Launch of MUOS-1 Scrubbed Due to High Winds

 

The launch of a ULA Atlas V 551 rocket with its U.S. Navy payload was scrubbed today due to high upper-level winds. Photo Credit: Jeffrey J. Soulliere

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla – The inaugural launch of the U.S. Navy’s Mobile User Objective System-1 (MUOS-1) satellite – will have to wait another day. High upper-level winds in the skies above Cape Canaveral Air Force Station’s Space Launch Complex-41 (SLC-41) caused the scheduled launch time of 5:46 p.m. EST, to slip – again and again. 

With the final attempt at 6:29 p.m. (just one minute before the launch window of the day closed) it actually looked like everything was going “green.” Then with just over a minute left in the count – the launch was scrubbed. The launch window will open at 5:42 p.m. EST tomorrow (Friday) and extend through 6:26 p.m. Tomorrow’s forecast only provides a 40 percent chance of providing favorable conditions for launch. 

MUOS-1 is set to launch atop one of the most powerful versions of United Launch Alliance’s (ULA) Atlas rocket – the Atlas V 551. Both the launch vehicle and MUOS-1 satellite have been secured and the launch team will attempt to send the communications satellite on its way Friday, Feb. 17.

United Launch Alliance (ULA) will try again on Friday, Feb. 17 - starting at 5:42 p.m. EST and extending through 6: 26 p.m. Photo Credit: Jeffrey J. Soulliere
Missions » MUOS » Muos-1 »
Mercury astronauts John Glenn (3rd from left) and Scott Carpenter (far left) will headline NASA's “Celebrating 50 Years of Americans in Orbit" event at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex February 18. Photo Credit: NASA

NASA Events And Future Forum Mark 50 Years Of Americans In Orbit

NASA astronauts Dan Burbank (left) and Don Pettit (right), who are currently onboard the International Space Station as part of Expedition 30, will speak live with students and educators at Newton High School in Sussex County, N.J. on Wednesday, Feb. 22. Photo Credit: NASA

New Jersey Education Consortium Hosts Live Chat with Space Station Astronauts