Posted: Sat, Dec 16, 2006, 9:40 AM ET (1440 GMT)
The launch of an experimental communications satellite on a Japanese rocket Saturday was delayed by poor weather. The H-2A was scheduled to launch Saturday afternoon (Japan Standard Time) from the Tanegashima Space Center and place the Experimental Test Satellite (ETS) 8 into orbit. However, clouds and the threat of lightning postponed the launch, which has been rescheduled for Monday afternoon. ETS-8, also known as Kiku 8, will test a pair of large deployable reflectors that will provide high-powered communications services, including directly to handsets and other mobile devices.

Related Links:

•  JAXA press release