Posted: Sun, Jun 22, 2003, 10:14 AM ET (1414 GMT)
The launch of Opportunity, the second of twin NASA Mars rovers, has been delayed a couple of days because of a launch vehicle problem. NASA announced late Saturday that engineers decided during a flight readiness review to replace a band of cork insulation on the first stage of the Delta 2 Heavy booster that will launch Opportunity. The reason for the replacement of the insulation, located below the forward attach points of the rocket's nine strap-on boosters, was not disclosed. A second similar insulation band, located higher up the first stage, will also be inspected. The insulation replacement will delay the launch of Opportunity until Saturday, June 28 at 11:56:16 pm EDT (0356:156 GMT Sunday). The launch had been scheduled for shortly after midnight EDT on June 26. A firm launch date will be announced on Monday when engineers reconvene to discuss the status of the inspections and insulation replacement. NASA will have two chances each day to launch the rover through July 15.

Related Links:

•  NASA/KSC press release
•  Spaceflight Now mission status center