NASA delays Discovery launch

US space agency NASA is not yet ready for the launch of space shuttle Discovery. During a thorough review of Discovery’s readiness for next flight, NASA managers decided on Friday that more data and possible testing are required before the launch of STS-119 mission to the International Space Station. So, the agency announced that it will delay the launch.

Discovery

NASA engineers are worried about faulty fuel valves breaking off, which may cause sever damage to the spacecraft during launch. The space shuttle has three flow control valves that channel gaseous hydrogen from the main engines to the external fuel tank. During the November 2008 launch of space shuttle Endeavour, a flow control valve was damaged and NASA don’t want to take a chance this time.

A new plan will be developed to inspect other valves similar to those installed on Discovery. This plan will be reviewed during a meeting on Wednesday, February 25. Afterward, NASA may consider setting a new target launch date.

Category: Space | Tags: Discovery, NASA, Space, Space Shuttle