alb@brunix.UUCP (Adam Buchsbaum) (01/23/85)
Ice formed on the launch tower today set the Discovery's countdown three hours behind schedule, with more freezing weather conditions expected for the near future. NASA is concerned about the weather, which has frozen an oxygen valve and numerous water lines already. However, temperatures are expected to be back to the mid-50's for the launch. Meanwhile, the Pentagon today agreed to inform reporters when the countdown reaches T-9 minutes and also to allow them to monitor ground to ship communications from that point until the shuttle reaches orbit. Once in orbit, the only information given to reporters will be in the form of statements released every eight hours.