Go for Tanking – Upper Level Winds Red
Managers overseeing the launch of NOAA’s DSCOVR spacecraft on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket have given a “Go” to begin loading the rocket’s first and second stages with propellant. The process is expected to begin at L-3 hours, or 3:05 p.m. EST.
There is an 80 percent chance for favorable launch weather conditions and there are no technical issues.
During every launch countdown a series of weather balloons is dispatched to measure upper level winds through which the vehicle flies on its way to orbit. Maximum upper-level winds today are forecast to be from the northwest at 90 knots near 30,000 feet. At the current time, upper level winds are “red.” Engineers will evaluate the weather balloon data throughout the count to assess whether the rocket can safely maneuver through the dynamic wind conditions. A final assessment will be made prior to the L-13 minute terminal countdown poll.
