Journal Journal: Giant Sahara Dust Storm Approaches Florida Airspace
Side affect such as extraordinary sunrise/set are promoted and negative affects such as respiratory or germ transport are being played down.
I have not heard any NASA Space Shuttle managers mention the sand blasting that the windshield and tiles will get during a launch, which coincidently is scheduled for tomorrow morning.
According to CNN, the storm the dust storm approaches an altitude of 15,000 feet. The shuttle will be beyond that within the first 30 seconds of flight.
I remember stories of commercial airlines flying through volcanic ash and experiencing flameouts and a condition known as St. Elmo's Fire.
The shuttle is not air breathing, nor is the dust cloud volcanic. So maybe there's no reason for concern.
I will have my camera ready at dusk tonight and dawn tomorrow in hopes of catching the extraordinary. Should either prove so, I may consider taking a vacation day tomorrow if all systems are go for launch and find a nice viewing spot.