Mars Exploration Rovers (MER-1/MER-2) 25 Apr 2003 Launch Status Report
MISSION: Mars Exploration Rovers (MER-1/MER-2)
- LAUNCH VEHICLES: Delta II/Delta II Heavy
- LAUNCH PADS: 17-A/17-B
- LAUNCH DATES: June 5/June 25
- LAUNCH TIMES: 2:56:59 p.m. / 12:38:16 a.m. EDT
Good progress has been made in the circuit board rework and the reinstallation on the two Mars rovers. As a result, the launch of MER-A can be moved up by one day on the recovery schedule. Launch is now scheduled for Thursday, June 5.
The first reworked telecom support board (TSB) arrived and was installed on MER-2 on April 16. Rover equipment deck (RED) was reinstalled on April 17. MER-2 lander integration was completed on Thursday, April 24. Integration of MER-2 entry vehicle (back shell, heat shield, lander and rover assembly) scheduled to continue through next week.
On MER-1, the telecom support board (TSB) was installed on April 18. MER-1 rover and lander base petal final assembly was completed on Thursday, April 24. Rover installation on base petal is in work and scheduled to be completed by the end of next week. Lander air bag scheduled for installation by the end of next week.
The mission will have two launch opportunities each day during the launch period, which is scheduled to close on June 19. Arrival at Mars is set for Jan. 4, 2003, regardless of launch date within that period.
On Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, first stage and interstage were erected on Wednesday, April 23 for MER-A on Pad 17-A. Second stage erection is currently scheduled for Saturday, April 26 following with fairing installation on April 29. Simulated Flight and Engine Sequence is currently scheduled for May 9. The solid motor erection is scheduled for May 12-14.
