12.16.2005
The launch of New Horizons is rescheduled for no earlier than Jan. 17, 2006. This will enable an additional inspection of the Atlas launch vehicle. The launch services contractor, Lockheed Martin, experienced problems in September on an updated Atlas propellant tank similar to the one being flown on the New Horizons mission. Work will continue based on a 35-day launch window. On Jan. 17, the launch opportunity is from 1:24 pm to 3:24 pm EST.
- A mission rehearsal with all of the launch participants was held Thursday, 12-15-05, at the Atlas Space Operations Center.
- The spacecraft was encapsulated into the Atlas V fairing on Tuesday at the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility. It is being installed onto the payload transporter on 12-16.05. New Horizons will be moved to Launch Complex 41 on 12-17-05.
- The Integrated Systems Test, an integrated test of the launch vehicle and the spacecraft, is scheduled for 12-21-05.
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