sjb (12/18/82)
Today's test firing of the Challenger's three new main engines was totally successful from preliminary examination of the data acquired, NASA said soon after the engines underwent the 20 second test. Data will have to be more extensively studied before a firm launch date is set, but NASA is now aiming for 27 January. In addition, NASA said, the test was apparently so successful that the Challenger's maiden mission, scheduled to last five days, could be extended a few days longer.