Radar leaves Pearl Harbor for second time

Published: May 07, 2006
Source: starbulletin.com



Oahu lost a giant landmark when the Missile Defense Agency's powerful floating radar sailed out of Pearl Harbor for its new home port in Alaska -- its second attempt to leave the islands in about one month.

The radar initially left Hawaii in late March but had to turn around four days later when sea water leaked through the ballast piping on its floating platform.

Missile Defense Agency spokeswoman Pam Rogers said yesterday that repairs to the piping have been completed, enabling the radar's vessel to attempt a second departure for an expected arrival in Alaska later this spring. The ship left Pearl Harbor Thursday morning.

The Sea-Based X-Band Radar first arrived in the islands in January en route to its new port in Adak, Alaska, from Texas where it was built. The giant radar dome dominated the skyline around Pearl Harbor, with residents growing to instantly recognize the King Kong-size golf ball-like shape from miles away.continue..