The satellite Aeolus (the "guardian of the winds", according to Greek mythology) is already waiting in French Guiana launch into space to start his main mission, to study the winds and thus contribute to refining weather forecasts.
The launch of the Aeolus was planned for today from the base that the European Space Agency (ESA) has in Kuru (French Guiana) but it is precisely the strong winds expected in the area that have forced to delay the departure of the new European satellite.
Delayed the release of #Aeolus for meteorological reasons.
The start of the Vega rocket with the satellite on board is now planned for tomorrow, August 22 at 23:20 CEST.
More information with @Arianespace at https://t.co/CMCPPO2v8t pic.twitter.com/QtCXK2Giv5
– ESA Spain (@esa_es) August 21, 2018
In addition to contribute to scientific progress and to improve weather forecasting, Aeolus data will be used in air quality models to improve the prediction of dust and other particulate matter affecting public health.
The launch was re-scheduled for Wednesday, August 22 at 11:20 am CEST, ie at 4:20 local time in Mexico.
Source link