Japanese Experiment Module (JEM) Small Satellite Orbital Deployer (JSSOD) Install: Wilmore started the JSSOD activities by reviewing an instructional video on how to install a JSSOD to the Multi-Purpose Experiment Platform (MPEP). He then extended the JEM Airlock (JEMAL) slide table into the JEM, attached the JSSOD, and proceeded to retract the slide table and …
Launch Coverage Begins at 7 a.m. EST
Launch of NASA’s Soil Moisture Active Passive mission aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta II rocket now is scheduled for tomorrow, Jan. 30, at 9:20 a.m. EST. The forecast for Jan. 30 shows a 90 percent chance of favorable weather conditions for the launch tomorrow. Coverage will begin at 7 a.m.
Pair of Space Freighters Packed for Departure
A pair of docked space freighters is being loaded in preparation for next month’s departure activities. The ISS Progress 57 (57P) resupply ship is being packed with trash and discarded gear for a fiery disposal over the Pacific Ocean. The SpaceX Dragon commercial cargo craft is being loaded with experiment samples, spacesuit gear and other …
Launch Scrubbed Due to Upper Level Winds
The launch team is setting up for a 24-hour turnaround for a launch attempt tomorrow morning. Launch time on Friday remains 9:20 a.m. EST.
New Launch Time: 9:22 a.m. EST
Adding two minutes gives the launch team some flexibility as they work through the upper level wind issue. During this final built-in hold, managers overseeing the launch will conduct final readiness polls and SMAP will be transferred to internal power. Launch commit criteria weather remains 90 percent “go,” however upper level winds are “no-go.”
T-4 Minutes and Holding
This is the final planned hold in today’s countdown. Liquid oxygen topping is complete.
SMAP Countdown Update
There are no technical concerns and weather remains observed “go” and forecast to be 90 percent “go” for launch. Upper level winds remain “red.”
T-15 Minutes and Counting
The countdown has resumed following release of the hold. There’s still one more built-in hold coming up at T-4 minutes.
Countdown Update
Upper level winds remain “red” because of a wind shear at 34,000 feet. During this 20-minute hold, managers and engineers will receive a weather briefing and continue to monitor SMAP and Delta II systems.
T-15 Minutes and Holding
Countdown clocks have paused at the T-15 minute mark. This is a planned hold lasting 20 minutes.