Falcon 9 Launch Postponed to No Earlier Than Wednesday

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla., Dec. 6, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A demonstration launch of SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services program has been rescheduled for no earlier than Wednesday, Dec. 8. The delay is because of a crack in the engine nozzle on the rocket's second stage.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20081007/38461LOGO)

During a routine review of close-out photos of the rocket on Monday, SpaceX engineers discovered the crack, which measures about three-inches long. Preparations continue on the rocket at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 40 in Florida.  

SpaceX is considering several options, including repairing the crack or shipping a replacement part from California. More information on the launch schedule will be announced when available.

To learn more about the COTS 1 launch, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/cots

SOURCE NASA