The launch of NASA’s MESSENGER spacecraft aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket was postponed this morning due to lightning potential from residual clouds that were associated with Tropical Storm Alex. The launch has been rescheduled for Tuesday, August 3 at 2:15:56 a.m. EDT at the opening of a 12-second launch window. The weather forecast calls for a 30% chance of not meeting the launch weather criteria.
Launch coverage on NASA Television will begin at 12:01 a.m. EDT on satellite AMC-6 but will move from Transponder 9 to Transponder 5. AMC-6 is located at 73 degrees West longitude. In Alaska and Hawaii, MESSENGER coverage will be on AMC-7, Transponder 17 located at 137 degrees West longitude.
Audio of the launch commentary and countdown activities will be carried on the “V” circuits starting at 11 p.m. and may be accessed by dialing 321/867-1220 … 1240 … 1260. “Mission Audio” for countdown activities only will be carried on 321/867-7135.
A tower rollback photo opportunity for the news media will be available with departure at 4:30 p.m. from the Gate 1 Pass and Identification Building on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
