Discovery Space Shuttle is back on the launch pad

Discovery Space Shuttle is back on the launch pad

NASA has taken the Space Shuttle back to the launch pad after applying the required modifications in the hanger. Discovery is scheduled for the launch sometime next month, which would its first visit to the space after the Columbia disaster. NASA replaced the external fuel tank with a new model designed to prevent dangerous ice buildup, which was initially designed for the Atlantis Shuttle. NASA is now aiming for a launch date as early as July 13.

NASA also added a heater to the fuel tank to prevent ice buildup on the tank when it is loaded with super-cold fuel. This modification alone led to NASA taking back the shuttle from the launch pad to the docks in spite of repeated delays in the launch. It is very important for the space agency to make sure that this launch is as safe as possible for the crew, Shuttle, and the people near the launch pad.

The space agency has done many design changes after the Columbia tragedy to the external fuel tank. It took NASA more than nine hours for the Discovery’s four-mile from the assembly building to the launch pad aboard the giant shuttle transporter.