prelaunch news
conference and launch commentary will be available on the "V" circuits which
may be dialed directly at 321/867-1220, 867-1240, 867-1260, 867-7135.
The NASA-KSC News Center codaphone carries recorded MER-B prelaunch status
reports daily that may be dialed at 321-867-2525.
"NASA DIRECT!" WEB COVERAGE
The Kennedy Space Center's Expendable Launch Vehicle (ELV) coverage will
include special webcasts on NASA Direct!
For more information on the MER-B/Opportunity web activities, go to
<http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/elvnew/merb/index.htm>
For a detailed NASA Direct! event calendar, go to:
<http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/nasadirect/index.htm>
Information about the MER missions is available online at:
<http://mars.jpl.nasa.gov/mer/>
-- end --
-------------------------------------------------------------
For automatic email subscriptions to this KSC originated press releases, send an Internet electronic mail message to mailto:[email protected]. With no subject or message. The system will reply with a confirmation via e-mail of each subscription.
To remove your name from the list at any time, send an email addressed to mailto:[email protected] . With no subject or message.
or you can (un)subscribe on the World Wide Web at: http://kscnews.ksc.nasa.gov/
Status reports and other NASA publications are available on the World Wide Web at: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/kscpao.htm .
Jason original callsign Loverboy
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
Eastern Range Operations Forecast
Op Number: F7336
Issued: 25 Jun 2003
Valid: 28 Jun 2003 11:56:16 p.m. EDT
Vehicle/Payload:
Delta II / MER-B
Location:
Pad 17-B
Launch Weather Officer:
Joel Tumbiolo
Synoptic Discussion:
Dry conditions are expected to hold through Thursday as deep moisture remains confined to south FL. By Friday, this deep moisture will begin returning northward as a low pressure system, currently over the western Caribbean, moves northward into the Gulf of Mexico. By Saturday, once the moisture is in place, normal local triggers (sea breeze, day time heating etc.) with result in the return of showers and thunderstorms. Main concern for the launch windows will be for remnant cloud cover associated with the showers and thunderstorms.
Clouds
Coverage
Bases (feet)
Tops (feet)
SCT030
2/8
3,000
6,000
BKN080
5/8
8,000
12,000
BKN250
6/8
25,000
27,000
Visibility:
7 miles
Wind:
SSE 10 – 15 knots
Pressure:
30.06 IN HG
Temperature:
78 F – 80 F
RH:
70%
Weather:
Mostly Cloudy
Solar Activity:
N/A
Overall probability of violating weather constraints:
40%
Primary concern(s):
Anvil Cloud Rule, Debris Cloud Rule, Thick Cloud Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 24 hour delay:
40%
Primary concern(s):
Anvil Cloud Rule, Debris Cloud Rule, Thick Cloud Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 48 hour delay:
40%
Primary concern(s):
Anvil Cloud Rule, Debris Cloud Rule, Thick Cloud Rule
Sunrise:
28 June 03 / 0628 EDT
29 June 03 / 0628 EDT
30 June 03 / 0628 EDT
Moonrise/
% illumination
28 June 03 / 0519 EDT / 1%
29 June 03 / 0607 EDT / 0%
30 June 03 / 0701 EDT / 1%
Sunset:
28 June 03 / 2024 EDT
29 June 03 / 2024 EDT
30 June 03 / 2024 EDT
Moonset:
28 June 03 / 1947 EDT
29 June 03 / 2042 EDT
30 June 03 / 2133 EDT
Next forecast will be issued:
26 June 03
-------------------------------------------------------------
For automatic email subscriptions to this KSC originated press releases, send an Internet electronic mail message to mailto:[email protected]. With no subject or message. The system will reply with a confirmation via e-mail of each subscription.
To remove your name from the list at any time, send an email addressed to mailto:[email protected] . With no subject or message.
or you can (un)subscribe on the World Wide Web at: http://kscnews.ksc.nasa.gov/
Status reports and other NASA publications are available on the World Wide Web at: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/kscpao.htm .
Op Number: F7336
Issued: 25 Jun 2003
Valid: 28 Jun 2003 11:56:16 p.m. EDT
Vehicle/Payload:
Delta II / MER-B
Location:
Pad 17-B
Launch Weather Officer:
Joel Tumbiolo
Synoptic Discussion:
Dry conditions are expected to hold through Thursday as deep moisture remains confined to south FL. By Friday, this deep moisture will begin returning northward as a low pressure system, currently over the western Caribbean, moves northward into the Gulf of Mexico. By Saturday, once the moisture is in place, normal local triggers (sea breeze, day time heating etc.) with result in the return of showers and thunderstorms. Main concern for the launch windows will be for remnant cloud cover associated with the showers and thunderstorms.
Clouds
Coverage
Bases (feet)
Tops (feet)
SCT030
2/8
3,000
6,000
BKN080
5/8
8,000
12,000
BKN250
6/8
25,000
27,000
Visibility:
7 miles
Wind:
SSE 10 – 15 knots
Pressure:
30.06 IN HG
Temperature:
78 F – 80 F
RH:
70%
Weather:
Mostly Cloudy
Solar Activity:
N/A
Overall probability of violating weather constraints:
40%
Primary concern(s):
Anvil Cloud Rule, Debris Cloud Rule, Thick Cloud Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 24 hour delay:
40%
Primary concern(s):
Anvil Cloud Rule, Debris Cloud Rule, Thick Cloud Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 48 hour delay:
40%
Primary concern(s):
Anvil Cloud Rule, Debris Cloud Rule, Thick Cloud Rule
Sunrise:
28 June 03 / 0628 EDT
29 June 03 / 0628 EDT
30 June 03 / 0628 EDT
Moonrise/
% illumination
28 June 03 / 0519 EDT / 1%
29 June 03 / 0607 EDT / 0%
30 June 03 / 0701 EDT / 1%
Sunset:
28 June 03 / 2024 EDT
29 June 03 / 2024 EDT
30 June 03 / 2024 EDT
Moonset:
28 June 03 / 1947 EDT
29 June 03 / 2042 EDT
30 June 03 / 2133 EDT
Next forecast will be issued:
26 June 03
-------------------------------------------------------------
For automatic email subscriptions to this KSC originated press releases, send an Internet electronic mail message to mailto:[email protected]. With no subject or message. The system will reply with a confirmation via e-mail of each subscription.
To remove your name from the list at any time, send an email addressed to mailto:[email protected] . With no subject or message.
or you can (un)subscribe on the World Wide Web at: http://kscnews.ksc.nasa.gov/
Status reports and other NASA publications are available on the World Wide Web at: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/kscpao.htm .
Jason original callsign Loverboy
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SPACECRAFT AND EXPENDABLE VEHICLES STATUS REPORT
June 25, 2003
George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center
321/867-2468
MISSION: Mars Exploration Rover (MER-B/Opportunity)
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Delta II Heavy
LAUNCH PAD: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
LAUNCH DATE: June 28, 2003
LAUNCH TIME: 11:56:16 p.m. / 12:37:59 a.m. EDT
The Flight Readiness Review was held on June 21, and afterward, a decision was made to postpone the launch by at least a couple of days. Based on routine post-test inspections, the launch team elected to remove and replace a band of protective cork insulation on the Delta first stage that may not have been adhering properly. The location is below the forward attach points of the strap-on solid rocket boosters. Inspections of a second band located higher on the first stage showed that only minor work is necessary to assure that it is ready for launch.
All of the reapplication and repair of the cork insulation will be completed today. Normal countdown activities will then resume on Thursday, beginning with the fueling of the Delta second stage with its complement of storable hypergolic propellants. A countdown dress rehearsal will also be held on Thursday. The Launch Readiness Review will be held on Friday in the Mission Briefing Room at KSC.
The fairing was installed around the MER-B “Opportunity” spacecraft on June 21. Fairing closeouts will begin tonight. Integrated spacecraft/launch vehicle testing indicates that the flight systems are ready for launch.
At Pad 17-B on launch day, the mobile service tower will be retracted from around the Delta II about 3:30 p.m. if weather permits. Options are available to retract the mobile service tower later if there are thunderstorms in the vicinity and still reach one or both of the two available launch times.
Loading of the RP-1 fuel aboard the Delta first stage is nominally planned to begin at 9:16 p.m. followed by loading of liquid oxygen at about 10:06 p.m.
MISSION: Scientific Satellite (SCISAT-1) Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Pegasus XL
LAUNCH FACILITY: Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
LAUNCH DATE: August 2, 2003
LAUNCH TIME: 9:03:05 p.m. – 10:00:14 p.m. PDT
Arrival of the SCISAT spacecraft at Vandenberg Air Force Base from the Canadian Space Agency’s David Florida Laboratories is scheduled to occur today.
After arrival, the solar arrays will be mated to the vehicle, followed by spacecraft functional testing. SCISAT will be mated to the Pegasus on or about July 10. This will be followed by integrated testing. Installation of the fairing around the spacecraft is planned for July 21 and mating to the L-1011 carrier aircraft on July 30.
SCISAT-1 weighs approximately 330 pounds and will be placed in a 400-mile-high polar orbit to investigate processes that control the distribution of ozone in the upper atmosphere.
Meanwhile, the Pegasus XL rocket is undergoing prelaunch preparations by Orbital Sciences Corporation at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. Mating of the first and second stage is occurring this week. The second Flight Simulation is also being performed.
The scientific mission of SCISAT-1 is to measure and understand the chemical processes that control the distribution of ozone in the Earth’s atmosphere, particularly at high altitudes. The data from the satellite will provide Canadian and international scientists with improved measurements relating to global ozone processes and help policymakers assess existing environmental policy and develop protective measures for improving the health of our atmosphere, preventing further ozone depletion. The mission is designed to last two years.
June 25, 2003
George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center
321/867-2468
MISSION: Mars Exploration Rover (MER-B/Opportunity)
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Delta II Heavy
LAUNCH PAD: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
LAUNCH DATE: June 28, 2003
LAUNCH TIME: 11:56:16 p.m. / 12:37:59 a.m. EDT
The Flight Readiness Review was held on June 21, and afterward, a decision was made to postpone the launch by at least a couple of days. Based on routine post-test inspections, the launch team elected to remove and replace a band of protective cork insulation on the Delta first stage that may not have been adhering properly. The location is below the forward attach points of the strap-on solid rocket boosters. Inspections of a second band located higher on the first stage showed that only minor work is necessary to assure that it is ready for launch.
All of the reapplication and repair of the cork insulation will be completed today. Normal countdown activities will then resume on Thursday, beginning with the fueling of the Delta second stage with its complement of storable hypergolic propellants. A countdown dress rehearsal will also be held on Thursday. The Launch Readiness Review will be held on Friday in the Mission Briefing Room at KSC.
The fairing was installed around the MER-B “Opportunity” spacecraft on June 21. Fairing closeouts will begin tonight. Integrated spacecraft/launch vehicle testing indicates that the flight systems are ready for launch.
At Pad 17-B on launch day, the mobile service tower will be retracted from around the Delta II about 3:30 p.m. if weather permits. Options are available to retract the mobile service tower later if there are thunderstorms in the vicinity and still reach one or both of the two available launch times.
Loading of the RP-1 fuel aboard the Delta first stage is nominally planned to begin at 9:16 p.m. followed by loading of liquid oxygen at about 10:06 p.m.
MISSION: Scientific Satellite (SCISAT-1) Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Pegasus XL
LAUNCH FACILITY: Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
LAUNCH DATE: August 2, 2003
LAUNCH TIME: 9:03:05 p.m. – 10:00:14 p.m. PDT
Arrival of the SCISAT spacecraft at Vandenberg Air Force Base from the Canadian Space Agency’s David Florida Laboratories is scheduled to occur today.
After arrival, the solar arrays will be mated to the vehicle, followed by spacecraft functional testing. SCISAT will be mated to the Pegasus on or about July 10. This will be followed by integrated testing. Installation of the fairing around the spacecraft is planned for July 21 and mating to the L-1011 carrier aircraft on July 30.
SCISAT-1 weighs approximately 330 pounds and will be placed in a 400-mile-high polar orbit to investigate processes that control the distribution of ozone in the upper atmosphere.
Meanwhile, the Pegasus XL rocket is undergoing prelaunch preparations by Orbital Sciences Corporation at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. Mating of the first and second stage is occurring this week. The second Flight Simulation is also being performed.
The scientific mission of SCISAT-1 is to measure and understand the chemical processes that control the distribution of ozone in the Earth’s atmosphere, particularly at high altitudes. The data from the satellite will provide Canadian and international scientists with improved measurements relating to global ozone processes and help policymakers assess existing environmental policy and develop protective measures for improving the health of our atmosphere, preventing further ozone depletion. The mission is designed to last two years.
Jason original callsign Loverboy
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
Eastern Range Operations Forecast
Op Number: F7336
Issued: 26 Jun 03
Valid: 28 Jun 03 11:56 p.m. EDT
Vehicle/Payload:
Delta II / MER-B
Location:
Pad 17-B
Launch Weather Officer:
Joel Tumbiolo
Synoptic Discussion:
No changes to forecast reasoning. By Friday, deep moisture, which has been confined to south FL will begin returning northward as a low pressure system, currently over the NW Caribbean, moves northward into the Gulf of Mexico. By Saturday, once the moisture is in place, normal local triggers (sea breeze, day time heating etc.) with result in the return of showers and thunderstorms. Main concern for the launch windows will be for remnant cloud cover associated with the showers and thunderstorms.
Clouds
Coverage
Bases (feet)
Tops (feet)
SCT030
2/8
3,000
6,000
BKN080
5/8
8,000
12,000
BKN250
6/8
25,000
27,000
Visibility:
7 miles
Wind:
160 degrees / 10 - 15 KTS
Pressure:
30.06 IN HG
Temperature:
78 F - 80 F
RH:
70%
Weather:
Mostly Cloudy
Solar Activity:
N/A
Overall probability of violating weather constraints:
40%
Primary concern(s):
Anvil Cloud Rule, Debris Cloud Rule, Thick Cloud Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 24 hour delay:
40%
Primary concern(s):
Anvil Cloud Rule, Debris Cloud Rule, Thick Cloud Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 48 hour delay:
40%
Primary concern(s):
Anvil Cloud Rule, Debris Cloud Rule, Thick Cloud Rule
Sunrise:
28 June 03 / 0628 EDT
29 June 03 / 0628 EDT
30 June 03 / 0628 EDT
Moonrise/
% illumination
28 June 03 / 0519 EDT / 1%
29 June 03 / 0607 EDT / 0%
30 June 03 / 0701 EDT / 1%
Sunset:
28 June 03 / 2024 EDT
29 June 03 / 2024 EDT
30 June 03 / 2024 EDT
Moonset:
28 June 03 / 1947 EDT
29 June 03 / 2042 EDT
30 June 03 / 2133 EDT
Next forecast will be issued:
27 June 03
-------------------------------------------------------------
For automatic email subscriptions to this KSC originated press releases, send an Internet electronic mail message to mailto:[email protected]. With no subject or message. The system will reply with a confirmation via e-mail of each subscription.
To remove your name from the list at any time, send an email addressed to mailto:[email protected] . With no subject or message.
or you can (un)subscribe on the World Wide Web at: http://kscnews.ksc.nasa.gov/
Status reports and other NASA publications are available on the World Wide Web at: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/kscpao.htm .
Op Number: F7336
Issued: 26 Jun 03
Valid: 28 Jun 03 11:56 p.m. EDT
Vehicle/Payload:
Delta II / MER-B
Location:
Pad 17-B
Launch Weather Officer:
Joel Tumbiolo
Synoptic Discussion:
No changes to forecast reasoning. By Friday, deep moisture, which has been confined to south FL will begin returning northward as a low pressure system, currently over the NW Caribbean, moves northward into the Gulf of Mexico. By Saturday, once the moisture is in place, normal local triggers (sea breeze, day time heating etc.) with result in the return of showers and thunderstorms. Main concern for the launch windows will be for remnant cloud cover associated with the showers and thunderstorms.
Clouds
Coverage
Bases (feet)
Tops (feet)
SCT030
2/8
3,000
6,000
BKN080
5/8
8,000
12,000
BKN250
6/8
25,000
27,000
Visibility:
7 miles
Wind:
160 degrees / 10 - 15 KTS
Pressure:
30.06 IN HG
Temperature:
78 F - 80 F
RH:
70%
Weather:
Mostly Cloudy
Solar Activity:
N/A
Overall probability of violating weather constraints:
40%
Primary concern(s):
Anvil Cloud Rule, Debris Cloud Rule, Thick Cloud Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 24 hour delay:
40%
Primary concern(s):
Anvil Cloud Rule, Debris Cloud Rule, Thick Cloud Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 48 hour delay:
40%
Primary concern(s):
Anvil Cloud Rule, Debris Cloud Rule, Thick Cloud Rule
Sunrise:
28 June 03 / 0628 EDT
29 June 03 / 0628 EDT
30 June 03 / 0628 EDT
Moonrise/
% illumination
28 June 03 / 0519 EDT / 1%
29 June 03 / 0607 EDT / 0%
30 June 03 / 0701 EDT / 1%
Sunset:
28 June 03 / 2024 EDT
29 June 03 / 2024 EDT
30 June 03 / 2024 EDT
Moonset:
28 June 03 / 1947 EDT
29 June 03 / 2042 EDT
30 June 03 / 2133 EDT
Next forecast will be issued:
27 June 03
-------------------------------------------------------------
For automatic email subscriptions to this KSC originated press releases, send an Internet electronic mail message to mailto:[email protected]. With no subject or message. The system will reply with a confirmation via e-mail of each subscription.
To remove your name from the list at any time, send an email addressed to mailto:[email protected] . With no subject or message.
or you can (un)subscribe on the World Wide Web at: http://kscnews.ksc.nasa.gov/
Status reports and other NASA publications are available on the World Wide Web at: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/kscpao.htm .
Jason original callsign Loverboy
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
NASA News
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
John F. Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center, Florida 32899
AC 321-867-2468
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________
For Release: June 30, 2003
George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center
321-867-2468
KSC Release No: 53 - 03
MER-B LAUNCH OF "OPPORTUNITY" SPACECRAFT POSTPONED TO SATURDAY, JULY 5
The launch of the MER-B "Opportunity" Mars Exploration Rover aboard the Boeing Delta II Heavy Iaunch vehicle has been postponed to no earlier than Saturday, July 5.
A decision was made today to take additional time to perform tests on the process used to bond the cork insulation to the surface of the Delta II launch vehicle. These tests should be complete late on Wednesday.
The launch times on Saturday evening are: 10:51:25 p.m. and 11:34:05 p.m. EDT.
Note to Editors:
Omar Baez, NASA launch director for MER-B, will be available at the KSC press site on Tuesday at 10 a.m. for an informal meeting with news media who would like to ask questions about the latest postponement.
-- end --
-------------------------------------------------------------
For automatic email subscriptions to this KSC originated press releases, send an Internet electronic mail message to mailto:[email protected]. With no subject or message. The system will reply with a confirmation via e-mail of each subscription.
To remove your name from the list at any time, send an email addressed to mailto:[email protected] . With no subject or message.
or you can (un)subscribe on the World Wide Web at: http://kscnews.ksc.nasa.gov/
Status reports and other NASA publications are available on the World Wide Web at: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/kscpao.htm .
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
John F. Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center, Florida 32899
AC 321-867-2468
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________
For Release: June 30, 2003
George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center
321-867-2468
KSC Release No: 53 - 03
MER-B LAUNCH OF "OPPORTUNITY" SPACECRAFT POSTPONED TO SATURDAY, JULY 5
The launch of the MER-B "Opportunity" Mars Exploration Rover aboard the Boeing Delta II Heavy Iaunch vehicle has been postponed to no earlier than Saturday, July 5.
A decision was made today to take additional time to perform tests on the process used to bond the cork insulation to the surface of the Delta II launch vehicle. These tests should be complete late on Wednesday.
The launch times on Saturday evening are: 10:51:25 p.m. and 11:34:05 p.m. EDT.
Note to Editors:
Omar Baez, NASA launch director for MER-B, will be available at the KSC press site on Tuesday at 10 a.m. for an informal meeting with news media who would like to ask questions about the latest postponement.
-- end --
-------------------------------------------------------------
For automatic email subscriptions to this KSC originated press releases, send an Internet electronic mail message to mailto:[email protected]. With no subject or message. The system will reply with a confirmation via e-mail of each subscription.
To remove your name from the list at any time, send an email addressed to mailto:[email protected] . With no subject or message.
or you can (un)subscribe on the World Wide Web at: http://kscnews.ksc.nasa.gov/
Status reports and other NASA publications are available on the World Wide Web at: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/kscpao.htm .
Jason original callsign Loverboy
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SPACECRAFT AND EXPENDABLE VEHICLES STATUS REPORT
July 3, 2003
George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center
321/867-2468
MISSION: Mars Exploration Rover (MER-B/Opportunity)
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Delta II Heavy
LAUNCH PAD: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
LAUNCH DATE: July 6, 2003
LAUNCH TIME: 10:43:16 p.m. / 11:26:02 p.m. EDT
The launch of the MER-B Mars Exploration Rover has been rescheduled to occur on Sunday, July 6. A loading of the first stage of the Delta launch vehicle with liquid oxygen is currently scheduled for Saturday morning. This is being done to assure launch vehicle engineers that proper bonding of the cork insulation with the surface of the first stage has been achieved. Meanwhile, other related test and evaluation continues. A launch readiness review is scheduled for Saturday afternoon.
On launch day, Sunday, the gantry-like mobile service tower will be retracted from around the vehicle at 3:30 p.m. Loading of the RP-1 fuel, a highly refined kerosene, will begin at 8:03 p.m. Loading of liquid oxygen will follow at 8:53 p.m.
MISSION: Scientific Satellite (SCISAT-1) Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Pegasus XL
LAUNCH FACILITY: Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
LAUNCH DATE: August 2, 2003 (Under Review)
LAUNCH TIME: 9:03:05 p.m. - 10:00:14 p.m. PDT
Arrival of the SCISAT spacecraft at Vandenberg Air Force Base from the Canadian Space Agency's David Florida Laboratories occurred as scheduled on June 25. Instrument checkout and spacecraft functional testing is under way.
The solar arrays will be attached to the vehicle on or about July 10.
Meanwhile, the Pegasus XL rocket is undergoing prelaunch preparations by Orbital Sciences Corporation at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. Mating of the first stage to the second stage was completed June 24. Mating of the second stage to the third stage was completed the following day on June 25. The second Flight Simulation was completed as planned on Wednesday, July 2.
SCISAT-1 weighs approximately 330 pounds and will be placed in a 400-mile-high polar orbit to investigate processes that control the distribution of ozone in the upper atmosphere.
The scientific mission of SCISAT-1 is to measure and understand the chemical processes that control the distribution of ozone in the Earth's atmosphere, particularly at high altitudes. The data from the satellite will provide Canadian and international scientists with improved measurements relating to global ozone processes and help policymakers assess existing environmental policy and develop protective measures for improving the health of our atmosphere, preventing further ozone depletion. The mission is designed to last two years.
MISSION: Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF)
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Delta II Heavy
LAUNCH PAD: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
LAUNCH DATE: August 23, 2003
LAUNCH TIME: 12:37:30 a.m. EDT
The SIRTF observatory is in NASA's class 10,000 laminar flow clean room at spacecraft Hangar AE awaiting its return to the launch pad in early August.
The launch period extends to September 9.
SIRTF is the fourth and final element in NASA's family of orbiting "Great Observatories." All objects in the universe with temperatures above absolute zero (-460 F) emit some infrared radiation, or heat. Infrared wavelengths lie beyond the red portion of the visible spectrum, and are invisible to the human eye.
Most infrared light emitted by celestial objects is absorbed by Earth's atmosphere. Scientists rely on orbiting telescopes, such as SIRTF, to capture data on celestial objects and phenomena that are too dim, distant or cool to study using ground-based telescopes or by other astronomical techniques.
Project management of SIRTF for NASA is by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The observatory was built for NASA by Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace.
# # #
-------------------------------------------------------------
For automatic email subscriptions to this KSC originated press releases, send an Internet electronic mail message to mailto:[email protected]. With no subject or message. The system will reply with a confirmation via e-mail of each subscription.
To remove your name from the list at any time, send an email addressed to mailto:[email protected] . With no subject or message.
or you can (un)subscribe on the World Wide Web at: http://kscnews.ksc.nasa.gov/
Status reports and other NASA publications are available on the World Wide Web at: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/kscpao.htm .
July 3, 2003
George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center
321/867-2468
MISSION: Mars Exploration Rover (MER-B/Opportunity)
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Delta II Heavy
LAUNCH PAD: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
LAUNCH DATE: July 6, 2003
LAUNCH TIME: 10:43:16 p.m. / 11:26:02 p.m. EDT
The launch of the MER-B Mars Exploration Rover has been rescheduled to occur on Sunday, July 6. A loading of the first stage of the Delta launch vehicle with liquid oxygen is currently scheduled for Saturday morning. This is being done to assure launch vehicle engineers that proper bonding of the cork insulation with the surface of the first stage has been achieved. Meanwhile, other related test and evaluation continues. A launch readiness review is scheduled for Saturday afternoon.
On launch day, Sunday, the gantry-like mobile service tower will be retracted from around the vehicle at 3:30 p.m. Loading of the RP-1 fuel, a highly refined kerosene, will begin at 8:03 p.m. Loading of liquid oxygen will follow at 8:53 p.m.
MISSION: Scientific Satellite (SCISAT-1) Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Pegasus XL
LAUNCH FACILITY: Vandenberg Air Force Base, California
LAUNCH DATE: August 2, 2003 (Under Review)
LAUNCH TIME: 9:03:05 p.m. - 10:00:14 p.m. PDT
Arrival of the SCISAT spacecraft at Vandenberg Air Force Base from the Canadian Space Agency's David Florida Laboratories occurred as scheduled on June 25. Instrument checkout and spacecraft functional testing is under way.
The solar arrays will be attached to the vehicle on or about July 10.
Meanwhile, the Pegasus XL rocket is undergoing prelaunch preparations by Orbital Sciences Corporation at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. Mating of the first stage to the second stage was completed June 24. Mating of the second stage to the third stage was completed the following day on June 25. The second Flight Simulation was completed as planned on Wednesday, July 2.
SCISAT-1 weighs approximately 330 pounds and will be placed in a 400-mile-high polar orbit to investigate processes that control the distribution of ozone in the upper atmosphere.
The scientific mission of SCISAT-1 is to measure and understand the chemical processes that control the distribution of ozone in the Earth's atmosphere, particularly at high altitudes. The data from the satellite will provide Canadian and international scientists with improved measurements relating to global ozone processes and help policymakers assess existing environmental policy and develop protective measures for improving the health of our atmosphere, preventing further ozone depletion. The mission is designed to last two years.
MISSION: Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF)
LAUNCH VEHICLE: Delta II Heavy
LAUNCH PAD: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
LAUNCH DATE: August 23, 2003
LAUNCH TIME: 12:37:30 a.m. EDT
The SIRTF observatory is in NASA's class 10,000 laminar flow clean room at spacecraft Hangar AE awaiting its return to the launch pad in early August.
The launch period extends to September 9.
SIRTF is the fourth and final element in NASA's family of orbiting "Great Observatories." All objects in the universe with temperatures above absolute zero (-460 F) emit some infrared radiation, or heat. Infrared wavelengths lie beyond the red portion of the visible spectrum, and are invisible to the human eye.
Most infrared light emitted by celestial objects is absorbed by Earth's atmosphere. Scientists rely on orbiting telescopes, such as SIRTF, to capture data on celestial objects and phenomena that are too dim, distant or cool to study using ground-based telescopes or by other astronomical techniques.
Project management of SIRTF for NASA is by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The observatory was built for NASA by Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace.
# # #
-------------------------------------------------------------
For automatic email subscriptions to this KSC originated press releases, send an Internet electronic mail message to mailto:[email protected]. With no subject or message. The system will reply with a confirmation via e-mail of each subscription.
To remove your name from the list at any time, send an email addressed to mailto:[email protected] . With no subject or message.
or you can (un)subscribe on the World Wide Web at: http://kscnews.ksc.nasa.gov/
Status reports and other NASA publications are available on the World Wide Web at: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/kscpao.htm .
Jason original callsign Loverboy
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
Eastern Range Operations Forecast
Issued: 3 July 03
Valid: 6 July 03 10:43 p.m. 11:26 p.m. EDT
Vehicle/Payload:
Delta II / MER-B
Location:
Pad 17-B
Launch Weather Officer:
Joel Tumbiolo
Synoptic Discussion:
High pressure ridge axis will be over central FL by the weekend. This will result in SE flow through a good portion of the lower atmosphere. Most sea breeze induced thunderstorm activity will be confined interior sections of central FL by the afternoon and evening. Main concern for the launch windows will be from remnant cloud cover associated with the afternoon thunderstorms, and any showers and thunderstorms that may develop off shore during the evening.
Clouds
Coverage
Bases (feet)
Tops (feet)
SCT030
2/8
3,000
6,000
SCT080
5/8
8,000
12,000
BKN250
6/8
25,000
27,000
Visibility:
7 miles
Wind:
150 degrees / 8 - 12 KTS
Pressure:
30.06 IN HG
Temperature:
78 F - 80 F
RH:
80%
Weather:
Mostly Cloudy
Overall probability of violating weather constraints:
30%
Primary concern(s):
Cumulus Cloud Rule, Anvil Cloud Rule, Debris Cloud Rule, Thick Cloud Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 24 hour delay:
30%
Primary concern(s):
Same
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 48 hour delay:
30%
Primary concern(s):
Same
Sunrise:
6 July 03 / 0631 EDT
7 July 03 / 0632 EDT
Moonrise/
% illumination
6 July 03 / 1306 EDT / 50%
7 July 03 / 1408 EDT / 56 %
Sunset:
6 July 03 / 2023 EDT
7 July 03 / 2023 EDT
Moonset:
7 July 03 / 0121 EDT
8 July 03 / 0156 EDT
Next forecast will be issued:
5 July 03
-------------------------------------------------------------
For automatic email subscriptions to this KSC originated press releases, send an Internet electronic mail message to mailto:[email protected]. With no subject or message. The system will reply with a confirmation via e-mail of each subscription.
To remove your name from the list at any time, send an email addressed to mailto:[email protected] . With no subject or message.
or you can (un)subscribe on the World Wide Web at: http://kscnews.ksc.nasa.gov/
Status reports and other NASA publications are available on the World Wide Web at: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/kscpao.htm .
Issued: 3 July 03
Valid: 6 July 03 10:43 p.m. 11:26 p.m. EDT
Vehicle/Payload:
Delta II / MER-B
Location:
Pad 17-B
Launch Weather Officer:
Joel Tumbiolo
Synoptic Discussion:
High pressure ridge axis will be over central FL by the weekend. This will result in SE flow through a good portion of the lower atmosphere. Most sea breeze induced thunderstorm activity will be confined interior sections of central FL by the afternoon and evening. Main concern for the launch windows will be from remnant cloud cover associated with the afternoon thunderstorms, and any showers and thunderstorms that may develop off shore during the evening.
Clouds
Coverage
Bases (feet)
Tops (feet)
SCT030
2/8
3,000
6,000
SCT080
5/8
8,000
12,000
BKN250
6/8
25,000
27,000
Visibility:
7 miles
Wind:
150 degrees / 8 - 12 KTS
Pressure:
30.06 IN HG
Temperature:
78 F - 80 F
RH:
80%
Weather:
Mostly Cloudy
Overall probability of violating weather constraints:
30%
Primary concern(s):
Cumulus Cloud Rule, Anvil Cloud Rule, Debris Cloud Rule, Thick Cloud Rule
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 24 hour delay:
30%
Primary concern(s):
Same
Overall probability of violating weather constraints for 48 hour delay:
30%
Primary concern(s):
Same
Sunrise:
6 July 03 / 0631 EDT
7 July 03 / 0632 EDT
Moonrise/
% illumination
6 July 03 / 1306 EDT / 50%
7 July 03 / 1408 EDT / 56 %
Sunset:
6 July 03 / 2023 EDT
7 July 03 / 2023 EDT
Moonset:
7 July 03 / 0121 EDT
8 July 03 / 0156 EDT
Next forecast will be issued:
5 July 03
-------------------------------------------------------------
For automatic email subscriptions to this KSC originated press releases, send an Internet electronic mail message to mailto:[email protected]. With no subject or message. The system will reply with a confirmation via e-mail of each subscription.
To remove your name from the list at any time, send an email addressed to mailto:[email protected] . With no subject or message.
or you can (un)subscribe on the World Wide Web at: http://kscnews.ksc.nasa.gov/
Status reports and other NASA publications are available on the World Wide Web at: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/kscpao.htm .
Jason original callsign Loverboy
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
NASA News
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
John F. Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center, Florida 32899
AC 321-867-2468
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________
For Release: July 6, 2003
Don Savage
NASA Headquarters
202/358-1727
George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center
321/867-2468
Guy Webster
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
818/354-6278
KSC Release No: 57-03
NOTE TO EDITORS/NEWS DIRECTORS (REVISION):
"OPPORTUNITY" MARS EXPLORATION ROVER TARGETED FOR LAUNCH
MONDAY, JULY 7
The second of two Mars Exploration Rovers, Opportunity, is rescheduled for launch Monday, July 7 at 10:35:23 p.m. EDT. Liftoff will occur aboard the Boeing Delta II Heavy launch vehicle from Pad B at Space Launch Complex 17 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. A second launch opportunity exists at 11:18:15 p.m. EDT, if necessary. Should launch be delayed by 24 hours, two launch times are also available on Tuesday at 10:27:46 p.m. and 11:10:44 p.m. EDT. The window of the planetary launch period extends through July 15.
Mission managers reported at 6 p.m. today that everything is on track to replace a battery with a failed cell associated with a component of the launch vehicle's flight termination system. Based on an expected successful installation and evaluation of the new battery tonight and tomorrow morning, mission managers were able to schedule Monday's launch attempt.
Opportunity will reach Mars on Jan. 25, 2004. Together the two MER rovers, Spirit and Opportunity, seek to determine the history of climate and water at two sites on Mars where conditions may once have been favorable to life. The rovers are identical. Each rover carries five scientific instruments including a panoramic camera and microscope, plus a rock abrasion tool that will grind away the outer surfaces of rocks to expose their interiors for examination. The rovers each weigh approximately 400 pounds. They will navigate themselves around obstacles as they drive across the Martian surface, traveling up to about 130 feet each Martian day. Each rover's prime mission is planned to last three months on Mars.
ACCREDITATION
On launch day, Monday, July 7, badges to cover the MER-B launch from the Trident Bluff press viewing area will be issued to all media starting at 9:00 p.m. at the Pass and Identification Building on State Road 401 outside Gate 1 of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Proof of identification and news media affiliation will be required. Departure for the Trident Bluff will be at 9:20 p.m. After launch, media will be escorted back to Gate 1. A U.S. Air Force or NASA escort is required at all times while on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
For further information on MER-B launch accreditation, contact Cynthia Pettiford at the NASA-KSC News Center at 321-867-2468.
L-1 DAY SET UP OF REMOTE CAMERAS
Media wishing to establish remote cameras at the launch pad should meet at the Gate 1 Pass and Identification Building of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on State Road 401 on launch day, Monday, July 7, at 11:45 a.m. to be escorted to Space Launch Complex 17.
PRESS SITE OPERATING HOURS
The NASA-KSC News Center will not be open after the normal close of business at 4:30 p.m. on Monday. All media activities will be conducted from the remote press site located at the Trident Bluff on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
NASA TELEVISION COVERAGE, "V" CIRCUITS, AND LAUNCH STATUS
Launch coverage on NASA Television will begin at 8:30 p.m. on Monday, July 7. Coverage will conclude after acquisition of the spacecraft by the Deep Space Network approximately one hour and forty minutes after launch, at which time the spacecraft's initial state of health will be reported.
There will not be a post-launch press conference.
NASA Television is available on satellite AMC-2, transponder 9C, located at 85 degrees West longitude.
Audio only of NASA Television coverage of the launch will be available on the "V" circuits which may be dialed directly at 321/867-1220, 867-1240, 867-1260, 867-7135.
The NASA-KSC News Center codaphone will carry recorded MER-B prelaunch status reports on Monday, July 7 that may be dialed at 321-867-2525.
"NASA DIRECT!" WEB COVERAGE
"NASA Direct!" webcast coverage of the launch will begin at 8:30 p.m. EDT on Monday, July 7. For more information on the MER-B/Opportunity web activities, go to
<http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/elvnew/merb/index.htm>
For a detailed NASA Direct! event calendar, go to:
<http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/nasadirect/index.htm>
Information about the MER missions is available online at:
<http://mars.jpl.nasa.gov/mer/>
-- end --
National Aeronautics and
Space Administration
John F. Kennedy Space Center
Kennedy Space Center, Florida 32899
AC 321-867-2468
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________
For Release: July 6, 2003
Don Savage
NASA Headquarters
202/358-1727
George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center
321/867-2468
Guy Webster
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
818/354-6278
KSC Release No: 57-03
NOTE TO EDITORS/NEWS DIRECTORS (REVISION):
"OPPORTUNITY" MARS EXPLORATION ROVER TARGETED FOR LAUNCH
MONDAY, JULY 7
The second of two Mars Exploration Rovers, Opportunity, is rescheduled for launch Monday, July 7 at 10:35:23 p.m. EDT. Liftoff will occur aboard the Boeing Delta II Heavy launch vehicle from Pad B at Space Launch Complex 17 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. A second launch opportunity exists at 11:18:15 p.m. EDT, if necessary. Should launch be delayed by 24 hours, two launch times are also available on Tuesday at 10:27:46 p.m. and 11:10:44 p.m. EDT. The window of the planetary launch period extends through July 15.
Mission managers reported at 6 p.m. today that everything is on track to replace a battery with a failed cell associated with a component of the launch vehicle's flight termination system. Based on an expected successful installation and evaluation of the new battery tonight and tomorrow morning, mission managers were able to schedule Monday's launch attempt.
Opportunity will reach Mars on Jan. 25, 2004. Together the two MER rovers, Spirit and Opportunity, seek to determine the history of climate and water at two sites on Mars where conditions may once have been favorable to life. The rovers are identical. Each rover carries five scientific instruments including a panoramic camera and microscope, plus a rock abrasion tool that will grind away the outer surfaces of rocks to expose their interiors for examination. The rovers each weigh approximately 400 pounds. They will navigate themselves around obstacles as they drive across the Martian surface, traveling up to about 130 feet each Martian day. Each rover's prime mission is planned to last three months on Mars.
ACCREDITATION
On launch day, Monday, July 7, badges to cover the MER-B launch from the Trident Bluff press viewing area will be issued to all media starting at 9:00 p.m. at the Pass and Identification Building on State Road 401 outside Gate 1 of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Proof of identification and news media affiliation will be required. Departure for the Trident Bluff will be at 9:20 p.m. After launch, media will be escorted back to Gate 1. A U.S. Air Force or NASA escort is required at all times while on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
For further information on MER-B launch accreditation, contact Cynthia Pettiford at the NASA-KSC News Center at 321-867-2468.
L-1 DAY SET UP OF REMOTE CAMERAS
Media wishing to establish remote cameras at the launch pad should meet at the Gate 1 Pass and Identification Building of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on State Road 401 on launch day, Monday, July 7, at 11:45 a.m. to be escorted to Space Launch Complex 17.
PRESS SITE OPERATING HOURS
The NASA-KSC News Center will not be open after the normal close of business at 4:30 p.m. on Monday. All media activities will be conducted from the remote press site located at the Trident Bluff on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
NASA TELEVISION COVERAGE, "V" CIRCUITS, AND LAUNCH STATUS
Launch coverage on NASA Television will begin at 8:30 p.m. on Monday, July 7. Coverage will conclude after acquisition of the spacecraft by the Deep Space Network approximately one hour and forty minutes after launch, at which time the spacecraft's initial state of health will be reported.
There will not be a post-launch press conference.
NASA Television is available on satellite AMC-2, transponder 9C, located at 85 degrees West longitude.
Audio only of NASA Television coverage of the launch will be available on the "V" circuits which may be dialed directly at 321/867-1220, 867-1240, 867-1260, 867-7135.
The NASA-KSC News Center codaphone will carry recorded MER-B prelaunch status reports on Monday, July 7 that may be dialed at 321-867-2525.
"NASA DIRECT!" WEB COVERAGE
"NASA Direct!" webcast coverage of the launch will begin at 8:30 p.m. EDT on Monday, July 7. For more information on the MER-B/Opportunity web activities, go to
<http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/elvnew/merb/index.htm>
For a detailed NASA Direct! event calendar, go to:
<http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/nasadirect/index.htm>
Information about the MER missions is available online at:
<http://mars.jpl.nasa.gov/mer/>
-- end --
Jason original callsign Loverboy
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador
SC 1991
SA Level 1 1993
AC Intermediate 1996
ASA 1998
Corporate Space Camp 2005
AC Counselor Summer 07 callsign Boomerang
Adult Alumni Camp 2007
Adult Alumni Camp 2008
Official Space Camp Ambassador