AP: Bad Fuel Cell Delays Shuttle Launch

[Eugene]

Bad Fuel Cell Delays Shuttle Launch
NASA postpones launch of space shuttle Atlantis
after discovering problem with fuel cell

CAPE CANAVERAL, Sep. 6, 2006
By MIKE SCHNEIDER Associated Press Writer

(AP) NASA postponed the launch of space shuttle Atlantis by another day
after discovering a problem with a fuel cell early Wednesday.

The fueling process had yet to start when one of three cells that provide
electricity to Atlantis malfunctioned. The space agency planned to further
examine the problem, and if possible try to launch at 12:03 p.m. EDT Thursday.

"The launch rules say you need to have three good, operating fuel cells," said
NASA spokesman Bruce Buckingham. "We're going to see if it's something that's
a real problem or whether it's something we can rectify."

-snip-

Full article: http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2006/09/06/ap/national/mainD8JVB8404.shtml

[papau]

1. So fuel cells rather than plug in electric is the future of cars? Doesn't

look good for the Oil/Hydrogren industry.

[sofa king]

2. They've had trouble with them in the past.

At least two missions have been cut short due to bad fuel cells, one in 1997 (STS-83), and the second Shuttle mission (STS-2). Other launches have been delayed.

[hatrack]

3. Maybe they should call GM's FreedomCAR team for help!

After all, it's our money.

:eyes: