tonight? NASA indicates there is an 80% chance of favorable weather at launch time (scheduled for 4:43 pm PDT.) Link to mission page. Updates will follow:10:30 am - the 500,000 gallon fuel tank has been filled with liquid oxygen and hydrogen and there are no signs of any leaks.
3:45 pm - the crew is aboard; hatch is closed; weather is 100% favorable.
4:14 pm - apparently a bat has been spotted roosting on the side of the external fuel tank. The assistant launch director says it isn't of any concern. I object!
4:37 pm - final system checks; auxiliary power units on; all is go.
4:43 pm - off it goes.
4:46 pm - solid rocket boosters have separated.
4:47 pm - velocity 5,000 mph; altitude 56 mi; down range 127 mi.
4:49 pm - 9,000 mph.
4:51 pm - 14,000 mph.
4:52 pm - main engines cut off, external fuel tank jettisoned. They're in orbit, moving at ~ 17,000 mph. Hey, it's nearly time for a cocktail.
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