The first launch of a 2.5m rocket from the KSC will carry aloft the new Mk1-2 command pod, unkerbed, so it can be put through trials in orbit and test its heat shield and parachute deployment on re-entry. Already tested on the ground, both the new 3-Bearcat lifter cluster and the orbital Service Propulsion System will see their first flights as well.

The rocket is on the launch pad and pre flight was completed while the launch team waited for the Range Safety Officer to clear the eastern range of boat traffic. Once the range was clear, we had to wait for a break in the heavy cloud cover that had moved in. Weather has just gone green and the final countdown will soon begin from T-5 minutes.