NASA is set to launch the shuttle Discovery on Sunday after concerns over a potential hydrogen leak put the schedule behind on Saturday. The shuttle is intended to go to the international space station and will house seven astronauts. The mission, which is already several months behind schedule for the launch, is set up to be attempted every night until Tuesday. If the launch does not get off the ground by then, it will be delayed until April so that it does not interfere with a Russian flight to the International Space Station.
The hydrogen leak was thought to be coming from the fuel tank’s plumbing and the technicians replaced an 18 inch quick disconnect. This is a fixture that seals the vent line. The leak was first noticed on Wednesday, and they have been feverishly attempting to resolve it since then. The leak seems to be coming from a part of the vent line that falls away from the space ship’s fuel tank right after liftoff. Replacement of the quick disconnect is thought to have solved the problem. Officials feel confident that they have resolved the problem and that the launch will go off as scheduled on Sunday.
NASA is always quite careful with any space launch due to the enormous risks to the astronauts, and the incredible costs of a shuttle launch. This mission is no exception as delays have been quick to pop up in lieu of safety. NASA should be applauded for their cautious approach and desire for the safety of their astronauts. There have been enough tragic NASA launches in history, and any way to increase the safety of the launch is well worthwhile.
The launch is now set for Sunday at 6:43PM from the NASA Kennedy Space Center. The launch is sure to be watched by many astronaut enthusiasts and Americans throughout the country. The launch is always a big deal with the American people. As it stands, the launch is set for a go with an 80 percent chance that conditions will be favorable for take off. If the weather conditions change, or their are other problems with the hydrogen leak, then the launch will be rescheduled for Monday at the same time more than likely.
Good luck and God speed is sent off to the astronauts and their families as they take this trip to the International Space Station. We are very proud of NASA and our astronauts, and hope that they have a safe and exciting space launch regardless of when they actually launch. Their contributions to science and space travel are heroic.
