The launch weather officer predicts a 30-percent chance of not meeting the launch weather criteria on Friday. There is the possibility of an isolated shower in the vicinity and some concern over clouds in the area or in the Delta's flight path at the time of launch.

When it first arrives at the red planet, Mars Climate Orbiter will be used primarily to support its companion Mars Polar Lander spacecraft, planned for launch on Jan. 3, 1999. After that, the Climate Orbiter's instruments will monitor the Martian atmosphere and image the planet's surface on a daily basis for one Martian year, the equivalent of two Earth years. During this time, the spacecraft will observe the circulation of atmospheric dust and water vapor, as well as characterize seasonal changes on the surface.

NASA TV Coverage
NASA Television coverage of the launch will begin at 12:30 p.m. EST and will be shared with coverage of international space station mission activities. Audio Telephone Coverage Available continuously on the following phone numbers: (407) 867-1260, (407) 867-7135, (407) 867-4003 and (407) 867-4920.

Mars 98 Overview - Detailed JPL universe Report