With only 2hrs 23 mins till launch I am concerned about the outcome of NASA's 'return to flight' Discovery mission. Over the past few days I have heard statements from NASA command that the shuttle is a complicated machine which they don't quite fully understand, and that although the problem, which has delayed the flight thus far, will most likely return, they will go ahead with the misson regardless. This reminds me of the hours leading up to the Challenger disaster. I wonder how the administration responsible for the construction of this space vehicle do not fully understand its mechanics? Perhaps the many new improvements made to the space vehicle will improve safety and flight performance rather than confuse technical issues. To my mind though it seems akin to putting Crypton Tuning, ABS, Traction control and airbags into a Model T Ford.

A disclaimer before I continue, I do not believe in the occult, divination or spiritual intervention, but I am always up for a giggle.

I consulted the Tarot & the I-Ching last night with the question "Will tomorrows Space Shuttle Discovery mission be successful?"

The answers as always were vague... but the general theme seemed to indicate that this mission would mark the end of the shuttle program, and after a lot of internal conflict, struggle and change the space program would be reborn sucessfully, albeit with two conflicting/interacting/symbiotic goals or programs.

I wish The Discovery mission crew the best of luck and hope for their safe return.