STS-116 Mission Updates: Part 1
Crew Performs Unscheduled Inspection of Discovery Wing
11 December 2006 8:10 p.m. EST
HOUSTON – Williams' seat liner transfer has been interrupted by an unscheduled inspection of Discovery's wing leading edge by the station's robotic arm. The last-minute procedure was initiated to examine an impact event that was recorded by sensors at about 4:30 a.m. EST (0930 GMT), while the crew was still asleep. The results from the inspection have not been announced yet.
- Ker Than
Hatches Opened Between ISS and Discovery
11 December 2006 6:54 p.m. EST
HOUSTON – Hatch opening has occurred between the International Space Station (ISS) and shuttle Discovery, and the STS-116 crew is entering the orbital laboratory, where they will spend the next week as they go about their operations.
STS-116 mission specialist Sunita Williams will transfer her Soyuz spacecraft seat liner later tonight to the ISS, officially relieving German European Space Agency astronaut Thomas Reiter as flight engineer of Expedition 14. Williams will become the third woman to serve as part of an Expedition crew. She is preceded by Susan Helms of Expedition 2 and Peggy Whitson of Expedition 5.
- Ker Than
Discovery Closes in on International Space Station
11 December 2006 4:56 p.m. EST
HOUSTON – The shuttle Discovery is less than 80 feet from the berthing port on the International Space Station's Destiny module, and closing in at a slow 1/10th of a foot per second. Contact should occur in about 15 minutes.
- Ker Than
Discovery Does a Backflip
11 December 2006 4:08 p.m. EST
HOUSTON – STS-116 commander Mark Polansky is guiding the shuttle Discovery through a nose-over-tail backflip to allow the three-member Expedition 14 crew aboard the International Space Station to snap photos of heat shields on the craft's belly.
The so-called rendezvous pitch maneuver occurred while the two spacecraft were about 600 feet apart and floating about 220 miles above the South Pacific Ocean.
After the flip, Polansky will steer Discovery to about 300 feet in front of the ISS to line it up with the docking port on the station's U.S. Destiny module.
- Ker Than
Discovery TI Burn Complete
11 December 2006 2:31 p.m. EST
HOUSTON – STS-116 commander Mark Polansky has successfully performed a Terminal Initiation (TI) engine burn to put Discovery on a rendezvous path with the International Space Station (ISS).
"It's not everyday you get to do an orbital rendezvous," astronaut Kevin Ford said in mission control.
"I'll echo that," Polansky replied.
The orbiter was above the southern Pacific Ocean when the burn occurred.
Discovery is on track for a 5:05 p.m. EST (2205 GMT) docking with the ISS. Before bringing the orbiter to rest at the docking port of the ISS Destiny module, Polansky will guide the craft through a back-flip maneuver so the station's Expedition 14 crew can take pictures of heat shields on Discovery's underside.
- Ker Than
Discovery Crew Awake, Prepare for Busy Day
11 December 2006, 9:45 a.m. EST
HOUSTON – Discovery's seven are awake and preparing for a busy day ahead of them that includes the docking of the orbiter with the International Space Station (ISS) and the official transfer of STS-116 mission specialist Sunita "Suni" Williams to the crew of Expedition 14.
"Good morning Discovery, and a special good morning to Suni," NASA astronaut and spacecraft communicator Shannon Lucid said from ground control. "You need to rise and shine because today is the day that you say goodbye shuttle and hello station."
"Thanks, I can't wait to see my new home," Williams said.
Before docking, however, Discovery will first perform an engine burn at 2:28 p.m. EST (1928 GMT) that will put the shuttle on its rendezvous path with the ISS.
At around 4:05 p.m. EST (2105 GMT) STS-116 commander Mark Polansky will maneuver Discovery to a position about 600 feet directly below the orbital laboratory, after which he will guides orbiter through a 360-degree backflip so the ISS crew can photograph the heat shields on the craft's belly for damage. Discovery is scheduled to dock at the station at 5:05 p.m. EST (2205 GMT).
William's will transfer her Soyuz seat liner to the ISS at around 8 p.m. EST (0100 Dec. 12 GMT) and in so doing will officially relieve German astronaut Thomas Reiter as flight engineer of Expedition 14. After the transfer, the other STS-116 crewmembers will begin preparations for the mission's first spacewalk tomorrow to install a new $11 million ISS component.
- Ker Than
Shuttle Heat Shield Inspection Ahead for Discovery Astronauts
10 December 2006 11:00 a.m. EST
The seven astronauts aboard NASA’s space shuttle Discovery will spend their first full day in orbit inspecting their vehicle’s vital heat shield.
[Click here for a video description of the STS-116 crew’s heat shield inspection task].
Discovery’s STS-116 crew, commanded by veteran spaceflyer Mark Polansky, awoke at 10:47 a.m. EST (1547 GMT) to the song “Here Comes the Sun” by the Beatles. The astronauts launched into space at Saturday night in NASA’s first evening liftoff in four years.
Using Discovery’s 50-foot (15-meter) robotic arm and a sensor-laden extension boom, STS-116 mission specialist Nicholas Patrick will scan the wing leading edges and nose cap for signs of damage to the sensitive reinforced carbon carbon (RCC) panels.
The survey is scheduled to begin at about 3:27 p.m. EST (2027 GMT) and conclude about five hours later.
Patrick and his crewmates will also use cameras on Discovery’s robotic arm to survey the shuttle’s crew cabin and bulbous Orbital Maneuvering System pods on either side of its tail for any damage as well.
Mission managers will hold a press briefing on today’s activities beginning at 8:00 p.m. EST (0100 Dec. 11 GMT), which will be broadcast live on NASA TV.
NASA is broadcasting Discovery’s STS-116 mission live on NASA TV. Readers can tune in using SPACE.com’s NASA TV feed available at via the link on the left of this page.
- Tariq Malik
Discovery's STS-116 Mission Begins
9 December 2006, 9:10 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Discovery has reached orbit, and the seven STS-116 astronauts have officially embarked on their 12-day International Space Station conference.
A NASA Post Launch news conference is scheduled to begin at 9:45 p.m. EST (0245 Dec. 10 GMT). Readers can tune in using SPACE.com’s NASA TV feed available at via the link on the left of this page.
- Ker Than
Discovery Astronauts Reach Orbit
9 December 2006, 8:57 p.m. EST
The STS-116 astronauts aboard the space shuttle Discovery have discarded the 15-story external tank that fed the orbiter’s nearly nine-minute launch into space.
With the tank jettisoned, Discovery is now in orbit.
You are invited to follow Discovery’s flight using SPACE.com’s NASA TV feed available at via the link on the left of this page.
- Tariq Malik
Shuttle Engines Shut Down as Planned
9 December 2006, 8:57 p.m. EST
The five engines boosting Discovery and its external tank towards orbit have shut down as planned about eight and a half minutes into flight.
The spacecraft is flying towards its intended 122-mile high orbit, with the next major task is to discard the shuttle’s external tank.
You are invited to follow Discovery’s flight using SPACE.com’s NASA TV feed available at via the link on the left of this page.
- Tariq Malik
Solid Rocket Boosters Separate
9 December 2006, 8:51 p.m. EST
The twin solid rocket boosters assisting Discovery’s launch into space have separated as planned from the shuttle’s external tank.
The reusable boosters are designed to separate about two minutes and three seconds into launch, fall back toward the Atlantic Ocean and deploy parachutes to cushion their landing. They are equipped with cameras to record the performance of Discovery’s external tank and any foam loss seen during today’s ascent.
You are invited to follow Discovery’s flight using SPACE.com’s NASA TV feed available at via the link on the left of this page.
- Tariq Malik
Liftoff! Shuttle Discovery Launches Spaceward
9 December 2006, 8:48 p.m. EST
Liftoff! NASA’s space shuttle Discovery and its seven-astronaut crew has cleared the launch pad at Kennedy Space Center (KSC) in Cape Canaveral, Florida.
It should take the shuttle about 8 ½ minutes to reach orbit. The next major event will be the separation of Discovery’s two solid rocket boosters just after two minutes into the flight.
You are invited to follow Discovery’s flight using SPACE.com’s NASA TV feed available at via the link on the left of this page.
- Tariq Malik
Discovery ‘Go for Launch’
9 December 2006, 8:38 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Shuttle Discovery has been cleared for launch from Pad 39-B at the Kennedy Space Center on its 12-day mission to the International Space Station. The countdown has just picked up following the planned T-9 minute hold as final launch preparations are rushed to completion.
The mission management team has been polled and all have reported back ‘Go for launch.’ The seven STS-116 astronauts, led by mission commander Mark Polansky, are strapped into their seats, running through their pre-launch checklists and are closely monitoring their spacecraft systems for their ascent to orbit. Commander Polansky reports that the crew is “looking forward to lighting up the night sky.”
Launch time has been set for 8:47:35 p.m. EST (0147:35 GMT 10 Dec), with a 5-minute launch window. No technical issues are being worked at this time.
Weather conditions are now observed and forecast ‘Go’ on all fronts with no constraints to launch, crosswinds at the Shuttle Landing Facility remain within acceptable limits. The Eastern Range reports ‘Clear for launch.’
Over the next nine minutes, the Orbiter’s access arm will be retracted, the hydraulic power system (APU) started, the liquid hydrogen and oxygen tanks pressurized, Discovery’s internal flight computers will take control of the countdown and a booster steering test will be conducted. The three space shuttle main engines will ignite at T-minus 6.6 seconds and the twin solid rockets boosters will light at T-minus zero resulting in liftoff.
NASA will broadcast Discovery’s launch countdown and planned liftoff on NASA TV. You are invited to follow the countdown's progress using SPACE.com's feed, which is available by clicking here.
- Roger Guillemette
Shuttle Discovery Readied for Launch
9 December 2006, 8:17 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Shuttle Discovery is just 30 minutes away from liftoff on a mission to the International Space Station. The countdown clock is halted at the T-9 minute mark – the final planned, built-in hold remaining in the countdown.
Launch time has been set for 8:47:35 p.m. EST (0147:35 GMT 10 Dec), with a 5-minute launch window.
No technical issues are being worked at this time. Mission managers are polling members of the launch team to ensure that all is in readiness with Discovery and crew, poised for launch from the Kennedy Space Center’s Pad 39-B.
The seven STS-116 astronauts, led by mission commander Mark Polansky, are strapped into their seats, running through their pre-launch checklists and are closely monitoring their spacecraft systems for their ascent to orbit.
Weather conditions are now observed and forecast ‘Go’ on all fronts, the crosswinds at the Shuttle Landing Facility remain within acceptable limits. The primary Transoceanic Abort Landing (TAL) site is Moron, Spain – weather conditions at both of the TAL sites in Spain are favorable.
This is the second launch attempt for Discovery – the first attempt on Thursday was scrubbed due to unacceptable weather conditions.
- Roger Guillemette
Shuttle Discovery’s Hatch Sealed for Launch
9 December 2006, 7:35 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians at Kennedy Space Center’s Pad 39-B have closed and sealed Shuttle Discovery’s hatch in preparation for this evening’s scheduled launch on a 12-day mission to the International Space Station.
The countdown clock is halted at the T-20 minute mark – a planned built-in hold. The Close Out crew have buttoned-up the spacecraft and departed the launch pad.
Inside, the seven STS-116 astronauts are strapped into their seats, running through their pre-launch checklists and configuring the cockpit for the spacecraft’s ascent to orbit. Discovery’s hatch closure occurred at about 6:33 p.m. EDT (2333 GMT).
Launch time remains set for 8:47:35 p.m. EST (0147:35 GMT 10 Dec), with a 5-minute launch window – a final adjustment of the launch time will be made at the T-9 minute hold to more precisely align with the space station's orbit.
There is very little chatter on the communications loops indicative of a smooth countdown to this point. The launch team is not working any technical issues at this time.
Weather conditions have turned mostly favorable, with the Launch Weather Officer predicting a 70% probability of acceptable conditions at launch time – although crosswinds at the Shuttle Landing Facility are being closely monitored. Moron, Spain – weather conditions at both of the TAL sites in Spain are favorable.
This is the second launch attempt for Discovery – the first attempt on Thursday was scrubbed due to unacceptable weather conditions.
- Roger Guillemette
Weather Improves for Discovery Launch
9 December 2006, 7:00 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Weather conditions have taken a dramatic turn-for-the-better at Florida’s Kennedy Space Center and launch officials are becoming increasingly optimistic that Shuttle Discovery will be cleared for launch tonight on a 12-day mission to the International Space Station.
Launch Weather Officer Kathy Winters has just upgraded the official forecast to a 70% probability of acceptable conditions at launch time – crosswinds at the Shuttle Landing Facility are being closely monitored but are predicted to be within allowable limits.
The seven Discovery astronauts are now strapped into their seats in preparation for this evening’s launch attempt from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Pad 39-B and the Orbiter’s hatch has been closed and sealed in anticipation of tonight’s launch attempt. A series of cabin leak checks and a final alignment of the spacecraft’s guidance systems are now in progress.
Mission commander Mark Polansky, pilot Bill Oefelein and crew have completed a series of communications checks to ensure that the astronauts can talk to flight controllers and each other during the spacecraft’s ascent to orbit.
Discovery’s launch time remains set for 8:47:35 p.m. EST (0147:35 GMT 10 Dec), with a 5-minute launch window – a final adjustment of the launch time will be made at the T-9 minute hold to more precisely align with the space station's orbit.
The launch team is not working any technical or vehicle issues at this time. The final inspection team has departed the launch pad and is making their report to the mission managers – no issues have been reported and only a minimal amount of frost is visible on the launch pad.
- Roger Guillemette
Discovery Astronauts Strapped-In for Launch
9 December 2006, 6:10 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The seven Discovery astronauts are now strapped into their seats in preparation for this evening’s launch attempt from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Pad 39-B. Mission commander Mark Polansky, pilot Bill Oefelein and crew are now performing a series of communications checks to ensure that the astronauts can talk to flight controllers and each other during the spacecraft’s ascent to orbit. Discovery’s hatch is scheduled for closure at 6:32 p.m. EST (2332 GMT).
Discovery’s launch time remains set for 8:47:34 p.m. EST (0147:34 GMT 10 Dec), with a 5-minute launch window – a final adjustment of the launch time will be made at the T-9 minute hold to more precisely align with the space station's orbit.
The official launch weather forecast continues to call for only a 40% chance of acceptable conditions at launch time; however, NASA launch commentator Bruce Buckingham reports that the low clouds and wind speeds are now “trending in a positive direction.” Crosswinds at the Shuttle Landing Facility are the primary concern – at present, they are gusting close to allowable limits for a return-to-launch-site emergency abort.
Discovery's external tank is filled with a half-million gallons of super-chilled liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen. The vehicle is in "stable replenish" mode and its massive fuel tank will continue to be topped-off until launch time.
The launch team is not working any technical or vehicle issues at this time; the final inspection team has departed the launch pad and will make their report to the mission managers. The two Solid Rocket Booster recovery ships have reported on-station, about 140 miles off the Florida coast, in preparation for launch.
- Roger Guillemette
Discovery Crew Enters Spacecraft
9 December 2006, 5:20 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Clad in their ‘Day-Glo’ orange launch and entry spacesuits, the seven-astronaut crew of Shuttle Discovery are boarding their spacecraft at Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Pad 39-B.
Led by veteran shuttle commander Mark Polansky, one-by-one the astronauts will be positioned in their seats on Discovery’s flight and mid-decks in preparation for their ascent to orbit.
Discovery’s launch time remains set for 8:47:34 p.m. EST (0147:34 GMT 10 Dec), with a 5-minute launch window, weather permitting.
The launch team is not working any technical issues; however, dynamic Florida weather conditions are again threatening to prevent a launch attempt this evening. The official forecast continues to call for only a 40% probability of acceptable conditions for launch with low clouds and gusty winds predicted to be out of limits.
- Roger Guillemette
Discovery Astronauts Head to Launch Pad
9 December 2006, 5:00 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The seven Discovery astronauts have begun a 20-minute ride in their silver ‘Astro Van’ toward Kennedy Space Center’s Pad 39B where their spacecraft stands poised for launch this afternoon. NASA Test Director Jeff Spaulding has given his permission for the astronauts to enter the spacecraft, indicating that all switches and systems in the cockpit are properly configured for the crew.
The launch team is not working any vehicle or technical issues; however, meteorologists continue to closely conditions around Florida’s Kennedy Space Center. Latest weather conditions are observed ‘Go’; however, the Launch Weather Officer’s official forecast calls for only a 40% of acceptable conditions at launch time.
The countdown has just resumed at the T-minus 3 hour mark and Discovery's external tank is now filled with a half-million gallons of super-chilled liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen. The vehicle is in "stable replenish" mode and the massive fuel tank will continue to be topped-off until launch time.
Discovery’s launch time remains set for 8:47:34 p.m. EST (0147:34 GMT 10 Dec), with a 5-minute launch window, weather permitting.
- Roger Guillemette
Astronauts Suit Up for Launch
9 December 2006, 4:35 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL – As the closeout crew and the final inspection team are finishing up their duties on launch pad 39B, the seven STS-116 astronauts have received a final weather briefing from the Ascent Flight Control Team in Houston and are now suiting up for tonight's planned liftoff. Mission specialist Sunita Williams flexes her arms while in her suit for an audience on NASA TV.
Meteorologists report a cloud layer approaching Kennedy Space Center from the ocean, possibly bringing with it low clouds that could affect launch. Scattered clouds are predicted for 3,500 feet and layered clouds at 6,000 feet. Crosswinds have slowed slightly down to 15 to 18 knots, which is nearly within acceptable range for a night launch.
- Ker Than
Shuttle Tanking Complete, Final Inspections Begin
9 December 2006, 3:50 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL – Tanking of Discovery's external fuel tanks is complete and the order has been given for the final inspection team and closeout crew to approach the launch pad. The former will survey the pad and the various shuttle components to ensure there are no hazards such as ice that could damage the spacecraft during launch, while the latter will ready the pad for the seven STS-116 astronauts, who are scheduled to arrive in about an hour.
NASA will broadcast Discovery’s launch countdown and planned liftoff on NASA TV beginning at about 2:30 p.m. EST (1930 GMT). You are invited to follow the countdown's progress using SPACE.com's feed, which is available by clicking here.
- Ker Than
Shuttle Tanking Nearly Complete
9 December 2006, 2:40 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL – Fueling of shuttle Discovery's external fuel tanks is two-thirds complete and should be completed within the next hour or so. Tanking was delayed approximately two hours this morning to accommodate a slower than expected burnoff of the fuel already in the tanks.
The seven STS-116 astronauts are scheduled to depart crew quarters for Launch Pad 39B here at Kennedy Space Center (KSC) at 4:57 p.m. EST (2157 p.m. GMT), but the event could be pushed back by about 15 minutes due to the fueling delay, NASA TV reports. A significant time cushion is still in place, however, and barring any technical difficulties, liftoff is still scheduled for 8:47:34 p.m. EST (0147:34 Dec. 10 GMT).
Tonight's weather outlook is still only 30 percent for Go. The primary concerns are low clouds, showers, and high crosswinds that could interfere with the shuttle's ability to make an emergency return flight back to KSC, should such a maneuver be required. The crosswind restriction for a night launch is 15 knots. Current wind speeds range from 15 to 20 knots.
NASA will broadcast Discovery’s launch countdown and planned liftoff on NASA TV beginning at about 2:30 p.m. EST (1930 GMT). You are invited to follow the countdown's progress using SPACE.com's feed, which is available by clicking here.
- Ker Than
Shuttle Fuel Tank Loading Set to Begin
9 December 2006, 12:42 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL – Fueling operations will begin shortly for NASA’s space shuttle Discovery as pad crews and workers race to catch up on delays to tonight’s planned launch.
"We haven't started tanking yet, we'll be doing that in in the next few minutes, but we are going to make an attempt tonight," NASA spokesperson Bruce Buckingham said here at the Kennedy Space Center.
Fueling of Discovery’s external tank was originally slated to begin at about 10:52 a.m. EST (1552 GMT).
Discovery is slated to launch at about 8:47 p.m. EST (0147 Dec.10 GMT) tonight, though poor weather and preparation delays afflicted the countdown.
Discovery has about a 40 percent chance of favorable launch weather today, NASA officials have said.
NASA will broadcast Discovery’s launch countdown and planned liftoff on NASA TV beginning at about 2:30 p.m. EST (1930 GMT). You are invited to follow the countdown's progress using SPACE.com's feed, which is available by clicking here.
- Ker Than
Shuttle Tanking Pushed Back
9 December 2006, 11:10 a.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After a one-hour meeting, NASA launch managers have decided to hold off on refueling the shuttle's external tanks. Originally scheduled for 10:50 a.m. EST (0352 p.m. GMT), tanking has now been pushed back to 12:30 p.m. EST (0530 p.m. GMT). Another mission management team will be held shortly before that time to determine whether a shuttle launch will be attempted tonight. If the answer is yes, tanking will proceed.
"We’re pressing on for a launch, but we need to look at 12:30 p.m. to determine if we're close to getting into tanking or if we're still a ways off," said NASA spokesperson Jessica Rye.
Tonight's weather outlook for launch remains the same, with a 40 percent chance that conditions will be favorable for shuttle liftoff.
- Ker Than
Space Shuttle Shroud Pulls Away from Discovery Orbiter
9 December 2006, 9:40 a.m. EST
The protective service structure covering NASA’s space shuttle Discovery is pulling away from the orbiter at its Pad 39B launch site at the Kennedy Space Center (KSC).
Known as the Rotating Service Structure, the 10-story gantry shields NASA shuttles from the elements at the launch pad and allows access to the orbiter’s payload bay before flight.
NASA officials told SPACE.com that first motion began at 9:31 a.m. EST (1431 GMT), about 10 hours later than originally planned, as shuttle managers discuss whether to begin fueling Discovery for an 8:47 p.m. EST (0147 Dec. 10 GMT) launch tonight.
A bleak weather forecast, offering just a 30 percent chance of favorable flight conditions, has increased slightly to 40 percent. Among the top concerns are high winds and low clouds over a nearby shuttle landing strip, which must be available during launch in case of an emergency.
Shuttle mission managers were expected to begin discussing whether to proceed with fueling operations for today’s planned launch at 9:42 a.m. EST (1442 GMT). A positive decision calls for fueling to begin at 10:52 a.m. EST (1552 GMT).
NASA will broadcast Discovery’s launch countdown and planned liftoff on NASA TV beginning at about 2:30 p.m. EST (1930 GMT). You are invited to follow the countdown's progress using SPACE.com's feed, which is available by clicking here.
- Tariq Malik
Weather Outlook Improves Slightly for Evening Shuttle Launch
9 December 2006, 9:28 a.m. EST
The weather forecast has improved just a bit for tonight’s planned launch of NASA’s space shuttle Discovery.
NASA officials at Discovery’s Kennedy Space Center launch site in Cape Canaveral, Florida said the planned 8:47 p.m. EST (0247 Dec. 10 GMT) space shot now has a 40 percent of favorable weather at launch time. That figure is a 10 percent increase from previous estimates given the expectations of low clouds, showers and winds at the launch site.
Meanwhile, top NASA mission managers are expected to convene at 9:42 a.m. EST (1442 GMT) to discuss whether to press ahead with today’s launch of Discovery’s STS-116 mission. The planned 12-day spaceflight will continue assembly of the International Space Station (ISS).
If mission managers decide to go forward, fueling of Discovery’s 15-story external tank will begin at 10:52 a.m. EST (1552 GMT), NASA officials have said.
- Tariq Malik
Shuttle Unveiling Delayed to Launch Day
9 December 2006, 7:28 a.m. EST
The rollback of a protective shroud away from the space shuttle Discovery in preparation for tonight’s planned launch has been delayed, though NASA officials said the delay was not anticipated a planned 8:47:34 p.m. EST (0147:34 GMT) liftoff.
The Rotating Service Structure that shields NASA shuttles from weather and provides access to their payload bay for pad crews was slated to begin pulling away from Discovery at Pad 39B at about 11:30 p.m. EST (0430 GMT) Friday, but was later pushed to 6:00 a.m. EST (1100 GMT) this morning, according to a late night status update.
A live NASA webcam feed appears to show 10-story service structure in place. Rolling the structure back typically takes about one hour.
NASA shuttle mission managers are due to discuss whether to
proceed with today’s launch preparations for Discovery’s STS-116
mission to continue assembly of the International Space
Station (ISS) during a morning meeting slated to begin at about 9:42 a.m.
EST (1442 GMT). If positive, fueling of Discovery’s 15-story external
fuel tank would begin at about 10:52 a.m. EST (1552 GMT).
- Tariq Malik
Weather is 70 Percent No-Go for Saturday Shuttle Launch
8 December 2006, 11:10 a.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After thick clouds forced NASA to scrub last night's Discovery launch attempt, shuttle mission managers decided to wait 48 hours before trying again. Countdown is set to resume on Saturday at 3:52 a.m. EST (0852 a.m. GMT) at the T-minus 11 hours mark. There is about 6 hours of built-in hold time before the scheduled 8:47 p.m. EST (0147 a.m. Dec. 10 GMT) launch. The weather outlook is 70 percent that low clouds, high crosswinds and showers could delay launch. The forecast for Sunday and Monday are also bleak, at 60 percent no-go. The best day for launch right now seems to be Tuesday, NASA weather forecasters say.
"We still are going to be concerned about crosswinds, but we think Tuesday out of those three days is going to be the best day," NASA shuttle weather officer Kathy Winters told reporters earlier this week.
NASA TV coverage of the Saturday launch attempt will begin at 2:30 p.m. EST (0730 p.m. GMT). Readers can follow allong using SPACE.com’s NASA TV feed, which is available by clicking here or the button at the left.
- Ker Than
Discovery Launch Rescheduled for Saturday
7 December 2006, 10:20 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA will try to launch Shuttle Discovery again on Saturday, December 9 – a 48-hour scrub turnaround. The planned launch time will be 8:47:34 p.m. EST (0147:34 GMT 10 Dec)
A thick layer of low clouds over Florida’s Kennedy Space Center forced a scrub of Thursday night’s launch attempt.
Weather conditions Saturday are forecast to be marginal with just a 30% probability of acceptable conditions for launch – with potential launch rule violations from strong crosswinds, showers and low clouds. Mission managers decided to forego a Friday launch attempt due to a very unfavorable forecast - only a 1-in-10 chance of suitable weather was predicted.
- Roger Guillemette
Thick Clouds Scrub Discovery Launch
7 December 2006, 9:35 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A thick layer of low clouds over Florida’s Kennedy Space Center forced NASA to scrub tonight’s launch attempt of Shuttle Discovery. The countdown clock was held at the T-minus 5 minute mark in hopes that weather conditions would improve but to no avail.
No word yet as to when the next launch attempt will be scheduled. Friday’s weather conditions are forecast to be worse than today, with a gradual improvement as the weekend progresses.
- Roger Guillemette
Weather Remains Questionable for Discovery Launch
7 December 2006, 9:10 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The countdown is proceeding uneventfully at the Kennedy Space Center as the clock continues to tick down toward this evening’s scheduled launch of Shuttle Discovery on a mission to the International Space Station. The countdown is now holding at the T-9 minute mark – a planned built-in hold.
Dynamic weather conditions along Florida’s Space Coast are giving meteorologists fits and the current conditions at the Kennedy Space Center are now ‘red’ or no-go for launch due to low clouds in the area - it is likely that a final determination to proceed with launch will remain in doubt until liftoff time. Conditions at the Transoceanic Abort Landing (TAL) site in Zaragoza, Spain are now forecast to be within acceptable limits by launch time.
Discovery’s launch time remains set for 9:35:48 p.m. EST (0235:48 GMT 8 Dec), with a 5-minute launch window.
The launch team is not working any technical issues at this time; weather conditions are forecast to remain within acceptable limits for launch. There is an issue with a short-range tracking camera that is being worked at this time – it is not expected to impact the launch attempt.
- Roger Guillemette
Weather Improves for Discovery Launch
7 December 2006, 8:35 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Weather conditions at Florida’s Kennedy Space Center have taken a dramatic turn for the better and launch officials are becoming more optimistic that the deck of clouds above the Pad 39-B will remain within acceptable limits to allow a launch attempt this evening on a mission to the International Space Station.
The seven STS-116 astronauts, led by veteran commander Mark Polansky, are strapped into their seats, running through their pre-launch checklists and configuring the cockpit for the spacecraft’s ascent to orbit. The close-out crew of technicians are now buttoning-up the launch pad and preparing to depart.
Discovery’s launch time remains set for 9:35:48 p.m. EST (0235:48 GMT 8 Dec), with a 5-minute launch window – a final adjustment of the launch time will be made at the T-9 minute hold to more precisely align with the space station's orbit.
Weather conditions at the three Transoceanic Abort Landing (TAL) sites in Moron & Zaragoza, Spain & Istres, France are still of concern; however, Istres may be within acceptable limits by launch time – at least one of TAL sites must have good weather to support a launch attempt.
- Roger Guillemette
Shuttle Discovery’s Hatch Sealed for Launch
7 December 2006, 8:00 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians at Kennedy Space Center’s Pad 39-B have closed and sealed Shuttle Discovery’s hatch in preparation for this evening’s scheduled launch on a mission to the International Space Station. Commander Mark Polansky reports that the spacecraft cabin leak checks have been completed.
Inside, the seven STS-116 astronauts are strapped into their seats, running through their pre-launch checklists and configuring the cockpit for the spacecraft’s ascent to orbit. Discovery’s hatch closure was confirmed at about 7:48 p.m. EST.
Discovery’s launch time remains set for 9:35:48 p.m. EST (0235:48 GMT 8 Dec), with a 5-minute launch window – a final adjustment of the launch time will be made at the T-9 minute hold to more precisely align with the space station's orbit.
Launch forecasts remain pessimistic; a thick blanket of low clouds is likely to remain over the launch site and winds are gusting to near acceptable limits. Forecast conditions at the three Transoceanic Abort Landing (TAL) sites in Moron & Zaragoza, Spain & Istres, France are not promising, although Istres may be within acceptable limits by launch time – at least one of TAL sites must have good weather to support a launch attempt.
- Roger Guillemette
Discovery Astronauts Strapped-In for Launch
7 December 2006, 7:10 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The seven Discovery astronauts are now strapped into their seats in preparation for this evening’s launch attempt from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Pad 39-B. Commander Mark Polansky, pilot Bill Oefelein and crew are now performing a series of communications checks to ensure that the astronauts can talk to flight controllers and each other during the spacecraft’s ascent to orbit. Discovery’s hatch is scheduled for closure at 7:20 p.m. EST (0020 GMT 8 Dec).
Discovery’s launch time remains set for 9:35:48 p.m. EST (0235:48 GMT 8 Dec), with a 5-minute launch window – a final adjustment of the launch time will be made at the T-9 minute hold to more precisely align with the space station's orbit.
Discovery's external tank is filled with a half-million gallons of super-chilled liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen. The vehicle is in "stable replenish" mode and its massive fuel tank will continue to be topped-off until launch time.
Earlier, the ice inspection team found no evidence of ice build-up during a comprehensive survey of Discovery, its external tank and surrounding launch pad for ice formation. The two Solid Rocket Booster recovery ships have reported on-station, about 140 miles off the Florida coast, in preparation for launch.
The launch team is not working any technical issues at this time; however, weather forecasts remain pessimistic for a launch attempt this evening. Wind speeds at the launch pad and the nearby Shuttle Landing Facility are being closely monitored as they are gusting close to acceptable limits and a persistent blanket of low clouds covers the space center, although meteorologists have removed the threat of rain showers from their launch time forecast. Weather at the three Transoceanic Abort Landing (TAL) sites in Moron & Zaragoza, Spain & Istres, France is described as “marginal.”
- Roger Guillemette
Discovery Crew Enters Spacecraft
7 December 2006, 6:20 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The seven-astronaut crew of Shuttle Discovery are boarding their spacecraft at Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Pad 39-B.
Led by veteran shuttle commander Mark Polansky, one-by-one the astronauts are being positioned in their seats on Discovery’s flight and mid-decks in preparation for their ascent to orbit.
Discovery’s launch time remains set for 9:35:48 p.m. EST (0235:48 GMT 8 Dec), with a 5-minute launch window.
The launch team is not working any technical issues; however, inclement weather conditions are threatening to prevent a launch attempt this evening. Low clouds and gusty winds are converging on Florida’s Kennedy Space Center while conditions at the three Transoceanic Abort Landing (TAL) sites in Spain & France are described as “marginal.”
- Roger Guillemette
Discovery Astronauts Head to Launch Pad
7 December 2006, 5:45 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The seven Discovery astronauts have begun a 20-minute ride in their silver ‘Astro Van’ toward Kennedy Space Center’s Pad 39B where their spacecraft stands poised for launch this afternoon. NASA Test Director Jeff Spaulding has given his permission for the astronauts to enter the spacecraft, indicating that all switches and systems in the cockpit are properly configured for the crew.
The launch team is not working any vehicle or technical issues; however, weather officers continue to closely conditions around Florida’s Kennedy Space Center and the three Transoceanic Abort Landing (TAL) sites in Spain & France where weather conditions are described as “marginal.” Winds at the Shuttle’s seaside launch complex are currently observed as “red” or no-go for launch and meteorologists are concerned that a combination of gusty winds, low cloud decks and rain showers in the vicinity may prohibit a launch this evening.
The countdown has just resumed at the T-minus 3 hour mark and Discovery's external tank is now filled with a half-million gallons of super-chilled liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen. The vehicle is in "stable replenish" mode and the massive fuel tank will continue to be topped-off until launch time.
Discovery’s launch time remains set for 9:35:48 p.m. EST (0235:48 GMT 8 Dec), with a 5-minute launch window, weather permitting.
- Roger Guillemette
Astronauts Sit Down for
Prelaunch Meal
7 December 2006 2:23 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –The seven STS-116 astronauts are sitting down for their last meal at the Crew Quarters and Checkout Building here at Kennedy Space Center. There are no technical issues prohibiting launch, but weather continues to be an issue.
Readers can follow along using SPACE.com’s NASA TV feed, which is available by clicking here or the button at the left.
- Ker Than
Live Launch Coverage
Begins
7 December 2006 3:30 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –NASA has begun broadcasting live commentary of Discovery’s launch countdown beginning. Readers can follow along using SPACE.com’s NASA TV feed, which is available by clicking here or the button at the left.
Launch preparations are proceeding as normal despite a gloomy weather outlook of only 40 percent favorable conditons. Fueling of Discovery's external tanks with liquid oxygen and hydrogen were completed earlier this afternoon and an investigators have just completed a final inspection of the tanks. The seven-member STS-116 crew will don flight suits at 5:30 p.m. EST (2230 GMT) before departing for the launch pad. Hatch closing is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. EST (0030 Dec. 8GMT) and launch is set for 9:35:47 p.m. EST (0235:47 Dec. 8 GMT).
- Ker Than
Shuttle Tanking Complete
7 December 2006 3:29 p.m. EST
Cape Canaveral, Fla. – The tanking of Discovery's orange external tanks with 500,000 gallons of liquid oxygen and hydrogen is complete.
Launch remains scheduled for 9:35:47 p.m. EST (0235:47 Dec. 8 GMT) tonight. Weather forecast remains dismal at only a 40 percent for favorable launch conditions. Friday and Saturday forecasts are still 10 percent and 30 percent favorable, respectively. All three Trans-Atlantic Landing (TAL) sites are also currently 'no-go' due to possibilities of low clouds and showers within 20 miles of the landing sites. At least one TAL site must be clear for landing for a shuttle launch to proceed.
- Ker Than
Tanking of Discovery's
External Tank Begins
7 December 2006 11:55 a.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA launch crews began filling up Discovery's orange external tanks with 500,000 gallons of liquid oxygen and hydrogen this morning at 11:33 a.m. EST (1657 GMT). Tanking is expected to take about 3 hours.
Other launch preparations are proceeding as planned, despite only a 40 percent forecast that weather conditions will be favorable for tonight's scheduled 9:35:47 p.m. EST (0235:47 Dec. 8 GMT) launch. The outlook for Friday and Saturday are even worse, at 90 percent and 70 percent for 'no-go,' respectively. All three Trans-Atlantic Landing (TAL) sites are currently 'no-go' due to possibilities of low clouds and showers within 20 miles of the landing sites.
The seven STS-116 astronauts will have woken up by now and, after breakfast, are scheduled to attend a weather briefing before suiting up to leave for the launch pad.
- Ker Than
Shuttle Discovery Unveiled
for Launch
7 December 2006 8:24 a.m. EST
Shuttle workers unveiled NASA’s Discovery orbiter early this morning, rolling back a protective Rotating Service Structure at the spacecraft’s Pad 39B launch site at the Kennedy Space Center.
The service structure provides access to different areas of the orbiter. It began pulling away from Discovery at about 12:43 a.m. EST (0543 GMT). NASA mission managers plan to begin fueling Discovery’s external tank with its supercold liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen propellant at about 11:40 a.m. EST (1500 GMT) today.
Discovery is set to launch tonight at 9:35:47 p.m. EST (0235:47 Dec. 8 GMT), though the threat of low clouds has led to a 60 percent chance that the planned space shot could be delayed.
Click here for SPACE.com’s preview story of NASA’s STS-116 mission.
Commanded by veteran astronaut Mark Polansky, Discovery’s seven-astronaut crew is slated to continue assembly of the International Space Station (ISS), where they will deliver a new piece of the outpost and rewire its power grid during their 12-day mission.
NASA will begin broadcasting live commentary of Discovery’s launch countdown beginning at 3:30 p.m. EST (2030 GMT). You are invited to follow along using SPACE.com’s NASA TV feed, which is available by clicking here or the button at the left.
Click here to learn how to spot the shuttle’s launch in the sky.
The astronauts are expected to make a ground-to-space call to the ISS crew to prepare for their station assembly mission and will fly to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center spaceport on Sunday.
- Tariq Malik
Technical Issues Will Not
Delay Discovery Launch
6 December 2006 4:05 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Two last-minute technical issues discovered during shuttle tests and inspections have been deemed safe and will not delay Discovery's launch Thursday evening, NASA mission mangers concluded after a two-hour meeting.
The issues involved a brief power surge in circuits responsible for transferring power from the mobile launch platform to the orbiter and an anomalous test result from a batch of adhesive used to glue together segments on the shuttle's reusable solid rocket booster.
But subsequent investigations have determined that the power surge did not damage Discovery's external tank and boosters or the orbiter itself. Concerning the adhesive, the peel test that provided the anomalous result was not a flight-required test and therefore does not affect launch, said NASA spokesperson June Malone.
- Ker Than
Shuttle Launch Countdown
Begins Tonight
4 December 2006 2:45 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - NASA is set to begin a three-day countdown to the launch of the shuttle Discovery tonight at 11 p.m. EST.
The T-43 countdown will include 27 hours, 36 minutes of built-in hold time leading up to the 9:35 p.m. EST launch of the shuttle on Thursday, Dec. 7.
Before that happens, however, another event important for liftoff will take place. International Space Station (ISS) flight controllers are expected to boost the station into a higher orbit today at 4:36 p.m. EST in preparation for docking with the shuttle on Dec. 9. Attempts to do so last week were cut short due to an unexpected shift in the station's orientation. If the afternoon burn does no go as planned, it could cut into the Discovery's launch window, which currently runs from Dec. 7 to 17.
There are some concerns that a low cloud ceiling and showers on launch day could delay Discovery's liftoff by 24-hours.
The five-man, two-woman crew of STS-116 arrived here at Kennedy Space Center yesterday afternoon, jetting in on T-28 training aircraft. The crew, currently under quarantine, are undergoing final preparations for their mission. STS-116 commander Mark Polansky and pilot William Oefelein are also practicing shuttle landing, currently slated for Dec. 19.
- Ker Than
Shuttle Launch Countdown
Begins Tonight
4 December 2006 2:45 p.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - NASA is set to begin a three-day countdown to the launch of the shuttle Discovery tonight at 11 p.m. EST.
The T-43 countdown will include 27 hours, 36 minutes of built-in hold time leading up to the 9:35 p.m. EST launch of the shuttle on Thursday, Dec. 7.
Before that happens, however, another event important for liftoff will take place. International Space Station (ISS) flight controllers are expected to boost the station into a higher orbit today at 4:36 p.m. EST in preparation for docking with the shuttle on Dec. 9. Attempts to do so last week were cut short due to an unexpected shift in the station's orientation. If the afternoon burn does no go as planned, it could cut into the Discovery's launch window, which currently runs from Dec. 7 to 17.
There are some concerns that a low cloud ceiling and showers on launch day could delay Discovery's liftoff by 24-hours.
The five-man, two-woman crew of STS-116 arrived here at Kennedy Space Center yesterday afternoon, jetting in on T-28 training aircraft. The crew, currently under quarantine, are undergoing final preparations for their mission. STS-116 commander Mark Polansky and pilot William Oefelein are also practicing shuttle landing, currently slated for Dec. 19.
- Ker Than
Shuttle Astronauts Enter
Quarantine for Dec. 7 Launch
1 December 2006 11:45 a.m. EST
Seven astronauts set to launch towards the International Space Station (ISS) aboard NASA’s Discovery orbiter next week are in quarantine to stay healthy before their planned12-day spaceflight.
NASA officials said Friday that the STS-116 astronauts, commanded veteran spaceflyer Mark Polansky, entered quarantine in the crew quarters at the Johnson Space Center in Houston as they ready themselves for their Dec. 7 launch.
The astronauts are expected to make a ground-to-space call to the ISS crew to prepare for their station assembly mission and will fly to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center spaceport on Sunday.
- Tariq Malik
Disc
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