Managers determined all systems were "go" during a Launch Readiness Review this morning. A review of the Eastern Range's readiness to support the launch was to follow.
The weather forecast is promising during Friday's 40-minute launch window, which closes at 2:54 p.m.
Air Force meteorologists predict a 70 percent chance of favorable weather conditions, with a possibility of heavy cloud cover. The forecast improves to 80 percent "go" on Saturday, if needed.
The 189-foot-tall rocket is scheduled to roll from its vertical hangar to the pad at Launch Complex 41 at 10 a.m. Thursday.
The $1.2-billion satellite built by Lockheed Martin, known as GEO-1, is the first launched to a geosynchronous orbit under the Air Force's Space Based Infrared System program, or SBIRS, which is replacing the Defense Support Program constellation.
The satellite will enhance early warning of missile launches and support other missions including ballistic missile defense, technical intelligence gathering and enhanced situational awareness for warfighters, according to the Air Force.
1 comment:
Go Atlas 5!
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