Update: NASA had to scrub this launch again on Monday night because of weather. It will try again Tuesday night, June 13, just after 9 Eastern.
Later tonight, NASA will try to create a colorful cloud over the Eastern Seaboard. For science.
Specifically, NASA will use a short-range rocket to launch a payload of barium, strontium, and cupric oxide—typical firework chemicals—into the upper atmosphere. These chemicals will be sprayed by small canisters to create artificial colored clouds that scientists can track from the ground. This experiment will help those scientists to understand high-altitude air currents and cloud movement. But for everyone else, this experiment will be a chance to watch a neat pre-Independence Day fireworks show.
Weather permitting, NASA will launch the rocket between 9:04 and 9:19 pm EDT. The clouds should be visible along the east coast from New York to North Carolina. If you're not in that area you can watch on the NASA livestream, which starts at 8:30.
Source: NASA
