The Supreme Court on Friday upheld a ban on domestic abusers owning firearms, the high court’s first major Second Amendment ruling since a 2022 case that drastically expanded gun rights.
What You Need To Know
In an 8-1 decision, the Supreme Court upheld a ban on domestic abusers owning firearms
It was the high court’s first major Second Amendment ruling since a 2022 case that drastically expanded gun rights
Chief Justice John Roberts wrote the opinion for the nearly unanimous majority
Conservative Justice Clarence Thomas, who authored the 2022 gun case ruling, was the lone dissent
Chief Justice John Roberts wrote the opinion for the nearly unanimous majority. Conservative Justice Clarence Thomas, who authored the 2022 gun case ruling, was the lone dissent.
“An individual found by a court to pose a credible threat to the physical safety of another may be temporarily disarmed consistent with the Second Amendment,” Roberts wrote in the 8-1 majority opinion.
The case was brough by Zackey Rahimi, a Texas man who was accused of striking his girlfriend during an altercation in a parking lot after an argument and later threatening to shoot her in 2019. Rahimi was issued a restraining order in 2020, but he “repeatedly violated” the order, the federal government wrote in its brief in the case, including being involved in five separate shooting incidents. Police secured a warrant after Rahimi was found to be a suspect in the shootings, and upon a search of his house, officers “found a .45-caliber pistol, a .308-caliber rifle, magazines, ammunition, and a copy of the protective order.”
Rahimi argued that the federal government was violating his Second Amendment rights by refusing to allow him to have a firearm.
But in oral arguments last year, the Biden administration argued that the 1994 restriction at the center of the case — which bans firearms for people under restraining orders to stay away from their spouses or partners — was consistent with the longstanding practice of disarming dangerous people.
“When a restraining order contains a finding that an individual poses a credible threat to the physical safety of an intimate partner, that individual may—consistent with the Second Amendment—be banned from possessing firearms while the order is in effect,” Roberts wrote in his ruling. “Since the founding, our Nation’s firearm laws have included provisions preventing individuals who threaten physical harm to others from misusing firearms.”
Despite the favorable ruling, President Joe Biden’s campaign warned of the “startling reality” behind the case’s consideration in the first place.
“No American should overlook the startling reality behind today’s decision: Protecting domestic abuse survivors from gun violence should never be a question, but the fact it even had to be considered shows just how extreme Donald Trump and the gun lobby are,” a senior Biden campaign advisor said in a statement to Spectrum News. “There’s only one candidate in this race fighting to save lives from gun violence and that’s Joe Biden.”
It is the earliest solstice in the northern hemisphere since George Washington was president
Full strawberry moon will appear larger and brighter since it occurs so close to the solstice
It takes the Earth 365 ¼ days to revolve around the sun. The sphere of the Earth does not wobble perpendicular to the plane it is moving, it is tilted by 23.5 degrees.
It’s thanks to this tilt that we have seasons. The northern and summer hemispheres will be tilted toward and away from the sun at different intervals of the year.
Summer solstice occurs when a hemisphere is turned toward the sun.
Summer solstice
The summer solstice occurs in the northern hemisphere annually on June 20 or 21. It is when the sun is directly over the Tropic of Cancer and is located the farthest north in the sky.
The days closest to the summer solstice have the most daylight and are known as the year’s longest days. This year summer will begin in the northern hemisphere on June 20 at 4:51 p.m. EST, marking it the earliest start to the season since 1796, when George Washington was president, according to the U.S. Naval Observatory.
June 2016’s full moon occurred on the date of the solstice, but during the morning hours so not officially summer, since the solstice did not happen until that night. June 1996 had two full moons that month; technically, one of those moons occurred during the summer.
But two full moons in a month categorize the second one as a blue moon (that’s where the saying, “once in a blue moon” comes from), meaning 1996’s strawberry moon occurred early in the month during late spring.
Nomenclature
One would think that if it’s nick-named “strawberry” moon, it should appear with a reddish hue, but it depends on where you live, says Leone.
Other tribes, such as the Ojibwe, Dakota and Lakota, reflect this as well. According to NASA, an old European name for this moon is the Mead or Honey Moon to account for the harvest of honey. Some even say that’s where the term “honeymoon” came from because of the custom of marrying in June.
Appearance
The full moon is opposite the sun and will rise just as the sun is setting and inversely set when the sun is rising. With the sun at the highest point north, this means the moon will be at the lowest, making it appear larger.
The Old Farmers’ Almanac refers to this as the “Moon Illusion.” Thanks to its low position, it will have more atmosphere to pass through, says Leone.
“Depending on where you are in the world, the moon could appear reddish, like a strawberry, when it is close to the horizon.” Adding, “the best time to see it is when it is rising, before it becomes its usual goldish or silvery color as it climbs the evening sky.”
He recommends downloading the app “Moon” to find out when it rises from your location. The full strawberry moon will rise Friday at 10:07 p.m. EST.
Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.
Tropical Storm Alberto has formed in the western Gulf of Mexico, becoming the first named storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season.
What You Need To Know
Alberto is the first named storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season
It’s forecast to make landfall in northeastern Mexico overnight
It will bring heavy rainfall, coastal flooding and wind impacts to parts of Texas
Alberto has max winds of 40 mph in the Gulf of Mexico and is moving west at 9 mph. It’s forecast to make landfall in northeastern Mexico sometime early Thursday morning.
However, it’s important to not just focus on the track of the storm. This disturbance is very large, with heavy rainfall, coastal flooding and wind impacts expected far from its center.
Tropical Storm Warnings are in effect for the Texas coast from San Luis Pass southward to the mouth of the Rio Grande. The northeastern coast of Mexico is also under a Tropical Storm Warning.
Heavy rainfall is expected across parts of the western Gulf Coast.
Flooding is possible across parts of south Texas as rainfall totals could exceed 5 inches this week as the storm moves inland.
Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — St. Petersburg Police and Fire Rescue officials are ramping up security this weekend for the city’s Pride events.
What You Need To Know
St. Petersburg Police and Fire Rescue officials are ramping up security this weekend for the city’s Pride events
Police Chief Anthony Holloway said the department will have plenty of officers there to make sure everyone has a safe and fun time
Fire Rescue Captain Garth Swingle said there will be medical tents and paramedics along the parade route in anticipation of heat exhaustion
View the parade route below
A concert will be held on Friday, June 21, and then the main parade and festival will be happening all day on Saturday, June 22.
It’s one the city’s biggest events of the year and the largest Pride event in Florida.
Police Chief Anthony Holloway said more than 200,000 people are expected to show up on Saturday. He said the department will have plenty of officers there to make sure everyone has a safe and fun time.
“For the event, there will be a full police presence,” Holloway said. “The officers will be in uniform, some will be in plain clothes. We will also bring in surveillance equipment.”
Holloway also stressed that if anyone at the event sees anything disturbing, to let an officer know. Attendees can use the department’s “TIP411” app.
Temperatures are expected to soar this weekend, making heat exhaustion the primary concern for Fire Rescue officials.
Fire Rescue is urging attendees to stay vigilant and to be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion.
“Heat exhaustion is a preventable injury,” said Captain Garth Swingle. “The best way to avoid getting overheated is to remain hydrated, especially when consuming alcohol.”
Fire Rescue, in collaboration with Orlando Health Bayfront, will be setting up medical tents with cooling stations and staffed with healthcare providers. Fire Rescue paramedics will be located along the parade route.
“Anything from a Band-Aid to a catastrophic event. Our goal is to ensure that everyone enjoys the weekend safely,” said Swingle.
The parade starts at 6 p.m. at Albert Whitted Park. The festival runs from 2 p.m. – 10 p.m.
PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Sunday marked the start of National Mosquito Control Awareness Week. It’s a week dedicated to educating communities about the insect and helping prevent the diseases they spread.
What You Need To Know
June to October is when mosquitoes typically become most prominent
Of the 40 mosquito species in Pinellas County, 17 are considered problematic
A new helicopter is set to be unveiled this week that will the capacity to carry larvicide in the fight to control the mosquito population
Living in Tampa for around two years, Mildred Haubenstricker and her husband Todd visited Weeden Island Reserve for a day of fun.
Exploring the trails and checking out the wildlife, Mildred said mosquitoes get on her last nerve.
“I’ve never really had a problem with mosquitos until I moved here,” she said. “I can be outside my house for a few minutes and I’ll get 15, 20 bites.”
Alissa Berrow with Mosquito Control in Pinellas County said it’s from June through October that mosquitoes can become a problem.
“Right now, especially when we’re 95 degrees and seeing 80 at night, this is great for mosquitos because now they can go from egg to adult in just seven days,” she said.
Berrow said of the 40 mosquito species in Pinellas County, 17 are considered problematic, of those, only the females bite.
She said wearing loose-fitting light-colored clothes that are long-sleeved and wearing bug repellent can make a difference as well as dumping or covering any standing water you can.
As Mosquito Awareness Week continues, in Pinellas County, a new helicopter is set to be unveiled that will quadruple the capacity to carry larvicide in the fight to control the mosquito population.
TAMPA, Fla. — Juneteenth, celebrated annually on June 19, became a federal holiday after President Joe Biden signed the legislation on June 17, 2021.
The day commemorates the ending of slavery on June 19, 1865, where Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free — two-and-a-half years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation — which had become official January 1, 1863.
Today, Juneteenth is celebrated to reflect and recognize achievements in the African American community. Here’s a look at the festivities that will be taking place around Tampa Bay.
Fourth Annual Juneteenth Festival June 15, 3-9 p.m. | Raymond James Stadium Get ready to enjoy live DJ’s, a slingshot car show, artistic dance performances, musical guests, a kids’ zone, plus a variety of retail vendors, community resource booths, and food vendors.
Juneteenth Cultural Celebration 2024 June 15, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Tampa Museum of Art Get ready for a community celebration of the holiday with art-making activities, live music and performances, family portraits and local vendors.
Juneteenth Celebration 2024 June 15, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. | USF Sam & Martha Gibbons Alumni Center The USF Black Alumni Society will be hosting a celebration of culture and community for the whole family. Members of the community and businesses attending include WUSF, Walton Academy for Performing Arts, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network and the Institute on Black Life.
Juneteenth Literacy Festival June 13-16, 22 | Various Locations From learning strategies that leads to reading success for children to enjoying live music and food, experience multiple days of culture and fun. Spectrum Bay News 9 reporter Saundra Weathers will be in attendance. Visit the link to learn more.
4-Day Clearwater Juneteenth Celebration June 13 – 16 | Various Locations The Clearwater Urban Leadership Coalition and the city of Clearwater are hosting a four-day series of Juneteenth events, from arts and performances to educational experiences. Click the links for more information and the locations.
Gulfport’s 4th Annual Celebrate Juneteenth June 15, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Gulfport Casino Ballroom In collaboration with The Woodson African American Museum, guests can enjoy a variety of presentations and discussions. There will also be interactive storytelling for kids.
Polk County
Juneteenth Freedom Celebration June 15, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Jackson Park Get ready for a day filled with live music performances, art and cultural exhibitions, food vendors and community dance showcases.
Juneteenth Freedom Festival June 29, 1-6 p.m. | Simpson Park Community Center Dance to the rhythm of live music, enjoy food, and explore cultural exhibits that showcase the history and heritage of the African American community.
Jerry West, who was selected to the Basketball Hall of Fame three times in a storied career as a player and executive and whose silhouette is considered to be the basis of the NBA logo, died Wednesday morning, the Los Angeles Clippers announced.
He was 86.
What You Need To Know
Legendary basketball player, coach and executive Jerry West died Wednesday at 86, the Los Angeles Clippers announced
West, nicknamed “Mr. Clutch” for his late-game exploits as a player, went into the Hall of Fame as a player in 1980 and again as a member of the 1960 U.S. Olympic Team in 2010; he will be enshrined for a third time later this year as a contributor
He was an All-Star in all 14 of his NBA seasons, a 12-time All-NBA selection, part of the 1972 Lakers team that won a championship, an NBA Finals MVP as part of a losing team in 1969 and was selected as part of the NBA’s 75th anniversary team
West was general manager of eight NBA championship teams with the Los Angeles Lakers, helping build the “Showtime” dynasty; he also worked in the front offices of the Memphis Grizzlies, the Golden State Warriors and the Clippers
West, nicknamed “Mr. Clutch” for his late-game exploits as a player, went into the Hall of Fame as a player in 1980 and again as a member of the 1960 U.S. Olympic Team in 2010. He will be enshrined for a third time later this year as a contributor.
West was “the personification of basketball excellence and a friend to all who knew him,” the Clippers said in announcing his death. West’s wife, Karen, was by his side when he died, the Clippers said.
He was an All-Star in all 14 of his NBA seasons, a 12-time All-NBA selection, part of the 1972 Lakers team that won a championship, an NBA Finals MVP as part of a losing team in 1969 and was selected as part of the NBA’s 75th anniversary team.
West was general manager of eight NBA championship teams with the Los Angeles Lakers, helping build the “Showtime” dynasty. He also worked in the front offices of the Memphis Grizzlies, the Golden State Warriors and the Clippers. Among his many, many highlights as an executive with the Lakers: he drafted Magic Johnson and James Worthy, then brought in Kobe Bryant and eventually Shaquille O’Neal to play alongside Bryant.
Even in the final years of his life, West was considered basketball royalty. He routinely sat courtside at Summer League games in Las Vegas, often watching many games in a day while greeting long lines of players — LeBron James among them — who would approach to shake his hand and pay him respect.
“The game transcends many things,” West said while attending Summer League last year. “The players change, the style of play may change, but the respect that you learn in this game never changes.”
He’s 25th on the NBA’s all-time scoring list, and while the league has never confirmed that West was in fact the model for its logo — a player dribbling a ball, set against a red-and-blue background — the league has never said otherwise, either.
“While it’s never been officially declared that the logo is Jerry West,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in 2021, “it sure looks a lot like him.”
After a dry start to June, big changes are coming this week.
What You Need To Know
Off and on storms start Tuesday
Localized flash flooding is possible
Some areas could see more than 7 inches of rain through Saturday
As a cold front moves in from the northwest on Tuesday, it will draw up tropical moisture from the Caribbean.
This front will stall and turn into a stationary front over central Florida and stay for the rest of the week.
With this front nearby, expect off and on downpours and thunderstorms each day through at least Saturday.
It may not rain all day, but it will be for longer than your typical rainy season pop-up thunderstorms.
Due to a lack of rain, the flash flooding risk will be isolated only because the dry ground should be able to soak up a lot of rain.
The highest rainfall totals will be south of Tampa Bay as the tropical moisture will be greatest south of the front.
Rainfall amounts could top 7 inches south of Tampa Bay with totals around 4 to 7 inches for the bay area.
A significant improvement or elimination of the drought is expected after this period of rain moves through.
Lower rain chances could return early next week.
Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.
A burn ban is now in effect for all of Manatee County due to the continued dry and hot weather
Officials said the ban includes items containing any “explosive compound,” sparklers, any item or product using or containing any amount of pyrotechnic composition, flares, open burning and campfires
For some residents, burn bans aren’t an issue, but for others, like ranchers, they rely on burning to run a business
The burn ban will be in effect through June 10, unless extended
Officials said the ban includes items containing any “explosive compound,” sparklers, any item or product using or containing any amount of pyrotechnic composition, flares, open burning and campfires.
Due to the continued hot and dry weather, the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners voted this morning to impose a ban on all outdoor burning and the use and discharge of fireworks and sparklers in the county, now through June 10: https://t.co/c4xXQgTskdpic.twitter.com/eGnW6h5akc
— Manatee County Government (@ManateeGov) June 3, 2024
“We’ve been in discussion with the Fire Chief’s Association, as well as the Department of Forestry, in regard to the current drought conditions throughout the county,” said Manatee County Director of Public Safety Jodie Fiske in a statement. “It is recommended that we declare a burn ban within Manatee County.”
The following uses will be allowed:
Outdoor cookers or grills if they are always attended by a responsible adult while the unit is in use
Any agricultural, silvicultural or land-clearing burn that has been authorized by the Florida Forest Service and it has been determined that there will be sufficient fire suppression equipment and personnel on site
Properly permitted public fireworks displays with adequate fire suppression equipment and personnel on site
Flares discharged over the Gulf of Mexico
There are also burn bans in effect for Pasco and Polk counties.
Officials with the Florida Forest Service said so far, they have seen 26 active fired they are mitigating in the last week, with the largest one at 1,700 acres.
“This is higher than it has been in past years,” said Florida Forest Service official Patrick Mahoney. “In past years, it’s been wet since the hurricane came through. We’ve had several wet summers, wet falls, wet springs, so the fire activity’s been really low. But right now, we haven’t had the rain, so fire danger is up. We’re starting to go into a drought.”
For some residents, burn bans are not a big deal, but for others, like ranchers, they rely on burning to run a business.
Being a rancher is all Jim Strickland knows.
“We’ve been in the cattle business — The Stricklands — since 1860,” he said.
He’s raising more than a thousand head of cattle throughout 17,000 acres. He just acquired his eighth ranch located in Myakka called “Lost Girl Prairie.”
Because it’s new land with invasive species, Strickland wants to do a controlled burn. He said the area hasn’t burned in about 10 years.
Although there is a burn ban for Manatee County, the Florida Forest Service said Strickland could still send in a request for a prescribed burn, but for him to get approved, it all depends on the weather and resources. So, Strickland has halted the plans to burn the acres of land.
“Our cattle can’t get into this area,” Strickland said. “What we would like to do is put fire in here and knock down all these invasive species and bring this back to something that’s more conducive for our ducks, alligator, our deer and our cattle.”
Strickland said he’s fine waiting until the ban is lifted because he knows how serious wildfires can be, like the one that recently happened in Bowling Green.
“I’ve been burning woods for close to 55 years. Again, back to when it was an art, not a science. And now it’s a combination. Now it’s a combination. It’s both. I’ve seen really bad wildfires. I have seen a lot of lightning strikes. I’ve seen homes burned. I’ve seen the damage that’s done,” he said.
The burn ban will be in effect through June 10, unless extended.
CAPE CANAVERAL SPACE FORCE STATION — Many space fans will be waiting to see if the third launch attempt of Boeing’s maiden crewed flight of its Starliner spacecraft will be a success on Wednesday.
What You Need To Know
The next available launch chance is Wednesday, June 5
It will take off from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida
Learn about the previous launch attempts
Discover more about the Starliner and its crew members
Countdown to launch
With an instantaneous launch at 10:52 a.m. ET, Starliner and United Launch Alliance’s Atlas V rocket are now set to send NASA astronauts Cmdr. Barry “Butch” Wilmore and pilot Sunita “Suni” Williams to the International Space Station.
They will be leaving Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida and are expected to arrive at the ISS at around 12:15 p.m. ET on Thursday, June 06, NASA public affairs specialist Steven Siceloff stated to Spectrum News.
If successful, this will be Starliner’s first launch with people onboard.
A timeline of Starliner launch attempts
Before Wednesday’s launch attempt, the Boeing Crew Flight Test mission has seen many delays, from an issue with a valve on the Atlas V rocket to a persistent helium leak on the Starliner. And NASA confirmed on Friday, May 24, that the Starliner will be launched with the helium leak because officials feel it is stable and manageable.
Previous Starliner coverage
Knowing about their ride: Info on the Starliner and Atlas V rocket
Boeing’s Starliner is designed to fit up to seven people, but for NASA missions, only four to five crew members will be on board.
For this mission, the space capsule will be heading into space thanks to United Launch Alliance’s Atlas V rocket.
Boeing stated that its Starliner is conceived for up to 10 missions and each one is made for a specific assignment.
The spacecraft has only performed two missions, both uncrewed. The first Orbital Flight Test in December 2019, which did launch as planned but there was a glitch in the mission-elapsed timer that caused the spacecraft to go into an orbital insertion burn at the wrong time, which wasted a lot of fuel.
So, while it reached a stable orbit, it could not meet up the ISS.
The first Orbital Flight Test’s Starliner is the same one used for his maiden crewed mission. And it was christen Calypso after Jacques-Yves Cousteau’s oceanography vessel, RV Calypso, stated NASA.
After the stage separation, the Atlas V booster will fall into the ocean. Unlike SpaceX rockets, Atlas rockets do not land.
The Atlas V rocket, with the Starliner on top, stands at 171 feet (52 meters) tall. It is a bit smaller than a stacked SpaceX Falcon rocket at 229.6 feet (70 meters).
Understanding the mission
After the liftoff, it will be a more than 24-hour journey for Wilmore and Williams to reach the International Space Station, where Calypso will dock on the space station’s Harmony module.
If all goes according to plan, it should dock autonomously at 12:15 p.m., Thursday, June 6, according to Siceloff.
The mission has many objectives, but one of the main ones is to prove the Starliner’s ability to launch and land.
“The CFT crew is focused on testing Starliner systems in detail throughout their stay on ISS. For a flight test like this, they will not be tasked with research work on the station itself. They are qualified to do so, but for this mission, the flight testing elements have priority,” according to Siceloff in an earlier interview.
The pair will assess the spacecraft, its displays, and cargo transfer systems; and will even go inside Starliner and close the hatch to show it can be used as a “safe haven” in case there is an emergency, NASA explained.
During the first launch effort, former NASA astronaut and former Boeing CST-100 Starliner Director of Crew and Mission Systems Christopher J. Ferguson explained to Spectrum News what Wilmore and Williams will experience as the Starliner launches.
🚀@Boeing’s former #Starliner Director and @NASA astronaut Chris Ferguson was explaining to me what Cmdr. #Wilmore and pilot #Williams will experience during liftoff and what went into this maiden launch.
“The goal of the program is to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation on space station missions, which will allow for additional research time,” NASA stated.
“In 2014, Boeing was awarded up to $4.2 billion by NASA to build, test and fly the Starliner. The contract includes six service missions, as well as an uncrewed and a crewed flight test to the ISS,” Boeing stated in a 51-page document.
Both Wilmore and Williams will be at the ISS as part-time Expedition 71 members for about a week or before they return to Earth in the Starliner, NASA officials stated.
(ISS expeditions are missions that can last about six months.)
The Starliner will have a “hard landing” in the American Southwest as its parachutes will slow it down to 4 mph before touching soil again. The exact location has not yet been disclosed.
Introducing the crew
Boeing Crew Flight Test astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are seen in this 2022 photo. They will be the first astronauts to crew Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft to the International Space Station. (NASA/Robert Markowitz)
When it comes to space travel, the Starliner crew are pros. Wilmore, the commander of the Crew Flight Test mission, became a NASA astronaut in July 2000.
The retired Navy veteran has been on the Atlantis shuttle mission STS-129 in 2009 and two ISS Expedition missions: 41 and 42 between 2014 and 2015.
Williams will be the pilot for this first voyage of the crewed mission. The Ohio native was selected to be a NASA astronaut in 1998 and has been on two ISS missions: Expeditions 14 and 15 in 2006 and 2007. And then 32 and 33 in 2012.
CAPE CANAVERAL SPACE FORCE STATION — A day after scrubbing the maiden crewed launch attempt of Boeing’s Starliner, NASA announced on Sunday the mission has a confirmed new liftoff date.
What You Need To Know
The next available launch chance is Wednesday, June 5; backup Thursday, June 6
In latest press conference, NASA officials explain to Spectrum News why they will fly the Starliner with the helium leak
The 45th Weather Squadron is giving a 90% chance of good conditions for launch, with the only concerns being the cumulus cloud rule.
The second launch attempt scrubbed
Minutes before launch of the crewed Starliner spacecraft on Saturday, June 1, Boeing and NASA scrubbed the mission, with an official from the U.S. space agency stating a computer put a hold. The hold happened at 3 minutes, 50 seconds before the instantaneous liftoff at 12:25 p.m. ET.
“NASA, Boeing, and ULA (United Launch Alliance) scrubbed today’s launch opportunity due to the computer ground launch sequencer not loading into the correct operational configuration after proceeding into terminal count,” stated NASA.
On Sunday, the U.S. space agency stated United Launch Alliance’s team discovered the cause.
“The ULA team identified an issue with a single ground power supply within one of the three redundant chassis that provides power to a subset of computer cards controlling various system functions, including the card responsible for the stable replenishment topping valves for the Centaur upper stage,” according to NASA.
The Centaur upper stage is part of ULA’s Atlas V rocket. The chassis are needed to enter the terminal phase of the launch countdown to make sure the crew is safe.
Early Saturday afternoon, NASA stated the next launch attempt would be Sunday, June 02, at 12:03 p.m. ET. But come Saturday evening, NASA stated the mission team wanted more time to assess the ground support equipment issue and the “next available launch opportunities are Wednesday, June 5, and Thursday, June 6,” it stated.
.@NASA, @BoeingSpace, and @ulalaunch are forgoing a Crew Flight Test launch attempt on June 2 to give the team additional time to assess a ground support equipment issue.
ULA will assess the ground support equipment overnight, and NASA will provide an update June 2 on next steps… pic.twitter.com/BlBddwk63o
— NASA Commercial Crew (@Commercial_Crew) June 1, 2024
NASA stated the focus for the launch team is to make sure the ULA Atlas V rocket is in a good configuration as well as Starliner, which is christened Calypso.
For the second time in less than a month, NASA astronauts Cmdr. Barry “Butch” Wilmore and pilot Sunita “Suni” Williams found themselves hoping to be sent to the International Space Station, only to be removed from Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.
A number of things were going against this mission, but for Saturday’s attempt, the launch team had to troubleshoot a problem with the topping the Atlas’ Centaur’s cryogenic tanks with fuel. Eventually, a workaround was found.
This is a different issue that what originally scrubbed the mission on Monday, May 6. (Scroll down below for more details.)
Before that, the wind conditions gave some a wary eye.
The 45th Weather Squadron gave a 90% chance of good launch conditions, with the only concerns being ground winds and the cumulus cloud rule.
Mark Burger of the squadron explained to Spectrum News what Saturday’s liftoff conditions were like for both the launch day and for Sunday, one of the backup attempts.
Mark Burger of the 45th Weather Squadron was explaining to me the liftoff conditions for @BoeingSpace’s #Starliner mission for today and the backup launch tomorrow.
Before the Saturday, June 2 launch attempt, the Boeing Crew Flight Test mission has seen several delays, from an issue with a valve on the Atlas V rocket to a persistent helium leak on the Starliner. In fact, NASA stated on Friday, May 24, that the Starliner will be launched with the helium leak, saying it was stable and manageable.
The first launch attempt was set for Monday, May 6. However, minutes before the lift off, officials scrubbed it because they discovered an issue with a pressure regulation valve on a liquid oxygen tank on the Atlas V rocket’s Centaur upper stage.
Both Starliner and the rocket were rolled back to Vertical Integration Facility at Space Launch Complex-41 to repair the issue. The pair has since been rolled back to the pad.
Boeing hoped for a second launch attempt on Friday, May 17, at 6:16 p.m. ET. However, a small helium leak that was discovered in the Starliner’s service module put an end to that attempt. The cause of the leak is from a faulty seal.
The small helium leak also dashed the hopes of two more attempts: One for Tuesday, May 21, at 4:43 p.m. ET and the second one on Saturday, May 25, at 3:09 p.m. ET.
On Friday, May 24, NASA confirmed with Spectrum News that it will allow Starliner to launch with a helium leak.
On Wednesday, May 29, both the private company and the U.S. space agency announced that the Starliner mission is still on for the weekend.
“NASA and Boeing teams polled ‘go’ to proceed with plans to launch the agency’s Boeing Crew Flight Test to the International Space Station at 12:25 p.m. EDT Saturday, June 1. During a Delta-Agency Flight Test Readiness Review Wednesday at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, leaders from NASA, Boeing, and ULA (United Launch Alliance) verified launch readiness, including all systems, facilities, and teams supporting the test flight,” Boeing stated.
During a press conference on Friday, May 31, NASA officials once again assured that the Starliner is safe to flight, despite it losing helium.
Answering a question posed by Spectrum News as to why both NASA and Boeing do not roll the stacked vehicle back into the hanger and remove the space capsule to fix the leak, space agency officials said they have been thorough with reviewing the situation and the data they have collected.
“First of all, we’ve looked really hard at what our options were for this particular flange and the fact that this flange has a fuel line that goes into the flange, an oxygenizer line and helium line all going into the flange makes it problematic to work on. It makes it almost unsafe to work on,” answered Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program.
He said the broken seal is leaking a half a pound a day and because the tank can hold 50 pounds of helium, they feel they can manage the small leak and within the margin of safety for spaceflight.
“Sometimes for spaceflight, we plan for contingencies and design the vehicle to have margin and in our case, we have margin in the helium tank,” Stich said. “… We really think we can manage this leak both by looking at it before we launch and then if it got bigger in flight, we can manage it. In fact, we can handle it as I said on Friday a leak 100 times worse than this.”
Mark Nappi, Boeing’s vice president and program manager of its commercial crew program, echoed what Stich said, adding that they asked themselves, “Is it safe or not? And it is safe and that’s why we determined to go fly with what we have.”
Learn about Starliner and Atlas V rocket
While the Starliner can fit up to seven crew members, for NASA missions it will carry between four to five people.
Each 16.5-foot (5 meter) tall Starliner is designed for up to 10 launch missions and they are made for each assignment, stated Boeing.
The Starliner spacecraft only has two missions under its wide belt: The first Orbital Flight Test in December 2019, which did launch as planned but there was a glitch in the mission-elapsed timer that caused the spacecraft to go into an orbital insertion burn at the wrong time, which wasted a lot of fuel.
So, while it achieved a stable orbit, it could not meet up with the space station.
The Starliner in the first Orbital Flight Test will be the same one used for this maiden crewed mission. And it is named Calypso after Jacques-Yves Cousteau’s oceanography vessel, RV Calypso, stated NASA.
After the stage separation, the Atlas V booster will fall into the ocean. Unlike SpaceX rockets, Atlas rockets do not land.
The Atlas V rocket, with the Starliner on top, stands at 171 feet (52 meters) tall. It is a bit smaller than a stacked SpaceX Falcon rocket at 229.6 feet (70 meters).
Understanding the mission
After the launch, the Starliner duo will have a more than 24-hour journey to the International Space Station, where Calypso will dock on the space station’s Harmony module, Steven Siceloff, a NASA public affairs specialist, explained to Spectrum News on Wednesday, May 29.
If all goes according to plan, it should dock autonomously at 1:50 p.m., Sunday, stated NASA.
One of the main objectives of the mission is to demonstrate the Starliner’s ability to launch and land. This will be the first time that the Starliner spacecraft will have a journey to the ISS with people onboard.
“The CFT crew is focused on testing Starliner systems in detail throughout their stay on ISS. For a flight test like this, they will not be tasked with research work on the station itself. They are qualified to do so, but for this mission, the flight testing elements have priority,” according to Siceloff.
The pair will assess the spacecraft, its displays, and cargo transfer systems; and will even go inside Starliner and close the hatch to show it can be used as a “safe haven” in case there is an emergency, NASA explained.
During the first launch attempt, former NASA astronaut and former Boeing CST-100 Starliner Director of Crew and Mission Systems Christopher J. Ferguson explained to Spectrum News what Wilmore and Williams will experience as the Starliner launches.
🚀@Boeing’s former #Starliner Director and @NASA astronaut Chris Ferguson was explaining to me what Cmdr. #Wilmore and pilot #Williams will experience during liftoff and what went into this maiden launch.
“The goal of the program is to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation on space station missions, which will allow for additional research time,” NASA stated.
“In 2014, Boeing was awarded up to $4.2 billion by NASA to build, test and fly the Starliner. The contract includes six service missions, as well as an uncrewed and a crewed flight test to the ISS,” Boeing stated in a 51-page document.
Both Wilmore and Williams will be at the ISS as part-time Expedition 71 members for about eight days before they climb back onboard the Starliner and return to Earth, NASA officials stated.
“Overall, they will be in space … but the exact duration depends on mission conditions and testing of Starliner systems while at the station,” Siceloffstated.
(ISS expeditions are missions that can last about six months.)
During the Saturday, June 01, launch attempt, NASA astronaut Loral O’Hara shared with Spectrum News why she wanted to go into space and the importance of the commercial crew program.
.@Jon_Shaban and I got a chance to interview @NASA astronaut @lunarloral ahead of @BoeingSpace’s #Starliner. She tells use why she wanted to be an astronaut and the importance of the ISS and the new way we get to space.
The Starliner will have a “hard landing” in the American Southwest. Its parachutes will slow it down to 4 mph before touching the earth again. The exact location has not yet been disclosed.
Meeting the crew
Boeing Crew Flight Test astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are seen in this 2022 photo. They will be the first astronauts to crew Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft to the International Space Station. (NASA/Robert Markowitz)
When it comes to space travel, the Starliner crew are pros. Wilmore, the commander of the Crew Flight Test mission, became a NASA astronaut in July 2000.
The retired Navy veteran has been on the Atlantis shuttle mission STS-129 in 2009 and two ISS Expedition missions: 41 and 42 between 2014 and 2015.
Williams will be the pilot for this first voyage of the crewed mission. The Ohio native was selected to be a NASA astronaut in 1998 and has been on two ISS missions: Expeditions 14 and 15 in 2006 and 2007. And then 32 and 33 in 2012.
TAMPA, Fla. — Hurricane Season is back! This comes off of a 2023 season that had 20 named storms and was ranked 4th for the most-named storms in a year since 1950. During the 2023 Hurricane Season, Florida only had one major storm impact the state, and that was Hurricane Idalia. It made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region as a Category 3 on August 30th near Keaton Beach, Florida. The powerful storm left a trail of debris. In the town of Horseshoe Beach, houses were split in half and canals were filled with cars and debris. Water rushed into nearby cities and towns like Steinhatchee. The storm surge levels reached levels near 10-feet! Devastating storm surge was seen across Taylor and Dixie Counites as well.
Video Courtesy of WCJB via CNN
As many here in Florida continue to rebuild from the damage these past couple years, local, state and federal authorities all say now is the time to get ready for whatever may come our way this year.
From supply kits to home insurance, preparing for the Atlantic Hurricane season isn’t a one-day project, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. Spectrum Bay News 9 has everything you need to know to stay safe.
2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season (June 1 – Nov. 30)
Plan ahead and stock up
When a storm gets a name, all eyes are on the tropics. As the storm approaches, store shelves could empty. So, it’s best to buy everything you’ll need — and want — to have on hand way ahead of time. You don’t want to be caught trying to stock up last minute.
Now, as we prepare for this storm season, it’s good to know what we could be up against. Here’s a look at NOAA’s 2024 predictions, released just over a week ago.
Earlier this year, Colorado State University released their own predictions saying they expect 23 named storms this year. Researchers there say there could be 11 hurricanes and five category three or higher “Major” hurricanes.
Back on May 23rd, the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration released their outlook as well. They are predicting an 85% chance of an above normal season. They are also forecasting a range of 17-25 named storms, of which 8 – 13 could become hurricanes, including 4 – 7 being major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher).
ACE Formula
When it comes to how active a hurricane season will be, there is a lot more to it than just counting how many storms form. There’s a formula that meteorologists use and it is called “Accumulated Cyclone Energy” or ACE. Specturm Bay News 9 Meteorologist Josh Linker explains the formula:
Tracking storms
One of the things that has changed over the years is how we track storms. We always try to make things very simple and clear for our viewers, so you feel prepared and safe.
You always want to prepare, no matter what the hurricane season is expected to look like. And that means making sure your home is secure.
In April, Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill into law approving $200-million more for the “My Safe Florida Home Program.”
The program helps Floridians replace roofs, harden their windows and doors, and make other improvements to their houses and ultimately lower insurance costs.
Since May 2022, the state has invested over $600-million in this program.
Water can recede from our beaches, causing a reverse storm surge situation which can also be dangerous. Spectrum Bay News 9 Meteorologist Kyle Hanson explains the different wind and water threats:
Beach dune systems
As we just learned, storm surge can cause a lot of damage to our beaches. Pinellas County spent $36-million restoring its beach dune system after Hurricane Idalia last August.
If you live in an area the frequently floods, you are encouraged to elevate your home to protect it from water damage. Citrus, Pasco and Pinellas all have programs to help residents do this. Spectrum Bay News 9’s Nick Popham looks at what some people in the area are doing to rise above the issue:
Issues facing seniors
The message from local emergency managers is to be prepared well before a major storm is in the forecast.
But for some demographics, that’s easier said that done. Spectrum Bay News 9’s Cait McVey took a look at the issues facing seniors at home and how they can stay safe this hurricane season:
Evacuations
Tropical weather is the price we pay for living in paradise. But do you know where to go if you have to evacuate? The threat of storm surge is why our coastline communities are told to leave. It’s important that you know if you live in an evacuation zone and which one.
Hurricane Idalia impacted Tampa Bay and our Nature Coast as well. One of those communities hit hard was in Citrus County. When it comes to hurricane season, we always talk about protecting homes and buildings, but what about everything that’s inside? Those things that cannot be replaced. Spectrum Bay News 9’s Saundra Weathers talked with the Citrus County Historical Society about how they are working to preserve history while preparing for this storm season.
Looking back at 2004
This year marks 20 years since Florida saw one of the most intense hurricane seasons on record. Four storms impacted the Sunshine State, all within a six-week period.
Hurricane Charley was the first. It was expected to make landfall in Tampa Bay, but on August 13th, the Category 4 storm slammed into southwest Florida and devastated places like Captiva Island.
Then, just three weeks later, Hurricane Francis hit Florida on September 5th. It made landfall as a Category 2 storm at Hutchinson Island.
Hurricane Ivan would then follow as a Category 3 hurricane, hitting the Florida Panhandle on September 16th.
Hurricane Jeanne would be the fourth named storm to hit our state that year. It made landfall in Hutchinson Island, just two miles from where Hurricane Frances had it 20 days prior.
Spectrum New Bay News 9’s Jeff Butera talked with some Florida residents who say their memories of the “Summer of Hurricanes” are as vivid today as they were two decades ago:
HURRICANE CHARLEY RADAR ANIMATION
Team coverage
Spectrum Bay News 9’s Chief Meteorologist Mike Clay was a part of the team here in 2004 guiding the Tampa Bay area through the storm. In fact, Meteorologist Alan Winfield and Mike Clay were the first on TV in Tampa to call Charley missing Tampa Bay and hitting south.
CAPE CANAVERAL SPACE FORCE STATION — After dealing with a number of delays, Boeing is ready to launch the maiden crewed Starliner flight with two NASA astronauts onboard, even though the spacecraft has a helium leak.
Countdown to launch
Sitting on top of United Launch Alliance’s Atlas V rocket, Boeing’s Starliner will take flight on Saturday, June 1, at 12:25 p.m. ET from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.
(Boeing built the Starliner and United Launch Alliance — a joint business venture between Boeing and Lockheed Martin — built the Atlas V rocket.)
NASA astronauts Cmdr. Barry “Butch” Wilmore and pilot Sunita “Suni” Williams will be heading to the International Space Station while sitting in Starliner, which is christened Calypso.
The 45th Weather Squadron has given a 90% chance of good launch conditions, with the only concerns being ground winds and the cumulus cloud rule.
Mark Burger of the squadron explained to Spectrum News what the liftoff conditions are like for both the launch day and for Sunday, one of the backup attempts.
Mark Burger of the 45th Weather Squadron was explaining to me the liftoff conditions for @BoeingSpace’s #Starliner mission for today and the backup launch tomorrow.
If the Starliner does not go up, the next attempts are set for the following dates, according to NASA: Sunday, June 2, Wednesday, June 5, and Thursday, June 6. No launch times have been given.
Getting off the ground: A timeline
The Boeing Crew Flight Test mission has seen several delays, from an issue with a valve on the Atlas V rocket to a persistent helium leak on the Starliner. In fact, NASA stated on Friday, May 24, that the Starliner will be launched with the helium leak, saying it was stable and manageable.
The first launch attempt was set for Monday, May 6. However, minutes before the lift off, officials scrubbed it because they discovered an issue with a pressure regulation valve on a liquid oxygen tank on the Atlas V rocket’s Centaur upper stage.
Both Starliner and the rocket were rolled back to Vertical Integration Facility at Space Launch Complex-41 to repair the issue. The pair has since been rolled back to the pad.
Boeing hoped for a second launch attempt on Friday, May 17, at 6:16 p.m. ET. However, a small helium leak that was discovered in the Starliner’s service module put an end to that attempt. The cause of the leak is from a faulty seal.
The small helium leak also dashed the hopes of two more attempts: One for Tuesday, May 21, at 4:43 p.m. ET and the second one on Saturday, May 25, at 3:09 p.m. ET.
On Friday, May 24, NASA confirmed with Spectrum News that it will allow Starliner to launch with a helium leak.
On Wednesday, May 29, both the private company and the U.S. space agency announced that the Starliner mission is still on for the weekend.
“NASA and Boeing teams polled ‘go’ to proceed with plans to launch the agency’s Boeing Crew Flight Test to the International Space Station at 12:25 p.m. EDT Saturday, June 1. During a Delta-Agency Flight Test Readiness Review Wednesday at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, leaders from NASA, Boeing, and ULA (United Launch Alliance) verified launch readiness, including all systems, facilities, and teams supporting the test flight,” Boeing stated.
During a press conference on Friday, May 31, NASA officials once again assured that the Starliner is safe to flight, despite it losing helium.
Answering a question posed by Spectrum News as to why both NASA and Boeing do not roll the stacked vehicle back into the hanger and remove the space capsule to fix the leak, space agency officials said they have been thorough with reviewing the situation and the data they have collected.
“First of all, we’ve looked really hard at what our options were for this particular flange and the fact that this flange has a fuel line that goes into the flange, an oxygenizer line and helium line all going into the flange makes it problematic to work on. It makes it almost unsafe to work on,” answered Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program.
He said the broken seal is leaking a half a pound a day and because the tank can hold 50 pounds of helium, they feel they can manage the small leak and within the margin of safety for spaceflight.
“Sometimes for spaceflight, we plan for contingencies and design the vehicle to have margin and in our case, we have margin in the helium tank,” Stich said. “… We really think we can manage this leak both by looking at it before we launch and then if it got bigger in flight, we can manage it. In fact, we can handle it as I said on Friday a leak 100 times worse than this.”
Mark Nappi, Boeing’s vice president and program manager of its commercial crew program, echoed what Stich said, adding that they asked themselves, “Is it safe or not? And it is safe and that’s why we determined to go fly with what we have.”
Learn about Starliner and Atlas V rocket
While the Starliner can fit up to seven crew members, for NASA missions it will carry between four to five people.
Each 16.5-foot (5 meter) tall Starliner is designed for up to 10 launch missions and they are made for each assignment, stated Boeing.
The Starliner spacecraft only has two missions under its wide belt: The first Orbital Flight Test in December 2019, which did launch as planned but there was a glitch in the mission-elapsed timer that caused the spacecraft to go into an orbital insertion burn at the wrong time, which wasted a lot of fuel.
So, while it achieved a stable orbit, it could not meet up with the space station.
The Starliner in the first Orbital Flight Test will be the same one used for this maiden crewed mission. And it is named Calypso after Jacques-Yves Cousteau’s oceanography vessel, RV Calypso, stated NASA.
After the stage separation, the Atlas V booster will fall into the ocean. Unlike SpaceX rockets, Atlas rockets do not land.
The Atlas V rocket, with the Starliner on top, stands at 171 feet (52 meters) tall. It is a bit smaller than a stacked SpaceX Falcon rocket at 229.6 feet (70 meters).
Understanding the mission
After the launch, the Starliner duo will have a more than 24-hour journey to the International Space Station, where Calypso will dock on the space station’s Harmony module, Steven Siceloff, a NASA public affairs specialist, explained to Spectrum News on Wednesday, May 29.
If all goes according to plan, it should dock autonomously at 1:50 p.m., Sunday, stated NASA.
One of the main objectives of the mission is to demonstrate the Starliner’s ability to launch and land. This will be the first time that the Starliner spacecraft will have a journey to the ISS with people onboard.
“The CFT crew is focused on testing Starliner systems in detail throughout their stay on ISS. For a flight test like this, they will not be tasked with research work on the station itself. They are qualified to do so, but for this mission, the flight testing elements have priority,” according to Siceloff.
The pair will assess the spacecraft, its displays, and cargo transfer systems; and will even go inside Starliner and close the hatch to show it can be used as a “safe haven” in case there is an emergency, NASA explained.
During the first launch attempt, former NASA astronaut and former Boeing CST-100 Starliner Director of Crew and Mission Systems Christopher J. Ferguson explained to Spectrum News what Wilmore and Williams will experience as the Starliner launches.
🚀@Boeing’s former #Starliner Director and @NASA astronaut Chris Ferguson was explaining to me what Cmdr. #Wilmore and pilot #Williams will experience during liftoff and what went into this maiden launch.
“The goal of the program is to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation on space station missions, which will allow for additional research time,” NASA stated.
“In 2014, Boeing was awarded up to $4.2 billion by NASA to build, test and fly the Starliner. The contract includes six service missions, as well as an uncrewed and a crewed flight test to the ISS,” Boeing stated in a 51-page document.
Both Wilmore and Williams will be at the ISS as part-time Expedition 71 members for about eight days before they climb back onboard the Starliner and return to Earth, NASA officials stated.
“Overall, they will be in space … but the exact duration depends on mission conditions and testing of Starliner systems while at the station,” he stated.
(ISS expeditions are missions that can last about six months.)
The Starliner will have a “hard landing” in the American Southwest. Its parachutes will slow it down to 4 mph before touching the earth again. The exact location has not yet been disclosed.
Meeting the crew
Boeing Crew Flight Test astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are seen in this 2022 photo. They will be the first astronauts to crew Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft to the International Space Station. (NASA/Robert Markowitz)
When it comes to space travel, the Starliner crew are pros. Wilmore, the commander of the Crew Flight Test mission, became a NASA astronaut in July 2000.
The retired Navy veteran has been on the Atlantis shuttle mission STS-129 in 2009 and two ISS Expedition missions: 41 and 42 between 2014 and 2015.
Williams will be the pilot for this first voyage of the crewed mission. The Ohio native was selected to be a NASA astronaut in 1998 and has been on two ISS missions: Expeditions 14 and 15 in 2006 and 2007. And then 32 and 33 in 2012.
PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — The City of St. Petersburg and Hines Development Group have released more renderings of what they envision for the Historic Gas Plant redevelopment project.
City officials released new images of what the completed project, long with a new ballpark, would look like.
The Rays-Hines development team seeks to revive the community by demolishing Tropicana Field and building a new stadium.
The plan also includes more than 5,000 residential units, 600 of them for seniors and over 1,200 would be affordable and workforce housing.
Plans also include 750,000 square-feet for retail space, including spots for small businesses, a grocery store, and a 4,000 to 6,000-seat entertainment venue.
That’s in addition to the office, conference and meeting space and 750 hotel rooms.
The project, totaling 86-acres and ultimately costing $6.5 billion, is anchored by a proposed 30,000-seat new ballpark for the Rays.
Redevelopment talks at City Hall are set to resume June 13. A final vote on the stadium and Gas Plant agreements is set for July 11.
CAPE CANAVERAL SPACE FORCE STATION — SpaceX is preparing for a Memorial Day Starlink launch.
What You Need To Know
SpaceX will send off Starlink 6-60 mission at 11:30 a.m. ET
It will take place at Space Launch Complex 40
The Falcon 9 rocket will send up Starlink 6-60 mission from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, stated SpaceX.
The launch window will open at 11:30 a.m. ET, which is at the close of the launch window.
The launch was originally set to happen at 7:30 a.m. ET and then it was moved to 10:20 a.m. ET and finally at 10:56 a.m. ET; SpaceX did not state why it was pushed back.
The 45th Weather Squadron gave a 95% to 90% chance of good liftoff conditions, with the only concerns being the cumulus cloud rule.
If the launch is scrubbed, the next try will be Tuesday, May 28, at 7:30 a.m. ET, SpaceX stated.
Going up
This will be the 10th mission for the Falcon 9’s first-stage booster B1078. The nine missions it has launched are quite impressive:
The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season begins on Saturday, June 1, and NOAA just released its annual outlook. NOAA predicts above normal activity across the Atlantic basin this year.
What You Need To Know
NOAA predicts above normal activity this hurricane season
Atlantic sea surface temperatures are experiencing record warmth
La Niña conditions are expected during the peak of hurricane season
NOAA’s outlook predicts an 85% chance of an above normal season, a 10% chance of a near normal season and a 5% chance of a below normal season.
NOAA forecasts a likely range of 17 to 25 named storms, of which 8 to 13 could become hurricanes, including 4 to 7 major hurricanes, which are a Category 3 or higher on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.
NOAA provides these ranges with a 70% confidence.
“This is the highest number of named storms NOAA has ever issued in its May forecast,” says Dr. Rick Spinrad, Ph.D., administrator, NOAA.
Remember, predictions of the season’s activity are not predictions of exactly how many storms will make landfall in a particular place. Individual storms make impacts, regardless of how active (or not) a season is. Coastal residents should do what they can to make sure they’re prepared every year.
As a reminder, this season has brought some new changes and a new list of names.
You can learn more about 2024’s list of names here.
Researchers look at a variety of factors to make their prediction.
Current El Niño conditions are forecast to transition to La Niña conditions later this summer or fall, leading to more favorable conditions for tropical development.
La Niña conditions typically favor more hurricane activity in the Atlantic because of weaker vertical wind shear and more instability across the main development region.
Sea surface temperatures are also running well above normal in the Gulf of Mexico and the tropical Atlantic, including the main development region. Some areas are experiencing record warmth.
Warm ocean water helps fuel tropical systems, and combined with the effects of La Niña, it is expected to be an active Atlantic hurricane season.
Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.
The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season begins on Saturday, June 1, and NOAA just released its annual outlook. NOAA predicts above normal activity across the Atlantic basin this year.
What You Need To Know
NOAA predicts above normal activity this hurricane season
Atlantic sea surface temperatures are experiencing record warmth
La Niña conditions are expected during the peak of hurricane season
NOAA’s outlook predicts an 85% chance of an above normal season, a 10% chance of a near normal season and a 5% chance of a below normal season.
NOAA forecasts a likely range of 17 to 25 named storms, of which 8 to 13 could become hurricanes, including 4 to 7 major hurricanes, which are a Category 3 or higher on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.
NOAA provides these ranges with a 70% confidence.
“This is the highest number of named storms NOAA has ever issued in its May forecast,” says Dr. Rick Spinrad, Ph.D., administrator, NOAA.
Remember, predictions of the season’s activity are not predictions of exactly how many storms will make landfall in a particular place. Individual storms make impacts, regardless of how active (or not) a season is. Coastal residents should do what they can to make sure they’re prepared every year.
As a reminder, this season has brought some new changes and a new list of names.
You can learn more about 2024’s list of names here.
Researchers look at a variety of factors to make their prediction.
Current El Niño conditions are forecast to transition to La Niña conditions later this summer or fall, leading to more favorable conditions for tropical development.
La Niña conditions typically favor more hurricane activity in the Atlantic because of weaker vertical wind shear and more instability across the main development region.
Sea surface temperatures are also running well above normal in the Gulf of Mexico and the tropical Atlantic, including the main development region. Some areas are experiencing record warmth.
Warm ocean water helps fuel tropical systems, and combined with the effects of La Niña, it is expected to be an active Atlantic hurricane season.
Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.
TAMPA, Fla. — Memorial Day is Monday, May 27, and is used as a time to reflect and honor those who died while serving in the U.S. armed forces. Tampa Bay as a lineup of events paying tribute those who have sacrificed their lives in defending the nation. View our list to see what’s happening in your community.
Sunflowers Memorial Day Weekend Fun May 25, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Sweetfields Farm Sweetfields Farm invites residents to visit for the last time this season. Enjoy adventuring through a sunflower maze, visiting with animals and all farm activities.
Memorial Day Ceremony 2024 May 27, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. | American Legion, “U.S.S. Tampa” Post 5 The American Legion has been honoring the fallen with a Memorial Day Service. The event provides a venue for all ages to give thanks for our military’s sacrifices. Feel free to bring a flag Monday and show support by flag waving along Kennedy Boulevard.
Memorial Day Weekend Military Offer May 24 – 27 | Florida Aquarium Military personnel will receive a complimentary general admission ticket to the Florida Aquarium. This offer must be redeemed in-person at the ticket window at the aquarium.
Clearwater Honor Fest and Memorial Day Parade May 25, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. | Coachman Park The day will start with a parade along Cleveland Street in downtown Clearwater at 10 a.m, followed by a memorial ceremony at 12 p.m. A music festival will also be held to close the night out.
Memorial Day Ceremony at Largo Central Park May 27, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Largo Central Park The ceremony will include a color guard presentation, music, a wreath presentation in remembrance of fallen soldiers, and keynote presentations from local Largo veterans.
Lakeland Funeral Home Memorial Day Tribute May 27, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Lakeland Funeral Home Join Lakeland Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens in partnership with the Polk County Veterans Council as they pay tribute those who serve or have served our country. Guests are encouraged to bring a photo of their loved ones if they are members of the military.
Memorial Day Ceremony May 27, 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. | Railroad Park Haines City will be paying tribute to veterans and active military members.
A strong geomagnetic storm is impacting the Earth.
NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center has observed extreme (G5) geomagnetic conditions for the first time since Oct. 2003, meaning the northern lights, or aurora borealis, could be visible for much of the northern United States on Friday night and early Saturday morning.
It may be visible low on the horizon further south, from Southern California east across the Southern U.S.
What You Need To Know
The northern lights could be visible in the northern U.S. on Friday night
Extreme (G5) geomagnetic conditions have been observed for the first time since 2003
Further south, the northern lights may be visible on the horizon
According to the Space Weather Prediction Center, several coronal mass ejections (CMEs) have reached Earth, leading to extreme geomagnetic activity. A CME is an eruption of solar material, and G5 conditions are very rare.
Geomagnetic storming could continue through the weekend, with more CMEs on the way to Earth. Under clear skies, the northern lights should be visible across much of the northern U.S. on Friday night and early Saturday morning. Further south, they could be visible on the horizon.
Tonight’s forecast
Here is tonight’s forecast from the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute. The northern lights are likely to be visible on Friday night and early Saturday morning for areas shaded in green, and they could be visible on the horizon for areas shaded in yellow.
To ensure the best chance at getting a look at the northern lights tonight, look toward the northern horizon. The best viewing conditions are under cloud-free skies and away from bigger cities with light pollution.
If you see the northern lights tonight, be sure to submit your photos on the Spectrum News App!
Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.
A strong geomagnetic storm is expected Friday night. NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center has issued a G4 (Severe) Geomagnetic Watch for the first time since 2005, meaning the northern lights, or aurora borealis, could be visible for much of the northern United States on Friday night and early Saturday morning.
It may be visible low on the horizon further south, from Southern California east across the Southern U.S.
What You Need To Know
The northern lights could be visible in the northern U.S. on Friday night
It’s the first G4 (Severe) Geomagnetic Watch issued since 2005
Further south, the northern lights may be visible on the horizon
According to the Space Weather Predicition Center, several coronal mass ejections (CMEs) will likely reach Earth and lead to highly elevated geomagnetic activity. A CME is an eruption of solar material, and G4 watches are very rare.
The CMEs are forecast to arrive at Earth late Friday, May 10, or early Saturday, May 11. Under clear skies, the northern lights should be visible across much of the northern U.S. Further south, they could be visible on the horizon.
Tonight’s forecast
Tonight’s forecasted “planetary K index” is an 8 out of 9, and the forecasted G-scale is a 4 out of 5. That indicates a severe geomagnetic storm, and a very active aurora.
Here is tonight’s forecast from the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute. The northern lights are likely to be visible on Friday night and early Saturday morning for areas shaded in green, and they could be visible on the horizon for areas shaded in yellow.
To ensure the best chance at getting a look at the northern lights tonight, look toward the northern horizon. The best viewing conditions are under cloud-free skies and away from bigger cities with light pollution.
If you see the northern lights tonight, be sure to submit your photos on the Spectrum News App!
Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.
