Like many other folks last night, I waited anxiously for the Falcon 9 to soar into the cosmos taking with her the SES-9 communications satellite. As the countdown timer brought us closer to liftoff, we were delayed by a wayward boat who had meandered into the “Keep Out Zone” downrange from the launch site. The Falcon 9 hissed and vented her frustration for the wait. A new countdown was constructed and we were on our way once more. Only to reach T-0:00:01 and, once again, fail to liftoff.
For those keeping score at home, this marks the third scrub for this particular mission. The first attempt took place on February 24th and the second attempt followed on February 25th. Both of these launch dates were scrubbed due to issues relating to the management of the temperature of the fuel.
Despite a frustrating series of events for Elon Musk, SpaceX and SES World Skies, the good news is that the vehicle and spacecraft are healthy. Barring any catastrophic discoveries found during a closer inspection, this opens up the possibility of another launch attempt soon.
It is disappointing that the Falcon 9 did not fly last night, however it is also important to appreciate the technology and staff behind the launch sequence. When the rocket attempted to launch, the computer noticed that the thrust was not high enough and automatically aborted the ignition sequence; saving the rocket and the payload. With the greater vision of the mission in mind, it is always better to reduce the risk and attempt another launch at a later date.
Full entry.
For those keeping score at home, this marks the third scrub for this particular mission. The first attempt took place on February 24th and the second attempt followed on February 25th. Both of these launch dates were scrubbed due to issues relating to the management of the temperature of the fuel.
Despite a frustrating series of events for Elon Musk, SpaceX and SES World Skies, the good news is that the vehicle and spacecraft are healthy. Barring any catastrophic discoveries found during a closer inspection, this opens up the possibility of another launch attempt soon.
It is disappointing that the Falcon 9 did not fly last night, however it is also important to appreciate the technology and staff behind the launch sequence. When the rocket attempted to launch, the computer noticed that the thrust was not high enough and automatically aborted the ignition sequence; saving the rocket and the payload. With the greater vision of the mission in mind, it is always better to reduce the risk and attempt another launch at a later date.
Full entry.
