NASA aims for March 12 launch of space shuttle Discovery

Source: Xinhua | 02-26-2009 13:23

WASHINGTON, Feb. 25 (Xinhua) -- The launch of the space shuttle Discovery, originally scheduled for Feb. 12, has been tentatively targeted for March 12, after repeated delays caused by critical valves, the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) said on Wednesday.

NASA workers watch as the space shuttle Discovery is moved to the launch site at the Kennedy Space Center in January. (AFP/Getty Images/File/Matt Stroshane)

An exact target launch date will be determined as work progresses with the shuttle's three gaseous hydrogen flow control valves, NASA said in a statement.

At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians have started removing Discovery's three valves, two of which will undergo detailed inspection. About 4,000 images of each valve will be reviewed for evidence of cracks. Valves that have flown fewer times will be installed in Discovery.

Engineering teams will also complete analysis and testing to understand the consequences if a valve piece were to break off and strike pressurization lines between the shuttle and the external fuel tank. Hardware modifications may be made to the pressurization lines to add extra protection in the unlikely event debris is released.