16 Mar 2016 09:33

Soyuz-FG launch to ISS not to be delayed - Roscosmos

BAIKONUR, March 16 (Interfax-AVN) - The launch of a Soyuz-FG rocket from Baikonur for delivering the next crew to the International Space Station (ISS) has not been delayed although high winds have hindered the rocket's placing on the launch pad, Roscosmos has told Interfax-AVN.

"The Soyuz-FG launch vehicle coupled with the Soyuz-TMA-20M manned spaceship was delivered to the launch pad in Baikonur today. 'Verticalization' of the launch vehicle was postponed due to weather conditions (winds exceeding 15 meters per second). Yet the launch was not delayed," a Roscosmos representative said.

The time of LV stabilization will be determined at a meeting of technical supervisors at 2 p.m. Moscow time, with due account of the wind speed, he said.