NASA approves Mon space station supply launch despite computer outage in orbit, deemed safe
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}This Tuesday, March 26, 2013 file photo provided by NASA shows the release of the SpaceX Dragon-2 spacecraft from the International Space Station. NASA is pressing ahead, on Monday, April 14, 2014, with the planned launch of a supply ship despite a critical computer outage at the International Space Station, promising the situation is safe. (AP/NASA)
A space station supply shipment is on for Monday.
NASA decided Sunday to stick with the planned launch of the SpaceX cargo ship, despite a critical computer outage at the space station.
The computer, located on the outside of the orbiting lab, stopped working Friday. NASA debated whether to delay the SpaceX mission, but on Sunday determined the station can accept the visiting craft.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Liftoff is scheduled for 4:58 p.m. Monday from Cape Canaveral.
A spacewalk will be required, meanwhile, to replace the bad computer. Engineers don't know why it failed.
NASA station program manager Mike Suffredini says the spacewalk will be conducted April 22. That gives SpaceX two shots to get its Dragon capsule flying.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The unmanned Dragon holds more than 2 tons of supplies and science experiments.