Atlas V Launch of ViaSat-3 F2 Satellite Scrubbed Due to Valve Issue
United Launch Alliance (ULA) postponed the planned launch of an Atlas V rocket on Wednesday night because of an unresolved valve problem during the launch window. The vehicle was set to carry a communications satellite for California-based company Viasat.
Cause of the Launch Delay
“An issue encountered while cycling the booster liquid oxygen tank valve during final checkouts” forced ULA to stand down from the launch attempt and reschedule for the following day.
Launch Details and Schedule
The next liftoff is scheduled from Space Launch Complex 41 at 10:16 p.m. EST (0316 UTC), opening a 44-minute launch window. The rocket will travel due east from Florida’s Space Coast.
The satellite weighs 6 metric tons and will be placed into geosynchronous transfer orbit, deploying about 3.5 hours after liftoff from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
Weather Forecast
The 45th Weather Squadron predicted a 95% chance of favorable weather for the launch window. Meteorologists noted a small risk from cumulus clouds but expected fair conditions.
“High pressure will bring fair weather to the Space Coast on both the primary and backup days. For the primary window, a ridge axis over Central Florida will develop light onshore winds and partly cloudy skies,” stated the launch weather officers.
Rocket Configuration
ULA is using an Atlas V rocket in its 551 configuration for this mission.
Summary
The Atlas V launch carrying ViaSat’s latest satellite was delayed by a valve issue, with a new liftoff planned amid favorable weather conditions the following day.