Weather

What's Up for May 25-30

Posted Updated
The crescent Moon joins Gemini's twin stars after sunset
By
Tony Rice
, NASA Ambassador

The weather isn't looking too favorable for much sky watching this week with clouds and rain expected throughout the week.

The planned launch of astronauts to the International Space Station from the Kennedy Space Center for the first time in nine years provides plenty of space for the whole family.

Tuesday, May 26

Look west after dusk for the crescent Moon lined up with Gemini twins: Pollux and Castor. Hopefully there will be a break in the clouds.

10-11 am EDT: SpaceX Demonstration Mission 2 Administrator Countdown Clock Briefing (replays at 3, 7, an 10 pm EDT and on YouTube)

Wednesday, May 27

With cloudy skies in the forecast, the show will be inside, on NASA TV and here on WRAL.com with the launch of the Demo-2 mission at 4:33:33 pm EDT. This is the first launch of humans from American soil since STS-135 in 2011.

The forecast for Florida isn't great either, with a 60% chance of violation of launch weather criteria. Primary concerns are launching through precipitation, thick clouds, and/or lightning producing cumulous clouds in the area.

Coverage starts at 12:15 pm on NASA. The launch will also be streamed here on WRAL.com

Thursday, May 28

If the clouds clear long enough, look for the the bright star Regulus to the left of the waxing crescent Moon.

Saturday & Sunday

Should there be a weather or other delay to Wednesdays launch, backup launch opportunities are available Sat May 30 at 3:22 pm EDT or Sun May 31 at 3:00 pm EDT.

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