space shuttle mission cancelled until

Space Shuttle mission cancelled until January 2

STS-122 Space Shuttle mission (Atlantis) to the International Space

Station carrying the ESA Columbus module has been cancelled and

rescheduled for a January 2 launch. The postponement will give

engineers time to evaluate false readings from the engine cutoff

sensor system that measures liquid hydrogen in the external tank.

Of the four engine cutoff sensors, ECO sensor number three gave false

readings during Sunday's launch attempt. The sensor system is one of

several that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their

shut down if fuel runs unexpectedly low.