[Oracle] began construction this afternoon. The first and second stage engine mounts are completely assembled. Hopefully by tomorrow morning the lower stage fuselage and fin structure will be completed. [Oracle] itself should be ready for launch by 16 November 2008, but the electronics and optics are proving problematic.
Possible Solutions (in order of ease)
- Switch to custom NiCd batteries, or multiple Zn/MnO2 batteries in parallel
- Extend antennae wires by several inches
- Replace entire optics package
Keep the Faith,
JPL Team
