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Launch weather forecast
Posted: November 2, 2004

Forecast for Friday, November 5

Issued: Tuesday, November 2
Launch Weather Officer: Joel Tumbiolo, 45th Weather Squadron
Synoptic Discussion: "Weak frontal boundary will slowly work its way into the Florida peninsula during the day on Thursday. Exact timing of frontal passage remains in question as guidance models handle the front differently. Thin band of moisture ahead of the actual front should be through the area by the beginning of the launch window. Increasing clouds and a few showers can be expected with this band of moisture. Again, uncertainty on the exact timing and characteristics of the front as it approaches the area could result in slight changes in the forecast as the week progresses.
"Main concern for launch will be thick-layered cloud cover and any showers accompanying the front."
Clouds: Scattered at 3,000 feet with 3/8ths sky coverage and tops at 5,000 feet; Broken at 5,000 feet with 5/8ths sky coverage and tops at 10,000 feet
Visibility: 7 miles
Launch Pad Winds: North-northwesterly from 330 degrees at 8 gusting to 15 knots
Temperature: 70 to 72 degrees F
Relative Humidity: 80 percent
Weather: Showers in the vicinity
Probability of Violating Weather Constraints: 30 percent
Concerns: Thick Cloud Rule

Times of note

Friday's launch window: 12:43 to 1:11 a.m. EST (0543-0611 GMT)
Saturday's launch window: 12:39 to 1:07 a.m. EST (0539-0607 GMT)

24-hour Delay Forecasts

Saturday's Probability of Violating Constraints: 20 percent
Concerns: Ground winds

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