Opal Weekly Update -- October 1, 1999

1. Expected launch date:  Mid November to earlier December.
2. There are still issues with the avionics unit of the rocket. It has been shipped to Vandenberg but still undergoing extensive test procedures.  Therefore, the launch has slipped indefinitely till this can be resolved.  They are expecting the launch to be mid November or earlier December. 
3. Greg and I went to Vandenberg and performed post shipping tests on Opal.  Once again, Opal passed all tests.  Let's hope it performs as well after launch!  We also prepared Opal for launch by installing arming plugs.  Removal of solar panel covers is that remains to do.  

There are still software problems on Jawsat.  If these issues are not worked, the photos of vehicle separation will not happen.  I sure hope they do because we'll get color pictures of Opal separating from Jawsat!