Techs to Replace LCA-2 on Endeavour

Technicians at NASA's Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Pad 39A removed the Load Control Assembly-2 (LCA-2) box in the orbiter's aft compartment last night. Teams are evaluating data from inspections and will install a new LCA-2 after evaluations and any repairs, if needed, have been made.

Managers will continue to evaluate the repair process and make any additional adjustments before scheduling Endeavour’s next launch attempt for its STS-134 mission to the International Space Station.

The earliest Endeavour could be launched on the STS-134 mission is Tuesday, May 10.

Plans are for managers to reconvene Friday to determine a more definite launch date after the box is removed and replaced and the retest of systems has been completed.

The STS-134 crew is in the motion base simulator this morning, conducting refresher ascent and entry sims prior to their planned return to Kennedy later this week for the second launch attempt.