NASA produces regular updates (usually about once a week) on the status of the Space Shuttle, the International Space Station and Expendable Launch Vehicles. I posted these on the Spaceflight News site. With the demise of that site I will continue the threads in this forum.

April 5, 2006

Joe Pally
Headquarters, Washington
(202) 358-7239

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
(321) 867-2468


STATUS REPORT: E06-011

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report: E06-011

Mission: Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation and CloudSat (CALIPSO/CloudSat)
Launch Site: NASA's Space Launch Complex 2, Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: April 21, 2006
Launch Time: 6:02:08 a.m. EDT

NASA successfully completed a flight simulation of the Delta II rocket on April 4 at Space Launch Complex 2 at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.

Technicians are preparing both CALIPSO and CloudSat for the April 7 installation into the environmentally controlled payload transportation canister.

Transportation from the payload processing facility to the launch complex is scheduled for the pre-dawn hours of April 8. Upon arrival, the payload will be hoisted and mated to the Delta II.

The Flight Program Verification, an integrated electrical and mechanical flight test involving the Delta II and the CALIPSO/CloudSat payload, is planned for April 11. Installation of the launch vehicle ordnance will follow on April 13. CALIPSO/CloudSat payload closeouts are scheduled for April 13 and will be followed by installation of the fairing around the spacecraft on April 14-15. Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006

For information about these programs, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/calipso

http://www.nasa.gov/cloudsat




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Source: NASA - ELV Status Report E06-011

Another fascinating thread. thanks for the link as well.

April 12, 2006

Joe Pally
Headquarters, Washington
(202) 358-7239

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
(321) 867-2468


STATUS REPORT: E06-012

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report: E06-012

Mission: Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation and CloudSat (CALIPSO/CloudSat)
Launch Site: NASA's Space Launch Complex 2, Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: April 21, 2006
Launch Time: 6:02:08 a.m. EDT

NASA transported CALIPSO and CloudSat from the Astrotech payload processing facility at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif., to the launch complex on April 8. The payload was hoisted and attached to the top of the Delta II rocket.

The Flight Program Verification, an integrated electrical and mechanical flight test involving the Delta II and the CALIPSO/CloudSat payload, was successfully completed today. Following the test, technicians began installation of the launch vehicle ordnance. Payload closeouts are planned for Thursday. Installation of the fairing around the two spacecraft is scheduled for Friday.

For more information about CALIPSO/CloudSat, visit:

For information about these programs, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/calipso or http://www.nasa.gov/cloudsat

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006


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Source: NASA - ELV Status Report E06-012

April 19, 2006

Katherine Trinidad
Headquarters, Washington
(202) 358-3749

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
(321) 867-2468


STATUS REPORT: E06-013

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report: E06-013

Mission: Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation and CloudSat (CALIPSO/CloudSat)
Launch Site: NASA's Space Launch Complex 2, Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: April 21, 2006
Launch Time: 6:02:08 a.m. EDT

Workers at Space Launch Complex 2 fueled the Delta II second stage Tuesday for flight with storable hypergolic propellants. Officials also conducted a launch countdown dress rehearsal.

No significant issues or concerns were found during the Flight Readiness Review on Monday. Technicians installed the payload fairing around the two spacecraft on April 14 and are conducting a routine state-of-health check today.

Plans call for the RP-1 fuel, highly refined kerosene, to be loaded on the rocket's first stage on Thursday afternoon. Early that evening, the mobile service tower will be retracted from around the rocket. Liquid oxygen will be loaded into the first stage during the terminal countdown sequence that starts at 4 a.m. EDT Friday. There is currently an 80 percent chance of acceptable weather conditions for launch.

For more information about CALIPSO/CloudSat, visit:

For information about these programs, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/calipso or http://www.nasa.gov/cloudsat

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006


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Source: NASA - ELV Status Report E06-013

May 12, 2006

Katherine Trinidad
Headquarters, Washington
(202) 358-3749

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
(321) 867-2468


STATUS REPORT: E06-014

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report: E06-014

Mission: Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory (STEREO)
Launch Site: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: July 22, 2006
Launch Time: 3:11 - 3:13 p.m. and 4:19 - 4:34 p.m. EDT

Technicians completed state-of-health testing of the two STEREO spacecraft this week, following their May 3 arrival in Florida. Individual system checkout is under way.

The STEREO flight batteries are scheduled to be installed next week. The build-up of the Delta II rocket at Pad 17-B is scheduled to begin during the last week of May.

For previous status reports visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006

STEREO will use "3D" vision to build a global picture of the sun and its influences. For more information, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/stereo

For information about NASA and agency programs, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/home


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Source: NASA - ELV Status Report E06-014

May 19, 2006

Katherine Trinidad
Headquarters, Washington
(202) 358-3749

George Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
(321) 867-2468


STATUS REPORT: E06-015

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report: E06-015

Mission: Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory (STEREO)
Launch Site: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: July 22, 2006
Launch Time: 3:11 - 3:13 p.m. and 4:19 - 4:34 p.m. EDT

Technicians are testing individual STEREO systems on both the "A" and "B" spacecraft. The flight battery for spacecraft A was installed this week. Technicians are expected to install the battery for spacecraft B next week. In addition to testing, work planned over the next few weeks includes solar array installation and integration of the high-gain communications antenna.

The build-up of the Delta II rocket at Pad 17-B is scheduled to begin on June 1 with the first stage. Pad workers will start to erect the nine solid rocket boosters on June 2. The second stage will be hoisted into position and mated to the first stage on June 20. The crew will raise the 10-foot fairing into the pad clean room on June 21.

STEREO will build a three-dimensional, global picture of the sun and study the sun's influence on Earth. For more information, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/stereo

.

For previous status reports visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006

For information about NASA and agency programs, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/home


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Source: NASA - ELV Status Report E06-015

May 26, 2006

Katherine Trinidad
Headquarters, Washington
(202) 358-3749

George Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
(321) 867-2468


STATUS REPORT: E06-016

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report: E06-016

Mission: Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory (STEREO)
Launch Site: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: July 22, 2006
Launch Time: 3:11 - 3:13 p.m. and 4:19 - 4:34 p.m. EDT

Technicians are testing individual STEREO systems on both the “A” and “B” spacecraft. Workers cleaned the black light on spacecraft “A,” completed vertical alignments, and installed the solar array ordnance. They also attached the high gain antenna to the spacecraft’s rotation fixture, and closed out blankets. Technicians installed the batteries on the “A” and “B” spacecraft last week. In addition to testing, upcoming work for spacecraft "B" includes solar array installation and integration of the high-gain communications antenna in mid-June.

The build-up of the Delta II rocket at Pad 17-B is scheduled to begin on June 1 with the first stage. Pad workers will start to erect the nine solid rocket boosters on June 2. The second stage will be hoisted into position and mated to the first stage on June 20. The crew will raise the 10-foot fairing into the pad clean room on June 21.

STEREO will build a three-dimensional, global picture of the sun and study the sun's influence on Earth. For more information, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/stereo

.

For previous status reports visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006


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--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report E06-016

An apology for the long gap in updating this thread. NASA stopped placing these reports on it's main website and now only reports them on the KSC website. Now that I know where they are I can keep this thread up to date again.

06.02.06

Katherine Trinidad
Headquarters, Washington
(202) 358-3749

George Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
(321) 867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-060206

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory (STEREO)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: July 22, 2006
Launch Time: 3:11 - 3:13 p.m. and 4:19 - 4:34 p.m. EDT

Technicians are testing individual STEREO systems on both the "A" and "B" observatories (spacecraft). Solar arrays for both observatories are being cleaned, inspected and repaired prior to integration. Workers cleaned and black-light inspected observatory "A". The Solar Energetic Particle (SEP) instrument suite and the Plasma Supra Thermal Ion Composition (PLASTIC) instrument were reintegrated with the observatories. Technicians also performed functional tests on both instruments. Both high gain antennas have been integrated to the spacecraft and are under test. Upcoming work planned for both observatories includes solar array installation, g-negated deployments and comprehensive performance testing.

Today, workers begin the build-up of the Delta II rocket at Pad 17-B, beginning with the first stage. Pad workers will begin to erect the nine solid rocket boosters on June 5 with a scheduled completion date of June 9. The second stage is scheduled to be hoisted into position and mated to the first stage on June 20. The crew will raise the 10-foot fairing into the pad clean room on June 21.

STEREO will build a three-dimensional, global picture of the sun and study the star's influence on Earth. For more information, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/stereo

.

For previous status reports visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006


- end -


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Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 060206

06.09.06

George Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
(321) 867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-060906

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory (STEREO)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: July 22, 2006
Launch Time: 3:11 - 3:13 p.m. and 4:19 - 4:34 p.m. EDT

Testing and prelaunch processing of STEREO continue on schedule. Deep Space Network spacecraft compatibility testing is under way. Launch and mission simulation exercises are also being performed. Upcoming next week is further thermal blanket installation and preparations for attaching the solar arrays. STEREO is scheduled to be transported to Launch Complex 17 on July 11 to be mated to the Boeing Delta II rocket.

The first stage of the Delta II rocket at Pad 17-B was erected on June 2. The first of three sets of three solid rocket boosters were attached on June 5. At this time, the Delta II second stage is scheduled to be hoisted into position and mated to the first stage on June 20. The crew will raise the 10-foot fairing into the pad clean room on June 21.

For information about the STEREO mission, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/stereo

.

For previous status reports visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006


- end -


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Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 060906

06.16.06

George Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
(321) 867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-061606

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory (STEREO)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: July 22, 2006
Launch Time: 3:11 - 3:13 p.m. and 4:19 - 4:34 p.m. EDT

At the Astrotech Space Operations Facility, testing and prelaunch processing of STEREO continues. Communications testing with the Deep Space Network continues. On observatory "A" on Wednesday, the Heliospheric Imager vertical instrument door was successfully deployed during testing. On observatory "B," the scientific instruments were aligned and tested. Comprehensive performance testing of both observatories continues to go well. STEREO is planned to be transported to Launch Complex 17 on July 11 to be mated to the Boeing Delta II rocket.

The first stage of the Delta II rocket at Pad 17-B was erected on June 2. The first of three sets of three solid rocket boosters was attached on June 5. A fourth solid rocket booster is set to be attached on Saturday. Following this, no further work on the launch vehicle is scheduled until after a U.S. Air Force launch next week on adjacent Pad 17-A.

For information about the STEREO mission, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/stereo

.

For previous status reports visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006


- end -


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Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 061606

06.26.06

George Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
(321) 867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-062606

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory (STEREO)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: July 30, 2006
Launch Time: 2:55 - 2:57 p.m. or 4:03 - 4:18 p.m. EDT

The launch of STEREO aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket has been rescheduled to July 30, pending confirmation by the Eastern Range. This allows the launch to occur at a more optimum time in the launch period and provides additional schedule time to accomplish critical safety operations on the spacecraft, including fueling and spin balance testing.

At the Astrotech Space Operations Facility, testing and prelaunch processing of STEREO continues. The final Comprehensive Performance Test was completed late last week on the "A" Observatory. The "B" Observatory completed the test earlier in the week. The "B" spacecraft's solar arrays have been installed. Technicians are performing the deployment tests on the "A" solar arrays and high-gain antenna today. STEREO launch and mission simulations with the Deep Space Network were also performed. Thermal blanket installation continues.

The second and third sets of three solid rocket boosters will be erected on the Delta II booster for STEREO at Pad 17-B this week. This is possible now that the U.S. Air Force MiTEx mission has launched from adjacent Pad 17-A. After the boosters are erected, the second stage will be hoisted atop the first stage, and the payload fairing will be raised into the clean room inside the pad's mobile service tower.

For previous expendable launch vehicle processing status reports, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006


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Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 062606

07.07.06

George Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
(321) 867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-070706

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory (STEREO)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: NET Aug. 1, 2006
Launch Time: 2:42 - 2:44 p.m. or 3:50 - 4:05 p.m. EDT

The launch of STEREO aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket has been rescheduled to Aug. 1, pending Eastern Range availability and confirmation. Due to a faulty crane at Pad 17-B, vehicle stacking of the solid rocket boosters was not able to resume until yesterday and will continue on Saturday and Sunday. Hoisting of the Delta second stage atop the first stage is scheduled for Tuesday, July 11. On Wednesday, the payload fairing will be lifted into the pad clean room.

At the Astrotech Space Operations Facility, technicians completed final thermal blanket installation on Observatory "A" yesterday. This was followed by final black-light cleaning of the observatory. Today, it is being transported to the adjacent hazardous processing facility in preparation for fueling. Instrument testing on Observatory "B" has been completed. Final thermal blanket installation and black-light cleaning will take place this weekend. On Monday, Observatory B will also be moved to the hazardous processing facility, joining Observatory A.

Fueling of the two observatories, hoisting Observatory A and mating it with Observatory B, spin-testing of the integrated STEREO spacecraft, and mating to the upper stage booster will take place at the hazardous processing facility.

For previous expendable launch vehicle processing status reports, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006


- end -


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 070706

07.17.06

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-071706

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: STEREO (Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: No earlier than Aug. 20, 2006
Launch Time: 3:52 - 4:07 p.m. EDT

At the Astrotech Space Operations Facility, STEREO was moved to the hazardous processing facility early last week for fueling, stacking and spin-testing of the two observatories. During fueling of Observatory A, one of the valves used to load the spacecraft with hydrazine propellant was observed to be leaking from a secondary seal. Technicians suspended the fueling and made adjustments to the fuel line connection. Fueling operations resumed with no further leakage. Both observatories are now completely fueled. However, as a precaution, the two observatories have not been pressurized while this problem is investigated. An anomaly team is working to fully determine the reason for the problem and assess the integrity of the valve.

For this reason, launch has been rescheduled for the opening of the next launch window, no earlier than Aug. 20.

At Pad 17-B, the Delta II second stage was stacked atop the first stage on July 13. The following day, the payload fairing was hoisted into the pad cleanroom located at the upper levels of the mobile service tower. Technicians are now performing standard prelaunch electrical interface testing of the two stages and checking the guidance system.

For previous expendable launch vehicle processing status reports, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006


- end -


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 071706

07.24.06

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-072406

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: STEREO (Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: No earlier than Aug. 20, 2006
Launch Time: 3:52 - 4:07 p.m. EDT

At the Astrotech Space Operations Facility, work to prepare STEREO for launch resumed today with the pressurization of the hydrazine tanks on each of the two observatories. This will be followed by preparations to stack the spacecraft. Stacking is currently planned for Friday, July 28. Three days of spin-testing will follow beginning Sunday, July 30. The final major processing activity prior to launch occurs next week with the mating of STEREO to the upper stage booster.

At Pad 17-B, standard liquid oxygen leak checks of the Delta II first stage are under way today. The second stage will undergo a helium leak check on Wednesday.

For previous expendable launch vehicle processing status reports, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006


- end -


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 072406

07.28.06

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-072806

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: STEREO (Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: No earlier than Aug. 31, 2006
Launch Time: 3:12:24 or 4:20:28 p.m. EDT

The launch of STEREO aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket has been postponed to no earlier than Aug. 31. At the Boeing plant in Decatur, Ala., a leak has been observed in the second-stage oxidizer tank for the Delta II that had been scheduled to launch NASA's THEMIS spacecraft in November. Therefore, all identical tanks scheduled for launch in the near future must be checked.

Boeing engineers and technicians found that the second stage for the Delta II that will launch STEREO cannot be effectively tested while atop the first stage at Pad 17-B. It will be de-stacked and taken to the High Pressure Test Facility located near Launch Complex 17 for further leak checks. De-stacking will begin on Tuesday, Aug. 2. The stage will be returned to the pad in about a week if no problems are found.

Due to the change in the launch date, a decision has been made not to stack the two STEREO observatories earlier than Aug. 9.

For previous expendable launch vehicle processing status reports, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006


- end -


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Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 072806

08.14.06

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-080406

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: STEREO (Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: No earlier than Aug. 31, 2006
Launch Time: 3:12:24 or 4:20:28 p.m. EDT

At Launch Complex 17, the second stage of the Boeing Delta II was de-stacked on Tuesday and taken to the nearby High-Pressure Test Facility. The planned precautionary leak test has been completed. No leak was observed. The second stage will be returned to the launch pad on Saturday and mated again with the Delta first stage.

In the Hazardous Processing Facility clean room, the two STEREO observatories are scheduled to be stacked on Aug. 9 in preparation for spin test activities. These are planned to begin on Aug. 11. The integrated STEREO payload will then be mated to the upper stage booster on Aug. 16 and transported to Pad 17-B on Aug. 19 for integration with the Delta II.

For previous expendable launch vehicle processing status reports, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006


- end -


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 080406

08.14.06

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-081406

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: STEREO (Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: Aug. 31, 2006
Launch Time: 3:12:24 - 3:14:24 or 4:20:28 - 4:35:28 p.m. EDT

At Launch Complex 17, the launch team is performing the Delta II Flight Simulation today. This is an electrical and mechanical test of the rocket that activates the first and second stage onboard systems, taking them through the programmed flight events as they will occur during launch.

In the Hazardous Processing Facility clean room, STEREO spin-test activities were successfully completed on Saturday. Thermal blanket closeouts and final spacecraft cleaning are under way. The STEREO payload is scheduled for mating to the upper stage booster on Wednesday. It will be transported to Pad 17-B on Friday for integration with the Delta II.

For previous expendable launch vehicle processing status reports, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006


- end -


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Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 081406

08.18.06

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-081806

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: STEREO (Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: Aug. 31, 2006
Launch Time: 3:12:24 - 3:14:24 or 4:20:28 - 4:35:28 p.m. EDT

After leak checks of the Delta II first stage, engineers decided to remove and replace the liquid oxygen fill and drain valve at Launch Complex 17. That work is being completed today without impact to the launch date. Also, preparations are under way at the pad for the arrival of the STEREO payload.

In the Astrotech Hazardous Processing Facility clean room, the STEREO spacecraft was mated to the upper stage booster on Wednesday. Today the integrated payload is being installed into its transportation canister. On Saturday morning, STEREO will be moved to the launch pad for hoisting atop the Delta II.

For previous expendable launch vehicle processing status reports, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006


- end -


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Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 081806

08.21.06

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-082106

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: STEREO (Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: No earlier than Sept. 18, 2006
Launch Time: TBD

STEREO's launch has been postponed to no earlier than Sept. 18, the opening of the mission's next launch window. The additional time is necessary for further evaluation of the Delta II second stage to verify it is structurally sound for flight. This concern arose after further engineering analysis revealed that a similar tank produced for another mission was marginally thin in an area of the oxidizer tank. Engineers are assessing several options for the STEREO launch vehicle at Pad 17-B to determine the thickness of the tank in this same area.

STEREO was not transported from Astrotech to the launch pad over the weekend as planned. It will remain at the payload processing facility until the necessary course of action for the Delta II can be more clearly defined.

For previous expendable launch vehicle processing status reports, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006


- end -


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 082106

09.01.06

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-090106

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: STEREO (Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: No earlier than Oct. 18, 2006
Launch Time: TBD

A decision was made to remove the STEREO second stage from the launch vehicle and perform inspection from inside the propellant tank to verify it is structurally sound for flight.

The launch of STEREO is now targeted for no earlier than Oct. 18. An electrical checkout of the vehicle is under way due to lightning strikes within a one-third mile radius of Complex 17 during the passing of Tropical Storm Ernesto.

The STEREO observatories remain at the Astrotech Space Operations Facility. Today technicians removed the transportation canister from around the payload to begin the process of reconditioning the batteries and preparing for the storage period (currently about 30 days). The twin spacecraft will remain in storage until the necessary course of action for the Delta II can be more clearly defined. There was no effect on the STEREO spacecraft from Tropical Storm Ernesto.

For previous expendable launch vehicle processing status reports, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006
- end -
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Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 090106

09.15.06

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-091506

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: STEREO (Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: No earlier than Oct. 25, 2006
Launch Time: TBD

At Pad 17-B, the Delta II second stage was destacked on Sept. 6 for further testing to determine the thickness of the tank in identified areas. The initial test procedures are complete and the results are being assessed. These results will be used with continuing analytical evaluation to determine the flight worthiness of the second stage. This should be concluded in about a week. In the meantime, workers will reinstall the engine on the second stage.

STEREO remains at the Astrotech Space Operations Facility. The transportation canister was removed on Sept. 1 so technicians could recondition the spacecraft flight batteries and monitor critical functions during the hiatus. The twin observatories remain stacked on top of the third stage. The transportation canister will be reinstalled immediately prior to the payload being moved to the launch pad for mating to the Delta II.

For previous expendable launch vehicle processing status reports, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006
- end -
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Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 091506

09.27.06

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-092706

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: STEREO (Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: No earlier than Oct. 25, 2006
Launch Time: TBD

After an assessment of all engineering data, engineers have determined that the Delta II second stage tank for STEREO is ready for processing to continue. A final determination of flightworthiness will be made prior to spacecraft mating to the Delta II rocket. The second stage will be re-erected atop the first stage on Friday, Sept. 29 at Pad 17-B.

STEREO remains at the Astrotech Space Operations Facility. During the hiatus, the spacecraft flight batteries were reconditioned. The twin solar observatories remain stacked on top of the third stage. The transportation canister will now be reinstalled in preparation for moving to the launch pad on Oct. 12.

For previous expendable launch vehicle processing status reports, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006
- end -
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Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 092706

10.06.06

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-100606

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: STEREO (Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: Oct. 25, 2006
Launch Time: 8:38 - 8:53 p.m. EDT

The Delta II second stage was re-erected atop the first stage on Sept. 29. Guidance and control system checks of the launch vehicle were completed on Oct. 4. Today, launch vehicle engineers are performing a simulated flight test. This is an electrical and mechanical flight events test that activates the rocket's systems as they will occur during powered flight, starting with liftoff and ending with second stage separation. The Flight Program Verification, an integrated test which includes the STEREO spacecraft and upper stage booster, is scheduled for Oct. 16.

STEREO is at the Astrotech Space Operations Facility being prepared for reinstallation into the payload transportation canister on Oct. 9. The twin observatories stacked on top of the upper stage booster will be moved to the launch pad on Oct. 11 and hoisted atop the Boeing Delta II rocket. The payload fairing is scheduled to be installed around STEREO on Oct. 19.

For previous expendable launch vehicle processing status reports, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 100606

10.13.06

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-101306

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: STEREO (Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: Oct. 25, 2006
Launch Time: 8:38 - 8:53 p.m. EDT

STEREO is at Pad 17-B atop the Boeing Delta II rocket. The spacecraft was moved from Astrotech to the launch pad on Oct. 11 as scheduled. Functional testing of the twin observatories is under way. A compatibility test with the Deep Space Network is also scheduled for today.

The Delta II Flight Program Verification, a complete integrated electrical and mechanical test with STEREO and the rocket, is scheduled for Oct. 16. This involves a launch countdown (minus count) and the launch vehicle flight events (plus count). The spacecraft is scheduled to be encapsulated in the fairing on Oct. 19.

For previous expendable launch vehicle processing status reports, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 101306

10.20.06

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-102006

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: STEREO (Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: Oct. 25, 2006
Launch Time: 8:38 - 8:53 p.m. EDT

STEREO, at Pad 17-B atop the Boeing Delta II rocket, was encapsulated into the Delta II fairing on Thursday. The second stage is scheduled to be loaded with storable propellants on Monday, Oct. 23. Because this is a hazardous operation, the launch pad will be closed to all other work.

The Delta II flight program verification, a complete integrated electrical and mechanical test with STEREO and the rocket, was successfully completed on Monday. There are no significant launch vehicle or spacecraft issues or concerns at this time.

On launch day, Oct. 25, the gantry-like mobile service tower is scheduled to be retracted from around the Delta II at 11:15 a.m. The terminal countdown procedure begins at 5:38 p.m. Engineers are scheduled to begin loading the first stage with RP-1, a highly refined kerosene fuel, at 5:58 p.m. The launch team will load the first stage with liquid oxygen 50 minutes later at 6:48 p.m. Liftoff is scheduled for 8:38 p.m. at the opening of a 15-minute launch window.

For previous expendable launch vehicle processing status reports, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 102006

12.22.06

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-122206

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: THEMIS (Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions During Substorms)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: Feb. 15, 2007
Launch Time: 6:07:37 - 6:26:37 p.m. EST

At the Astrotech payload processing facility near Kennedy Space Center, THEMIS state-of-health checks and an electrical system checkout have been finished. Solar array illumination tests are also complete. The spacecraft is now being pressurized in preparation for fueling, which is scheduled for Jan. 3-5. The probes will be installed onto the payload carrier Jan. 9-11. Spin balance testing will follow Jan. 12. Because all work is on schedule and there are no issues or concerns, no THEMIS processing activities are scheduled for the week between the Christmas and New Year holidays.

The Delta II Vehicle on Stand review is scheduled for Jan. 3 followed by installation of the Delta II rocket first stage on Pad 17-B Jan. 6. The nine solid rocket boosters will be placed around the base of the first stage and attached in sets of three between Jan. 8-13. The second stage will be hoisted atop the first stage on Jan. 16. The following day, the payload fairing will be lifted inside the clean room facility located within the mobile service tower.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 122206

01.05.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-010507

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: THEMIS (Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions During Substorms)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: Feb. 15, 2007
Launch Time: 6:07:37 - 6:26:37 p.m. EST

At the Astrotech payload processing facility near Kennedy Space Center, fueling of the THEMIS spacecraft is under way this week. The probes will be installed onto the payload carrier Jan. 9 to 11. Spin-balance testing will follow Jan. 15 and 16. Mating to the upper stage booster is scheduled for Jan. 26. THEMIS will go to Pad 17-B for mating with the Delta II on Feb. 2.

At Pad 17-B, the first stage of the Delta II rocket is scheduled to be installed into the launcher on Saturday. The nine solid rocket boosters will be placed around the base of the first stage and attached in sets of three between Jan. 8 to 13. The second stage will be hoisted atop the first stage on Jan. 16. The following day, the payload fairing will be lifted inside the clean-room facility located within the mobile service tower.

There are no significant issues or concerns at this time.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2006

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 010507

01.12.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-011207

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: THEMIS (Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions During Substorms)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: Feb. 15, 2007
Launch Time: 6:07:37 - 6:26:37 p.m. EST

At the Astrotech payload processing facility near Kennedy Space Center, engineers finished installing the five THEMIS probes onto the spacecraft's probe carrier on Wednesday. The spacecraft was hoisted onto the spin table today and two days of spin-balance testing have begun. Mating to the upper stage booster is scheduled for Jan. 26. THEMIS will be transported to Pad 17-B for mating with the Delta II on Feb. 2.

At Pad 17-B, the first stage of the Delta II rocket was installed into the launcher on Jan. 6. The nine solid rocket boosters are being placed around the base of the first stage this week and attached in sets of three. The final set of three boosters is being hoisted into position today and will be attached on Saturday. The second stage is to be hoisted atop the first stage on Jan. 17. The following day, the payload fairing will be lifted inside the clean-room facility located within the mobile service tower.

There are no significant issues or concerns at this time

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2007

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 011207

01.19.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-011907

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: THEMIS (Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions During Substorms)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: Feb. 15, 2007
Launch Time: 6:07:37 - 6:26:37 p.m. EST

At the Astrotech payload processing facility near Kennedy Space Center, engineers and technicians successfully completed spin-balance testing of THEMIS on Jan. 12. The prelaunch processing of the spacecraft is now finished. THEMIS awaits mating to the upper stage booster, scheduled for Jan. 26. The spacecraft will then be installed into its transportation canister and moved to Launch Complex 17 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station for mating with the Delta II on Feb. 2.

At Pad 17-B, the nine solid rocket boosters were attached around the base of the Delta II first stage last week as scheduled. The second stage was hoisted atop the first stage today. The attempts were postponed on Wednesday due to high winds and on Thursday due to rain. The payload fairing is scheduled to be lifted into the mobile service tower on Monday.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2007

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 011907

01.26.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-012607

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: THEMIS (Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions During Substorms)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: Feb. 15, 2007
Launch Time: 6:08 - 6:27 p.m. EST

At the Astrotech payload processing facility near NASA Kennedy Space Center, engineers and technicians are preparing the THEMIS spacecraft for mating to the upper stage booster, planned for Monday. The spacecraft will then be installed into its transportation canister on Feb. 1 and moved to Launch Complex 17 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on Feb. 2 for mating with the Delta II later that day.

At Launch Complex 17, the stacking of the Delta II launch vehicle is complete on Pad 17-B. Prelaunch checkout and testing is under way. Initial leak checks of the first stage propellant systems were conducted on Thursday. Technicians are now performing guidance and control system checks.

On Monday, a "LOX leak check" will be performed by loading liquid oxygen aboard the first stage during a simulated countdown. The next day, a Simulated Flight Test will be performed, activating the vehicle's post-liftoff flight systems without fuel aboard. The electrical and mechanical systems of the entire Delta II will be exercised during this test. Once the THEMIS payload is attached to the third stage of the launch vehicle, a final major test, the Flight Program Verification will be conducted on Feb. 6. This is an integrated test of the Delta II and THEMIS working together. This test will simulate all events as they will occur on launch day, but without propellants aboard the launch vehicle.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2007

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 012607

02.02.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-020207

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: THEMIS (Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions During Substorms)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: Feb. 15, 2007
Launch Time: 6:08 - 6:27 p.m. EST

At the Astrotech payload processing facility near Kennedy Space Center, transportation of THEMIS to Pad 17-B was rescheduled from today until early Saturday morning. This was due to high wind and rain associated with an advancing cold front. This will not affect the Feb. 15 launch date. THEMIS will be mated to the Delta II rocket and state-of-health checks will be performed. Earlier this week, engineers and technicians mated THEMIS to the upper stage booster as planned on Monday.

At Launch Complex 17 on Monday, a "LOX leak check" was performed by loading liquid oxygen aboard the Delta II first stage during a simulated countdown. The next day, a Simulated Flight Test was performed, activating the vehicle's post-liftoff flight systems without fuel aboard. The electrical and mechanical systems of the entire Delta II were exercised during that test. Once the THEMIS payload is attached to the third stage of the launch vehicle, a final major test, the Flight Program Verification will be conducted on Feb. 6. This is an integrated test of the Delta II and THEMIS working together. This test will simulate all events as they will occur on launch day, but without propellants aboard the launch vehicle.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2007

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 020207

02.09.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-020907

NASA Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: THEMIS (Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions During Substorms)
Launch Pad: 17-B, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
Launch Vehicle: Boeing Delta II
Launch Date: Feb. 15, 2007
Launch Time: 6:08 - 6:27 p.m. EST

On Feb. 3, THEMIS was transported from Astrotech payload processing facility near NASA Kennedy Space Center to Pad 17-B. The final major test, the Flight Program Verification, was successfully conducted on Feb. 6. This was an integrated test of the Delta II launch vehicle and THEMIS spacecraft working together. The test simulated all events as they will occur on launch day, including a combined minus count and plus count, but without propellants aboard the launch vehicle. Technicians installed the Delta II payload fairing around THEMIS on Thursday.

Loading of the Delta II second stage with hypergolic propellants is scheduled for Feb. 13 and a countdown dress rehearsal is also planned that day. Final testing of the THEMIS spacecraft is set for Feb. 14. Retraction of the mobile service tower on launch day is scheduled for 9 a.m EST. Loading of RP-1 fuel, a highly refined kerosene, aboard the Delta first stage will start at 3:30 p.m. Loading of the cryogenic liquid oxygen aboard the first stage will follow at 4:15 p.m. There will be a 20-minute built-in hold at T-15 minutes, followed by a final 10-minute built-in hold at T-4 minutes, leading to liftoff at 6:08 p.m.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2007

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 020907

02.13.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-021307

Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

The launch of THEMIS aboard a Delta II rocket scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 15, has been postponed 24 hours. Loading of hypergolic propellants aboard the second stage of the vehicle was unable to be completed today. Thunderstorms and severe weather moved into the Cape Canaveral vicinity ahead of an advancing cold front that prevented fueling from continuing. The launch window on Friday, Feb. 16, extends from 6:05 to 6:23 p.m. EST.

The THEMIS prelaunch press conference and mission science briefing has also been rescheduled one day to Thursday and will start at 3 p.m. EST. All other events for the news media will be at their same times one day later. Coverage of the launch on NASA Television will begin at 3:45 p.m. EST on Friday.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2007

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 021307

03.23.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-032307

Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: AIM (Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere)
Launch Pad: Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.
Launch Vehicle: Pegasus XL (Orbital Sciences)
Launch Date: April 25, 2007
Launch Time: 1:26:49 p.m. PDT

Since NASA's AIM spacecraft arrived at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif., on March 10, the prelaunch processing has gone well and is on schedule. A critical milestone was achieved when technicians performed a partial deployment of the solar array and successfully conducted an illumination test. Instrument cleaning and calibration is currently under way. The spacecraft separation system is scheduled to be installed this weekend. Mating of the AIM spacecraft to the Pegasus XL rocket is targeted for April 3.

The mating of the three stages of the Pegasus XL is complete. A flight simulation successfully tested the launch vehicle, including testing of the reaction control system pneumatic thrusters. Next week, prior to mating the AIM spacecraft to the Pegasus XL, the spacecraft will be electrically connected to the launch vehicle for a flight simulation. Another flight simulation will be conducted during the second week of April, after AIM is mechanically mated and electrically integrated onto the Pegasus rocket.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2007

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 032307

03.30.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-033007

Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: AIM (Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere)
Launch Pad: Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.
Launch Vehicle: Pegasus XL (Orbital Sciences)
Launch Date: April 25, 2007
Launch Time: 1:26:49 p.m. PDT

NASA's AIM spacecraft processing continues to go well and is on schedule. Technicians have completed cleaning and calibrating the instruments and installed the spacecraft separation system. AIM has been electrically connected to the Pegasus for integrated testing and a flight simulation. Actual mating of the spacecraft to the rocket is planned to begin on or about April 3.

Flight simulation No. 3 is under way with the vehicle and spacecraft electrically connected. Another flight simulation will be conducted during the second week of April, after AIM is mechanically mated and electrically integrated onto the Pegasus rocket. The fairing will then be installed around the AIM spacecraft.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2007

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 033007

04.06.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-040607

Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: AIM (Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere)
Launch Pad: Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.
Launch Vehicle: Pegasus XL (Orbital Sciences)
Launch Date: April 25, 2007
Launch Time: 1:26:49 p.m. PDT

NASA's AIM spacecraft was mated to the Pegasus XL rocket on Wednesday. An integrated flight simulation is scheduled for early next week. Later that week, operations will begin for installation of the Pegasus fairing around the AIM spacecraft.

The Pegasus rocket with the AIM spacecraft is currently planned to be installed onto the transporter April 16. The L-1011 carrier aircraft is slated to arrive at Vandenberg Air Force Base the following day. Transporting Pegasus/AIM to the runway for mating operations with the carrier aircraft is scheduled for April 22.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2007

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 040607

04.13.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-041307

Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: AIM (Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere)
Launch Pad: Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.
Launch Vehicle: Pegasus XL (Orbital Sciences)
Launch Date: April 25, 2007
Launch Time: 1:26:49 p.m. PDT (4:26:49 p.m. EDT)

NASA's AIM spacecraft was mated to the Pegasus XL rocket on April 4. An integrated flight simulation was successfully completed earlier this week. Technicians began operations to install the Pegasus fairing around the AIM spacecraft, followed by black light inspection of the fairing and spacecraft. The spacecraft umbilical was disconnected and re-routed to allow the payload fairing to move into the clean room.

The Pegasus rocket with the AIM spacecraft is currently planned to be installed onto the transporter on April 16. The L-1011 carrier aircraft is slated to arrive at Vandenberg Air Force Base the following day. The transport of Pegasus/AIM to the runway for mating operations with the L-1011 is scheduled for April 22.


Mission: Dawn
Launch Pad: Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.
Launch Vehicle: Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Date: NET June 30, 2007
Launch Time: 15:13:15 p.m. EDT

NASA's Dawn spacecraft arrived at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., on Tuesday at 9 a.m. for final prelaunch and processing activities. The spacecraft was cleaned and inspected after removal of the access panels.

Dawn's mission will be the first time a spacecraft will orbit two planetary bodies on a single voyage: asteroid Vesta and the dwarf planet Ceres. The Dawn spacecraft is managed by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Calif.

NASA's Launch Services Program at Kennedy Space Center and the United Launch Alliance are responsible for the launch of the Delta II.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2007

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 041307

04.23.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-042307

Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: AIM (Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere)
Launch Pad: Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.
Launch Vehicle: Pegasus XL (Orbital Sciences)
Launch Date: April 25, 2007
Launch Time: 1:26:49 p.m. PDT (4:26:49 p.m. EDT)

NASA's AIM spacecraft was mated to the Pegasus XL rocket on April 4, and an integrated flight simulation was successfully completed during the week of April 13. The Pegasus fairing was installed around the AIM spacecraft, followed by black light inspection of the fairing and spacecraft. The spacecraft umbilical was disconnected and re-routed to allow the payload fairing to move into the clean room. The AIM electrical ground support equipment was loaded into the launch site support trailer on Tuesday, and the trailer was transported to the flight line.

The Pegasus rocket with the AIM spacecraft was installed onto the transporter on April 16. The L-1011 carrier aircraft arrived at Vandenberg Air Force Base on April 17. The Pegasus launch vehicle with the AIM spacecraft was transported to the flight line and mated with the L-1011 on Saturday.

Mission: Dawn
Launch Pad: Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Delta II 7925-H
Launch Date: NET June 30, 2007
Launch Time: 15:13:15 p.m. EDT

NASA's Dawn spacecraft arrived at Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., on April 10 for final prelaunch and processing activities. The spacecraft was cleaned and inspected after removal of the access panels. The "command and data handling" portion of the Comprehensive Performance Test was completed on April 19. Technicians began testing the ion propulsion system and thermal control system on April 19.

Dawn's mission will mark the first time a spacecraft will orbit two planetary bodies on a single voyage: asteroid Vesta and the dwarf planet Ceres. The Dawn spacecraft is managed by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Calif.

NASA's Launch Services Program at Kennedy Space Center and the United Launch Alliance are responsible for the launch of the Delta II.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2007

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 042307

04.27.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468


STATUS REPORT: ELV-042707

Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: Dawn
Launch Pad: Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Delta II 7925-H
Launch Date: Targeted for June 30, 2007
Launch Time: 15:13:15 p.m. EDT

The "command and data handling" portion of the Comprehensive Performance Test was completed on April 19. Additional comprehensive performance tests are in progress. Thermal control system, attitude control sub-system and fault protection testing continues.

Dawn's mission will mark the first time a spacecraft will orbit two planetary bodies on a single voyage: asteroid Vesta and the dwarf planet Ceres. NASA's Dawn spacecraft is managed by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Calif.

NASA's Launch Services Program at Kennedy Space Center and the United Launch Alliance are responsible for the launch of the Delta II.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2007

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 042707

05.07.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468

STATUS REPORT: ELV-050707

Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: Dawn
Launch Pad: Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Vehicle: Delta II 7925-H
Launch Date: Targeted for June 30, 2007
Launch Time: 15:13:15 p.m. EDT

• Comprehensive spacecraft system performance testing continues.
  
  
• Instrument final alignment is under way.
  
  
• A test of the spacecraft's primary communications antenna is scheduled for May 21.
  
  
• The spacecraft solar arrays will be attached and deployed May 21 - 24.
  
  
• No spacecraft issues or concerns have arisen during testing to date.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2007

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 050707

05.11.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468

STATUS REPORT: ELV-051107

Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: Dawn
Location: Astrotech Space Operations Facility
Launch Pad: 17-B
Launch Vehicle: Delta II 7925-H
Launch Date: NET for June 30, 2007
Launch Time: 15:13:15 p.m. EDT

• Mission system performance testing continues and is planned to finish Friday.
  
  
• A test of the spacecraft's primary communications antenna is scheduled for May 21.
  
  
• The spacecraft solar arrays will be attached and deployed May 21 - 24.
  
  
• The spacecraft will be moved to Astrotech's Hazardous Processing Facility for fueling on May 26

Mission: Phoenix
[Location: Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility
Launch Pad: 17-A
Launch Vehicle: Delta II 7925
Launch Date: Aug. 3, 2007
Launch Time: 15:35:18 a.m. EDT

• Spacecraft spin-balance testing is under way.
  
  
• The spacecraft will be powered to begin testing on May 14.
  
  
• The heat shield will be installed on May 15, and a separation test will then be performed.
  
  
• The spacecraft's electrical power system will undergo a final performance test on May 17.
  
  
• The flight software will be loaded aboard the spacecraft on May 21.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2007

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 051107

05.18.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468

STATUS REPORT: ELV-051807

Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: Dawn
Location: Astrotech Space Operations Facility
Launch Pad: 17-B
Launch Vehicle: Delta II 7925-H
Launch Date: NET for June 30, 2007
Launch Time: 15:13:15 p.m. EDT

• Preparations are under way for moving the Dawn spacecraft to an adjacent clean room high bay for solar array integration
  
  
• Next week, the two spacecraft solar arrays, each consisting of four panels, will be attached to the Dawn spacecraft and undergo deployment testing. A solar array lighting test also will be performed before the arrays are stowed for flight. This activity is scheduled for May 21-24.
  
  
• The spacecraft will be moved to Astrotech's Hazardous Processing Facility for fueling on May 26.
  
  
• The Delta II first stage will be hoisted into the launcher at Pad 17-B on May 23 and attachment of the nine solid rocket boosters will begin.

Mission: Phoenix
Location: Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility
Launch Pad: 17-A
Launch Vehicle: Delta II 7925
Launch Date: Aug. 3, 2007
Launch Time: 15:35:18 a.m. EDT

• The dry spin test of the spacecraft was successfully completed. A heat shield deployment test also was successfully conducted Wednesday.
  
  
• The electrical power system final performance test was completed Thursday.
  
  
• The heat shield will be installed on May 15, and a separation test will then be performed.
  
  
• The flight software will be loaded aboard the spacecraft on May 21.
  
  
• Compatibility testing with the Deep Space Network is scheduled for May 23-25.
  
  
• In Hangar AO at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, gimbal slew tests of the Delta II first-stage main engine will be conducted next week. These are main engine steering checks using the first-stage hydraulic systems.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2007

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 051807

05.25.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468

STATUS REPORT: ELV-052507

Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: Dawn
Location: Astrotech Space Operations Facility
Launch Pad: 17-B
Launch Vehicle: Delta II 7925-H
Launch Date: June 30, 2007
Launch Time: 4:50:13 - 5:10:13 p.m. EDT

Solar array installation and deployment tests are scheduled to be completed Friday.

The spacecraft is scheduled to move to the hazardous processing facility on May 28. Xenon for the Ion Propulsion System is scheduled to be loaded aboard June 1-2. Hydrazine, used for spacecraft control and maneuvering, will be loaded aboard June 6.

The Delta II first stage, originally set for hoisting into the launcher on Wednesday, has been rescheduled for May 28 due to high wind conditions at Pad 17-B. This will be followed next week by attachment of the nine solid rocket boosters.


Mission: Phoenix
Location: Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility
Launch Pad: 17-A
Launch Vehicle: Delta II 7925
Launch Date: Aug. 3, 2007
Launch Time: 5:35:18 a.m. EDT

The spacecraft's flight software will be loaded aboard Friday.

Guidance navigation and control system performance testing is scheduled for May 30-31.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2007

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 052507

06.06.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468

STATUS REPORT: ELV-060607

Expendable Launch Vehicle Status Report

Mission: Dawn
Location: Astrotech Space Operations Facility
Launch Pad: 17-B
Launch Vehicle: Delta II 7925-H
Launch Date: July 7, 2007
Launch Time: 4:09:31 - 4:36:22 p.m. EDT

At Pad 17-B, the Delta II first stage was hoisted into the launcher on May 28 after a postponement due to high wind at the launch pad. Technicians then began working to erect the nine solid rocket boosters. A mechanical problem with the crane used to hoist and mate the first set of three boosters stalled further launch vehicle build-up. As a result of the crane problem at the pad, the launch of Dawn has been retargeted for July 7. Repairs to the crane are now complete. The operations to attach the solid rocket boosters resumed today. The second stage is planned to be hoisted atop the first stage on June 20.

Due to the change in the launch date, the planned loading of xenon for the ion propulsion system was rescheduled. The operation began Tuesday night and is under way today. Hydrazine, used for spacecraft control and maneuvering, is scheduled to be loaded on June 10. The spacecraft will be transported to Pad 17-B for mating to the Delta II on June 26.


Mission: Phoenix
Location: Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility
Launch Pad: 17-A
Launch Vehicle: Delta II 7925
Launch Date: Aug. 3, 2007
Launch Time: 5:35:18 a.m. EDT


Spacecraft processing is on schedule. The landing radar was integrated with the spacecraft on Tuesday, and testing is now under way.

An entry, descent and landing system verification test is scheduled for June 7 - 8.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2007

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 060607

06.14.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468

STATUS REPORT: ELV-061407

Mission: Dawn
Location: Astrotech Space Operations Facility
Launch Pad: 17-B
Launch Vehicle: Delta II 7925-H
Launch Date: July 7, 2007
Launch Time: 4:09:31 - 4:36:22 p.m. EDT

NASA is investigating a minor mishap affecting the Dawn spacecraft. On June 11, during a procedure to prepare the spacecraft for spin-balance testing, the back of a solar array panel was slightly damaged by a technician's tool. No solar cells were broken. The necessary minor repairs will be made this weekend. There is no impact to the launch date of July 7.

Loading of xenon for the ion propulsion system was completed last week. Hydrazine, used for spacecraft control and maneuvering, was loaded aboard June 10. The spacecraft was then weighed and placed on a spin table for a series of spin tests that are currently under way. Dawn will be mated to its associated upper-stage booster on June 21 and transported to Pad 17-B for mating to the Delta II on June 26.

At Pad 17-B, the operations to attach the Delta II solid rocket boosters to the first stage are complete. The second stage is planned to be hoisted atop the first stage on Friday.


Mission: Phoenix
Location: Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility
Launch Pad: 17-A
Launch Vehicle: Delta II 7925
Launch Date: Aug. 3, 2007
Launch Time: 5:35:18 a.m. EDT

The cruise system verification test is complete.

The planned testing of the landing radar is complete for now and will be resumed later.

Next week, technicians will install the parachute and associated mortar and ordnance. The solar array also will be deployed on the cruise stage for a planned test.

The first stage of the Delta II will be hoisted into the launcher at Pad 17-A on June 18.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2007

- end -
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 061407

06.18.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2468

STATUS REPORT: ELV-061807

Mission: Dawn
Location: Astrotech Space Operations Facility
Launch Pad: 17-B
Launch Vehicle: Delta II 7925-H
Launch Date: July 7, 2007
Launch Time: 4:09:31 - 4:36:22 p.m. EDT

Over the weekend, Dutch Space personnel completed the solar array repair on Dawn as planned and spacecraft processing continues on schedule.

Dawn will be mated to its associated upper-stage booster on Thursday and transported to Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station for mating to the Delta II on June 27.

At Pad 17-B, the Delta II second stage was hoisted atop the first stage on June 15.


Mission: Phoenix
Location: Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility
Launch Pad: 17-A
Launch Vehicle: Delta II 7925
Launch Date: Aug. 3, 2007
Launch Time: 5:35:18 a.m. EDT

Installation of the parachute and associated mortar and ordnance is under way.

A deployment of the solar array on the cruise stage is planned for Wednesday and a solar array lighting test is scheduled for Friday.

The first stage of the Delta II was hoisted into the launcher today at Pad 17-A. Attachment of the nine solid rocket boosters to the first stage will be performed Tuesday through Thursday.

Hoisting of the Delta II second stage atop the first stage is scheduled for June 26.

Previous status reports are available on the Web at:

http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy/launchingrockets/status/2007

- end -
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Source: NASA - ELV Status Report 061807

06.27.07

George H. Diller
Kennedy Space Center, Fla.
321-867-2