Atlas 5 Rocket Launch Scrubbed for Today

A problem with the range safety system that protects the people and property from an out-of-control rocket mishap has forced the cancellation of today's Atlas V launch.

The launch and range safety teams worked into the final minutes of the window trying to get the system cleared for flight, but could not do so.

About 11:40 a.m., the mission director decided to scrub the launch. A new liftoff time will be set for Friday morning. It should be 11:04 a.m.

The Atlas V is carrying a pair of spy satellites for the NRO. The weather forecast for a Friday launch attempt calls for an 80 percent chance of acceptable conditions.

While the government and its contractors will not discuss the payload, the trade magazine Aviation Week & Space Technology reports that the craft are intended to track ships moving at sea, including those that might hint at terrorist activities or Chinese or Iranian naval tactics.

The payload fairing atop the rocket sports a logo featuring a tall sailing ship.

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