NATION : Astronaut’s Cold, Weather Put Off Shuttle Launch to Saturday
The space agency today postponed launch of shuttle Atlantis on a secret military mission until at least Saturday as doctors treat an astronaut’s cold, and forecasters worry about the weather.
The launch had been scheduled for today until the space agency decided Wednesday to postpone it after Cmdr. John O. Creighton suddenly developed a sore throat and head congestion. Originally, the launch was postponed to Friday morning; this morning, Creighton was described as feeling better, but the launch was put off at least one more day.
Even without the astronaut’s illness, the chances were uncertain that Atlantis could have been launched today or Friday. Air Force experts forecast a 50% chance today and an 80% chance Friday of prohibitive clouds, rain and wind.
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