We’re within 6 hours of a possible launch and that means NASA has activated the launch blog. Current weather conditions are red, but the forecasts give only a 20% chance of weather blocking a launch.

Status updates:

• 20.08h: The inspection team (or “ice team“) is looking at a hanging bracket on the mobile launcher platform to see if it could become a safety issue.
• 20.40h: The clouds are moving away and predicted weather conditions for launch are still green.
• 21.24h: A couple of showers off-shore, but they should not be an issue for the launch.
• 21.45h: The Final Inspection Team has left the pad.
• 22.38h: 3 hours left until T-0.
• 23.05h: The go to close and seal the orbiter’s hatch has been given.
• 0.02h: T-20 minutes and holding. Everything’s green.
• 1.03h: There were weather problems with the TAL (Transoceanic Abort Landing) sites in France and Spain. Istres (France)is now go though.
• 1.24h: And Atlantis is go for launch!
• 1.38h: Lift-off!
• 1.41h: SRB separation.
• 1.46h: Main-Engine Cut-Off and external tank separation complete.