Space Shuttle Program managers cleared space shuttle Discovery for launch Nov. 1 following an extensive review of the spacecraft and its payload. Speaking to reporters after the executive-level Flight Readiness Review at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, officials said Discovery is prepared for its mission, STS-133. That is the last scheduled flight for the agency’s oldest active shuttle.
"We’re in great shape out at the pad," Launch Director Mike Leinbach said.
The countdown is scheduled to start at 3 p.m. Friday, about a day after the six astronauts of Discovery arrive at Kennedy. A set of seals was replaced over the weekend in extensive work that was completed before it could threaten the scheduled launch date.
"It’s a huge testament to the team doing the work," said Mission Management Team Chairman Mike Moses.