Our #Orion launch scrub briefing is set for 12pm ET & will air live on NASA TV: http://t.co/6XtjOi1yJo Q? #askNASA pic.twitter.com/xSxFZfDdaF
— NASA (@NASA) December 4, 2014
NASA’s next-generation Orion capsule was scheduled for its first test flight this morning, but several issues throughout the launch window prevented it from taking off, so we’ll have to wait until tomorrow to try again. The capsule is the next step in bringing humans to deep space locations including Mars, and NASA scientists will discuss what went wrong with today’s launch live at 12PM EST.
The #Orion launch is scrubbed for today. Next launch opportunity in 24 hours.
— Orion Spacecraft (@NASA_Orion) December 4, 2014
For a quick overview, the launch was first delayed when a boat strayed too close to the launch site, and then it got a bit too windy for takeoff. When the wind died down, launching was initiated again only to be called off due to fuel valve problems on the Delta 4 Heavy rocket that was supposed to propel Orion into space.
The test flight would’ve tested the capsule’s heat shield and parachute landing system, from which astronauts would probably appreciate proper function. The test flight has been rescheduled for tomorrow morning, December 5th, so we’ll all just have to learn to be patient.
Elmo learns all about being patient on Sesame Street. Elmo has no trouble waiting until @NASA is ready! #Orion — Elmo (@elmo) December 4, 2014
It’s still a long way to go to Mars anyway, so we could all stand to learn a lesson from Elmo.
(via Space.com and The Guardian)
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