Atlas 3 countdown [launch scrubbed]

Space.com ^ | 12/15/2003 | Jim Banke, Space.com

[NonValueAdded]

ILS Atlas 3B
Dec. 15, 2003
9:38 to 11:38 p.m. EST
(0238 to 0438 GMT Dec. 16)

An International Launch Services Atlas 3B rocket, built by Lockheed Martin, is to carry the Ultra-High Frequency Follow-On (UFO) F11 communications satellite into Earth orbit on a commercial mission launched from Cape Canaveral.

Satellite Broadcast Information
Galaxy 3, transponder 5, C-band

[NonValueAdded]

Thanks for the update, Stars. Bummer.

[Stars N Stripes]

Yeah, no new launch date set as yet... Oh well, back to the football game! :O)

[ChemistCat]

A scrubbed launch is so much better than a lost bird. I'm always glad when they put off till tomorrow what they found likely to fail today.

I pray they scrub the right ones, especially when they're manned, but even when they're not. Not one payload is frivolous.

[Stars N Stripes]

0250 GMT (9:50 p.m. EST)

A little more detail is confirmed from Lockheed Martin on this bolt-cutter. It is used as part of the separation system to release the rocket from the launch pad at liftoff. The device supports the Atlas first stage liquid oxygen fill and drain valve.

0245 GMT (9:45 p.m. EST)

Still no official word on when the launch will be rescheduled. If liftoff is reset for Tuesday night, the launch window extends from 9:34 to 11:34 p.m. EST. The two-hour window on Wednesday opens at 9:30 p.m. EST.

0235 GMT (9:35 p.m. EST)

Here is how the scrub decision was announced:

Anomaly Resolution Team: "The Anomaly Team has researched the bolt-cutter anomaly...The temperatures that it had dropped to is below the qualification temperature. At this time, we are recommending we stand down for tonight's operation."

Launch conductor: "Roger, concur."

Launch conductor: "Launch director, LC."

Launch director: "Go ahead."

Launch conductor: "Recommend we scrub tonight's operation."

Launch director: "Copy and concur, and let's make sure we have a spare ready to go to replace the bolt-cutter."

[NonValueAdded]

The rescheduled launch is set for Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2003 at 9:30 p.m. EST (0230 GMT Dec. 18).

[RGVTx]

Marking my spot.

I've got friends attending this launch. He works for Lockheed Martin and won a drawing to attend the launch on the company dime. I hope they get to see it.

[NonValueAdded]

The launch is on for 9:30PM Wednesday. See new thread with a better news source here: http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1042459/posts