Fortunately, the Atlantis crew is back in Florida getting ready for their delayed flight. After Ernesto was downgraded to a tropical storm, everything was back on track. Which is important since the International Space Station is already behind schedule and a total of 15 flights will be necessary to finalize the project. Let's hope nothing scuttles the Wednesday launch. Hey, maybe it is time to consider some alternative launch sites. The predicted weather for Florida is not all that sunny in the years to come. The Sunshine State has become the Sometime State. Just as we are diversifying away from the old shuttle, let's think about diversifying away from the old Cape Canaveral. Back up systems are a good thing.Update: The Atlantis did not actually get off the ground until September 9, but the overall mission was a success. The shuttle still sustained some damage, but this time from space debris. NASA noted "The hit, which left a hole about one-tenth of an inch in diameter, didn't endanger the spacecraft or the crew, nor did it affect mission operations." For more NASA shuttle news go here.
