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In preparing for the start Discovery leaking fuel has found.. / October 20, 2010 /

In the shuttle «Discovery», which should go first to the ISS in November 2010, a leak from the fuel components found.

While checking the shuttle mounted on the launch pad, scientists noticed that the insulation screen to cover up one of the plugs in the shuttle’s tail section, wet. It turned out that it follows monomethyl hydrazine — a toxic substance.

To eliminate leakage, NASA experts are going to tighten the six bolts around the collar seals around the plug. If this measure fails, engineers need to replace the two plugs. Because of the toxicity of monomethyl hydrazine, these works can be very dangerous.

In NASA hopes that technology will be able to fix the damage quickly enough, and the space shuttle will start on time. The specialists have four days, during which it is possible to eliminate breakage, without moving the launch schedule.

Engine in which the leak, is a system that provides for the correction of the shuttle in orbit, but also engaged in planting. In addition to this system in the shuttle has three main engines.

"Discovery is to deliver the International Space Station using different equipment transport module Leonardo. In addition, the shuttle will bring to the ISS android named Robonavt second. Mechanical member crew will perform small household operations, and details about it can be read here. In total flight of Discovery last 11 days and will be the last for this shuttle.

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