ULA Delays ViaSat-3 Flight 2 Satellite Launch
United Launch Alliance (ULA) postponed the launch of its Atlas V 551 rocket carrying the ViaSat communications satellite. The initial attempt on Wednesday at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station was halted due to a technical issue.
Launch Attempt Details
The launch window on Wednesday opened at 10:24 p.m. ET and was scheduled to close at 11:08 p.m. ET. The rocket, standing 205 feet (62.5 meters) tall, was to lift off from Space Launch Complex-41.
Cause of the Delay
About 10 minutes before the planned liftoff, crews faced a problem while cycling the booster liquid oxygen tank vent valve during final checkouts. This issue led to an unplanned hold and ultimately the scrub of the launch at 10:50 p.m.
“The launch of a United Launch Alliance Atlas V carrying the ViaSat-3 F2 mission for @viasat is scrubbed for tonight's launch attempt due to an issue encountered while cycling the booster liquid oxygen tank vent valve during final checkouts. The team will require additional time…”
New Launch Schedule
ULA announced plans to attempt the launch again on Thursday, with a 44-minute launch window starting at 10:16 p.m.
Mission Summary
- Mission: ViaSat-3 Flight 2
- Rocket: Atlas V 551
- Height: 205 feet (62.5 meters)
- Launch Site: Space Launch Complex-41, Cape Canaveral Space Force Station
ULA continues working closely with its teams to resolve the issue and ensure a successful launch.
Author's summary: ULA's Atlas V launch of ViaSat-3 Flight 2 was delayed due to a valve issue, with a new attempt set for Thursday evening. The team remains focused on a safe, on-time lift-off.