Clouds, Showers Keep Shuttle in Space Another Day

Jun 22, 07:36 AM

Current Headlines: CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.

Rain and low clouds prevented Atlantis from returning to Florida on Thursday, but mission managers were hopeful the space shuttle would be able to touch down a day later, even if it meant landing in California.

During Atlantis' two chances to land, showers were within 34 miles of the landing strip at Kennedy Space Center, and clouds hung below an altitude of 8,000 feet, both violations of flight rules.

Mission managers today will activate the shuttle's backup landing site at Edwards Air Force Base in California. There will be three chances for the shuttle to land at Edwards today, although winds were expected to be too strong for the last two.

- The Associated Press

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