Space shuttle ready

Nasa managers said yesterday that they are confident they can launch the first space shuttle mission since the 2003 Columbia disaster, but noted some unresolved issues that could still force a delay.

The launch is scheduled for 6.51am tomorrow (NZT) and forecasters are predicting a 70 per cent chance that the weather will be acceptable for liftoff.

"We have a couple of loose ends to tie up, but I wouldn't consider them major," said Wayne Hale, the deputy shuttle programme manager.