Shuttle Target Launch Date Postponed

Earlier today, NASA delayed the target launch date of space shuttle Atlantis, to Sunday 9 December 20:21 GMT. This decison allows the launch and management teams, after time-consuming investigation and reviews, appropriate time to rest and prepare for launch.

The final go for launch will be given after a final review meeting scheduled for tonight. The original launch on 6 December was scrubbed when two of four engine cutoff sensors failed to respond appropriately during tanking.

ESA-TV will provide live coverage of final countdown and lift-off, on 9 December 2007 from 20:05-20:35 GMT. A mailing with satellite details will be made early on that day.

In case of a launch on Sunday, Flight Day 1 Highlights of 30-40 minutes run time, featuring the best images of the launch day, will be transmitted on Monday 10 December at 05:00-05:45 GMT.

For the latest transmission schedule, go to http://television.esa.int. For all enquires on transmissions, send contact ingrid.van.de.vyver@esa.int or call her mobile phone +32 495 209541. For ordering video tapes and questions on footage via ftp-transfer, contact television@esa.int. With kind regards,

ESA TV Service