Pixel will launch in two minutes.

…

First leg looked successful, but it did yesterday as well. Some talk that they may have missed the pad on landing. Now it’s looking like the ship tilted on landing.

They’ll definitely have to start over. The question is whether or not they damaged it, which will determine whether or not they have another chance today. If not, the prizes remain unwon for this year, giving hope to Masten and other potential contenders.

[Update a few minutes later]

I just talked to Ken Davidian, of Centennial Challenges. He says that as far as he knows, they could still go with Texel for Level 1, and perhaps for Level 2 as well, if they can get the parts back in her (him?). But if they don’t win a prize today, they have to wait until next year. If so, it will give other teams time to catch up, and make for a more exciting event in 2007.

Just hearing that Tim Pickens will take another rocket bike ride in a couple minutes.

…

A failed ignitor. They may try again later.

Word now is that Pixel landed off the pad, on its side, but there are no fuel leaks. Still unclear whether or not they’ll attempt it again today.

[Update about 10:25]

The Armadillo team just came by the press tent with the wounded Pixel on their way to the staging area from which they’re required to start any next attempt. Still unclear if they’re going to fly it again, or swap the parts back into Texel. I’ll go over and see if John has time to talk.

[A couple minutes later]

“We’re going to get a sandwich, dust it off, make sure the bolts are tight, and then try it again.”