http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/release/2003/43-03.htm

George Diller
Kennedy Space Center
321/867-2468

KSC Release No. 43-03

Note to Editors:
MER-A LAUNCH DELAYED FOR 24 HOURS

Launch of the MER-A spacecraft aboard a Boeing Delta II vehicle scheduled for June 9 from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla. has been postponed for an additional 24 hours.

Due to similar weather conditions today with approaching thunderstorms, mission managers opted to call off today's launch attempt prior to fueling the launch vehicle. The weather forecast for tomorrow is significantly improved with a 30 percent chance of violation of weather criteria.

The launch times available for Tuesday, June 10 are 1:58:47 p.m. and 2:36:49 p.m. EDT.

NASA Television countdown coverage will begin 12 noon EDT tomorrow.

Accreditation of news media for launch will begin at 12 noon at Gate 1, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., with departure for Press Site 1 at 12:30 p.m. EDT.