CAPE CANAVERAL, Florida -- The Atlas V
launch of the Radiation Belt Storm Probes spacecraft has a 70% weather
chance for launch at 4:07 a.m. EDT on Friday August 24, 2012.
Launch managers completed a readiness poll and gave a “go” to load
cryogenic propellants into the Atlas V rocket. Liftoff is targeted for
the beginning of a 20-minute launch window at 4:07 a.m. EDT.
There is a 70 percent chance of acceptable weather conditions at launch time, with a slight concern for thick clouds.
The Atlas V will carry Radiation Belt Storm Probes into space from Space Launch Complex-41 at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.
There is a 70 percent chance of acceptable weather conditions at launch time, with a slight concern for thick clouds.
The Atlas V will carry Radiation Belt Storm Probes into space from Space Launch Complex-41 at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.
The USAF 45th Weather Squadron says that
meteorological models are indicating less chance for cloud cover;
therefore, the probability of violating weather constraints decreased
to 30%.
The primary concern for launch Friday
morning is a thick cloud rule violation. Friday evening, easterly flow
will set in as the front washes out and Tropical Storm Isaac moves into
the Caribbean near Hispaniola, potentially as a category 1 hurricane.
The primary concerns for a Saturday morning launch will be coastal
showers causing a cumulus cloud violation.
IMAGE CREDIT: NASA
VIDEO: NASA TV
