Satellite to put Einstein to the test

A satellite designed to test two fundamental predictions made by Albert Einstein about the universe is ready for launch, 45 years after it was first proposed, Nasa and Stanford University officials said.

Since 1959, Gravity Probe B has overcome a half-dozen attempts at cancellation, countless technical hurdles and several delayed launches. The Nasa-funded, university-developed spacecraft is now scheduled to begin its mission following an April 17 lift-off from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California.