Europe to Launch first Venus Probe

Europe set October 26, 2005 as its launch date for Venus Express, Europe's first Venus probe satellite. The launch date has been postponed due to checks and inspections that need to be done to ensure there is no contamination on the rocket. Pad workers felt the contamination was caused from insulation, which has led to the postponed launch date. Venus Express will be launched no later than November 24th. The hope is that with its seven instruments, Venus Express will be able to determine "whether the planted is seismically or volcanically active."