The space agency's first analysis blamed a fuel-pumping mechanism on one of the mighty engines.
Except for the addition of an experiment in earthquake forecasting, Endeavour's mission was to be nearly identical to its previous orbital journey in April. Then, astronauts used the Space Radar Laboratory to help scientists map vegetation, geological features, ocean waves and curiosities such as a comet crater and an ancient Arabian city.
The incident marked the fifth launch-pad abort in shuttle history. No date for a relaunch has yet been set.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.