[Launch Alert] Launch Delay Details

[kd6nrp at earthlink.net]

The following statement was released by NASA and the United Launch Alliance (the launch services contractor) regarding this morning's Vandenberg AFB launch cancellation:

"The launch of the NOAA-N Prime weather satellite was scrubbed at 2 a.m. this morning when a launch pad gaseous nitrogen pressurization system failed.  This system maintains pressurization and purges to various systems of the Delta II rocket prior to launch.  Immediate repair to this system is being undertaken.  The next launch attempt will be no earlier than Thursday, Feb. 5 at 2:22 a.m. PST., weather permitting.
 
The launch team will gather at mid-day Wednesday to review the facility readiness and the weather forecast for launch.  
 
Note:  Weather forecast currently calls for an 80 percent chance for violation during the launch window for Thursday due to an approaching front."

Although the sky is currently clear here at my office just east of Santa Barbara, the forecast for Thursday morning calls for only a 20% probability of weather that is within acceptable limits. That is not very promising.

Finally, Iran launched OMID, its first satellite yesterday. Space enthusiasts report hearing signals from the spacecraft on 465.0 MHz. For pass times, consult the Heavens Above web site.

Regards,

Brian Webb