NASA Mars Exploration Rover (MER-B) Launch Status Report 4 Jun 2003

MISSION: Mars Exploration Rover (MER-B vehicle/MER-1 rover)

• LAUNCH VEHICLE: Delta II Heavy
• LAUNCH PAD: 17-B
• LAUNCH DATE: June 25, 2003
• LAUNCH TIMES: 12:38:16 a.m. / 1:19:19 a.m. EDT

Fueling of MER-1 was completed on May 28. Spin balance testing
began the next day on May 29 and was completed May 30. Mating to the Delta
third stage (upper stage booster) took place on June 12. Transportation to
the launch pad is scheduled for June 16.

The MER-B vehicle’s first stage is on Pad 17-B. Erection of the
nine solid rocket boosters was completed May 22. The second stage was
hoisted atop the first stage on May 29.

There are no issues or concerns at this time.