The NASA’s space shuttle is now ready for its final journey to space. NASA has cleared it for its last mission. This was confirmed after the minor last minutes repairs were completed.

The Discovery’s mission managers held a meeting at the Kennedy Space Center and unanimously gave clearance to this historic shuttle for its final flight. 3.52 pm (EDT), Wednesday has been set as the time for lift-off.

Discovery’s launch was originally set to be on Nov 1. But due to some technical issues it was postponed. Aft engine section had a leaky gas seal which leaked helium and nitrogen. The issue was addressed and then again the shuttle is ready for its final launch after 2 days of delay.

NASA’s shuttle integration manager, Mike Moses praised the technicians for their work. He said, “They held together beautifully”.

Today discovery was loaded with liquid oxygen and cryogenic liquid hydrogen. The technicians did it carefully this time to prevent any further delay. These gasses provide the shuttle with power.

Weather forecasts are also favouring the launch. Although there are some threats like isolated showers and low clouds but it has been said the conditions are 70% acceptable. The NASA is expecting that weather wont be an hurdle. But if the launch is delayed further it might be a reason to worry. Showers and thunderstorms are expected in this region soon. So a delay of 24 hours would drop the acceptable conditions to 60%.

This mission is an eleven day mission. The shuttle will go for the International Space Station. The mission is important to the international space community as it will take along some critical spare parts to the space station. This includes a storage room and also a humanoid robot to help the crew in the orbiting laboratory.

This will be the 39^th mission for Discovery. After this final journey it will be retired.