CBS News Space Place
          

CBS NEWS STS-115 Launch Windows

Last Updated: 09/07/06

Compiled by William Harwood
CBS News Space Consultant

Changes and additions:

  • 07/23/06: Posting STS-115 launch windows chart
  • 07/28/06: Adding launch window for 8/26
  • 08/04/06: Updating 8/27 launch window; adding scrub/turnaround options
  • 08/22/06: Updating throughout
  • 08/30/06: Updating throughout
  • 09/05/06: Removing outdated Soyuz launch date
  • 09/05/06: Updating launch windows
  • 09/07/06: Updating Sept. 9 launch window

    • Atlantis' launch window is based on the international space station's orbit, the angle between the sun and the plane of the station's orbit and lighting conditions for photo documentation of the ship's external tank and heat shield. Based on those factors, the launch window extends from Aug. 27 through Sept. 13. But because of a conflict with the launch of Soyuz TMA-9 carrying the space station's next crew on Sept. 18, and return of the outgoing crew aboard Soyuz TMA-8 on Sept. 29, Atlantis must get off the ground by Sept. 8; Sept. 9 if the agency gives up a contingency day.

    PDF version