Leaky Valve Could Delay Shuttle Launch
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
By: Tom Parkinson

03/16/10 - A helium leak could delay the upcoming launch of Space Shuttle Discovery. The shuttle craft has already been rolled out to the launch pad in preparation for the planned April 5th launch but NASA engineers found a leak in a valve while working on the shuttle's engines over the weekend.

The helium leak was discovered in one of Discovery's rocket pods. Those pods are used to propel the shuttle during maneuvers and helium provides pressure to pump fuel into the rockets. NASA says at least one helium valve is leaking.
An engineering review board worked Monday to assess the problem and decide if the shuttle can be repaired on the launch pad or if Discovery will have to return to its hangar. A return to the Vehicle Assembly Building would mean a major delay for the April launch.
Only four more shuttle flights remain before the program ends. If the April 5th launch is delayed, it could mean a delay in the remaining launches including the final shuttle lift-off scheduled for September 14th.