NASA sets Dec 18, 2003 as target for next launch


According to an article on Space.com, NASA wants to start launching again before the end of the year and finish the US portion of the ISS by 2005.

Among the other interesting tidbits:

  • No more nighttime launches
  • Redesign of the external fuel tank (to prevent falling foam incidents)
  • Possible use of the ISS as a safe haven for stranded astronauts
  • Jettisoning the external tank in the light (so it can be seen by cameras)
  • Revamping the mission management system after launch