STORM2K

CNN just reported that a cover over one of the windows fell off this afternoon and apparently went over where some important tiles are(for re-entry) near the back of the shuttle. NASA is investigating possible implications for tomorrow's launch.

Brent wrote:CNN just reported that a cover over one of the windows fell off this afternoon and apparently went over where some important tiles are(for re-entry) near the back of the shuttle. NASA is investigating possible implications for tomorrow's launch.

Im hearing window cover...

edit i see you said window cover

Aw phooey...don't tell me a delay after all this time since the Columbia disaster. Also, my Dad's boss and his family plan to be there in the crowd tomorrow to see the launch.

Eric

Launch still a go...

Great to hear!

Supposed to be at 3:51 pm ET.

Eric

40% chance of rain though that could still delay it...

They are supposed to fix it overnight... in fact, should already have the tiles fixed(1 hour job reportedly). They will not launch unless they are 2,000% sure it's safe.

What's ironic is debris falling on Columbia's protective tiles is what caused it to blow up.

We've long since learned to expect the postponements. We always check about two minutes before it is scheduled to go, and if it is a go, we run out in the front yard and watch.

Columbia did not blow up. It broke up on reentry due to the damage to the leading edge tiles on the left wing which allowed hot gases to penetrate to the airframe. When the left wing failed, the spacecraft entered an uncontrolled attitude and quickly broke up due to strong heating and aerodynamic forces. Because it was still travelling at high speeds much of the debris burned up.

Steve