CAPE CANAVERAL, Florida — Thursday’s launch of the Delta IV Heavy configuration rocket with its National Reconnaissance Office (NROL-15) payload has been delayed by United Launch Alliance for 24 hours due to Tropical Storm Debby’s impact on the local launch area weather forecast.
The NROL-15 launch is now planned for Friday, June 29, 2012, at 6:13 a.m. E.D.T. from Space Launch Complex 37 at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.
The protective Mobile Service Tower will be remain around the launch vehicle and is schedule to be moved for launch Thursday evening.
The NROL-15 mission is the third of four planned launches by United Launch Alliance for the National Reconnaissance Office.
According to the latest NROL launch weather prediction issued by the U.S. Air Force 45th Weather Squadron at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, there is only a 20% weather chance for launch. Strong southerly flow around Debby will keep windy conditions along with periods of showers and isolated thunderstorms in the forecast over the next 2-3 days. The main launch concerns will be for strong winds associated with Debby along with showers and thunderstorms