[sarex] NASA Targets Space Shuttle Atlantis Launch on Jan. 10

[Ransom, Kenneth G. (JSC-OC)[BAR]]

HOUSTON - NASA's Space Shuttle Program managers have targeted Jan. 10
for the launch of shuttle Atlantis' STS-122 mission to the International
Space Station. 

"The workforce has stepped up to and met every challenge this year,"
said Wayne Hale, Space Shuttle Program manager at NASA's Johnson Space
Center. "Moving the next launch attempt of Atlantis to Jan. 10 will
allow as many people as possible to have time with family and friends at
the time of year when it means the most. A lot has been asked of them
this year and a lot will be asked of them in 2008." 

The liftoff date from NASA's Kennedy Space Center, Florida, depends on
the resolution of a problem in a fuel sensor system. The shuttle's
planned launches on Dec. 6 and Dec. 9 were postponed because of false
readings from the part of the system that monitors the liquid hydrogen
section of the tank. 

Atlantis' main objective during its STS-122 mission to the International
Space Station is to install and activate the European Space Agency's
Columbus laboratory, which will provide scientists around the world the
ability to conduct a variety of life, physical and materials science
experiments. 

For the latest information about the STS-122 mission, visit: 

http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle


Kenneth - N5VHO