Insulation Repair Delays Launch of Mars Rover Again
The launch of the second Mars rover has been delayed by an additional day, until Sunday, so NASA engineers can run tests to make sure the rocket carrying the space probe is ready to launch.
The delay marks the fifth for the rover, originally scheduled to launch June 25. Launches have been delayed by errant boats in the Cape Canaveral, Fla., launch area, by high winds and by a band of cork insulation that would not adhere to the rocket. Engineers fixed the insulation but needed an extra day to test it and make sure it stayed on after the rocket was fueled, Kennedy Space Center officials said.
The rover must be launched by July 15 to reach Mars.
The first rover was launched June 10. The $800-million mission will seek evidence that water and habitats suitable for life may have once existed on Mars.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
