Hubble Servicing Mission 3A Update - Dec. 16 launch attempt

Update for Thursday Dec 16, 17:40 CET

Launch of STS-103 (Hubble Servicing Mission 3A) has been delayed to December 18 02:47 Central European Time. According to NASA officials it is necessary with a more thorough investigation of paperwork regarding welding on the external fuel tank.

A manufacturer of tank components found evidence of a welding flaw on a pressure line for a future external tank. Evaluations of Discovery's tank showed no welding flaws, but engineers are double-checking the paperwork to be sure.