Status Report

STS-109 Launch weather forecast for Friday, March 1

By SpaceRef Editor

February 27, 2002

Filed under 45 Weather Squadron Patrick Air Force Base, Space Shuttle, US

Eastern Range Operation Forecast Op Number: F1443 Issued: 27 Feb
02/1800 EST

Valid: 01 Mar 02/1121-1224 UTC (28/0621-0724 EST)

45 Weather Squadron web site: https://www.patrick.af.mil/45OG/45ws/

Vehicle/Payload: STS-109 (Columbia)/HST SM-03B

Location: CX 39A

Launch Weather Officer: Ed Priselac

Synoptic Discussion: High pressure associated with the unseasonably cold
temperatures will continue
to move slowly eastward, moving offshore by early Friday. Winds should
gradually become more north- easterly providing weak onshore flow. The
warmer onshore flow will cause a rapid moderation of the cold temperatures.
Threat of low clouds with onshore flow. Temperatures would remain a concern
if the high pressure slowed; thus preventing the onshore flow.

Clouds Coverage Bases (feet) Tops (feet)

STRATOCUMULUS 4-5/8 SCT-BKN 3000 4500

Visibility: 7

Wind: 04006 P 09 kt (60 foot pad winds)

Temperature: 45 F RH: 51% Dewpoint: 30 F

Weather: NIL

Probability of KSC weather prohibiting launch: 20%

Probability of KSC weather prohibiting Tanking: 0%

Primary concern(s): Low cloud ceilings with a slight concern for
temperatures

Probability of KSC weather prohibiting launch for 24 hour delay:
30%

Probability of KSC weather prohibiting Tanking: 0%

Primary concern(s): Low cloud ceilings