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NASA Crew-2 - L-3 Days

Falcon 9

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Valid Period

Apr 22, 2021 10:07 - 10:17 UTC (06:07 - 06:17 ET)

Issued

Mon Apr 19, 2021 at 11:30 UTC (07:30 ET)

Forecast Discussion

Space Launch Delta 45

A wet and unstable pattern will continue over Central Florida as a frontal boundary remains stalled across the area. Rain showers and isolated thunderstorms are likely as low pressure waves move along the boundary over the next two days. On Wednesday, high pressure begins to build in and push the unsettled weather south through the day. By Thursday morning, the high pressure will be centered near Arkansas, creating gusty northerly winds along the Space Coast due to the pressure gradient between the high and the departing boundary. The primary weather concern Thursday morning will be these gusty Liftoff Winds associated with this strong pressure gradient. By Friday morning, the high center will move over the Carolinas, allowing winds to diminish and turn easterly over the Spaceport. The primary launch weather concern for a Friday morning attempt will be Flight Through Precipitation with very isolated, low-topped coastal showers associated with the onshore flow.

Primary Launch Date

Launch Day

Primary Window

80%
PGO

Primary Concerns

  • Liftoff Winds

Additional Risk Criteria

CriteriaRisk Level
Upper-Level Wind ShearLow
Booster Recovery WeatherModerate
Solar ActivityLow

Backup Opportunities

24-Hour Delay

Backup Window

80%
PGO

Primary Concerns

  • Flight Through Precipitation

Additional Risk Criteria

CriteriaRisk Level
Upper-Level Wind ShearModerate
Booster Recovery WeatherLow
Solar ActivityLow